Above (L-R): Kevelyn Guzman, Erin Cestero, Merri Jo Cowen and Gino Blefari
To gain insight into how real estate professionals are mapping out the year ahead, we asked a few of our 2024 Real Estate Newsmakers the following question:
“What key aspects are part of your blueprint for success in 2025?”
Here’s what they had to say:
Achievers
Merri Jo Cowen
CEO
Stellar MLS
“Stellar MLS is committed to continuing to provide the certainty and stability our customers need to do their job with confidence. Our blueprint places our 80,000 customers first; and second, we will continue to watch the regulatory atmosphere and lead through any further challenges to the benefit of our customers. Empowering our customers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive, our success centers around delivering exceptional value through our culture of service. Our 2025 blueprint will continue to prove that we’re more than an MLS—we’re a partner with curated products from prospecting to post-close, designed for empowerment, efficiency and excellence.”
Crusaders
Kevelyn Guzman
Regional Vice President
Coldwell Banker Warburg
“We’re positioning our agents for unparalleled success, empowering them to win more listings and scale their businesses. At Coldwell Banker Warburg, we put our agents’ brands first, tailoring every initiative to amplify their visibility and ensure they stand out in the market.
Our strategy is built on collaboration and hands-on support. We meet with every agent multiple times a year to review their business plans, identify areas for improvement and make strategic adjustments. We also create opportunities through strategic partnerships, mentorship programs, customized marketing strategies and impactful events.
With marketing budgets designed to grow their visibility and position them as industry leaders, we’re ensuring our agents are always ahead of the competition. 2025 will continue to be a transformative year filled with exciting initiatives and opportunities.”
Futurists
Erin Cestero
President – San Antonio Division
JBGoodwin REALTORS®
“At JBGoodwin REALTORS®, our blueprint for success in 2025 is built on the foundation of adaptability, people-first values and a relentless commitment to service. Over the past years, we’ve successfully navigated industry shifts by embracing change and remaining agile in our strategies, always prioritizing what matters most: the needs of our clients and our team. As we look ahead, our focus remains on fostering deep client relationships, equipping our agents with cutting-edge tools and education, and staying attuned to market dynamics. When we put people first—whether it’s our clients, agents or community—the business naturally thrives. By staying flexible and grounded in service, we ensure our relevance and success in an ever-evolving real estate landscape.”
Achievers
Gino Blefari
CEO
HomeServices of America
“For me, the foundation of success begins with intentional planning and creating balance in my life. I start each year by scheduling myself a full year in advance. This includes everything that brings harmony—days off, holidays, vacations, birthdays, date nights, exercise sessions and even doctor appointments.
I also map out all the professional training, personal growth opportunities and business activities I’ll focus on during the year.
Another cornerstone of my blueprint is sticking to my consistent morning and evening routines. These routines help me focus on learning and continuous improvement. Finally, I dedicate time to refining my life plan—a written guide that includes my goals and affirmations. This keeps me anchored to my purpose and helps me approach each day with clarity and intention.”
Thank you to our 2025 Real Estate Newsmakers Sponsors:
Newsmakers Gold Sponsor
Real Estate Webmasters
Newsmakers Bronze Sponsors
American Home Shield
HouseAmp
Lofty
Realtors Property Resource
Next month, RISMedia will announce its 2025 Real Estate Newsmakers. See who made the cut, and meet this year’s Hall of Fame inductees in print and online at rismedia.com!
