Episode 392 - Dionne Malush, Co-Owner Realty One Group Gold Standard

The Real Estate Sessions

Dionne Malush, co-owner of Realty One Group, Gold Standard in Pittsburgh, brings nearly 25 years of invaluable experience to the real estate industry. Initially uninterested in owning a real estate company, Malush was captivated by the innovative branding and marketing strategies of Realty One Group, particularly its disruptor model offering a 100% commission plan. She emphasizes the cyclical nature of real estate and the challenges agents face during market downturns, advocating for a shift in mindset and the importance of building a strong sphere of influence to maintain consistent success. Malush also highlights the significance of tracking business metrics meticulously and surrounding oneself with a supportive community to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term goals in the real estate industry.

(00:08:51) Visual Approach Propels Real Estate Success

(00:16:14) Mindset Shifts: Thriving in Real Estate Industry

(00:18:55) Navigating Financial Realities of Brokerage Ownership

(00:26:04) Building Relationships through Podcast Networking

00:00:00 - Real Estate Challenges

Real estate professionals often face challenges related to financial concerns and mindset shifts during market downturns. The industry's roller coaster nature can lead agents to struggle with paying bills and overcoming obstacles. Addressing limiting beliefs and fostering a shift in mindset can reignite passion and drive for success. Seeking expert counsel and being prepared for challenges are also emphasized in navigating the real estate industry.

00:02:15 - Pittsburgh City Perception

Dionne addresses the misconception of Pittsburgh being a dirty, industrial city by highlighting its beauty, such as the stunning view from downtown and the abundance of bridges. She also mentions the sense of community around sports teams, like the Steelers and Penguins, reflecting the city's grit and toughness. Additionally, the unique feature of Mount Washington offering a breathtaking view of the three rivers coming together emphasizes the city's charm and recreational opportunities. Despite considering a move south, Dionne's love for Pittsburgh and its unique features showcases the city's allure beyond its industrial past.

00:08:51 - Transition from Graphic Design to Real Estate

Dionne Malush transitioned from owning a graphic design business to becoming a successful real estate agent. A partnership gone bad in her graphic design business prompted her to diversify her career. Combining her skills in graphic design with real estate, she entered the Pittsburgh market with a unique approach, creating visually appealing house listings that set her apart from traditional agents. This unconventional strategy paid off, as she quickly found success in real estate, surpassing the income she had made in her 17th year of graphic design in just her second year in the real estate industry. Ultimately, she made real estate her full-time focus, while still incorporating her love for graphic design into her daily work.

00:16:14 - Limiting Beliefs in Real Estate

Dionne Malush discusses the cyclical nature of the real estate industry and the common limiting beliefs agents face during downturns, emphasizing the importance of shifting mindset to overcome challenges and achieve success. Real estate agents often struggle with limiting beliefs during market downturns, questioning their ability to succeed and worrying about financial stability. The industry can be a roller coaster ride, requiring a mindset shift to overcome obstacles and thrive. By offering support, mentorship, and resources like her weekly mastermind group and self-discipline camp, Malush helps agents break free from limiting beliefs and achieve their goals in real estate. Ultimately, she emphasizes the importance of mindset, perseverance, and seeking expert counsel to navigate the challenges of running a brokerage and succeeding in the real estate industry.

00:18:55 - Brokerage Ownership Challenges

Owning a brokerage involves significant financial considerations and challenges, as highlighted by Dionne Malush's experience with Realty One Group Gold Standard in Pittsburgh. Malush mentions the model they operate on involves giving back most of the money to agents, requiring a large number of agents for financial viability. She stresses the importance of seeking expert counsel and not handling everything independently, as she and her partner initially faced numerous challenges without the support systems in place today. Despite the difficulties, Malush finds owning a brokerage to be the most amazing yet hardest thing she's ever done, emphasizing the need for a realistic and informed approach to brokerage ownership.

00:26:04 - Networking and Making Connections

Bill highlights the value of connections in growing a network of people who are willing to support and collaborate. Dionne discusses how her podcast has allowed her to connect with people from all over the world, showcasing the impact of building relationships through platforms like podcasts. Additionally, Dionne's emphasis on mindset and positivity ties into the idea of networking as a means to inspire and uplift others, showing how connections can lead to personal growth and success.