As Gerhard Ade alluded to, nothing is constant except for change. I think we can agree that not all change is good, but all things being equal, I'd rather have change than feel stagnant. Brio is one of those smaller RE companies that embody and embrace innovation. That directly stems from it's founder, broker and industry visionary Jonathan Washburn. He didn't invent real estate by any stretch, but his mastery of search engine optimization applied to real estate marketing was way a ahead of the curve. The lure of free client leads was just one of the benefits of working for a small, technologically savvy company. Besides no desk fee, I enjoyed the management, administration and the other agents as well.

I got a very different vibe than at my previous company, where I was treated with relative anonymity. I couldn't get an audience with either of the two brokers who own the company (that's a hint to the location). I've always felt at home at Brio. In fact, I've surely gotten more than my fair share of "special" treatment, because I usually work at the office at least half-time and have had a good relationship with each successive broker.  TIP #1 for all you reading this: Brokers will help you if you come into the office often or communicate with your broker frequently!

And then there was the Pat Flynn era at Brio.  After Jon stepped down to develop Activerain, Pat put his considerable skills to work. I really enjoyed how accessible he made himself. Great guy. Once again, I think Gerhard mentioned having the right people in the right place at the right time. As good as Pat is, management just felt a better fit if they could persuade Ardell DellaLoggia to become our broker. Now you can find him doing great things at Keller Williams in North Seattle. I think that shortened your commute up a bit, eh buddy?

Fast forward to today. Ardell is the supercharged engine that drives Brio Realty. Those who weren't initially put off by her straight forward Philly demeanor have benefited from her knowledge, caring and passion for this industry. She's a cult of personality, wrapped in a sweet Italian motherly package.  Her push for transparent real estate and a re-emphasis on the consumer have given this company a new direction and focus. She embraces and demonstrates both high tech methods and old school methodology, giving her agent's the best chance for success in an uncertain market. I feel couldn't feel more confident in the leadership at Brio, between Jon and Ardell. Thank you both, and thanks to the Brio agents who have made the last few years more enjoyable.

Yes, change can be good, but maybe that's enough for now. Time to get back to work.