Well, it hasn't been a Goodyear (pun intended) for the housing market.  Which reminds me of a manager I once knew who said, "Why Re-invent the Wheel"?  This was his way of a mind-obstacle; discouraging agents from leaving the company path.

    For me, being a co-dependent independent contractor was not the road I wanted to stay on.  I felt too much like a passenger in my own career.  Riding shot-gun was not for me.  I wanted to take the wheel, especially during this slippery slope housing market. 

         My point being, have you ever looked at the different"wheels" for different terrains:

I visualize these "wheels" as real estate professionals, unique and independently designed for their road to success.  Each of these designed to drive-through certain elements, or over obstacles.  (Performance may vary)

The moral of the post:

...Dare to be inventive.  Have a Goodyear, and perhaps even GoodRich