Building Trust, Habits, and a Winning Team

Michael Baeumler’s Formula for Attracting Top Talent

Michael Baeumler, Manager at RE/MAX West Realty Inc. in Kleinberg, Ontario, has spent years honing a simple yet effective approach to attracting and keeping top talent. With a background that includes everything from landscaping to corporate aviation, Michael brings a healthy blend of experience and passion to his role. Here, he opens up about his journey, the why behind his success, and the RE/MAX^® effect on him and his agents.

From Aircrafts to Agents: Finding the Perfect Fit in Real Estate

Michael’s road to real estate started in the air, starting in the family business of aircraft repair, then over a decade in corporate aviation. But he eventually felt the pull to find something more dynamic—an industry that would let him help people while offering flexibility and growth. Real estate seemed like a perfect match, and though he worked with other brands, he eventually found his home at RE/MAX. “RE/MAX wasn’t my first choice when I started…but it should have been. I know that now,” Michael reflects, grateful for the tools and support RE/MAX provides.

Coaching for Success: Turning Habits into Results

For Michael, the key to keeping his agents focused was avoiding rigid expectations, and instead helping them play to their strengths and develop habits that stick. He understands that each agent has a unique skill set, and his goal is to help them turn those strengths into daily habits that lead to consistent results. “Success is all about habits,” he shares. Through consistent communication, hands-on training, and accountability reviews, Michael’s retention strategy creates an environment where agents feel supported, accountable, and inspired to tackle their goals.

The Power of RE/MAX Tools for Recruiting

When it comes to bringing new talent into the office, Michael credits the RE/MAX Recruiting 101 seminar as a lightbulb moment. The seminar, which offered insights and solutions specific to recruiting agents, gave him a structured approach he found invaluable. “I tell agents that RE/MAX tools are like the ones I used in aviation—simply the best.” Armed with that structure, he was able to recruit an entire team from a leading competitor, using the solid reputation of RE/MAX as a compelling selling point.

Michael’s approach to recruiting is surprisingly straightforward: he listens to his agents and asks them who they enjoyed working with in the field, whether it be a recent transaction or sale. A single suggestion from an agent led him to a conversation that ultimately brought over the whole team to his brokerage.

Creating a Culture That Agents Want to Be Part Of

Building a positive, collaborative culture has been essential in balancing growth with retention. When a potential recruit comes in for a tour, everyone in the office knows and makes an effort to show the sense of community that sets RE/MAX West Realty apart. “Our culture speaks for itself,” he says, adding that this welcoming environment naturally attracts people who are ready to become part of something bigger.

Advice for Other Managers: Sincerity Matters

According to Michael, success in recruitment and retention isn’t about flashy strategies. It’s about showing up, listening, and genuinely caring about your team’s well-being. He remembers the tough times he faced as an agent, and that memory keeps him grounded.

Looking ahead, Michael plans to help his brokerage grow by building relationships and championing a culture that makes people want to stay. For brokers and managers trying to up their game in recruitment and retention, his advice is simple: be yourself, care about your agents, and lean on the tools and reputation of RE/MAX – and with time – you might have your own powerhouse.

Ready to bring the advantage of RE/MAX to your team? Let’s talk.