Annual sales summit highlights resilience, market expertise, and the enduring strength of Michael Saunders & Company’s culture
Local independent brokerage Michael Saunders & Company held its annual Sales Summit at The ORA in Sarasota on May 15th. Presented in a new all-day format, the event brought together associates from across the Suncoast for a dynamic day of insights, innovation, and inspiration tailored to today’s shifting real estate market. The event opened with powerful remarks from company founder and CEO Michael Saunders, who reminded agents that market conditions don’t define success—mindset does. “Our story has always been about doing what’s right—not just in strong markets, but especially in challenging ones,” said Saunders. “We’ve weathered rising interest rates, recessions, red tides, and pandemics, and we’ve grown stronger each time. What sets us apart is our mindset, our mission, and our shared commitment to always do a little bit more—for our clients, our communities, and each other.” This message of empowerment and purpose continued throughout the day, with dynamic speakers offering fresh insights and practical guidance. Marci Rossell, former CNBC chief economist, reassured agents that despite recession fears and headline noise, the U.S. economy remains fundamentally strong with no current signs of a downturn—emphasizing that while tariffs may weigh on long-term growth, the housing market remains resilient, and those waiting for significantly lower interest rates may need to adjust expectations. Chip Murphy, executive vice president of Michael Saunders & Company, reflected on what sets the firm apart—highlighting its agent-first culture and commitment to service. He stated, “It’s not just the homes we sell—it’s the trust we build, the values we uphold, and the way we consistently elevate the standard of service in every transaction.” Generational researcher and bestselling author Jason Dorsey shared timely insights on how real estate professionals can better connect across generational lines by understanding not just clients’ ages, but their values, expectations, and life experiences. 
Company president Drayton Saunders celebrated the company’s strength and resilience, noting that Michael Saunders & Company ranks in the top 0.02% of all U.S. brokerages (#78 out of 360,000) and holds a commanding presence in the luxury space, where one in four sales over $3 million is guided by an MSC associate. Celebrity designer Corey Damen Jenkins inspired the audience with a call to embrace originality, bold thinking, and fresh approaches—reminding us that in both design and real estate, “old keys won’t open new doors”—while captivating the room with striking visuals of his signature interior design style. Leadership expert and author Mike Staver urged agents to move beyond reactive behavior—like acting out of stress or urgency—and instead lead with focus, resilience, and purpose, offering practical tools to navigate uncertainty and perform at their best in any market. A highlight of the day was a luxury market roundtable moderated by Michael Saunders, featuring Michael Jalbert, CEO of Forbes Global Properties, and Paul Boomsma, president and CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. The conversation explored affluent buyer trends, global brand influence and the strategies MSC agents can use to stand out in an increasingly competitive luxury landscape. “This event wasn’t about looking back,” Saunders said. “It was about looking forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Our agents are ready—not just to adapt to the market, but to define it.”
