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RISMedia CEO & Leadership Exchange Recap: Insights from Marco Fregenal, CEO of Fathom Holdings, Inc.


October 3, 2024
 | 
8:00 am

As we reflect on the recent RISMedia 36th Annual CEO & Leadership Exchange, several key themes emerged that resonate deeply with our mission at Fathom Realty, particularly in today’s dynamic real estate landscape.

Buyer Agency Post-NAR Settlement

One of the most pressing issues discussed was the ongoing implementation of buyer agency agreements following the NAR settlement. It’s encouraging to see that the majority of mid to large brokerages are prioritizing this transition through comprehensive training and simplified documentation. However, many agents left without adequate support from their brokerages struggle to navigate these changes, often resorting to unverified social media platforms for guidance. This situation underscores the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration among agents, where informed professionals can support each other across transactions. As we encourage our agents at Fathom to share knowledge and experiences, we can collectively elevate our standards and practices.

Industry Consolidation

The discussion around industry consolidation highlighted the challenges small brokerages and productive teams face in the current economic and regulatory environment. Many seek stability and resources from larger firms that can provide the technology and productivity tools necessary for growth. At Fathom, we are committed to supporting our agents with the resources they need to thrive, fostering an environment that emphasizes collaboration and innovation. By leveraging our scale, we can offer the training, technology tools, and support agents require to grow and thrive in these challenging times.

Focus on the Consumer

Market volatility, rising home prices, and low inventory create significant affordability challenges for buyers. As we look to the future, predictions of decreasing mortgage rates may stimulate renewed demand and increased investment in real estate. In this environment, leading brokerages must articulate their value propositions clearly. Consumers seek agents who can provide comprehensive services that simplify their transactional experiences, from representation to mortgage and title services. At Fathom, we ensure our agents can deliver these essential services seamlessly, reinforcing our commitment to our clients’ success.

Moreover, homeowners are sitting on trillions of equity dollars, stabilizing the market. This presents us with an opportunity to educate our clients about leveraging their assets effectively, especially in a time when stability and informed guidance are paramount.

Leadership Opportunities

As the real estate industry resets for the future, we recognize the critical need for leadership development. Our agents and clients rely on us for guidance, stability, and growth more than ever before. We must invest in the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the tools, technology, and insights they need to navigate the complexities of our industry. At Fathom, we are committed to fostering an environment that encourages growth and development, ensuring that our local leaders and staff are prepared to make a significant impact in the lives of those they serve.

The RISMedia CEO & Leadership Exchange reaffirmed our mission at Fathom Realty: to provide unparalleled value through support, resources, and leadership to our agents and clients. Together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve our communities. Let’s embrace these opportunities and continue to drive innovation in the real estate industry.