The Advance 2026
There’s something special about pressing pause long enough to truly come together.
We began our 2026 Advance by greeting one another not just as colleagues, but as a team — reconnecting, sharing smiles, and settling into the kind of energy that only happens when driven, like-minded people gather with purpose. It’s always a pleasure to step out of the day-to-day and into a space where reflection and vision can coexist.
Reflect.
Before looking ahead, we took time to honor what was behind us — and what a year it was.
In 2025, Collins Group Realty was ranked the #1 team in the Bluffton and Hilton Head area for closed sales, based on closed volume and total units in the REsides MLS. An accomplishment like that represents far more than numbers — it reflects trust, consistency, and a shared commitment to excellence.
We also expanded in meaningful ways. We opened an additional office in downtown Bluffton, broadened our reach into Charleston, and welcomed four new agents and three new staff members who have already elevated our processes and strengthened our foundation.
As we reflected, gratitude filled the room. It’s a rare and beautiful thing to sit together and fully appreciate what has been built — and to realize that even more opportunity lies ahead. It was a happy place to be, and a powerful way to begin the year.
Strengthening the Experience from Contract to Close
One of the most impactful conversations of the day centered around process — specifically, walking through the transaction journey from contract to close.
Our Closing Manager, Breanna, guided the team step-by-step through the transaction management system, offering a transparent look at every phase of the process. What made this session so valuable was not just the information shared, but the openness in the room. Agents and staff were invited to provide feedback, ask questions, and offer ideas.
Understanding one another’s workflows creates empathy. It also creates opportunity — opportunity to refine, improve, and ensure we are delivering the most efficient process and best possible client experience.
Every suggestion was heard. As we move forward, we’re excited to review processes and implement thoughtful enhancements that continue raising the standard.
Use AI to enhance, not create the experience
Our AI roundtable sparked one of the most intriguing discussions of the day.
We explored how artificial intelligence can serve as a tool to enhance the human experience — never replace it. In a market where many of our clients are relocating specifically for community, connection will always be our greatest strength.
Approximately 30% of our closed sales last year came from repeat clients and referrals — a clear reminder that relationships matter. The goal is not just to close a transaction, but to earn a client for life.
We discussed ways AI can support that mission — helping us provide information prior to a sale, and offering meaningful ways for clients to stay engaged long after closing. Our Marketing Team is deeply focused on this balance. In the coming quarter, we’ll be conducting an AI audit to ensure our contact information, titles, and digital presence are accurate and optimized — so when someone searches or asks a platform like ChatGPT about our team, the information is clear, current, and consistent.
Celebrating the People Who Make It Possible
As the afternoon wind down, a few final touches made the day even more special.
Thoughtfully prepared gifts were placed out for each team member, small tokens that reflect a big appreciation- as we paused to recognize several team members who truly raised the bar this year:
- Kathy Fotia
- The Wynne Team, Jeff and Melanie
- Kristen Parsons
- Fred Hogshead
Celebrating individual excellence within a collaborative culture is one of our greatest privileges.
A Grateful Start to 2026
A sincere thank you to Moss Creek Golf Club and their incredible staff for providing such a beautiful setting, along with wonderful refreshments and hospitality. The space created the perfect backdrop for reflection, brainstorming, honest feedback, and renewed motivation.
Most importantly, thank you to our agents and staff for investing their time and energy into the day. Because of you, we are starting 2026 in an amazing place — established, prepared, supported, and aligned.
It’s more than a strong start.
It’s an ADVANCED one.
