By Seth Ellison
The State of the Industry keynote was given today by Bill Darcy, CEO of the NKBA, directly following a very informative and uplifting State of the Association address, which included important data on real estate and market trends based on findings from NKBA’s research department. Darcy was then joined for an exclusive interview with the powerhouse twin duo Drew and Jonathan Scott, hosts and executive producers of some of HGTV’s all-time highest-rated shows, including “Property Brothers: Forever Home”; “Celebrity IOU”; and “Brother vs. Brother.”
Aside from being named one of the most powerful lifestyle brands in America by Variety Magazine, the Scott Brothers have also built an empire and founded Scott Brothers Global, a company rooted in providing products, education, entertainment, and inspiration to households around the world. Their appearance builds on the direction of SOI that started last year with Google’s Ginny Clarke, bringing in high-profile leaders to share their perspectives on the challenges that impact the kitchen and bath market.
The Interview: Words to Succeed By
The lively and vital discussion touched on many interesting and critical topics, ranging from their humble origins as 7-year-old entrepreneurs, to becoming young real estate whizz kids, to the rocketing success of their careers as mega home improvement and lifestyle stars and real estate gurus that they are today. The two also shared their insights into the current state of residential builds, remodeling, and the housing market in 2023 and beyond.
“We’re always looking to be better and more efficient. We are a lot like the NKBA, an outlet for information and education.” — Drew Scott
Darcy started off clearing the air by asking, “Some of our members consider you both actors, not trade pros like them. How would you respond to that?” Both Drew and Jonathan laughed off the accusation, before listing off credentials, including their real estate and contractor licenses. “We have been entrepreneurs our whole life,” Jonathan said, “ and we’re always looking to be better and more efficient.” Drew followed up by saying, “We are a lot like the NKBA, an outlet for information and education.”
The guys kept the audience engaged and rolling with laughter throughout the morning, all while dropping pearls of wisdom along the way, hardwon from their 600+ TV renovations and countless remodeling and flips. “At the end of the day, it’s all about relationships… you have to listen to the consumer,” remarked Jonathan. “And above all,” said Drew, “be nice to people.”
Bill Darcy then closed out the discussion by moderating an exciting and intimate live question-and-answer session with the audience.
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