This a great list for new agents , for home sellers or anyone learning the ABCs. Welcome to the world of selling, selling selling, where real estate sharks eat what we kill, coffee is for closers, and we always show our clients the money. This is my top ten list of movies for selling, specifically real estate, but theres no reason it couldn’t apply to selling yourself, solar panels or even steak knives.
Famous Quote: “Greed, for lack of a better word, is good.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: Gordon Gekko’s “greed is good” mentality led to his downfall. In real estate, short-term greed can destroy long-term success. Playing the long game—building relationships and maintaining integrity—will always lead to bigger success.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Avoid the “quick cash” mentality—long-term wealth comes from reputation.
✅ Be ethical—your clients trust you with one of their biggest life decisions.
✅ Think beyond the commission—build a lasting business.
Famous Quote: “You wanna talk ethics? The only ethics here is to get the sale.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: This film, about two rival aluminum siding salesmen, highlights the dangers of manipulative sales tactics. Customers today value transparency and authenticity more than ever.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Be honest—your reputation is everything.
✅ Clients are more educated than ever—don’t use gimmicks.
✅ Build trust and focus on the long-term, not just quick wins.
Famous Quote: “Adapt or die.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: Billy Beane’s data-driven approach to baseball revolutionized the game. Real estate agents who use market data, digital marketing, and analytics to make informed decisions will always have an edge.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Use data and analytics to make smarter sales decisions.
✅ Marketing is changing—embrace digital tools and online lead generation.
✅ Innovate! The best agents don’t just follow trends—they set them.
Y Famous Quote: “You got a dream… you gotta protect it.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: This true story of resilience and perseverance is a must-watch for anyone in sales. The road to success is full of rejection, but persistence pays off.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Rejection is part of the game—keep pushing forward.
✅ The most successful agents are the ones who refuse to quit.
✅ Hard work, preparation, and grit separate top agents from the rest.
Famous Quote: “Two little mice fell into a bucket of cream…”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: Leonardo DiCaprio’s character is a master of adaptability, confidence, and reading people—skills crucial in sales. He understands how to build rapport and adjust his pitch to different personalities.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Learn to read people and tailor your approach.
✅ Confidence sells—if you don’t believe in the deal, they won’t either.
✅ Adaptability is key—different clients need different selling styles.
Famous Quote: “People hate to think about bad things happening, so they always underestimate them.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: This film teaches the importance of market knowledge and economic awareness. Many investors ignored the warning signs of the 2008 housing crisis, which proved disastrous.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Stay informed about market trends and potential risks.
✅ Educate your clients—not just sell to them.
✅ Advise wisely—help clients make informed long-term decisions.
Boiler Room (2000)
📢 Famous Quote: “A sale is made on every call, either you sell the client something, or he sells you on why he can’t buy.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: The movie shows the power of persuasion and hustle, but also the dangers of dishonest sales tactics. The best salespeople listen just as much as they talk.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Confidence sells, but integrity closes long-term deals.
✅ Don’t “push” people—help them make the best decision for them.
✅ Know your product inside and out—market knowledge builds trust.
Famous Quote: “Help me, help you!”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: This movie highlights the importance of personal relationships in sales. Jerry loses everything but gains long-term success by building genuine connections.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Clients want to feel valued, not like a transaction.
✅ Long-term relationships lead to referrals and repeat business.
✅ Great service beats aggressive sales tactics every time.
Famous Quote: “Sell me this pen.”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: Jordan Belfort’s charisma, confidence, and ability to close deals are legendary. However, his unethical sales methods are a cautionary tale. The biggest takeaway is his ability to craft compelling pitches and generate excitement about a product.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Exude confidence—clients buy from those who believe in their product.
✅ Learn the art of persuasion—highlight benefits, not just features.
✅ But remember: Ethics matter! No sale is worth your license or reputation.
Famous Quote: “Always Be Closing!”
Lesson for Real Estate Agents: This movie is a masterclass in the highs and lows of sales. It showcases the importance of qualifying leads, staying persistent, and handling rejection. However, it also exposes the dangers of using high-pressure tactics and unethical sales methods.
Real Estate Takeaway:
✅ Follow up with leads, but don’t push too hard.
✅ Work smarter, not just harder—identify serious buyers.
✅ Stay ethical—your reputation is your biggest asset.
Jeff Bucholtz is a Real Estate Broker based in Three Oaks MI.
He has sold more than 100 Million Dollars in Real Estate.
He is the Broker and owner of Freedom Realty.
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