The Real Estate Media Reckoning: Why We’re Done With the Gurus
By Tom Rosario | August 4, 2025
I’m sitting at my desk, drafting ideas for marketing Media Engage LLC. After a weekend immersed in the messaging our competitors push, I’m frustrated. I can’t pretend to be the guru, coach, or dean of some academy conjured up last quarter. Yet marketing suggests otherwise.
It Seems the Opportunity Is in Capturing Those Who Are Lost
Realtors, it seems, are like moths to a flame. Drawn to heat. To whatever is bright. Fading out as they chase a fleeting vision of wealth, status, luxury, and freedom. This isn’t exclusive to real estate. It’s become the new American Dream, regardless of industry.
The Harsh Reality: The Numbers Don’t Lie
- 75% of agents fail in their first year, and roughly 87% exit within five years, according to NAR data and industry observers (Tom Ferry).
- Nearly half of new agents who achieve a closing in year one fail to close in year two, with failure rates exceeding 65% for agents who began in 2022 (Relitix).
- One Reddit user summed it up best:
“90% of agents fail… lack of funding or income… be prepared to have 0 income for at least the first 6 months”
(Reddit Thread)
Why Agency Media Isn’t Just Noise
- Homes listed with video get 403% more inquiries and sell 31–35% faster
(Brafton,
Resimpli). - Only 9% of agents create listing videos, and just 38% use video at all,
even though 73% of homeowners prefer agents who use video
(Resimpli). - One commercial firm saw 65% more viewings and a 35% boost in sales after integrating video
(VidTech).
The Problem with Hooks, Lines, and Bullshit
New agents are overwhelmed by gimmicks disguised as mentorship. Without real support, they chase shortcuts that fail to help them actually generate leads, market listings, or build trust. They’re left burned out, discouraged, and misled.
Real Media for Real Professionals
At Media Engage, we believe in transparency and quality. Our pricing is clear (mediaengagellc.com).
We won’t try to sell you on fantasy:
- No, we can’t sell your overpriced listing that’s been sitting for 289 days with a quick video.
- No, we won’t re-edit poorly shot photos from a “Facebook guy.”
- No, we don’t have an AI clone of you—yet. But we’re working on it.
Instead, here’s what we do:
- We ask questions. We research. We execute.
- We collaborate with real estate professionals to create campaigns that work.
- We speak up. We share ideas. We bring experience.
- And yes—it’s always better when we’re brought in at the beginning.
No Hooks. No Lines. We’re in the Water Too.
Why This Matters
- Most agents fail due to poor planning and support—not lack of effort.
- Video is underused despite massive returns.
- Good media isn’t fluff—it’s fuel for your business.
Data Summary Table
| Metric | Insight |
|---|---|
| Agent Failure Rates | ~75% fail in year one, ~87% by year five Tom Ferry, Brandon Nelson |
| Video Inquiry Impact | 403% more inquiries, 31% faster sales Resimpli |
| Agent Video Usage | Only 9% use listing video Brafton |
| Homeowner Preferences | 73% prefer agents who offer video Resimpli |
If You’re Feeling Lost
Don’t chase the next hook. Instead, ask better questions. Seek credible people. Invest in real support. That’s where Media Engage fits in. We’re not pretending. We’re working. With you. Truly.
Tom Rosario | August 4, 2025
Disgruntled with the state of real estate media, its gurus, and an industry he has gambled his career on.