Why They Attend
Ashley Jennings
Marketing Manager
Kay Green Design
www.kaygreendesign.com
Why I Attend IBS?
I will be participating in panel discussions at next year’s show. I’m looking forward to the networking with friends and acquaintances from past shows.
How I Got My Start?
My family has been in the housing industry for years, and I naturally followed in their footsteps. My dad is a builder and my mom is an interior designer. I joined her firm, Kay Green Design, over five years ago. My education in Marketing and Communications has provided me with the skills to help promote the business in the marketplace and online.
Important Industry Mentor?
My mother, Kay Green, has been in the business for 35 years. She’s taught me her customer-first approach that has built the firm’s reputation in the marketplace.
Selling and Marketing New Homes in a Challenging Market?
In this economy, we’ve had to become good at a lot more things. The Web and social media, for instance, have allowed us to launch our new company quickly, promote our personalities and culture and sell homes in a more fun and interactive way.
Marketing New Homes in a Challenging Market?
We really listen to our builder clients, and find innovative ways to help them promote their properties. For instance, we’ve developed a do-it-yourself trim detail instruction product that sales reps can use to encourage prospective buyers to think creatively about their properties.
My Hopes for 2011?
Consumer confidence continues to improve, so we’re hopeful that things will get even better next year. In the meantime, we’ll continue to bring innovative resources to our clients.
My Life Outside Work?
I’m pretty serious about running. Right now, I’m training for a half marathon trail race on a mountain in Georgia. It’s fantastic when you find yourself running alone and everything around you is so quiet and beautiful!
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Gaye Orr, MIRM, CRS, CRB
Partner and President
Coldwell Banker Advantage New Homes
www.advantagenewhomes.com
Why I Attend IBS?
I’ve attended the show for at least 15 years. As a former Chair of the National Sales and Marketing Council and 2009 President of the Institute of Residential Marketing, I’m excited about our awards program. I’m also really looking forward to the educational programs.
How I Got My Start?
About 28 years ago, I was a secretary and office manager for a real estate company. I got my real estate license and began selling homes. Eventually I tried selling new homes and loved it. I’ve never looked back!
Best Business Advice I’ve Received?
Treat people well and you will be rewarded.
Selling and Marketing New Homes in a Challenging Market?
We’ve completely changed the way we do business. Today, almost every new home sale starts on the Internet, and we’ve been using online tools at many stages of the sales cycle. Social media has also been huge. We use Facebook and blogs to attract buyers and follow up with customers. We’ve even used the Internet to encourage new construction. In our Scattered Lots program, we create websites for banks and developers that identify potential sites for investment and construction.
My Outlook for 2011?
I’m cautiously optimistic, but I’m not expecting a dramatic turnaround just yet. We’re not going out and hiring a bunch of people. Instead, I rely on freelancers and do a lot of the work myself. The economy has to make a more dramatic turn before new home sales heat up again.
My Life Outside Work?
I raise three Labrador retrievers, enjoy gardening (I have 28 rose bushes) and I like to cook.
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Zach Schabot
Go Realty
www.gorealty.biz
Why I Attend IBS?
Where else can you find all the best minds in the business in one place? I really enjoy the educational sessions, and I always make a point of trying see at least a few new speakers. I’m always looking for fresh perspectives on the industry.
How I Got My Start?
My dad has been in this industry for 25 years. After college, he hooked me up with Garmin Realty, a construction company with a great sales staff. When they started a brokerage arm, I joined their team. In January 2010 we relaunched our brand as Go Realty.
Best Business Advice I’ve Received?
Someone once told me that the best part of our business is that it gives you the freedom to be yourself. I truly believe that if you share a bit about yourself, people will enjoy working with you.
Selling and Marketing New Homes in a Challenging Market?
In this economy, we’ve had to become good at a lot more things. The Web and social media, for instance, have allowed us to launch our new company quickly, promote our personalities and culture and sell homes in a more fun and interactive way.
My Hopes for 2011?
The current situation has really handcuffed builders. If we could loosen up homes financing, that would be huge.
My Life Outside Work?
I have two young kids. I try to spend as much time with them as I can — going to baseball games, the park and the pool.
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