a local broker called me yesterday to tell me about Jean Harvey with Harvey & Associates.  Jean evidently closed her doors yesterday and decided to move her team over to another company and help manage that company.  The broker called us because Jean used to work for our team a few years ago before going out on her own when the market was hot.  This broker asked how I felt about her not making it.

I responded "sad".  I hate to see anybody not make it, not only in real estate but in business and life in general.  Operating a successful real estate business is not easy for anybody, and when the market turns many just can't survive when they haven't sold or managed in a sideways or negative environment.  There is no substitute for experience, and yet at the same time it's a shame.

Jean had agents on her team that sold to investors, and the getting was good back when it was good.  Investors have dropped out of our market, and when that's your base, you've got little to fall back on when your regular base doesn't pay the bills.  I'm proud that our team has developed skills, expertise, education, and that stick to it work harder than everybody else attitude that serves us well when the market gets tough.  It's our time to shine.

I love seeing new people who have a passion for real estate get in this business, because it takes passion, and a thirst for knowledge.  There's always room for those willing to work hard, study, and get better every day.  We certainly wish Jean and her team luck joining a new company.  This will allow that company to pay the overhead and advertising, and allow her to hopefully make some money in this business.  Like I said, we're all in favor of those willing to work hard making money in this business.

I spoke with a member of the Greater Fort Myers Association Of Realtors today.  Board dues were due December 15, and they had estimated that 2,500 would not renew.  Preliminary numbers indicate 2,500 did not renew, so it was quite a prediction.  The board extended the deadline until Jan 8 just in case any stragglers strapped for money during the holidays could still pay.  We wrote a Blog article on this topic a whille back.  To read it, click here.