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A MESSAGE from the president

Big changes are happening everywhere, and I see that continuing to create opportunities in the housing market. Buyers and sellers have come to terms with the “new normal” of interest rates, and we’ve seen a steady increase in pending contracts and listings taken – two important lead indicators of closings – as 2025 gets underway. The main thing you need to do is…

I want you to consider a few advantages that you have here at Metro Brokers as well as personal advantages that are waiting for you to unlock.

First, Metro Brokers is known throughout the entire industry for our training and support. Are you signed up for our complimentary CE classes? Have you looked through our On-Demand Classes library? Are you attending XPLODE? Whatever your goal is, we have training to compliment it.

Speaking of goals, our different tools and technologies can go a long way to making them a reality. Whether it’s impressing a seller with a Moxi Present CMA or sending out email campaigns through Moxi Engage, we have the tools that take pressure off you and work seamlessly alongside your business efforts.

Finally, it’s so important to TAKE ADVANTAGE of your sphere of influence. Your entire database needs to know that you’re a real estate agent and you need to know where each and every person is in their real estate journey.

Visit the office at least once a week. Come to every one of your office meetings. Contact Broker Support when you need help with a deal and Tech Support whenever you run into technical issues. This is just the tip of the iceberg of what we offer here at Metro Brokers!

I’ve included a copy of our “In Business for Yourself, Not By Yourself” brochure that will remind you of every advantage you have as a member of the Metro Brokers family. Look through it – I know you’ll get some ideas on what you need to be doing as 2025 gets underway.

My strongest suggestion is to get out of your house and come into our offices. Our “Big Back to the Office Challenge” is still going strong with more than 2,000 visits since we began the contest in August. I’m proud of everyone who has taken advantage of this opportunity and urge you to put a visit on your daily to-do list! We can WIN, but only if we do so together. Let’s make 2025 the best year ever!

INDUSTRY NEWS

INCREASED LOAN LIMITS FOR 2025!

Exciting news for homebuyers and real estate professionals: The new increased loan limit for VA and one-unit conventional loans is now $806,500, up from $766,550 in 2024. In addition, FHA loan limits are now at $688,850.

Metro Brokers Financial has been ahead of the curve, offering higher loan limits for several months. We will accept loans immediately under the new, higher-conforming loan amount.

Why does this matter? Many prospective buyers who previously struggled to meet the stricter underwriting requirements for Jumbo loans can now purchase homes in a

AMAZON WEB SERVICES’ $11 BILLION INVESTMENT IN GEORGIA

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced plans to invest approximately $11 billion in Georgia to enhance its cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure. This expansion aims to support the growing demand for advanced data centers required for AI-driven innovations and cloud services. The investment is expected to create at least 550 new high-skilled jobs in Butts and Douglas counties, strengthening Georgia’s reputation as a digital innovation hub. [Reuters]

higher price range using a standard conforming Conventional loan. This simplifies the process and potentially reduces costs, making homeownership more accessible.

Think about your network. Who in your sphere could benefit from this loan increase? This change could be the opportunity they’ve been waiting for!

SFR LOAN LIMITS

$806,500

$688,850

DURACELL RELOCATES R&D OPERATIONS TO ATLANTA

Duracell is relocating its research and development headquarters from Bethel, Connecticut, to Atlanta, Georgia, bringing over 100 jobs to the state. The move, slated for summer 2026, involves a $56 million investment into Georgia’s economy. Duracell’s new facility will feature state-of-the-art labs, modern workspaces, and advanced technology infrastructure, aiming to bolster their innovation and market position. This relocation underscores Georgia’s attractiveness as a hub for technological advancement and business growth. [CTInsider.com]

Agents Answer

“Why

Metro Brokers?”

Recently, we sat down with a crosssection of agents throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia to ask them “why Metro Brokers?” Watch the video by scanning the QR code!

Want to be featured in our next video? Email marketing@ metrobrokers.com!

“The Power of a Recognizable Brand”

“Being part of Metro Brokers and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate has given me instant credibility. Clients trust the brand, which makes it easier to build relationships and close deals.”

– Josh Erwin

“Unmatched Support & Growth”

“Metro Brokers isn’t just a brokerage—it’s a family. From day one, the support, mentorship, and training have been top-notch. It’s the reason I went from a brandnew agent to a top producer in just a few years!”

– Amy Tep, La’Tep Group

“One

Company, Endless Possibilities”

“My wife and I took different paths—one in commercial, one in residential—but Metro Brokers gave us the platform to thrive in both worlds. The resources and training here are truly unmatched.”

– Amit & Aman Grover

“Big Company, Small Feel”

“Metro Brokers gives you the resources of a large firm, but the personal connections of a small business. Whether I need training, support, or just advice, help is always just a phone call away.”

– Jelani Linder

“A Place to Learn, Grow, and Succeed”

“Metro Brokers set me up for success from day one. Their commitment to education, leadership, and coaching has helped me turn my passion into a thriving real estate career.”

– Clay Thomas

Sign Up on GNG.com/ GNGhub and Get Rewards!

Are you registered on Georgia Natural Gas’ GNG Hub online at gng.com/gnghub? If not, you’re missing out on reward opportunities and great marketing tools!

Remember, when new home buyers or current homeowners enroll with GNG for service, they can choose $120 in bill credits or a discounted rate. You’ll receive a $60 Visa Reward Card for every qualifying referral that signs up through the end of the year!

To learn more, visit the Georgia Natural Gas section of the Preferred Vendors room on MetroNet.

DON’T MISS MARKETING MINUTES EVERY WEDNESDAY

Have you been watching the Marketing Minute each Wednesday? Delivered straight to your Metro Brokers email, the Marketing Minute will give you guidance, actionable opportunities, and much more.

Topics include:

• Video marketing tips

• Set-it-and-forget-it campaigns with Moxi Engage

• No-no’s when marketing a listing

• Maximizing your website

• Much more!

While the Marketing Minute only takes a few minutes out of your day, it could take your business to the next level. Watch previous episodes on our Youtube channel: youtube.com/ bhgremetrobrokers.

Scan to watch the Marketing Minute

Supply Superstore:

The Supply Superstore now features a variety of new apparel items including quarter-zips, jackets, t-shirts, and more. Wearing the brand doesn’t only give you a professional appearance, it will also create conversations on your behalf!

These items are in stock now and can be picked up at Corporate or shipped to your office. Simply visit the Supply Superstore on MetroNet to place an order.

BHGRE corporate has launched an exciting new brand campaign and tagline: “Nobody Knows Homes BetterSM.” This campaign highlights BHGRE’s 99% client satisfaction rating and deep connection to the iconic Better Homes & Gardens® media brand, which reaches more than 42 million readers annually.

The “We Know” campaign is designed to showcase how BHGRE-affiliated agents bring unparalleled knowledge and expertise to the real estate experience. By leveraging the trusted reputation of Better Homes & Gardens, this campaign strengthens the connection between homeownership and how people enjoy their homes—something that BHGRE agents understand better than anyone.

BHGRE’s New “We Know” Campaign: Elevating Your Business with a Trusted Brand

“This campaign reinforces our position as the most trusted brand in real estate,” said BHGRE President Ginger Wilcox. “Our agents don’t just help clients buy and sell homes; they guide them through a deeply personal journey, using insights and expertise that set them apart.”

The campaign launched with a compelling brand video, featuring BHGRE agents’ deep understanding of home trends and the buying experience. The advertising effort reaches over 70% of U.S. consumers, thanks to BHGRE’s exclusive access to 175 million consumers through its Dotdash Meredith partnership.

For BHGRE Metro Brokers agents, this campaign helps you showcase your expertise and build even stronger client relationships. This is an incredible opportunity to stand out in the market and leverage the strength of our brand like never before!

Scan to watch the

“We Know” Campaign Video

AGENT SPOTLIGHT:

Outbound Referral of Q1: Bill Visi!

Shoutout to Bill Visi from the Helen Office for his outstanding referral success! On November 14, 2024, Bill submitted a referral through our Relocation Department, helping his clients connect with a top agent in Jacksonville, FL. Before the agent reached out, Bill ensured they were a great match—leading to a seamless introduction the same day.

After an initial home tour on November 30, the clients found their dream home on December 12. Thanks to expert guidance, their offer was accepted, and they went under contract within a month. By December 31, they had officially closed—just in time to celebrate the new year in their new home!

“The clients were thrilled with their experience, and I knew the agent would be a great fit,” said Visi.

Bill’s commitment to client satisfaction and smooth collaboration with our Relocation Department ensured a successful outcome.

Have an Outbound Referral?

Submit your referral using the Outbound Broker-toBroker form under “Referral Support.” For questions, contact Amanda Mitchell at 404-236-7021 or amanda.mitchell@metrobrokers.com.

Let’s keep the referrals coming—help your clients wherever they go!

XPLODE 2.0 Now Available!

XPLODE 2.0 is a four-week, in-person, interactive training program designed to invigorate your real estate business in 2025! You’ll master essential skills and strategies to take your business to new heights, including:

Master the Buyer’s Consultation: Sharpen your skills to close more deals.

Scripting with Purpose: Get buyers to say “yes” and write the contract.

Pricing Your Listing to Sell: Move homes off the market quickly.

Marketing & Tools That Work: Promote yourself effectively.

Expired Leads Strategies: Elevate your approach and turn expired leads into opportunities.

Inside Tips from Residential Experts: Learn real strategies from the pros.

Now is the Time to Take Action! All Metro Brokers agents are welcome to attend, regardless of productivity level. Whether you’re part-time, full-time, or anywhere in between, this program is designed for you!

REGISTER

CAPPER’S CLUB AND X-CELERATER GRADUATION DINNERS HONOR OUR BEST!

We recently held our Capper’s Club Dinners and X-celerater Graduation Dinners honoring agent performances in 2024. The separate celebrations were held at the Capital Grille steakhouse in Dunwoody.

Every agent who “caps” during the year are invited to a special Capper’s Dinner recognizing their achievement. Additionally, when our X-celerater agents reach 6 transactions and graduate from the program, they get to attend a dinner in their honor.

Set your goals high, utilize the tools and resources available to you, and you’ll be joining us at one or both of these dinners in no time!