Ed Akers: Lead with Passion and Empathy in Every Real Estate Transaction

Ed Akers: Lead with Passion and Empathy in Every Real Estate Transaction

📍 Coldwell Banker Vanguard | Avondale, Florida

In Episode 215 of the Real Estate Excellence Podcast, host Tracy Hayes welcomes a true legend in the Jacksonville real estate market—Ed Akers, a veteran Realtor®, leader, and Branch Development Manager at Coldwell Banker Vanguard. With nearly four decades of experience in real estate and corporate America, Ed shares timeless lessons in mentorship, leadership, and success for agents at every stage of their career.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: Ed Akers – Lead with Passion and Empathy
📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: Real Estate Excellence Podcast – Episode 215

🔑 From Vacant Lots to High-Impact Leadership

Ed started his real estate career in the late 1980s—selling $9K lots, handling walk-ins at floor time, and even pioneering one of the first computerized tax roll systems for direct mail marketing. He built his foundation on grit, self-discipline, and attention to detail. “I didn’t have mentorship—I had to figure it out myself,” Ed recalls.

Today, he uses those hard-won lessons to train, mentor, and elevate new and seasoned agents alike at Coldwell Banker Vanguard.

💡 Why Modern Agents Need to Think Long-Term

One of Ed’s strongest points is the need for agents to treat real estate like a real business. “Set goals. Use a whiteboard. Know your closing forecast 90 days out,” he emphasizes. He believes agents need a five-year vision, not just a 30-day hustle.

New agents? Ed urges you to get both feet in the business. “If you’re only half-in, you’re doing yourself and your brokerage a disservice.”

🧠 Tech, Training & Tactical Advantage

Ed was leveraging technology for lead generation before the internet existed—literally using mail merge in the '80s to send thousands of letters. He encourages today’s agents to embrace new tools, CRMs, and training on the Florida Realtors form changes and buyer broker agreements.

“When you stop educating yourself, that’s when you become a liability.”

📣 What Makes Ed Akers Different?

• ✅ 37 years of experience in real estate and risk management

• ✅ Veteran of the 1980s high-interest era—yes, he remembers 13%+ rates

• ✅ Former corporate risk director who understands contracts, liability, and leadership

• ✅ Leader in Coldwell Banker’s historic Avondale office

• ✅ Believer in pre-listing inspections, property readiness, and clear communication

🎯 Final Takeaway: Real Estate is a People Business

“Be the agent people think of when they hear the word real estate.”

Whether you’re walking neighborhoods, attending networking events, or building relationships over dinner, Ed reminds us that success follows authenticity and consistency.

💼 New agents: Want to build a sustainable business? Learn from those who’ve weathered the storms.
📩 Experienced agents: Ready to lead with passion? Surround yourself with professionals like Ed who elevate the standard.

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🌐 Website: www.tracyhayespodcast.com