May 31, 2025

Christina McIntosh on Setting Expectations, Empowering Teams & Leading with Clarity

In Episode 151 of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes sits down with Christina McIntosh, a seasoned real estate professional and dynamic team leader who embodies the belief that setting expectations is the cornerstone of success. Whether she's mentoring agents or guiding buyers and sellers through complex transactions, Christina emphasizes one vital principle: clear expectations build trust, alignment, and results.

The Power of Setting Expectations—For Clients and Teams Alike

"One of the biggest things that I carry on is setting expectations—whether it's a client, colleague, teammate, or another agent. Making sure everyone has the same expectations is key to success." — Christina McIntosh

Christina learned early in her career that ambiguity leads to chaos. Today, as a top-producing agent and team leader, she ensures that every interaction begins with a clear understanding of goals, responsibilities, and outcomes. From introductory meetings with clients to onboarding team members, her focus is on clarity, communication, and customization.

From Bank Boardrooms to Real Estate Boardrooms

Before real estate, Christina thrived in the corporate banking world, where she witnessed firsthand how clearly defined roles and expectations led to higher employee retention and performance. She's carried that mindset into real estate, building a thriving team culture that attracts high performers and provides unmatched service to clients.

"Hiring someone costs a lot more than retaining someone. Understanding people’s unique goals helps retain talent—and it all starts with a real conversation."

Helping Buyers and Sellers Navigate the Journey

Whether working with a buyer or seller, Christina insists on starting with a face-to-face consultation. She asks the right questions to uncover must-haves, non-negotiables, and hidden concerns that often derail deals.

"We don’t just show homes. We listen first. We want to know what drives your decisions, your goals, and your concerns before we even look at properties."

That insight lets her tailor the process—from staging to showings to negotiations—and empowers clients to make confident, informed decisions.

Mentorship, Teamwork & Growth

As a team leader, Christina doesn’t just answer questions—she equips agents with the why behind each step. From sharing resources to walking agents through staging strategies, she leads a team built on collaboration, growth, and continuous improvement.

"Everyone brings something to the table. We pitch in, help each other, and ask: how can we get better?"

She recognizes that not everyone is built for team life, and that’s okay. Her priority is fit, mindset, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Why Christina McIntosh Should Be on Your Radar

If you’re a buyer, seller, or aspiring agent in Northeast Florida, Christina is someone you want in your corner. Her reputation is built on integrity, trust, and next-level preparation—and she brings corporate-level structure to every real estate transaction.