Stress is an unavoidable part of leadership, especially in real estate, where market shifts, demanding clients, and high-stakes negotiations are constant. The best leaders are those who remain calm under pressure, ensuring that their teams stay focused and productive even in turbulent times. Poor stress management can lead to poor decision-making, burnout, and a toxic work environment that stifles growth.
Great real estate leaders don’t just survive pressure—they thrive under it. Take Ryan Schneider, CEO of Anywhere Real Estate, who leads one of the largest real estate service companies in the world. His ability to navigate industry disruptions and technological advancements while maintaining composure is a testament to the power of strong leadership under pressure.
Unchecked stress can create a domino effect within an organization. When leaders crack under pressure, it trickles down to agents and staff, leading to lower morale, decreased productivity, and increased turnover. On the other hand, leaders who implement smart stress management techniques cultivate a culture of resilience, adaptability, and high performance.
The first step in managing stress is identifying its sources. In real estate, common triggers include market volatility, difficult negotiations, and high client expectations. Leaders who proactively address these challenges—such as by using data analytics to predict market trends—can reduce uncertainty and stress. Tamir Poleg, CEO of Real Brokerage, uses technology-driven strategies to stay ahead of industry changes, minimizing stress for himself and his team.
Trying to handle everything alone is a recipe for burnout. Delegation allows leaders to focus on high-priority tasks while empowering their teams to take ownership of responsibilities. Glenn Sanford, founder of eXp Realty, built a highly scalable business model by effectively delegating tasks through a cloud-based brokerage, reducing unnecessary stress while maximizing efficiency.
Many real estate leaders fall into the trap of being “always on,” which can quickly lead to exhaustion. Setting clear work-life boundaries—such as designated offline hours or scheduled personal time—prevents burnout and improves long-term performance. Helen Hanna Casey, CEO of Howard Hanna Real Estate, attributes much of her success to maintaining structured schedules and work-life balance policies for her agents.
The most successful leaders are those who remain calm in high-pressure situations. Mental resilience can be strengthened through:
Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in stress management. Leaders with high EQ recognize their emotions, regulate them effectively, and empathize with others. Dottie Herman, former CEO of Douglas Elliman, is known for her ability to lead with emotional intelligence, foster strong relationships and manage stress with grace.
Leadership can be isolated, but it doesn’t have to be. Seeking guidance from mentors, advisors, or mastermind groups provides perspective and reduces stress. Organizations like the Real Estate Executive Council (REEC) offer networking opportunities and leadership resources that help real estate professionals navigate pressure-filled environments.
Leaders who neglect their health often find their stress levels skyrocketing. Simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve stress management, including:
Perfectionism is one of the biggest stress drivers in real estate. Markets shift, deals fall through, and unexpected challenges arise. Instead of chasing perfection, top leaders focus on adaptability and problem-solving. Anthony Hitt, CEO of Engel & Völkers Americas, champions a mindset of continuous learning and flexibility, which helps reduce stress when the unexpected happens.
When leaders effectively manage stress, the entire organization benefits. Teams become more motivated, client relationships strengthen, and long-term business growth becomes more sustainable. Ryan Schneider, Tamir Poleg, Glenn Sanford, Helen Hanna Casey, Dottie Herman, and Anthony Hitt are all examples of real estate leaders who have thrived under pressure by embracing resilience and strategic stress management.
Stress is inevitable in real estate leadership, but how a leader responds to it determines their success. By implementing these stress management techniques, leaders can maintain control, inspire confidence, and build thriving businesses—even in the most challenging market conditions. Those who master the art of staying calm under pressure will not only lead effectively but also create a lasting impact in the industry.
