Jamie Willey of Studio 78

Zach Munn- Realtor, Royal LePage 
Zach is a well know realtor in Brandon Manitoba, recently having created the Munn Group with his dad. Zach is also known for his generous contributions to the Humane Society, and his most recent project building insulated dog houses for family/pets in need. This young professional gives advice on building a career in real estate, tips to his success and his philosophy on giving back to the community. 

1.       Tell us your story- how did you start in real estate and why?

I started mainly because my Dad, Brad Munn, is a realtor in Brandon. As a young kid, I hung out at the Royal LePage office and got to know the realtors & business early on. I received my license in 2009 and I took Business classes at Brandon University and Vincent Massey before that, I also worked in construction so that has been helpful in selling homes

2.       You have a large following on social media compared to most area realtors. Are there specific strategies you use for social media?

I use Facebook ad campaigns to promote client’s listings and I also did an initial Promotional Marketing Campaign where I donated $2 for each follower to both the Brandon Human Society and Stray’s That Can’t Pay for every person who followed our Instagram or Facebook Page. I wanted to help charities I am passionate about and build brand identity while donating to a cause that I am passionate about.  

3.       You do give back a lot to the community. Tell us about that.

That mentality comes from my dad as he has always donated and given back. Three years ago, we went to the Dominican Republic and build 5 safety homes that housed 12 people each. I got to see the extreme poor conditions and low standards of living some people experience which was a huge eye opener to see firsthand. I also have family members in animal rescue and have seen abuse cases and different situations that once you have witnessed you just can’t forget. Once you realize the issues that are out there you get more passionate about it and want to help.

4.       When people are trying to sell their homes what are some things potential buyers notice right away that might hinder the ability to sell?

Some of the most important things include smells, cleanliness, and lighting. I always advise that sellers leave their drapes open and lights on; first impressions mean a lot. When a potential buyer walks in and the drapes are closed, the lights are off and maybe there is an odor, it might be a great home but if the buyer doesn’t get that same warm and cozy feeling that they got in other homes they saw that day then it is going to be a much harder sell.

Some extra tips would be to leave fresh baking out or even a personalized note to the potential buyer about the home. It creates a really warm and honest environment.

5.       What advice do you have for people that are considering a career in real estate?

Don’t dive in without doing some homework; there are a lot of challenges with real estate and it costs a lot to keep your license each month.  When you hear commission rates make sure you know where that money goes. There are splits between 2 real estate companies, and often a split with a broker. By the time you pay these fees and then take off your taxes your commissions can dwindle quickly. It is a highly competitive business and there is definitely opportunity for great success, but you have to be passionate about it and do your homework.

6.       What is something you have purchased for your business that has had a major impact?

The best thing I have done for my business was to purchase a coaching program with Brian Buffini & Company, a California based coaching company. I did one-on-one coaching with someone who would call me once a week; he gave me ideas for business, and kept me accountable. He got me on the right track with business.

7.       Do you see technology having an impact on the way the real-estate business operates?
      Yes, I do. There are many new tools that agents can use to better promote their business & use to promote their client’s homes. Technology can always make systems more efficient, and make marketing more seamless. I believe there will always be a need for realtors however advanced technology becomes. I believe home buyers and sellers want to work with a professional who is educated in the business, has access to past sales and other pertinent information, has valuable connections, knows proper conditions and negotiation tactics, does professional marketing, and gets your home more exposure online and offline. I don’t see technology changing that, as there are many tools realtors are using to help their clients.

8.       What is the most important thing you have learned, either from real-estate or otherwise?

The most important would be realizing that treating people right can result in creating an advocate for you when you aren’t there to advocate for yourself. When your previous clients’ friends and family are looking to buy or sell, the word of mouth is a great way to get clients. I have realized that treating people right can be a great way to generate business from trusted referrals. Also, as you get older that base grows more and more and your database gets bigger as you keep going.

9.       Do you read, and what is your favourite book?
      Yes, I mostly read business & self-improvement books.  My favorite book would be Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. It was the first business related book that really clicked with me.

10.   What is something you have purchased personally that has had a major impact on your life?

I did a Richard Robins coaching program which includes plans on personal budgets, business budgets and deal tracking software’s that help with tracking where leads come from. It really helps with goal setting and I am looking to do my 2018 planning with that. I set goals for personal and business each year.

11.   Where can we find you to follow you?

Website: Munn Real Estate munngroup.ca

Instagram- munngroup

Facebook- Munn Real Estate Royal LePage Martin Liberty realty