By Tyler R. Morrissey
On Monday, William Pitt and Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty announced the creation of The Imagine Lab, a new facility devoted exclusively to elite real estate training, combining state-of-the-art technology with client-based hospitality education.
The unique 3,000 square-foot training site is the first of its kind among all real estate firms in the market areas the company serves. After its recent grand opening, the Imagine Lab has already begun its mission to help real estate agents become exceptional professionals in the industry by learning the critical fundamentals of the business in a revolutionary new way.
We were able to catch up with four members of the Imagine Lab’s inaugural class. Upon graduation Helen Hintz, Waverly Neer, Camie Tobias and Annie Broderick will become sales associates with the firm.
Tyler: So you are all just about halfway done with the Imagine Lab’s training program. Generally speaking, what are your impressions of the Imagine Lab so far?
Helen: For me personally, I was really impressed when I was first told about this program. The dynamic of this new facility is amazing and it’s a place I look forward to going to every day. It’s the perfect way for agents to get the info and training they need to succeed in real estate.
Waverly: So far the program has been fabulous. I joined the company in December and when I was told about this program, I knew right away it was something that I wanted to be a part of. The things we have learned so far have made me a more confident real estate professional and I can’t stress enough the value in this program.
Camie: I would say it’s been an amazing experience so far. It was the stepping stone I needed to start my career in real estate. The Imagine Lab has given me the confidence to serve my clients to the best of my ability, and has also provided me with the knowledge of the industry’s cutting edge technological advancements.
Annie: Generally speaking I have loved my time in the program so far. The classroom experience has been very insightful and has taught me how to better my business practices by using the tools and skills that we learned.
Tyler: That’s terrific, it looks like you are all really enjoying the program so far. Was there anything that you learned at the Imagine Lab that was surprising to you?
Helen: One of the first things we learned about was Contactually. It does some amazing things and I can’t wait to dive into it some more. In this business it’s important to maintain relationships, and this tool allows us to organize our contacts into one place. It really changes how we reach out to people.
Waverly: One thing that surprised me was the interaction between agent and client. I’m still a consumer and the program helped flip my perception of how the two interact. The Imagine Lab showed me to take more of a hospitality approach when it comes to the process of buying, selling or showing a home.
Camie: I would say the psychology aspects of the program allowed all of us to gain confidence in ourselves when dealing with clients.
Annie: I also thought Contactually was a very innovative concept. By using products like this, we can get more from our existing contacts, which is always great for business.
Tyler: So what drew all of you to the program in the first place?
Helen: I was asked if I wanted to take part in the program and I’m glad I did. It has given me the opportunity to be exposed to everything I needed to know about this business.
Waverly: I knew this was the right move. Any time that you can be a part of an innovative pilot program such as this one is a very unique opportunity.
Camie: Before the Imagine Lab I lacked some of the practical skills I needed for this new career. The program has helped me seal up some of the gaps I had, especially from a technology standpoint.
Annie: I am big on continuing education and I knew the Imagine Lab would help give me more confidence as an agent.
Tyler: You are correct. The Imagine Lab is a unique opportunity. You all come from different backgrounds, what sparked your interest in real estate?
Helen: I was looking to go back to work in the city, but it didn’t give me the flexibility I wanted. I don’t mind hard work at all, but with real estate you have more control. I’m also a people person and this is very much an industry rooted in working with people.
Waverly: I’ve always been intrigued by the fact that everyone needs a home. I’m really excited to enter a field that helps guide people with such an important purchase.
Camie: I was previously a lawyer and I had gotten interested in real estate while I was in the process of selling my own home. I love the idea of helping someone with a positive transition in their lives.
Annie: I was looking for a career that offered more flexibility and unlimited growth potential. I love looking at houses and I’m very detailed oriented so real estate seemed like a great fit.
Tyler: Thank you all for taking time to discuss your experiences thus far. My final question is would you recommend the Imagine Lab to someone else?
Helen: Absolutely, this program sets you up for success. It’s innovative stuff and if you’re new to the business why wouldn’t you want to be on the cutting edge? It was a no brainer to me.
Waverly: Without a doubt I would recommend the program. I would tell someone if they were interested in real estate to take this opportunity. The information I have learned is invaluable.
Camie: Yes because I think the Imagine Lab helps you find your own place and set up your business plan.
Annie: I highly recommend the program. Real estate in general doesn’t have formal training other than what you learn when you get your license. There is so much available to you at the Imagine Lab and it reveals not just weaknesses, but your strengths as well.
