FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT: RICHARD LICATA – Page 2
It’s been a long, quiet stretch — one of the slowest we’ve seen in years. And then June hit, and suddenly, the switch flipped. Appointments started being set, bookings picked up, and the calendar began filling fast. It’s the kind of momentum we’ve been waiting for, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Truth is, we don’t know how long this rush will last. Maybe it’s a short surge, maybe it carries through the rest of the year — but what we do know is that we need to take full advantage of it while it’s here.
The adjustment hasn’t been easy. After months of moving at a slower pace, we’ve fallen into some habits that don’t serve us well now that we’re back in the thick of it. With the volume increasing, the cracks are showing. Some departments are feeling the strain. Deadlines are tight, expectations are high, and understandably, tensions are rising. But finger-pointing and frustration won’t move us forward — teamwork will.
Let’s remember, we all want the same thing: to succeed, to grow, and to be proud of the work we do. When one department struggles, we all feel it. But when one department shines, it lifts the whole team. Let’s commit to leaning in, supporting one another, and solving problems together instead of assigning blame.
On a brighter note, one of the highlights this quarter has been our Milwaukee market. Matt Turner has been doing a terrific job booking business up there, and it’s already showing strong potential. That was a bold move at the right time, and it’s exciting to see it take off.
The housing market remains challenging, with high interest rates and limited inventory. But there’s reason for optimism — mortgage rates are slowly becoming the new normal, and listings are starting to increase. If things keep trending in this direction, we could see steady demand well into the fall.
I also want to recognize two drivers who have gone above and beyond so far this year: James Young and Vance Carswell, who’ve each been named Driver of the Month. Their professionalism and consistency are a great example of the kind of work we’re capable of, even under pressure.
Let’s carry that energy into the weeks ahead. Let’s rise to the occasion, work through the challenges as a team, and show what we’re made of. This is our opportunity — let’s make the most of it.
Thanks for everything you do. Let’s keep pushing forward.