Prepare to unlock the secrets of staying productive through the chill of winter, especially for those in colder climates like Buffalo. Erik Arneth is joined by Michael Culeton, principal broker of Symphony Real Estate. He shares insights on handling the unique challenges agents face when the market slows down due to seasonal changes, and shares refreshing strategies to keep your connections warm, focusing on maintaining engagement with past clients and leveraging your sphere of influence without feeling pushy. This episode promises to transform those uneasy interactions into opportunities for building lasting relationships and future success.

Set yourself up for a successful new year with practical goal-setting insights tailored for real estate novices. Together, we will highlight the importance of knowing your metrics and breaking down your yearly goals into achievable quarterly targets. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about equipping you with the tools to track your progress, adjust your strategies, and ultimately thrive in the fast-paced real estate environment.

Tune in to discover how seasoned professionals maintain their edge in the ever-evolving real estate landscape. Delve into the art of balancing leadership with hands-on experience, continuous learning, and embracing new technologies. This episode also offers invaluable guidance on preparing for market cyclicalities, ensuring you’re ready for both prosperous times and challenging periods. As we conclude, we share heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for the holiday season, celebrating the community and support that makes success possible.

Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

It's possible to keep your momentum strong even as the market slows down. Joined by Nick Lunetta from 360 Views, we explore his tried-and-true methods for success during the colder months. From handling home showings in snowy Buffalo to setting realistic goals for the new year, Nick shares invaluable insights for both new and experienced agents facing winter challenges.

The real estate market's cyclical nature can be tough, especially with buyer activity dipping in winter. We discuss clever ways to adapt, pointing out that some buyers find winter an opportune time to strike deals with less competition. You'll also hear about capitalizing on these opportunities to increase pending deals and how reconnecting with sellers can set you up for a successful spring season. Use this winter wisely to establish routines and maintain the momentum needed for long-term success.

Our conversation also touches on marketing strategies that defy the conventional. Learn from our experiences with direct mailers and magazine promotions, and discover why investing in brand visibility pays off even if it's not immediate. From creative ideas like branded moving box labels to handling unexpected challenges with professionalism, we cover it all. As we close, we reflect on Nick's inspiring journey and his impressive winter achievements, wrapping things up with warm holiday wishes and a promise of more insightful discussions in future episodes.

Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

Uncover the secrets to mastering winter real estate with insights from Jason Watson of Buffalo Girl Home Inspection. As we navigate the snowy landscape of Buffalo, get prepared to tackle unique challenges that arise during this chilly season. Jason shares his expertise on identifying potential issues like ice patches and ponding that could hint at bigger problems, while Jenna emphasizes the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with clients and realtors. Equip yourself with strategies to ensure your clients are well-prepared and organized as temperatures drop.

Explore the critical elements of property inspections that are essential for making informed decisions during real estate transactions. Learn why checking for moisture in attics, despite recent roof replacements, is crucial and how moisture meters can validate sellers' claims. Additionally, we discuss the risks of purchasing properties with pools without thorough inspections and provide advice on negotiating escrow agreements to mitigate unforeseen issues. From manicured lawns to clean air filters, discover the visual cues that indicate a property’s level of maintenance.

Collaborating effectively with home inspectors can enhance your real estate career, and this episode highlights the significance of transparent communication. The value of sharing findings with both clients and agents is underscored, as it empowers them to understand potential homes better and provide the best support. We wrap up with gratitude, wishing you a fruitful and informed winter real estate season. Let these insights guide you in building trust and making wise investments, ensuring a successful trajectory in the challenging winter market.

Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

As the holiday season rolls in and snow blankets Western New York, Erik welcomes Ty Ciffa and Sheyya Hrenya, aka the Duchess of Décor, from Symphony Design Studio. Together, they share their expertise on home staging, winter open houses, and creating welcoming spaces that captivate buyers during the colder months. This episode is packed with practical tips for real estate agents and sellers to make the most of the winter market.

Key Takeaways:

1. Staging for the Holidays:

• First Impressions Matter: Keep pathways clear of snow and ice, provide shoe covers, and create a safe, accessible entry.
• Seasonal Decor:
  • Decorate tastefully with holiday touches like a tree, wreaths, and lights to help buyers visualize their own celebrations.
  • Use subtle scents like cookies or balsam to evoke feelings of warmth and home.
  • Avoid over-decorating or displaying too many personal or sentimental items.

2. Winter Open Houses:

• Creating Ambiance: Use soft music, warm lighting, and simple seasonal accents to make the home inviting.
• Engage Visitors:
  • Offer wrapped treats or hot beverages to enhance the experience.
  • Talk through the home’s potential with buyers, helping them visualize changes like painting or furniture placement.

3. Staging Services from Symphony Design Studios:

• Pre-Sale Staging: Accessory staging, decluttering consultations, and home refreshes to maximize appeal.
• Post-Sale Design: Transforming spaces for new homeowners to make their vision a reality.
• Flexible Options: Tailored services for any budget, from virtual design boards to full-service shopping and decorating.

4. Key Advice for Real Estate Professionals:

• Listen carefully to clients’ needs to build strong, trust-based relationships.
• Stay proactive and supportive, especially during the holidays, to reduce stress for clients navigating the winter market.

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Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

Erik is joined by Andrew Hughes, who leads the Real Estate Response Team at Frank’s Basement Systems, bringing a deep passion for older homes and years of experience in construction and sales. His journey, from working in audio production to repairing and preserving homes, reflects his commitment to making a positive impact on the homeownership process. Andrew’s approachable demeanor and dedication to building relationships make him a valuable resource for real estate professionals navigating repair challenges during transactions.

About the Real Estate Response Team:
The Real Estate Response Team was launched in July to address the unique needs of real estate transactions. They provide fast, reliable solutions for inspection-related repairs, offering 24-48 hour consultations and a pay-at-close option for sellers. Focused on maintaining relationships over transactional outcomes, the team prioritizes minimizing stress and ensuring repairs are handled efficiently to keep deals on track.

Key Takeaways About the Real Estate Response Team:

• Fast Response: Guaranteed consultation within 24-48 hours (excluding Sundays).
• Pay-at-Close Option: No upfront costs for sellers if the home is under contract with a reasonable closing date.
• Specialized Focus: Dedicated to real estate transactions, addressing inspection-related issues quickly.
• Relationship-Driven: Emphasizes collaboration with real estate agents to provide tailored solutions.
• Streamlined Repairs: Prioritizes completing work the week before closing to minimize risks and delays.

About the Host
Erik Arneth is a proud "Buffalonian", real estate salesperson, and the Director of Industry Engagement at Symphony Real Estate in the City of Good Neighbors.
Call: (716) 213-8784
Email: ErikLovesBuffalo@gmail.com
Website || Instagram || Facebook

Erik's Other Podcast
Erik Loves Buffalo: WNY Small Business Origin Stories
Spotify || Apple Podcasts || Amazon Music

Featured Ads:

Perno Brother's Advertising
The team behind the scenes of Sold on Symphony.
They offer a full range of creative services:

• Custom logo design
• Social media content creation and management
• Commercials

Follow on social @pernobrothersadvertising

Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

Erik is joined by Russell J. Gullo, a seasoned real estate investor and founder of R.J. Gullo Companies. Russell shares his incredible journey in real estate, from earning his license at just 18 years old to building a nationally recognized firm specializing in 1031 exchanges and real estate investment services.

The conversation dives deep into the intricacies of 1031 exchanges, the role of qualified intermediaries, and how these tools empower investors to build wealth by reinvesting equity tax-free. Russell also discusses the importance of family, sharing how his son has brought a fresh perspective to the business and expanded their offerings.

Russell’s Background:

• Licensed in real estate at 18 and built his foundation in real estate investing.
• Earned a CCIM designation, often referred to as the "PhD of Commercial Investment Real Estate."

Understanding 1031 Exchanges:

• Allows investors to defer taxes and reinvest 100% of their equity into new properties, stimulating economic growth.
• Requires a qualified intermediary to handle the process before the property sale closes.
• Investors have six months to reinvest in a property of equal or greater value.

Additional Services Offered by RJ Gullo Companies:

• Real Estate Investment Brokerage: Specializes in off-market deals.
• Management-Free Investments: Includes triple net leases and DSTs (Delaware Statutory Trusts).
• Real Estate Investment Counseling: Tailored advice for investors.

Contact RJ Gullo Companies:

• Website: rjgullo.com
• Phone: 716-675-1500

About the Host
Erik Arneth is a proud "Buffalonian", real estate salesperson, and the Director of Industry Engagement at Symphony Real Estate in the City of Good Neighbors.
Call: (716) 213-8784
Email: ErikLovesBuffalo@gmail.com
Website || Instagram || Facebook

Erik's Other Podcast
Erik Loves Buffalo
Spotify || Apple Podcasts || Amazon Music

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Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

Erik is joined by Leanna Pilarski, Esq. of L.M.Pilarski Law and a dedicated real estate attorney based in Western New York. A lifelong resident of the area, Leanna graduated magna cum laude from the All-College Honors Program at Canisius College with a Bachelor’s degree in political science and went on to earn her law degree from the University at Buffalo School of Law. Licensed to practice in New York since 2012, she has built a career specializing in both residential and commercial real estate transactions, as well as landlord-tenant matters. Leanna’s experience includes over a decade as in-house counsel for a real estate development company, equipping her with a unique perspective on the complexities of real estate law. A proud member of the Erie County and New York State Bar Associations and a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, Leanna joins Erik to share valuable insights and tips for real estate agents navigating the legal side of the industry.

Contact Leanna Pilarski
Call: (716) 392-0493
Email: LMPilarskiLaw@gmail.com
Website

About the Host
Erik Arneth is a proud "Buffalonian", real estate salesperson, and the Director of Industry Engagement at Symphony Real Estate in the City of Good Neighbors.
Call: (716) 213-8784
Email: ErikLovesBuffalo@gmail.com
Website || Instagram || Facebook

Erik's Other Podcast
Erik Loves Buffalo
Spotify || Apple Podcasts || Amazon Music

Featured Ads

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Real Estate Response Team
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Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.

Erik Arneth is joined by Angela Pozantides, a real estate salesperson at Symphony Real Estate, to explore her journey from working in retail and the service industry to becoming a successful real estate agent. Angela shares how her early jobs shaped her client-centric approach, her transition into real estate, and the challenges she’s faced along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Valuable Early Experience: Angela’s time at Journey’s shoe store and working at a pizzeria taught her important skills like building relationships, handling high-pressure situations, and effective communication—all vital in real estate.
• The Draw of Real Estate: The independence and potential for limitless income were major factors that attracted her to the field.
• Adaptability: Angela highlights the importance of staying resilient, especially during market shifts, and how agents must adjust their strategies during slower times.
• Building Relationships: Angela focuses on long-term client relationships over quick transactions, aiming to be a trusted agent people refer to friends and family.
• Personal Growth: Managing Airbnbs and prioritizing fitness and wellness have helped her maintain balance and continue growing as a professional.

Angela’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of genuine connections in real estate.

Contact Angela Pozantides
Call: (716) 949-3093
Website

About the Host
Erik Arneth is a proud "Buffalonian", a real estate salesperson, and the Director of Industry Engagement at Symphony Real Estate in the City of Good Neighbors.
Call: (716) 213-8784
Email: ErikLovesBuffalo@gmail.com
Website || Instagram || Facebook

Erik's Other Podcast
Erik Loves Buffalo
Spotify || Apple Podcasts || Amazon Music

Featured Ads
Three Sixty Views
Looking to elevate your real estate content? Three Sixty Views specializes in photography and videography for the real estate industry, helping realtors market properties and personal brands.

Perno Brother's Advertising
The team behind the scenes of Sold on Symphony.
They offer a full range of creative services:

• Custom logo design
• Social media content creation and management
• Commercials

Follow on social @pernobrothersadvertising

Want to be a guest on a future episode?
Lets Connect! We are looking for established professionals in the Real Estate Industry including (but not limited to): Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors, Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Lenders/Brokers, Home Stagers, Photographers, Contractors/Renovation Experts, Appraisers, Title Company Representatives, Property Managers, Investors/Flippers, Insurance Agents, Interior Designers, Builders/New Home Developers, Landscapers and more.
Fill out this form to start the conversation.

Interested in Joining Symphony?
Become part of a supportive, growth-driven brokerage where agents thrive. Visit their website to explore opportunities.