Quite often I have conversations with agents that are unhappy with their present office and considering a move. Most recently, I had a conversation with an agent that I highly respect in our local market that triggered and reminded me of another conversation I had approximately 6 months ago. I’m inspired to share.
A couple of those agents are a “dual agent team” that I believe would be an absolute perfect fit for our office. I knew that their present office didn’t have the power of a global brand, International exposure, tools, coaching, training and technology to better represent their clients and assist them to really take their career to the next level.
After we covered many points of mutual interest, I asked what else may be important to review. Even though they shared their amazement, they paused and shared something that I didn’t expect. Their comment was “we would like to be associated with a Canadian Company”.
I smiled and responded with: “Perfect! RE/MAX is as Canadian as they come and this is why I joined RE/MAX in 1993”.
They smiled back and asked me to expand on that. Well that was just the permission I needed and went on to explain that RE/MAX has Canada running through its entire being. Some offices and Brands claim that they’re the only truly Canadian company. That’s a myth.
Yes it’s true that RE/MAX did start in Denver. However from the beginning, Frank Polzler and Walter Schneider purchased the rights to Ontario & Atlantic back in 1980 during their meeting in the main lobby of the Harbour Castle Westin. Our Regions are family owned by Canadian families.
Walter Schneider is born and raised in Toronto Canada in our City’s west end. He jokes about growing up in the affluent Upper Parkdale neighbourhood. Fast forward to present day and Michael Polzler (which by the way is also Canadian born and raised) is our Regional Director and Executive Vice President. RE/MAX Ontario also owns the regions of New England, Minneapolis, Illinois, and all of Europe. All this from its Head Office in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
RE/MAX has grown and dominated throughout of all Canada by attracting the best full time, top selling agents and is now a market leader with over 30% market Share. The next closest is only 17% market share. RE/MAX changed the landscape of Real Estate by empowering the real estate agent and has been a huge supporter for independent contractor status. This is the main reason why Realtors are no longer employees and enjoy the benefits that they have today with CRA. RE/MAX is now pushing to empower teams to grow their business.
Dave Liniger has always acknowledged the role that Canada has in building RE/MAX internationally. He thanks us for truly making RE/MAX what it is today. Successful and International.
Wouldn’t it feel great to be associated with a Canadian Company that has such a great success story?? I’m a proud Canadian and it sure feels amazing to me.
Tim Syrianos
RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Inc., Brokerage