Why Relationships Will Always Beat AI in Real Estate with Dylan Bugallo
What does it really take to succeed in real estate today — without the fluff, the fake motivation, or the “post-and-pray” strategies?
In this episode of The Madison Podcast, host Ben Lavender sits down with Dylan Bugallo, a high-producing New York real estate agent known for his no-nonsense, relationship-first approach. Together, they unpack what actually moves the needle in real estate — from prospecting fears no one admits out loud to why most agents stay busy but broke.
This is an honest, unfiltered conversation about doing the work, caring deeply, and building a business that lasts.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
– Why real estate can feel lonely — even when you’re surrounded by people
– How Dylan built a referral-driven business without relying on AI or gimmicks
– The difference between looking busy and actually producing results
– How to instantly build trust in listing appointments (without scripts)
– Why relationships will always beat automation in real estate
Key Takeaways & Timestamps
00:01 – The Lonely Agent Paradox: Why real estate feels isolating — and how events, mentors, and proximity to talent change everything.
00:07 – Mindset Before Metrics: Why burnout kills more careers than rejection — and how rest actually improves production.
00:12 – The Trust Advantage: How simple human behaviors (listening, respect, curiosity) win listings over flashy pitches.
00:17 – Facing the Fear No New Agent Admits: Why rejection isn’t the real fear — and what actually stops agents from prospecting.
00:21 – The 33-Touch Rule Explained: How consistent, genuine follow-up turns past clients into long-term referral engines.
00:27 – Busy ≠ Productive: Why podcasts, AI tools, and motivational content don’t matter if you’re not calling people.
00:29 – Why Dylan Hates Open Houses: A brutally honest breakdown of time ROI, lead quality, and when open houses actually make sense.
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs the reminder: 👉 Care more. Work smarter. Build relationships that last.
🤝 Let’s Connect
Host: Ben Lavender – New York’s Favorite British Mortgage Broker
📸 Instagram: @blavmtg
Guest: Dylan Bugallo – Real Estate Agent, Over South
📸 Instagram: @dylanbugallo
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