Close More Deals in 2025: Ricky Carruth's Take on Real Estate Relationships

Why Conversations Still Close More Deals in 2025: Ricky Carruth's Take on Real Estate Relationships

When it comes to building a real estate business that lasts, conversations—not algorithms—are still king. On Episode 229 of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, Ricky Carruth breaks down the real work of relationship-based selling and why it will always outperform shortcut strategies.

This article uses insights from the full episode transcript at tracyhayespodcast.com/229.

Ricky Carruth isn’t just a RE/MAX agent or a podcast host. He’s a real estate industry force—keynote speaker, author, and creator of Zero to Diamond, the first completely free real estate coaching program. Known for closing over $1 billion as a solo agent, Ricky is leading the national conversation about what actually works in today’s shifting market.

Why Ricky’s Message Resonates

From his Gulf Coast roots to becoming a top producer, Ricky has lived the rollercoaster. He knows that consistency, grit, and conversation are what close deals—not high-pressure tactics or endless automation. “This is a personal branding business, a conversation business, a consultation business,” Ricky told Tracy. “You have to talk to people. The more people you talk to, and the better you are at getting them to open up about what they want to do, the more deals you’re going to close.”

That mindset isn’t theory—it’s how Ricky rebuilt after losing everything during the 2008 crash. It’s how he built Zero to Diamond and helped thousands of agents shift from panic to production.

Standout Quotes from Ricky Carruth

"You're never going to sell a piece of property without talking to the client."

“If I’m putting my success in someone else’s hands, I don’t think I’m going to be very successful.”

“The goal is to help people do what they want to do—not sell them something they don’t want.”

How This Applies to NE Florida Agents

Whether you’re working in Jacksonville, Nocatee, or St. Augustine, Ricky’s advice is tactical. It’s about controlling your own pipeline. Northeast Florida is seeing continued inbound relocation and buyer interest, but that doesn’t guarantee success. Local agents must master the art of conversation if they want to stand out.

Strong agents here know how to:

• Build authentic rapport fast

• Navigate buyer fears about rates or timing

• Educate sellers on market shifts

• Create long-term loyalty through regular check-ins and market updates

Three Examples from Ricky’s Journey

1. First Deal from a Letter – Ricky closed his first listing after mailing a letter. The client called while he was roofing with his dad. That deal? Pure relationship.

2. 2008 Rebuild – After going broke, Ricky went back to roofing and oil rig work. But what got him back on top was simple: calling people, asking questions, listening.

3. Zero to Diamond Origin – He started coaching for free after agents kept telling him they were burning out. His solution: more conversations, less pressure.

FAQs: How Conversations Drive Results in Northeast Florida

Q: Why are conversations so critical in NE Florida’s market?
A: With so much relocation and market movement, agents who can quickly connect, listen, and educate rise above the noise.

Q: How can agents in Jacksonville or Ponte Vedra stand out right now?
A: Stop chasing gimmicks. Pick up the phone. Call homeowners. Be helpful.

Q: Does this work even in high-end markets like St. Augustine Beach or Nocatee?
A: Yes. High-net-worth buyers value agents who ask smart questions and don’t push.

Q: What if an agent struggles with phone conversations?
A: Ricky’s advice: become the person who can. It’s a skill—and like any skill, it can be learned.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to stop outsourcing your success and start owning it, follow Ricky Carruth and implement what works.

Connect with Ricky Carruth:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickycarruth/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557354928972
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RickyCarruth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricky-carruth-373359161/
Website: https://carruthteam.com/

Listen to the full episode: tracyhayespodcast.com/229
Watch on YouTube: Real Estate Excellence YouTube
Explore other top agents: TopJacksonvilleAgents.com | TopStAugustineAgents.com

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