A lot of agents across Canada are asking the same question right now: Is this market ever going to feel normal again? Transactions take longer. Buyers need more education. Sellers are cautious. And the “one showing, multiple offers” era feels like a lifetime ago.

In our latest interview, Cliff and Natasha talk about something most people don’t expect to hear: this is exactly the kind of market that creates long-term, career-defining growth. Not because it’s easy—but because it rewards the agents who can deliver real customer service, strategy, and confidence when clients feel unsure.

Cliff puts it simply: the last cycle turned many agents into “order takers.” Speed replaced service. In 2026, the shift is clear—clients want guidance again. They’re touring more properties, asking deeper questions, and taking time to decide. That’s not bad news. It’s an opening for agents who are prepared to lead, not chase.

But here’s the problem: most agents didn’t get into real estate to run an operation. They didn’t sign up to manage marketing, tech stacks, AI tools, admin systems, and endless content demands—on top of servicing clients. That’s the burnout we’re hearing everywhere: great agents stuck doing work that isn’t their zone of genius.

This is where infrastructure becomes the advantage.

In this interview, Cliff explains why Corcoran was the brand that made sense for Canada: it’s one of the few global brokerages with deep strength across both resale and new development—two worlds that require totally different mindsets, systems, and marketing approaches. Pair that with a referral ecosystem across major lifestyle markets (Toronto to Florida is a common path), and you get something agents can actually build on: trust, reach, and momentum.

There’s also a reality check that matters: growth isn’t about headcount. It’s about fit. Cliff talks about hiring for the same core traits—humble, hungry, smart—and expanding through quality partnerships in the right cities, with the right leaders. The goal isn’t to be everywhere. It’s to be excellent where you are, and scalable when the timing is right.

So what’s the takeaway for agents across Canada?

The opportunity in 2026 is to return to fundamentals—then amplify them with real support. Clients still want lifestyle. End-users still move. Luxury still performs in the right pockets. What’s changed is that the agents who win will be the ones who can educate, position, negotiate, and stay consistent—even when the market is slower.

If you’re feeling the pressure of “doing it all,” maybe the real question isn’t whether the market will improve. Maybe it’s whether your platform is built to help you improve with it.

Want to learn more about agent opportunities, backend support, and what this model looks like in practice? Watch the full interview on YouTube

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