Over the past year, Canadian real estate brokerages have navigated a uniquely complex landscape shaped by shifting market conditions. For Royal LePage® ELITE West, a brokerage based in British Columbia, this period also marked a major milestone: their first complete year under the Royal LePage® banner after branching off from their previous U.S. franchisor.

In April 2024, co-owners Terri Spilsbury and Josh Bath guided more than 180 agents through a significant rebranding.

“We made the switch to Royal LePage during one of the most difficult markets we have ever experienced,” Spilsbury reflects. “Our successful transition was thanks to the reliability of a strong Canadian brand, ample corporate support, and a well-known and well-respected name our clients trust.”

Despite the challenges of rebranding under a new name, Spilsbury and Bath viewed the change as an opportunity to strengthen their business, their team, and their service offering. The brokerage emerged more resilient and unified, with notable achievements over the past 14 months.

Navigating growing pains

Adapting to new systems proved to be the most difficult hurdle.

“We shifted from a cumbersome and rigid month-end process to something much more streamlined. It was transformative but required an adjustment period,” Spilsbury says.

A key factor in easing the transition was personalized communication. Bath reached out individually to each agent, addressing their concerns and ensuring they had the support they needed. This hands-on approach was critical to creating a seamless transition.

Encouraging top-performing agents at the brokerage to share their positive experiences also helped build trust. The operations team played a vital role as well, guiding agents through administrative and technical changes and minimizing disruptions to their day-to-day business.

Reinvigorating office culture

With the pandemic reshaping how people work and connect, restoring face-to-face engagement became a priority.

“Cultivating office culture is essential. We view relationship-building as the backbone of our success,” Spilsbury explains.

This philosophy of emphasizing in-person connections, ongoing education, and knowledge-sharing became central both in client relations and internal support during the rebrand. “Every chance to strengthen bonds with a personal touch point is invaluable,” she adds.

Leveraging education and support tools

Royal LePage’s learning and development programs also played a pivotal role in a successful onboarding.

“Our agents and leaders greatly benefited from a wealth of resources, including on-demand webinars, access to national trainers, and hands-on sessions tailored to our needs,” says Spilsbury. “This guidance was particularly valuable in navigating an unfamiliar and challenging market, instilling both confidence and momentum.”

Looking ahead

Now, more than a year into the rebrand, Royal LePage ELITE West is optimistic. The switch has improved operational efficiency, strengthened agent confidence, and reinforced their client-focused approach.

Spilsbury reflects on the emotional and practical aspects of such a major organizational shift: “Changing brands is no small feat, both emotionally and operationally. We are thrilled we chose a forward-thinking, Canadian-led brand that truly supports franchise success.”

Since joining Royal LePage in March 2024, the brokerage has attracted more than a dozen new agents and expanded its presence across B.C.. The company relocated its headquarters to Coquitlam and expanded its Maple Ridge branch. The Royal LePage brand’s strength has been well received by both their agents and clients, especially in an uncertain market.

Spilsbury, in her role on the Royal LePage Service Advisory Council, continues to influence the services and support available to franchisees and agents across the country.

Find out why Canada’s real estate professionals continue to choose Royal LePage. Visit royallepage.ca/joinus