Already the eighth largest brokerage in Manhattan, Charles Rutenberg Realty’s ranks continue to swell to almost 300 agents. The pace of growth has picked up significantly as agents are asking themselves, "What has my broker done for me or my clients lately?" Too often the answer is a resounding "not much" or "they continue to make a lot of empty promises." I am meeting and/or speaking with prospective new Rutenberg agents almost daily (2 came to my office yesterday) who have determined that a move makes a great deal of sense. The complaints are all the same:
- their firms have cut advertising budgets in half
- those firms have a brand-centric approach to the industry versus being consumer-centric
- the same promises are being made over and over again without delivery
- their firms continue to squeeze them financially in an effort to compensate for the softer market
It’s no secret that the face of the real estate industry is changing rapidly and the traditional brokerage model is no longer best suited to serve the the agent nor the consumer. The Rutenberg design is a true independent contractor model that enables agents to ALWAYS do what is in the best interest of their client from an advertising, marketing and market navigation perspective. Of course those who don’t adhere to this very simple principal won’t last in the industry. Those who do and take advantage of the incredible support and exciting non-traditional business model that Rutenberg has to offer will be the pioneers who change the face of the urban real state landscape. I promise that these changes will hugely benefit the consumer!
Again, if you are an agent thinking of making a move, please feel free to email me or call me for more information on exactly how the Charles Rutenberg business model can work for you and YOUR CLIENTS.
GREAT blog and beautiful presentation of properties! Welcome me to Rutenberg. I’ve just had my first closing and my check was for 100% of 3% minus a small fee to Rutenberg which I am more than happy to pay. Finally I get to keep what I earn and pay my agency for the value it brings to my business and no more. I’m free of the burden of a 30 percent to 55 percent “tax” on my income that goes to support a corporate infrastructure that doesn’t give me anything I really need. Listings database? It’s a service Rutenberg provides for a reasonable flat fee. Newspaper advertising? You’re kidding, right? Brand recognition? The way this business works now, my name is my brand. An office and phone? I can carry both of them in one hand. This isn’t where the real estate business is heading; it’s already there. The only thing I wonder is why I waited so long.
Doug, you already know how I feel about your blog. This mention of Rutenberg is, as always, in keeping with your accuracy and reporting flair.
Pam (above comment) has eloquently stated it all. 100% commission + total support of our experienced management team of Mike, Kathy & Paul – all seasoned veterans in Manhattan real estate. The Charles Rutenberg innovation was a brilliant one – this is what you call 21st-Century real estate conception. I am glad to be a part of this winning team and positive about continued success with the nicest group of people in the industry.
Welcome Pam. So wonderful to have you join such a great group of people.
Thanks Roger. Looking forward to meeting you soon.
I think it is imperative to point out that the 100% commission gives us the freedom to market each property as needed (spending more $$$ and in smarter ways than I was able to in the past) and to also have flexibility with different advertising and marketing models that are available to the rest of the country but so strongly resisted by the big NYC “brands.”
Hi Doug, first time I visited your blog, very informative, would love to work with Charles Rutenberg indeed
A special thanks to Rutenberg broker, Roger Novatt, who is tirelessly working to find my dream apartment. He offers me only the best quality homes with value for my dollar.
I met Doug Heddings over a year ago when I was at the same large company. After making 2 large sales, my checks weren’t so large. I can’t say that’s the case at Rutenberg. I was welcomed with open arms and on a rental did more of a commission than I previously had done on a time consuming sale. Furthermore, the support of Kathy, Paul and Michael is there whenever needed at the drop of a hat and I am free to work independently without pressure and numbers. I find the company the best possible scenario! I can’t understand why everyone hasn’t moved there.
Here! Here!
I left a big brokerage for Rutenberg in January, only in part because of objections raised by my promoting my own brand on my own business card, newsletter and blog.
Like Doug, I also keep sending other brokers to Rutenberg, which I just love for being treated like a grown-up.
There’s nothing about Rutenberg I dislike. Nothing. There’s everything–and everyone–I celebrate, whether Kathy, Paul, Michael and other brokers in particular or the business model in general!
I have been at Charles Rutenberg and LOVE it! Having my lic since 98. I have worked at the so called brand agencies and find them to be only HYPE and false security. Why shouldn’t you keep the pay YOU earn??? I find the income a real incentive to working harder, but more importantly I love the management. They are intellegent friendly and actually understand the market and how to move within it. If you are trapped in a traditional company my advice is get out NOW! Come here you get more money… more respect… and a real chance to succeed! Call me if you want I will tell you about it if you like. Destiny 646-938-1411