RE/MAX Broker Spotlight: Q&A with Maine-Based Broker/Owner Duo B. Michael & Chelsea Ireland

Chelsea got into real estate first, working with a local real estate company as an office manager, managing 18 agents. She then earned her license after years working in the office. I was encouraged to earn my license while I was still working full-time and transitioned into a full-time real estate agent.

Once we both started selling real estate full-time, we moved to a local-to-Maine real estate company and quickly created a name for ourselves, but a lack of technology and support lead us to looking elsewhere. We knew we wanted to be affiliated with a brand that is recognizable, but also a brand we could build as our own. In other words, we wanted to be in business for ourselves, but not by ourselves.

RE/MAX representatives were there to assist us with answers to questions, listened to our comments and supported us every step of the way.

We had our Grand Opening event on July 22 [this summer] and had approximately 300 people in attendance. The support from the community and even other real estate companies has been phenomenal. We worked hard to create a new office that is the most professional looking and welcoming. We feel ready to climb the ladder of success.

Our biggest goal is to have the most successful agents in the industry, who are committed to our mission and values. RE/MAX University® and education courses assist in helping to recruit and retain superior agents.

RE/MAX University, the affiliation with other RE/MAX franchisees and the strength that the brand brings to the industry are very valuable to us and our agents. No matter how successful another RE/MAX office is, they are always open to helping us move up the success chain.

We have created a brand under RE/MAX that offers support, education, training and accountability to our agents. We believe that the true reward in real estate is helping others and working together – hence the name of our office, RE/MAX Collaborative. Agents that subscribe to this way of thinking will not only find success in the real estate industry, but also in their own quest for happiness in life.