Ever wonder how someone manages 4,000 residential real estate agents—and still has time to drive real social impact?
If you’re navigating today’s volatile real estate market, whether as an investor, entrepreneur or just trying to make sense of what’s next, this episode offers clarity. Kimber Menkiti, a powerhouse in real estate leadership, breaks down how market dynamics, franchise models, and personal mission intersect—and what that means for anyone trying to build something sustainable.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this conversation:
- A rare behind-the-scenes look at how modern brokerages run like mini-corporations—and why that matters.
- Insight into how real estate is evolving post-commission lawsuit and what it means for both agents and consumers.
- Smart strategies for standing out in a saturated, trust-driven marketplace (hint: it’s not about the house).
Tune in now to hear Kimber’s battle-tested take on real estate, entrepreneurship, and what it really takes to scale impact in a highly competitive industry.
Building a Business, Not Just Selling Homes
[00:01:00] The Real Estate We Don’t Think About
Jim Schleckser introduces the idea that real estate is part of everyone’s life, yet few view it as a business. He welcomes Kimber Menkiti, a seasoned leader overseeing 4,000 agents at Keller Williams in the DC area.
[00:03:15] Franchising vs. Going Solo in Real Estate
Kimber explains the value of the Keller Williams franchise model, emphasizing its systems, playbooks, and increased probability of success for agents compared to starting independently.
[00:06:30] Attracting Top Talent in a Crowded Field
Kimber shares how they attract entrepreneurial talent—often professionals pivoting from law or finance—who see real estate as a scalable business opportunity, not just a side hustle.
[00:09:00] Differentiating Through Impact and Values
The organization positions itself as a hub for socially motivated entrepreneurs who want to use real estate as a vehicle for community impact—not just transactional success.
The Changing Landscape of the Residential Real Estate Market
[00:12:05] Consumer Expectations Have Shifted
Kimber and Jim discuss how today’s consumers care more about the agent than the brokerage, making agent branding and specialization crucial for growth and trust.
[00:15:45] Real Estate Regulations: What Agents Can and Can’t Say
Kimber breaks down how agents navigate Fair Housing laws, focusing on asking insightful questions to guide clients rather than offering subjective area recommendations.
[00:18:30] Post-Lawsuit Market Dynamics & Commission Transparency
They discuss the fallout of recent commission lawsuits and how it’s forcing a more consultative, value-based pricing model that benefits informed consumers and skilled agents alike.
[00:22:00] Why High Interest Rates Haven’t Crashed Prices
Despite high mortgage rates, prices haven’t dropped dramatically. Kimber explains that record-high equity, limited inventory, and strong demand have created a resilient market.
[00:26:40] The Future of Real Estate: Consistency & Niche Expertise
Growth isn’t just about doubling your agent count. Kimber highlights that the best agents are focused and consistent and specialize in well-defined niches to build repeatable success.
[00:29:30] Exit Strategy: Are Brokerages Sellable?
They close with a discussion on brokerage scalability and valuation—emphasizing that firms are increasingly diversifying with services like title companies to build sustainable, sellable enterprises.
Thank You to Our Guest, Kimber Menkiti
Kymber Lovett-Menkiti is a pioneer in the real estate industry. With nearly 20 years of experience in the sales field, Kymber has a proven track record of success in leading teams, driving sales and revenue growth, and building strong relationships with clients, leaders, and industry partners.
Kymber Lovett Menkiti serves as the President of Keller Williams Capital Properties (KWCP), a brokerage with ten offices across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia regions. She is also the Regional Director for the Keller Williams Maryland/ DC (MDC) Region where she oversees 4K+ agents and is the first African American female to hold this position. As Regional Director, Kymber works closely with market center owners, their leadership teams, and agents to develop and implement strategies for improving sales, productivity, and culture.