How do you have a Successful Year?

Posted on January 3, 2012 by remaxultimate

By now, many people will have wished you all the best in 2012. I’d like to take it one step further, and share with you a method which will ensure that 2012 will be a happy and productive year for you. It requires only a few hours of your time, and needn’t be done all at once.

The idea is to set a direction for your life, so that you can focus your energies on what makes you happy. This is not a reformulation of New Year’s Resolutions but if you approach it seriously, you may find you no longer need resolutions (especially the type that you think about only on January 1st, and never look at again).

First, take a moment to reflect on the events of 2011. How did you spend your time? Were you happy with  the balance of work, family and social activities? Did you make any progress towards attaining your dream? If you’re pleased with your progress – pat your self on the back, and take pride in your achievements. If you’re disappointed about some things, then think about what you wish you had done differently. Remember, the past is your experience – it’s an asset to be used in your search for success. Don’t spend any time dwelling on mistakes and blaming yourself, because you can’t change the past. Forgive yourself and work on improving the future.

Next, think about what you want from life, and what makes you happy. Some people derive the greatest pleasure from their careers, others from their children. Only you can decide what is important in your life. Try not to let other people’s values determine what you strive for. Read more »

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Stop the Head Shots

Posted on September 1, 2011 by remaxultimate

I am a passionate hockey fan.  Even through the hot lazy days of summer I follow our national sport’s news for developments and changes to the upcoming season.

The 2010/2011 season has been very sad.  Several players have lost their lives and even many more have not been able to play for long extended periods of time because of serious injuries to the head.  The direct link to death and head injuries is still being investigated but one thing is for sure, they happened because of the reckless disregard for one another.

At this point you may be asking yourself, “what does hockey have to do with real estate?”

It’s about respect for one another within our profession.  The hockey players have shown that unless they start respecting each other, lives are at risk.  Its no different in real estate with livelihoods at stake.  

In 23 years of practice, I worked very hard to maintain a reputation of a person and Realtor that got the job done but never on the back or at the expense of a colleague.  I never put the “deal” ahead of my client’s best interest.  I always wanted to be thought as a trustworthy and loyal team player. I always knew that ego is not part of the equation for success.  Most importantly I knew that my other number #1 client was the other Realtor and people don’t forget how they are treated.  This assisted me in getting more homes sold with more satisfied clients.  It’s actually an art when everyone feels like they won and made real estate more fun.

As a Realtor, have you ever seen a name on a sign and thought “Oh no I have to deal with……..”. Be honest.  I bet you’re smiling right now but hopefully you’re not thinking “am I like that??”

Why not choose a collaborative approach with the utmost respect for your fellow real estate professionals?   Don’t ever lower your standards.  Maintain your values and this way the client wins, the Realtors win and the image of our industry wins.   Let’s all work together and stop the head shots

Tim Syrianos
RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage

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The Challenge of Change – Let’s Talk

Posted on August 26, 2011 by remaxultimate

Challenge is … aspiring to new Goals & Objectives, new Horizons and new Opportunities. People often speak of “the Challenge of the ‘Eighties” wherein we have to be innovative, creative, adaptable, flexible and competitive, (to mention only I few). I believe the real challenge is accepting and coping with “Change”. There is an axiom that says “there are two things we can count on in life – Death & Taxes”, but I have found there are three: Death, Taxes & Change. The problem with change is not change itself but how quickly it happens and how we react to it. The history if mankind is divided into chapters of change: agriculture, the industrial revolution, and now the “information revolution”. It seems the wheels of change turn faster as time goes on. Our clients are more knowledgeable and more demanding than ever before with respect to the services they desire. Our Challenge today is to develop and promote new and innovative products and approaches to meet the ever – changing needs and requirements of our customers.

How do you react to change? (Do you accept the Challenge of Change?)

Change can cause anxiety, frustration, uncertainty, some –times a defensive reaction or a “wait and see” attitude because what is coming is the “unknown”. We are all creatures of habit and therefore resist change, but without change we would stagnate. Change is necessary for growth, development and improvement. We should be continually developing our skills and building relationships which will prepare us for the demands placed on us by this very competitive market place. We learn from our experiences in the past, we try to project the future, but it is what we do “NOW” that counts for future results. We review our Key Results Areas and we develop a Strategy and Action Plan in order to achieve our new Goals & Objectives. The Challenge of Change  gives us the opportunity to rededicate and to re-commit ourselves on a regular basis. The measure of our success is in the direct relationship to our acceptance of change and how well we plan and organize our time and actions. Accept the challenges of today with a POSITIVE ATTITUDE and strive for the excitement of living because how we think affects how we feel and how we feel affects how we act and react.

IT’S UP TO US, TO WORK TOGETHER FOR A BETTER TOMORROW.

 TOM’S TIPS:

  • God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.
  • The problem with opportunity is that it comes disguised as hard work.
  • There is rarely any way to make people like change. You can only make them feel less threatened by it.
  • Interesting to note, the harder I work, the luckier I get.

T.R. (Tom) Merrick
Broker/ Manager

RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage

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Time for “Phase 4″ to Real Estate Learning

Posted on June 13, 2011 by remaxultimate

Over the past little while, I’ve been reading many social media posts and articles about the Competition Bureau and reactions from the public and REALTOR’s alike.

This post is not about how unfair the Competition Bureau is and it’s not about the value of REALTOR in the real estate transaction. My position has always been clear.  The Real Estate Boards and industry has never interfered with the entrepreneurial spirit.  In reality I’ve sat on task forces and committees and the theme and purpose has always been to add more access and more services while meeting the strict criteria handed down to us from Provincial and Federal legislation that are beyond our control.

What I truly want to do is share the message that we now must seize the opportunity to better our industry and show the public a whole new direction of accountability.  The time has come to stop the excuses and really look within to improve our industry.  If we look at the root of the problem we will  no longer need the RECO and TREB arbitration process as often as we do.  The first step where OREA has become a registered college is great but we need much more.  We must add “Phase 4″ to the licensing of REALTORS within Ontario.  What will this topic or course outline be?

“A Complete Guide to Ethics, Better Business Practices and Policies”
Read more »

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What Stops you? Fear of Failure or……?

Posted on March 9, 2011 by remaxultimate

Times seem to be pretty good. There is no question that Canada dodged the mess that the rest of the world is still experiencing.  Supply of homes is tight and the supply of buyers very healthy.  It’s actually hard to believe we ever had any tough times in the past.

For those of us in the business of real estate for over 20 years, we remember the more difficult times.  There were high interest rates of over 14%,  and when I started selling real estate in 1989 part of the process was discounting mortgages.  This was in some cases more important than the house itself.   The early 90′s were truly difficult times and I will add that I was very young, barely had a reason to shave and approximately 30 pounds lighter.

I will never forget the turning point of my sales career and my life.  It was the fall of 1992 and after three years of mediocrity, I was approached by my father that the life line from him is going to stop.  He made it very clear that real estate may not be the ideal career for me and that maybe it’s time to reconsider some other career choices.  It was a soul opening conversation.  For the first time in my life it made me think and ask myself, what is holding me back?   Read more »

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3 Steps For A Fantastic Real Estate Year

Posted on November 19, 2010 by remaxultimate

As the last quarter of the year is quickly winding down and the holiday season approaches, many Realtors start to slow down because they have this limiting belief that no one wants to make a move until the new year. The new year then comes and because they start from scratch, they sometimes struggle to get started or manufacture business.

However nothing could be further than the truth.  If I was to make a direct comparison and describe a year in real estate sales, I would call it a relay race and in a relay race, we need to focus and make a strong sprint to the finish.  This is also a perfect time to really analyze your business, your database and find the transactions that already exist.

In a recent sales meeting I described the top 3 things to do before the year is finished.

1. Pull out a business card, show it to your colleagues and friends and ask them if they recognize the person on the card.  Its sounds funny but we know that we have seen many pictures that don’t resemble the person on that card.  Also make sure you’re not a victim by taking this opportunity to update your marketing pieces to be current as well.  Pictures from 5 years ago or from when you were in school just don’t cut it. Review your entire marketing campaign and make sure that its still working and targeting the right people.

2. Clean off your desk and make sure there isn’t a single client file still open.  This is a great exercise to make sure that your New Year starts without clutter and real qualified clients.  It’s also an amazing opportunity to find potential clients that have been otherwise forgotten during the busy Fall real estate market.  I assure you that you will be very surprised by the amount of potential leads you didn’t follow-up.  Many times referrals and sure transactions.

3. Print out all your sales you were involved with in the present year. Now review every single one and ask yourself “What could I have done differently? “What mistakes have I made?” How can I fix it?”  I’m sure that there are real estate transactions that went sideways and whether it’s your fault or not, could have been handled differently.  Its time to step up and admit it.  Call your client, thank them for their business, apologize if need be and offer your assistance to make things right.  I know several instances where an agent has made that call, the client was also relieved and not only did the agent re-establish a relationship but also received a referral. 

This is a perfect opportunity to not just work in your business but focus on your business. There is an abundant potential for you to create business and its there right under your nose.  3 simple steps will make for a fantastic new year.

Tim Syrianos
RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage

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Competition Bureau vs CREA-What really changed?

Posted on October 12, 2010 by remaxultimate

I sure have received some funny calls from a few consumers trying to understand exactly what has happened and what the Competition Bureau and CREA (Canadian Real Estate Association) have agreed on. 

With the amount of different types of media trying to get our attention, It’s become challenging when there is no accountability from media sources to really state the facts and assist the general public by providing correct news.  Since we’re close to the present events, I think its very necessary to really educate and clear up any misconceptions. 

When I heard the news of a “settle”ment by CREA, I too had many questions. Is it a settle scenario?  What’s the deal? How does this affect the real estate industry? How does this change the dynamic of a real estate transaction involving a Realtor? 

The agreement, which is subject to approval by the member Board/Association at a special general meeting on October 24th, proposes the following:

  • Does not give the public direct access to the MLS® system or to REALTOR.ca; the Membership Pillar has not changed and the MLS® system remains a member to member service;
  • Does not require brokerages to change their business models;
  • Does not impact the Compensation Pillar; and
  • Does not impact the responsibility of members to ensure the accuracy of MLS® listing content.

The agreement specifies that CREA, along with Boards and Associations cannot prevent or discriminate against “mere postings” or against members who offer mere postings. CREA has always maintained its rules do no such thing.

So what has changed? 
Brokerages that offered discount services to Sellers have always existed before this decision.  Now, if these brokerages are licensed and members of RECO and TREB, they can provide their services on the MLS online with mere postings.  These Brokerages offer minimum representation and minimum service.  It’s important to be clear that a Seller cannot post a home on the MLS without a licensed Realtor.  Do people really believe the MLS sells property? Consumers will quickly realize the MLS is nothing more than another advertising tool that happens to be on the internet but it doesn’t magically sell property. Read more »

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The Stick that Stirs the Economy

Posted on October 5, 2010 by remaxultimate

We spend our days talking about the economy and the trading of shares.  We constantly discuss the cost of oil, precious metals and corporations not hitting expectations. I agree that these are important because without the success of business, we’re all not successful.

In one of my last posts, I shared our family’s experience of buying and selling my home and the value of our Realtor to handle the emotional roller coaster of our transaction.  Well, we’ve finally moved in and our family is already building beautiful memories.

Now that we”ve moved into our new home, something that has really impacted me throughout the move, is just how many things we need to either throw out and or purchase.  Nothing seems to work in our new home or we needed to update.  Sure the home was in great shape but the colours, our area rugs, our original art, our furniture and the lighting looked outdated.  I quickly realized that its more than just buying a home and moving in.  It’s evident that the real estate transaction is a major part of our overall economy.

When someone buys a home, they hire painters, contractors to renovate, install new carpet, refinish floors, window coverings, purchase appliances, electronics and a variety of furniture to fit in every room.  I’ve lost count of the amount of trips I’ve made to Lowe’s, Home Depot and Rona but I sure have one thick receipt folder.

I am personally in favour of tightening lending practices to make sure that only qualified clients purchase property.  This will only enhance a healthy and vibrant economy and we’re very lucky to have a banking system that leads the world by example.  However, before we’re quick to accept new taxes (like the unfair City of Toronto Land Transfer Tax), let’s remember that the real estate transaction controls a corporations target expectations and numbers.  Without the real estate transaction, no business can function and have consumers buying products. Since we’re on this topic, my vote will go to the candidate that will abolish such an unfair tax to buyers of real estate.

The real estate transaction is the stick that stirs the economy and we can thank all Realtors that make the transaction happen.  Where would the economy be without them?

Tim Syrianos
RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage

Filed under: Home Buyer tips, Home Seller tips, Personal Stories and Opinions, Toronto Market Watch | Leave a Comment »

My Experience in Selling my Home

Posted on June 16, 2010 by remaxultimate

The title says it best….”My Home”. 
I’ve been in involved now in real estate for over 23 years and I’ve assisted hundreds of clients realize their real estate dreams.  However, this is the first time I needed to sell our principal residence and move our family.  I knew through experience with past clients, that since we have 2 young children, this would be an emotional process for our family so I immediately asked one of our very experienced agents to assist and represent us. 

When the sign popped up, the first questions I received by many neighbours and friends were: “Why don’t you do this yourself?”  and “Why would you pay an agent to do this when you are licensed and have so much experience?”

I had many reasons.  I knew that I wouldn’t be able to  keep a subjective mindset. I knew that I would feel uncomfortable with any derogatory comments made about our home.  I knew that I didn’t have the proper time to invest.  I knew that I needed the promotion only the Realtor network can provide.  I knew that I wouldn’t be able to negotiate for myself. I knew I needed an arm’s length experience. I knew that as a Realtor and Broker of Record, I have a reputation to uphold and wanted to make sure that anyone interested had the same opportunity. 

What an eye-opening experience and an emotional roller coaster ride as a client who’s also a Realtor. I initially took the initiative and spent a week de-cluttering by using my own experience to prepare our home for sale.  It didn’t cut it.  I was provided with another very long checklist of more “to do’s” to de-personalize by our agent.  This was a big lesson in itself.

We also took the advice of our agent and followed her detailed plan.  We followed every tip.  We witnessed a true professional doing everything in her ability to promote the property. I appreciated the many emails and messages provided, keeping us up to date and following up on questions from prospective buyers and agents. We were on the pulse of the entire process. Read more »

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RE/MAX is Canadian

Posted on May 15, 2010 by remaxultimate

Quite often I have conversations with agents that are unhappy with their present office and considering a move.  Most recently, I had a conversation with an agent that I highly respect in our local market that triggered and reminded me of another conversation I had approximately 6 months ago.  I’m inspired to share.

A couple of those agents are a “dual agent team” that I believe would be an absolute perfect fit for our office.  I knew that their present office didn’t have the power of a global brand, International exposure, tools, coaching, training and technology to better represent their clients and assist them to really take their career to the next level.

After we covered many points of mutual interest, I asked what else may be important to review.  Even though they shared their amazement, they paused and shared something that I didn’t expect.  Their comment was “we would like to be associated with a Canadian Company”.

I smiled and responded with: “Perfect! RE/MAX is as Canadian as they come and this is why I joined RE/MAX in 1993”.

They smiled back and asked me to expand on that.  Well that was just the permission I needed and went on to explain that RE/MAX has Canada running through its entire being.  Some offices and Brands claim that they’re the only truly Canadian company.   That’s a myth.  Read more »

Filed under: Career Building and Coaching, Careers at REMAX, Personal Stories and Opinions | Tagged: , , | 2 Comments »

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