How to Partner with a Tech Vendor: Broker Insights on What Works, What Doesn't, and What Proptech Companies Need to Understand

Proptech Pulse

Discover the vendor selection secrets that independent real estate brokerages need to thrive. Vanessa Bergmark, owner of Red Oak Realty with 22 years in real estate and 15 years as a brokerage owner, reveals the strategic approach to technology partnerships that drives sustainable growth.

🎯 Key Insights:

• Why vendor relationships matter more than product features
• How to evaluate technology when you don't understand the technical details
• The foundation-first approach: backend systems before marketing tools
• Effective due diligence strategies that include team input
• When to stay with existing vendors vs. switching to new solutions

🔑 Essential Quotes: "In real estate we all say it's all about relationships... That's the entire ecosystem of real estate."

"Technology always has felt like it's behind this screen... Having that trust in the vendor that understands that language is somewhat crucial because I don't understand it."

"You could love that product. It could be the right price. It could have all the right features... but it's not going to be the one you choose because 'Will you get a phone call back?'"

"Taking your time getting in is a lot more beneficial than making the wrong decision and trying to get out. It's super disruptive."

🏢 About Vanessa Bergmark: Owner of Red Oak Realty, a boutique independent brokerage in California's East Bay with 160-180 agents. The brokerage is approaching its 50th anniversary while maintaining independent flexibility. Bergmark serves on the Lonewolf customer advisory board and participates in Leading RE networks.

📋 Topics Covered:

• Vendor relationship management for independent brokerages
• Technology trust and transparency challenges
• Referral networks and industry connections for vendor evaluation
• Financial platforms and transaction management priorities
• Team involvement in technology selection processes
• Long-term vendor partnership strategies

💡 Perfect For: Independent brokerage owners, operations managers, real estate entrepreneurs, and anyone selecting technology vendors for real estate businesses.

🎧 PropTech Pulse delivers actionable real estate technology insights in just 20 minutes.

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https://www.lwolf.com/podcast