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Bruno Baldini 1980’s- C21 Making it’s Mark

May 12, 2021 By

A second-generation real estate agent, Bruno Baldini of CENTURY 21 Baldini Realty in Belmont, California joined the ranks under his father, who had his own brokerage in 1972. His dad started, in the business, in 1968, and made his way over to CENTURY 21 real estate, from a different brokerage, through his close friendship with Dick Loughlin, former President and CEO of CENTURY 21 Real Estate.

The year was 1986 when Bruno officially came into the business with his dad. Bruno recalls there being about fifteen CENTURY 21 offices, in the San Francisco area, as he shared some of his fondest memories of being a part of the brand. Today, there are currently over 11,600 independently owned and operated franchise brokers spanning across over 80 countries and territories.

“CENTURY 21 was always synonymous with residential real estate and had a great reputation. Back then, there were so many [real estate] offices, but people knew CENTURY 21.” Bruno recalls.

Bruno Baldini 1980’s- C21 Making it's Mark image 1

One thing Bruno remembers were the gold blazers.

“We would go around with gold jackets in caravans and spread out and knock on doors. They were always a conversation piece. We wore them all day and everywhere. You’d get stopped in a grocery store and people would ask you about real estate.

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Bruno Baldini still has his gold blazer from the ’80s.

It was a solid tool when used properly. It opened doors and conversations and you didn’t know who you’d have the opportunity to talk to but before you knew it, you’d end up handing out business cards.”

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CENTURY 21 real estate agents wearing their signature gold blazers.

Bruno recalls how CENTURY 21 agents were the hot topic of discussion among competitors. It was another way the brand has executed remaining top of mind and disrupters to the market, over the years. Bruno still has his gold blazer and even a prized possession of a CENTURY 21 kimono, presented to him by a group of agents from Tokyo, whom he had the opportunity to accompany on a tour of the city of San Francisco.

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Kimonos gifted to Bruno from affiliates from Tokyo.

Bruno has been an eye-witness to CENTURY 21 making a mark in real estate. From a time that precedes the digital era, wearing an iconic blazer was just as important as today’s Instagram profile. Imagine a time where you garnered a good percentage of your business by being stopped in a grocery store. We are continuing to celebrate half a century of momentum and memories by sharing the stories of our #relentless throughout the decades. #OurBrandofRelentless

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New Technology Promises to Revolutionize the Construction

May 12, 2021 By

There’s no question that technology is making an impact on the construction industry – even though construction is an industry that’s been historically slow to embrace innovation. The reluctance to change and evolve is due to fragmentation in the industry. With so many small firms specializing in different aspects of the construction process, it’s a challenge to adopt seamless processes and adapt to new technologies.

But recent advances that increase the efficiency, flexibility and adaptability of many emerging construction technologies are making them more cost-effective for firms to adopt. Just a few of the new technologies in use today include modular construction (using free-standing, integrated modules that are manufactured off-site and then transported to a site for installation), geospatial technologies (used to visualize, measure and analyze Earth’s features) and wearable technologies (such as head-mounted displays).

There’s more on the horizon. Some emerging technologies in the construction industry include mass timber (an engineered wood product), construction robotics (using robots to build) and autonomous construction vehicles (equipment operated by a computer).

To read a NAIOP report about new construction technologies, click here.

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Immerse Yourself in Van Gogh

April 26, 2021 By

Being able to stroll through “Starry Night” is an art lover’s dream — and now you can feel as if you are rolling with the very clouds painted by Van Gogh himself. One of the pandemic’s most popular art events, “Immersive Van Gogh” is expanding its reach to cities across the U.S. The multisensory experience debuted in Toronto last July, and opened in Chicago in February. Now the show is headed to San Francisco (now open), Los Angeles in May and New York in June.

Immersive Van Gogh features more than 500,000 cubic feet of projected iconic van Gogh works  and lasts one hour. Ticket prices for “Immersive Van Gogh” start at $39.99 for adults and $24.99 for those 16 and younger. Expect face masks, temperature checks and social distancing. A similar exhibit is running in other cities, including Las Vegas, Atlanta, Boston and Houston. The shows are selling out so quickly that many are being extended through the fall.

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How Can We Bring More Imagination to the Customer Experience?

April 23, 2021 By

The Relentless podcast is back, and we are bringing down the house with our line-up for season two. Kicking things off with a new host, new featured guests, thought-provoking topics, and one episode already under our belt, what better way to start the conversation on bringing more imagination to the customer experience, than with host, author, and entrepreneur, Kristen Meinzer, and guest and serial entrepreneur, Tina Roth Eisenberg.

It’s safe to say that no manual comes with being a serial entrepreneur however, Tina has managed to successfully and organically launch a diverse portfolio of businesses and has gathered some, let’s say, insightful gems along the way. These gems have been the very crux of Tina’s business growth.

As Founder of Creative Mornings, the world’s largest community and lecture series for creatives, Tina believes that adding an element of surprise and delight can help elevate the customer experience.

This just may be a game-changer.

How Can We Bring More Imagination to the Customer Experience? image 1

Think about the last time you had a memorable experience with a business, as a customer, and it stayed with you. We’re not just talking about good customer service here, but an extra layer of added delight to your experience. Did your experience leave you feeling compelled to share with others, or even return as a repeat customer? Did it make your day? Did it leave you with a smile? Did it set this business apart from the rest?

#WhatIf adding surprise and delight could help your business increase customer loyalty and left your customers with a lasting impression to share with others?

In this episode, Tina shares some creative and meaningful ways she’s been able to playfully elevate her customer’s experience. Let’s just say there’s confetti involved.

You’ll have to listen to the full episode to catch the rest. Listen to 1st episode of season two of The Relentless, and #jointheconversation on bringing more imagination to your customer’s experience.

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How Can We Bring More Imagination to the Customer Experience?

April 23, 2021 By

The Relentless podcast is back, and we are bringing down the house with our line-up for season two. Kicking things off with a new host, new featured guests, thought-provoking topics, and one episode already under our belt, what better way to start the conversation on bringing more imagination to the customer experience, than with host, author, and entrepreneur, Kristen Meinzer, and guest and serial entrepreneur, Tina Roth Eisenberg.

It’s safe to say that no manual comes with being a serial entrepreneur however, Tina has managed to successfully and organically launch a diverse portfolio of businesses and has gathered some, let’s say, insightful gems along the way. These gems have been the very crux of Tina’s business growth.

As Founder of Creative Mornings, the world’s largest community and lecture series for creatives, Tina believes that adding an element of surprise and delight can help elevate the customer experience.

This just may be a game-changer.

How Can We Bring More Imagination to the Customer Experience? image 1

Think about the last time you had a memorable experience with a business, as a customer, and it stayed with you. We’re not just talking about good customer service here, but an extra layer of added delight to your experience. Did your experience leave you feeling compelled to share with others, or even return as a repeat customer? Did it make your day? Did it leave you with a smile? Did it set this business apart from the rest?

#WhatIf adding surprise and delight could help your business increase customer loyalty and left your customers with a lasting impression to share with others?

In this episode, Tina shares some creative and meaningful ways she’s been able to playfully elevate her customer’s experience. Let’s just say there’s confetti involved.

You’ll have to listen to the full episode to catch the rest. Listen to 1st episode of season two of The Relentless, and #jointheconversation on bringing more imagination to your customer’s experience.

The post How Can We Bring More Imagination to the Customer Experience? first appeared on Century 21®.

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How to Attract Remote Workers to Your Apartment Community

April 22, 2021 By

Thanks to the pandemic, the number of employees who work from home swelled over the past year. Even though offices are beginning to open, with workers returning to the workplace, surveys show that many plan to telework at least part-time in the future.

Apartment owners and managers need to take notice of this trend. After all, at a time when unemployment remains high, remote workers are employed – and capable of paying their rent. They also represent a large pool of prospective tenants, so targeting them can turn into a competitive advantage.

Here are three things you can do to attract the work-from-home cohort:

  • Provide the tools teleworkers need. High-speed internet service and reliable cell phone reception are a must. The 2020 NMHC/Kingsley Apartment Resident Preferences Report found that 92% of tenants want high-speed internet access, while 91% said the community amenity they most desire is reliable cell phone reception. Tenants are even willing to pay higher rent for high-speed internet — $35.05 per month more, the survey found.
  • Tweak your marketing plan. Help the prospect envision working in your space. Stage model units (live or virtually) to include work spaces in bedrooms, or create zoom-worthy spaces on balconies or rooftops.
  • Don’t focus only on attracting new tenants; meet the needs of existing ones. Happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases, saving you the cost of turnover. They also can be a source of referrals. Convert business centers from open spaces to individual offices, and add programming designed to meet the needs of remote workers, such as a poolside yoga class to relieve stress or an online time-management workshop. People are craving human interaction these days, and programming can enhance a sense of community.
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How to Attract Remote Workers to Your Apartment Community

April 22, 2021 By

Thanks to the pandemic, the number of employees who work from home swelled over the past year. Even though offices are beginning to open, with workers returning to the workplace, surveys show that many plan to telework at least part-time in the future.

Apartment owners and managers need to take notice of this trend. After all, at a time when unemployment remains high, remote workers are employed – and capable of paying their rent. They also represent a large pool of prospective tenants, so targeting them can turn into a competitive advantage.

Here are three things you can do to attract the work-from-home cohort:

  • Provide the tools teleworkers need. High-speed internet service and reliable cell phone reception are a must. The 2020 NMHC/Kingsley Apartment Resident Preferences Report found that 92% of tenants want high-speed internet access, while 91% said the community amenity they most desire is reliable cell phone reception. Tenants are even willing to pay higher rent for high-speed internet — $35.05 per month more, the survey found.
  • Tweak your marketing plan. Help the prospect envision working in your space. Stage model units (live or virtually) to include work spaces in bedrooms, or create zoom-worthy spaces on balconies or rooftops.
  • Don’t focus only on attracting new tenants; meet the needs of existing ones. Happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases, saving you the cost of turnover. They also can be a source of referrals. Convert business centers from open spaces to individual offices, and add programming designed to meet the needs of remote workers, such as a poolside yoga class to relieve stress or an online time-management workshop. People are craving human interaction these days, and programming can enhance a sense of community.
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Considering a fixer-upper? What you need to know

April 16, 2021 By

Fixer-uppers are tempting prospects. Such properties let you buy into a desirable neighborhood at far below typical market value. That’s because you’re not buying a typical house.

With fixer-uppers, you must think carefully. Ask yourself: Will this house be worth the work I put in? To find your answer, follow these three steps.

1. Add up the costs: First, consider everything that needs to be done in the home. Always assume more work rather than less. Add up all costs for materials and labor. If you plan on doing some of the work yourself, factor in your own labor costs as well.

Hiring a home inspector helps a lot during this step. Their expertise can ensure you’re not missing any costs hidden behind the walls or under the roof.

2. Calculate the final value: Regardless of whether you plan to sell the house or live in it, you need to estimate what the finished value will be. Search for comparable listings, or “comps,” that have sold in the area to get a rough idea of what to expect. A Realtor can easily run a search on your behalf.

3. Find the difference: Finally, subtract the total estimated costs from the estimated final value. Subtract an extra 5-10% for unforeseen issues. The number you get should be the absolute upper limit of what you offer. Anything more, and a great deal can easily turn into a money pit.

If that final number looks good to you, then that fixer-upper may be just what you’ve been looking for. Time to secure a renovation loan!

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Considering a fixer-upper? What you need to know

April 16, 2021 By

Fixer-uppers are tempting prospects. Such properties let you buy into a desirable neighborhood at far below typical market value. That’s because you’re not buying a typical house.

With fixer-uppers, you must think carefully. Ask yourself: Will this house be worth the work I put in? To find your answer, follow these three steps.

1. Add up the costs: First, consider everything that needs to be done in the home. Always assume more work rather than less. Add up all costs for materials and labor. If you plan on doing some of the work yourself, factor in your own labor costs as well.

Hiring a home inspector helps a lot during this step. Their expertise can ensure you’re not missing any costs hidden behind the walls or under the roof.

2. Calculate the final value: Regardless of whether you plan to sell the house or live in it, you need to estimate what the finished value will be. Search for comparable listings, or “comps,” that have sold in the area to get a rough idea of what to expect. A Realtor can easily run a search on your behalf.

3. Find the difference: Finally, subtract the total estimated costs from the estimated final value. Subtract an extra 5-10% for unforeseen issues. The number you get should be the absolute upper limit of what you offer. Anything more, and a great deal can easily turn into a money pit.

If that final number looks good to you, then that fixer-upper may be just what you’ve been looking for. Time to secure a renovation loan!

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Rocco Morrella III 1970’s- “I was born into C21”

April 6, 2021 By

Ask Rocco Morrella III of CENTURY 21 Hallmark in San Jose how long he’s been with CENTURY 21, and his response just may stop you in your tracks.

“I was born into CENTURY 21.”

Following in the footsteps of his father, Rocco learned the ropes from the best of the best, in the humble beginnings of CENTURY 21 Real Estate in the early ‘70s, as CENTURY 1 was the 1st, in real estate, to franchise. Officially joining the ranks in 1972, Rocco can remember the exact conversation with his dad, the day he learned their next move was to become CENTURY 21 real estate agents. They were one of nine offices started in Santa Clara County California.

“We are going to be a part of CENTURY 21.” Rocco Morella Jr. casually mentioned to his son.

“Do we have to buy anything?” Rocco III asked.

“No. We need cards but I am going to buy them for you.” Rocco Jr. continued. “Why are we doing this? It can be worth something.” His dad assured him.

Though Rocco didn’t fully understand everything that day, he trusted his dad and believes it was on that day that changed everything for him.

“It’s been better than what I could’ve ever expected in my life,” Rocco said, as he took us down memory lane to a much simpler time.

We asked Rocco, “what’s one thing you remember about running your business during the ’70s?”

“Paperwork! Papers everywhere!” Rocco said, with a hint of excitement in his voice. “Bookkeeping was huge, and if we were off by 2 cents, our secretary would spend hours looking for it. We had to keep track of everything!”

Back then, reputation was everything. “There was no way you would do a deal with someone if they didn’t have a good reputation. Many transactions were a handshake.” Rocco recalls how important it was to the business to be viewed as reputable and trustworthy.

Rocco Morrella III 1970’s- “I was born into C21” image 1

“Our contracts were only one page when I started, and when it went to two pages, I thought the business was going to hell,” he said as he chuckled about how much of a shift it was to his business when the buyer and seller contracts were updated.

Though much has changed since then, some things have remained the same.

“They were brilliant,” Rocco recalls, as he shared with us how much the CENTURY 21 brand was a disrupter to the real estate industry with print and television advertising.

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TV Commercial, 1978

“We were in commercials, print ads, and radio ads, and when people would find out you were with CENTURY 21, they’d say, ‘you’re with that company that uses kids in advertising!’ It was some of the best advertising I’d ever seen. It was impressive. Very, very impressive.”

Having the opportunity to hear Rocco recount the early days of real estate, paints a much different picture than what most think of real estate today. There were no computers, no smartphones, and social media was non-existent. Agents like Rocco were there to experience a time where the backbone of your business was your reputation. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we will be sharing even more stories of our #relentless, who have been boots-on-the-ground, throughout the decades. #OurBrandofRelentless

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