SmartTouch Market Pulse

Where can homebuilders find the next opportunity for margin expansion? In this episode of The Market Pulse, Aaron Fichera sits down with Derek Schairer, Co-Founder of Foundation, to explore how technology can create greater efficiency and stronger margins across the entire homebuyer journey. From marketing and buyer research to onsite sales, contract and construction, and post-sale warranty, Derek and Aaron discuss where disconnected systems and manual processes create hidden costs. They also dive into how builders can use technology, automation and AI to reduce friction, improve conversion and better serve homeowners. The conversation looks beyond simply adding more technology to the builder tech stack and asks a more important question: How can technology help builders operate more efficiently, create a better customer experience and ultimately expand margin?

In this episode of The Market Pulse, brought to you by SmartTouch® Interactive, host Aaron Fichera welcomes SEO Specialist Eric Shattuck to break down one of the most pressing shifts in digital marketing today: how artificial intelligence is transforming search and redefining Google’s role in real estate discovery.We’re diving deep into the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, the evolution of content marketing, and why traditional SEO just won’t cut it anymore. If you're a home builder, developer, or real estate marketer, you’ll learn what these seismic changes mean for your lead generation, visibility, and overall digital strategy.👉 Learn how to adapt your marketing for AI-driven search👉 Understand the new role of Google in the homebuyer journey👉 Discover why SEO for real estate must evolve—nowWhether you're a seasoned real estate professional or just getting started, this episode delivers essential insights to help you stay ahead of the curve in digital marketing, SEO, and AI.Follow The Market Pulse for more expert conversations on smart real estate marketing strategies that sell more homes faster.

In this special roundtable episode of The Market Pulse presented by SmartTouch® Interactive, host Aaron Fichera sits down with top Canadian industry leaders to explore the forces shaping Canada’s and U.S. housing market and the impact of tariffs in 2025. Joining the discussion are Lianne McOuat of McOuat Partnership, Andrew Brethour of PMA Brethour Realty Group, and Mike Parker, VP of Sales and Marketing at Georgian Communities.Together, they dive into the current state of the Canadian housing market, as well as the impact of interest rates and government policies on homebuyers. The panel also unpacks how U.S. tariffs and shifting Canadian-U.S. relations are affecting material costs, supply chains, and the broader housing industry. From market forecasts to builder innovations and open dialogue, this episode offers expert insights into what’s next for Canadian homebuyers, builders, and real estate professionals. Don’t miss this essential conversation on the trends and challenges shaping the future of Canadian and American real estate!

In this episode of The Market Pulse, host Aaron Fichera sits down with Patrick Meagher, Co-Founder & CTO of Keyponents, a trailblazer in modular construction. Discover how Keyponents' innovative plug-and-play Modular MEP framing and finish components are transforming the construction industry by boosting efficiency and cutting costs. Patrick shares the story behind Keyponents, insights into the latest trends in modular construction, and his vision for the future of commercial and residential building. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about the technologies reshaping the way we build!

In this insightful episode of The Market Pulse host Aaron Fichera welcomes Mollie Carmichael, Principal at Zonda, for an in-depth discussion on the future of the real estate industry as we approach 2025. Mollie shares her inspiring journey into the real estate sector, detailing the pivotal moments and challenges that shaped her career and led her to a leading role at Zonda. Together, they delve into Zonda's perspective on the current housing market outlook, highlighting which regional markets are over-performing and underperforming, and uncovering the underlying factors driving these trends. Mollie offers valuable insights into the latest trends that builders and developers need to be aware of, including evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and critical economic factors like interest rates and inflation. The conversation also explores the impact of the 2024 Presidential Election on the housing industry. They discuss how the election outcome and proposed policies by incoming President Donald Trump could shape home builders and developers’ strategies. Mollie provides strategic advice on how industry professionals can navigate the uncertainties of the political landscape in their 2025 planning. Tune in to gain expert perspectives and practical advice to stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate market. Whether you're a builder, developer, or simply interested in the housing industry's future, this episode is packed with information you won't want to miss.

In the second part of this two-episode series, host Aaron Fichera continues his conversation with Gary J. Davis, President of First Advisors Inc., focusing on the intersection of real estate development and politics. Gary provides expert commentary on the current political landscape surrounding land development and housing in Texas, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for developers in the face of state regulations and policy shifts. The episode also delves into the rapid demographic changes in the Texas Triangle—Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston—and how this region's explosive growth is reshaping the future of real estate. Gary shares his insights on the housing demands, infrastructure needs, and potential for sustainable development as Texas continues to evolve. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of Texas real estate and the political factors shaping its development.

In this episode of The Market Pulse, host Aaron Fichera sits down with Anita Erickson, the founder and CEO of The Market Place ATX, to dive into the power of word-of-mouth marketing and its impact on business growth. Anita shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the mission behind The Market Place ATX, and offers valuable insights into how businesses can harness the power of referrals to attract loyal customers. From creating exceptional customer experiences to leveraging strategic referral systems, Anita provides actionable tips for any business looking to optimize word-of-mouth marketing and build a strong, organic reputation. Tune in to discover how you can turn your customers into your greatest advocates and grow your business through authentic, word-of-mouth connections. About Our Guest Anita Erickson, Founder & Owner of The Marketplace ATX Anita is an entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and writer with a passion for creating meaningful connections and supporting friends, colleagues and customers in excelling at what they love. She is a committed advocate for small business owners and the design/build industry. Anita is committed to developing a Design District in Austin, kickstarted by her current venture, The Marketplace, a collaborative trade showroom.