Economists have said that with tariffs comes inflationary pressure and with tax cuts comes deficits, but there have been some lights around the stock index futures. So, as with any new administration there are pros and cons. Gene Marks comments on what small businesses might be facing. In other news, an EEOC decision has made zero proof a standard for employee religious accommodation, and order fancy drinks at your wallet’s risk because hidden fees are shaking people down. Listen to the episode.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The real estate industry is in a state of flux, with shifting interest rates, inventory levels, and market dynamics creating both challenges and opportunities for buyers, sellers, and agents alike. On this episode of Paychex THRIVE, Tracy Tutor, a top real estate agent, best-selling author, and star of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, shares her invaluable insights into the current state of the market and strategies for navigating these changes. Tracy also gives us a peek into the day-to-day realities of a luxury real estate agent, debunking the glamorous portrayal often seen on TV — behind the scenes, it's a grind that requires dedication, strategic planning, and the ability to adapt quickly.

Topics include:

00:00 – Episode preview and welcome

01:19 – Introduction of Tracy Tutor

02:46 – Tracy’s general overview of the real estate industry

05:15 – Impact of interest rates on real estate market

06:36 – Advice for buyers in the current market

09:36 – New taxes in California's luxury real estate market

12:02 – Strategies for real estate brokers in changing market conditions

14:19 – The National Association of Realtors (NAR) decision impact

17:52 – Importance of commission negotiation and education

20:27 – Misconceptions about real estate TV shows and reality

21:17 – A day in the life of a luxury estate agent

25:07 – Work-life balance and setting boundaries

27:01 – Thoughts on hiring and team building

28:50 – Wrap up and thank

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Businesses that find themselves in need of additional funding need to check out this week’s episode, as host Gene Marks shares details and resource hubs on where to apply for grants. The Small Business Administration kicks it off with grants for businesses developing technology that could support national defense. Big companies such as Verizon and DoorDash have sponsored grants for education and restaurants, respectively, while women startups working on product prototypes can find financial support, too. One group that might find less money is children after a study by some major institutes of higher education found that giving money away has the opposite impact of the giver’s intent.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.