Phil Barone
Managing Broker
Coldwell Banker Edgebrook
“My advice came by way of example. My grandfather and father before me always treated every transaction as if it were their own. I have followed this example, providing the level of care and attention to every deal that I would hope to receive myself.”
L to R: Amanda Bryce and Leticia Alvarado
The Facts
How many years have you been a managing broker? 8
How many years have you been in real estate? 20
How many full time agents are in your office? 85
The Details
Does your office have any specialties? We specialize in full service real estate, which in this market means luxury, conventional sales, short sales, REO/foreclosures, rentals, investments and relocation.
What kind of marketing assistance do you provide? Two full-time administrative assistants provide help with promotional materials development and ordering, direct mail, special mailing, listing input, website postings and document preparation. Each agent receives a dedicated web page, branded business cards, a QR code for use in print and media presentations and branded listing signs. Access to business and branding coaches is available, and additional support is provided on an as-needed basis.
What do you expect of your agents? I expect perseverance and dedication. Sales goals are determined on a per-agent basis to make sure that each agent is treated with custom care. all agents are independent contractors and are encouraged, but not mandated, to attend in-house meetings, training sessions and regular round-table discussions.
How are you approaching the challenges of the current market? We believe knowledge and experience are key. Therefore, agents are continuing training in all the various facets of full-service real estate.
How do you get new agents acclimated to the company? Agents become acclimated to the company based on their level of experience, area of expertise and interest. Corporate training is available, I provide one-on-one mentoring to those who need it and we also have informal ambassadors in the office who will provide guidance and support. Web-based and document training is also provided, as needed.
About You — Phil Barone
What makes you different than any other managing broker? I am an agent’s broker. I treat my agents like well-rounded people instead of money-making machines. I respect their commitments to family. I encourage their participation in their communities. I believe if we recognize the true priority of work in the context of a full life it leads to greater success for everyone.
What was your history before being a managing broker? I’m a third-generation broker. I learned from my father (who’s still an active agent!) and my grandfather. I worked in banking and title for a bit, but my heart was always in real estate sales.
What kind of training do you have? I am a licensed managing broker in the state of Illinois and have a background in sales, marketing, finance, development and property management.
What is your favorite part about being a managing broker? I enjoy the success of an agent that I have coached or mentored. It gives me great satisfaction to see others do well in this field.
Why do you love real estate? It’s the people; plain and simple.