Refilled, Recharged, and Ready

A couple of weeks ago, I attended my first Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE) conference in Las Vegas. As a seasoned real estate professional, I’ve been to many conferences, but this one stood out. Here’s why—and what I learned.

What Makes LeadingRE Unique?
The LeadingRE conference unites independent, non-franchise brokerages nationwide for collaboration, education, and growth. With tailored tracks for agents, relocation experts, and leadership teams, it’s designed to deliver value to every attendee. Unlike past events where I was a speaker or brand rep, this time I flew under the radar—no obligations, just participation. The result? I listened, learned, and left with pages of notes and newfound clarity.

Top 5 Takeaways from LeadingRE 2025

1. Insights from Industry Giants
   Presenters from firms with 700+ agents and thousands of transactions shared strategies on growth, agent development, and real estate tech trends. These insights help anticipate shifts in markets like mine in Birmingham.

2. Big-City Trends Inform Smaller Markets
   Trends often start in metros and trickle to mid-size regions. Hearing firsthand from leaders in those spaces helps us at ARC prepare smarter.

3. Break Out of the Local Bubble
   Staying in your local circle limits growth. Conversations with peers from diverse markets offered fresh perspectives I can’t get from Birmingham competitors. Leadership thrives on neutral, idea-sharing spaces like this.

4. AI in Real Estate: Tool, Not Threat
   Artificial intelligence in real estate is here—streamlining admin tasks and saving time. But it won’t replace the human touch: authenticity, trust, and connection. My AI assistant, “Chatty,” supports me, but I’m still the face in my videos and the decision-maker.

5. Clear Cooperation Policy Debate Heats Up
   The Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) sparked buzz. A major brokerage pushes for private listing networks before MLS exposure, citing benefits for high-profile sellers. In most markets, though, maximum exposure drives better prices. Agents must educate sellers on options—clarity is key.

Why This Conference Mattered
The LeadingRE conference reignited my passion. I returned with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a broader view of real estate industry trends. Isn’t that what top-tier professional development should do? Here’s to learning, listening, and embracing what’s next.