On February 13th, 2025, the annual Crush It In Real Estate Kickoff took place at the Westin Copley in Boston and it was an event to remember. Despite the New England weather presenting some challenges in the morning, everyone braved the elements and showed up ready to learn. REALTORS from all over came together to connect, learn, and grow. The speakers covered everything from stepping into leadership roles in sales to understanding the national economy, and even how thinking bigger can help you achieve more. Everyone walked away with powerful insights and inspiration to take their business to the next level!
A key theme emphasized by all speakers was the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in 2025. The collective message was clear: perseverance and collaboration are essential.
Anthony Lamacchia
Anthony took the stage to share market updates and some key strategies to help REALTORS® stay ahead. He talked about managing time better, keeping yourself fresh in clients’ minds, and handling buy/sell transactions the right way.
He went over 2024 market data and showed how using real numbers and charts with buyers builds way more trust than just telling them what’s happening. As he put it, “People believe what they see and experience.”
Time management is a big struggle for many REALTORS®, and Anthony made it clear that this can hold agents back from growing their business. He stressed the need to cut out time-wasting tasks and focus on activities that bring in money. With 2025 shaping up to be a major year in real estate, he encouraged everyone to be smart about where they spend their time.
Another thing he pointed out? A lot of agents don’t realize how important it is to stay top of mind with their network. He reminded everyone to keep answering their clients’ questions about the market and, most importantly, to stop calling them “past clients.” As he put it, “If you call them past clients, they’ll think of you as their past REALTOR®.”
He wrapped up with a powerful message about the strength of the market in 2025, going as far as to say that he predicts “The wave is coming.”
Deshauna Barber
A force to be reckon with, Deshauna Barber came to inspire and that she did. International motivational speaker, army veteran, former Miss USA and Human Rights Activist, Deshauna proved that perseverance is inherently in all of us. She highlighted how those facing difficult times embody this quality, demonstrating the success that can emerge from such challenges.
Her main message was “Think bigger, achieve greater.” Deshauna outlined the principles and strategies necessary to create and sustain this mindset, focusing on four key elements: perseverance, fortitude, focus, and balance. She stressed the importance of embracing challenges, as they are crucial in shaping one’s greatness and reminded everyone that, just like metal bends under heat and pressure but doesn’t break, we can push through challenges without giving up. Her words inspired the crowd, reinforcing the idea that tough times shape us, but they don’t have to break us.
Kevin Sears
Kevin Sears, President of the National Association of REALTORS®, stepped onto the stage with a message of clarity and hope. He discussed the recent settlement, what it means for REALTORS®, and the anticipated changes within the industry. More importantly, he provided reassurance and excitement about what NAR plans for 2025. He reaffirmed NAR’s commitment to representing not just REALTORS® but also buyers and sellers—a responsibility he takes seriously. Kevin introduced new initiatives and highlighted upcoming communication strategies, stressing the association’s proactive approach moving forward.
He powerfully noted, “There’s no National Association of Home Buyers, no National Association of Home Sellers; there’s the National Association of REALTORS® and we’re the ones who on a daily basis fight for American’s ability to freely buy, sell, lease and transfer property. We are the ones who do it, no one else.”
Lawrence Yun
Lawrence Yun, the Chief Economist of the National Association of REALTORS®, provided a comprehensive real estate and economic forecast, covering all topics. He addressed inventory, existing home sales, appreciation, mortgage rates, employment, and more, along with his predictions for 2025 and 2026.
Lawrence did an excellent job of explaining and illustrating the data, clarifying current trends, and outlining expectations for the future. He concluded his presentation on an optimistic note, assuring everyone that “the worst is over.” This further proves Anthonys message that the wave is coming!
Jason Posnick
Jason Posnick’s energy is infectious, and he is so passionate about teaching others to be better versions of themselves. As the Sales Manager, Trainer, and Coach at Lamacchia Realty, his engaging teaching style and commitment to helping agents is unparalleled. He explained how REALTORS® can achieve great things by moving from being salespeople to becoming sales leaders. He then discussed qualities of a great leader and how to develop a leadership mindset through structure and effective communication.
Jason is renowned for his ability to simplify complex strategies into easy-to-understand concepts. His presentation was packed with insights and tangible takeaways that the audience could implement immediately, regardless of their experience level in real estate.
The 2025 Crush It In Real Estate Kickoff was a resounding success! The event brought together Real estate professionals from across New England for a day packed with insightful discussions and networking opportunities. The various sessions, ranging from sales leadership to creating and sustaining a positive mindset, all supported the overarching theme of “think bigger, achieve greater.” Each speaker contributed to a collective wealth of knowledge and each presentation not only equipped attendees with practical strategies for professional growth but also inspired them to embrace upcoming challenges.
The message from this year’s kickoff was clear and echoed by all: embrace change, harness opportunities, and prepare for the exciting developments that lie ahead.
We want to thank our sponsors again for their generosity and commitment to helping real estate professionals grow and succeed. This annual event would not be possible if it weren’t for their support.
Thank You Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors – Pat Flynn of Flynn Law and Shant Banosian of Guaranteed Rate
Silver Sponsors – Armstrong Relocation, Marko Stratakias of Assured Partners, Babigian Law & Martin Property Management, Chad Goetz and Lacey Faria of Cross-Country Mortgage, Foy Law/Sunset Settlement, Harris and Murphy, Kriss Law, Leader Bank, Ligris & Associates, Loopnet, Markarian Electric, Torra Law, Total Mortgage, Touchstone Closing, and Works by JD.
Bronze Sponsors – D|R Law, Fidelity National Title, Hunton Team of MBA Mortgage, and Realtor.com
Promotional Sponsor – Dorner Law
Lunch Sponsor – Moxiworks
Cocktail Reception Sponsor – Greg Janian Law
