Better Homes CEO gives tips for building a company

Despite starting a new real estate company during a recession, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate has achieved 97 percent brand recognition. In less than three years, the company has expanded to 21 states and has opened 196 offices.

Sherry Chris, president and CEO of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, recently spoke at Inman Real Estate Connect Conference in New York and shared the seven steps she followed to successfully build the company:

• Ensure you are empowered to succeed. Meet with the board and determine the value proposition for the business.
• Take calculated risks. If it’s a good idea, it’s too late. Create a dream list and prioritize them. Create a strong value proposition and do things differently. For example, Better Homes and Gardens was an initial investor in RE Bar Camps because the company thought it was a unique idea.
• Choose carefully and empower your team. There is nothing more important than the human element.
• Establish a set of core values. Passion, authenticity, innovation and growth are some that Better Homes and Gardens set as its core values.
• Share and collaborate openly and unselfishly.  The company started a blog which is open for everyone.
• Create a network of fans. This is achieved by executing flawlessly, exceeding expectations, paying attention to detail, listening to suggestions, valuing relationships and validating the brand.
• Put yourself where you’re needed the most. Target markets your competitors have neglected. Have a willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed and don’t expect your team to do anything you wouldn’t do.

These steps help outline a business plan but it’s important to look at what worked. “Don’t forget to go back and measure your results, not just the activity,” Chris added.