New Coldwell Banker Affiliates president speaks on AI, rates, luxury market

Mary Lee Blaylock recently stepped into the role of president at Coldwell Banker Affiliates, bringing more than 30 years of residential real estate experience to the position.Her appointment comes as Coldwell Banker advances its “One Coldwell Banker” brand strategy — aiming to align company-owned operations and affiliates under a unified platform.Blaylock’s background includes leadership roles at Sotheby’s International Realty, HomeServices of America and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, where she helped drive enterprise-wide transformation and growth.She sat down with HousingWire to discuss her vision for the network, the changing dynamics of buyer and seller behavior, continued strength of the luxury market and why she believes AI will enhance — not replace — the human element of real estate. Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Jonathan Delozier: With stepping into the presidency, what’s your vision for the network and what should agents expect to see day-to-day? Mary Lee Blaylock: Strategic growth plans for our brand are twofold. I’ll call it one, in conjunction and in partnership with our affiliate owners, as they are very...