What should technology actually do for a real estate agent? For Coldwell Banker American Homes Chief Technology Officer Chris Manteria, the answer is simple: make the agent's job easier so they can focus on client relationships and selling homes. In a recent interview with Franklin Stoehr of Delta Media Group, Chris shared how technology, open APIs, structured coaching, and a family-first culture have powered the brokerage's growth into New York State's #1 Coldwell Banker franchise supporting over 1,000 agents.

From Video Production to Chief Technology Officer

Chris Manteria's path to becoming CTO was far from conventional. Coming from a background in video post-production, computer hardware/software sales, and running an ISP in the early days of the web, Chris brought a deep technical foundation when he earned his real estate license during an economic downturn in the early 2000s.

After working as a full-time agent and managing a branch office, Chris transitioned into the CTO role five years ago during a landmark acquisition that expanded the brokerage overnight from 600 to nearly 1,200 agents. That blend of hands-on sales experience and technical expertise shaped his approach to software: technology must serve the agent, not complicate their day.

"The best technology is the one that works without you knowing why it works or how it works. You just know it works. It almost looks like it isn't even there." — Chris Manteria

Building a Stable Base for Brokerage Growth

When Chris joined the leadership team, the company was running basic in-office servers—a common bottleneck for growing brokerages. Recognizing that long-term expansion required stability, leadership moved operations to Google Cloud, AccountTech (Darwin), and DeltaNET, creating an ecosystem connected by open APIs.

This open architecture allowed Coldwell Banker American Homes to automate backend operations and seamlessly onboard both individual recruits and entire office acquisitions, such as the recent addition of Vesian & Walsh in Long Beach. Today, when a new agent joins, data entered once automatically sets up their email, creates their DeltaNET dashboard, configures SkySlope transaction management, and triggers automated onboarding sequences.

To support this growth, owners Tom Gallagher and Mike Litzner built a comprehensive corporate infrastructure so managers and agents aren't left handling administrative burdens alone:

• Executive Leadership: Dedicated CFO, CEO/COO, and Regional VPs focused on operational scale and recruiting.
• In-House Marketing Team: Led by Marketing Director Joey Djemal and our Social Media Director to handle branding and digital collateral.
• Full-Time Coaching Director: Industry veteran Deborah Asher leads structured training 2–3 times a week.

One Central Hub: The JET Platform

A central pillar of the brokerage's technology strategy is JET . Built on DeltaNET, JET serves as a single-sign-on intranet where agents access their CRM, client contacts, marketing resources, education, and transaction tools in one place.

Rather than overwhelming agents with dozens of competing software options, the company curates best-in-class platforms for every category.

"I want my agents thinking about selling houses... Our agents are supposed to be out there making money for themselves and the company. It's a partnership. We provide the support; they go out and sell." — Chris Manteria

Practical AI & The "Human in the Middle"

Artificial intelligence is front and center on the JET platform. Coldwell Banker American Homes introduces agents to AI through practical, pre-configured Google Gemini "Gems" designed for daily workflow improvements:

• Virtual Staging Guardrails: Pre-built prompts that ensure proper compliance disclosures on enhanced property imagery.
• Listing Copywriters: Tools to help agents draft compelling property descriptions faster.
• Internal NotebookLM FAQ Gem: An on-demand assistant trained on company procedures to answer late-night agent questions.

However, Chris stresses that AI is an assistant, not a replacement for professional real estate advisors. Because New York features strict Fair Housing regulations, local municipal overlays (such as specific occupancy laws in Long Beach), and nuanced market valuations, human review is mandatory.

"The agents who learn to use AI are going to be the ones with longevity," Chris noted. "But clients remember personal attention, local expertise, and empathy—things AI will never replicate."

Organized Around "The Core 4"

Technology is only one part of the support system at Coldwell Banker American Homes. The company's agent development model is structured around four core pillars:

Giving Back to New York Communities

A key aspect of the brokerage's culture is its non-profit organization, Heart of American Homes. Rather than sending charitable funds to national corporate accounts, the foundation keeps 100% of donations local—distributing nearly $150,000 annually to community members and causes suggested directly by agents.

Agents can contribute a portion of their commission checks directly from closing payouts, and Coldwell Banker American Homes matches those contributions up to a designated amount.

What Should Agents Look for in a Brokerage?

When asked how he talks to agents considering other brokerages, Chris explained that conversations start by looking past shiny promotional offers or short-term split promises.

Instead, the discussion begins with a straightforward question: "What do you believe you're going to get somewhere else that you're missing today?"

Sustainable career growth comes down to whether a brokerage offers the coaching, infrastructure, and tools to help an agent increase overall production. When production increases, higher income and split tiers naturally follow.

Final Advice: "Keep Learning"

To wrap up the 45-minute discussion, Chris left viewers with a final thought on navigating real estate industry shifts, market changes, and evolving technology:

"Keep learning... Get out of your head that you're not technical. Stop telling yourself what you aren't. Ask yourself, 'What if I learned just a little bit today?' Learning prompt engineering and how to communicate effectively with tools will be key." — Chris Manteria

In this episode of the Work Hard, Play Hard and Give Back podcast, host Mike Litner sits down with 30-year industry veteran Lori Slattery to discuss why successful real estate goes far beyond closing transactions, emphasizing project management, client education, and community relationships.

Acting as a Project Manager for Real Estate Clients

With three decades of experience across Long Island, Lori Slattery views her primary responsibility not merely as a salesperson, but as an essential project manager orchestrating every moving part of a transaction.

From initial consultation through closing, Slattery manages communication between inspectors, appraisers, mortgage officers, and municipal offices to resolve unexpected hurdles before they impact a deal. This level of oversight provides clients with clarity and confidence, ensuring complex transactions stay on schedule.

"Being a great agent is about being a project manager for your clients, guiding them through every step so nothing comes as a surprise." — Lori Slattery

Navigating VA Loans, Relocations, and Tight Markets

Handling specialized financing like VA loans and fast-paced relocation moves requires extensive market expertise and proactive client preparation. Slattery works closely with military families and relocating buyers to navigate strict appraisal guidelines and tight timelines effectively.

In competitive market conditions across the North Shore and South Shore, educating buyers upfront about pricing strategies, financing options, and contingencies prevents frustration and leads to better purchasing outcomes. Combining classic personal outreach with cutting-edge digital retargeting allows agents to maintain strong relationships while expanding their market reach.

Community Service, Grants, and Unforgettable Stories

For Slattery, giving back locally is deeply interconnected with running a successful real estate practice. Her hands-on community involvement—including working as a local school crossing guard, securing community grants, and supporting regional causes—shapes her daily approach to business.

Over her 30-year career, staying grounded in local service has built an enduring reputation founded on integrity, personal relationships, and trusted advice. From wild showing experiences to navigating major market shifts, her commitment to putting clients first remains unchanged.

"When you invest in your community and educate your clients upfront, relationships naturally follow and last for decades." — Lori Slattery

Planning Your Next Long Island Real Estate Strategy

Whether navigating a complex move or looking to purchase your next residence near major transit routes like The LIE or The LIRR, working with an experienced professional ensures a smooth transaction.

Sellers interested in evaluating their current property's value can receive a preliminary digital assessment through the CB Estimate Home Valuation tool. Buyers comparing regional communities or relocation options across Long Island can utilize the CB MoveMeter application. To connect with experienced advisors across our regional offices, visit the Coldwell Banker American Homes Agent Directory or explore our main CBAM Homes Blog Index.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Lori Slattery view her role as a real estate agent as a project manager?

Lori Slattery views every transaction as a complex project requiring coordination between lenders, inspectors, attorneys, and clients. Acting as a project manager ensures every detail is handled seamlessly from contract to closing.

How does Lori Slattery help military buyers and sellers navigate VA loans and relocation?

Lori educates clients upfront on VA loan guidelines, appraisal requirements, and strict military relocation timelines. Her experience ensures buyers avoid unexpected hurdles and sellers feel confident accepting VA financing.

What role does community involvement play in Lori Slattery's real estate approach?

Community service, including serving as a school crossing guard and supporting local causes, builds deep relationships and local trust. Lori believes staying connected locally strengthens both business reputation and quality of life.

A New Beginning: Adopt Your "Fur-Ever Best Friend" in Mt. Sinai

The gentle rolling hills and coastal breeze of the North Shore provide the perfect backdrop for a life-changing encounter. On May 30, 2026, the community will gather for a special cause that reaches beyond real estate. We are proud to host the Adopt Your "Fur-Ever Best Friend" event at our Mt. Sinai location. This gathering is dedicated to connecting beautiful shelter puppies with the loving families they deserve. Whether you are a long-time resident or new to the area, we invite you to experience the joy of giving a rescued animal a permanent home.

Mt. Sinai is a gem of the North Shor...

Supporting Our Neighbors When It Matters Most

Mike Litzer and I have been business partners for 38 years, and our commitment to the New York community has always been at the core of what we do. While working with organizations like Kiwanis and local Chambers of Commerce, we noticed a critical gap: families facing immediate, unexpected crises often had nowhere to turn for rapid assistance.

Whether it is covering insurance co-pays, securing equipment not covered by providers, or helping a family find housing immediately after a fire, these are "now" situations that cannot wait for a month-long approval process. This realization led us to establish the Heart of American Homes Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to filling those exact needs across Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens.

The Zero-Overhead Model: Every Dollar Counts

We believe that when you give back, your contribution should go directly to those in need. That is why we are incredibly proud of our zero-overhead model. I work for free, our board works for free, and our legal and accounting teams—surrounded by good, charitable people like Ted Rosenthal and Peter Mancuso—provided their services pro bono to ensure every cent is utilized effectively.

This allows 100% of the funds raised to stay within our local communities. When you work with a knowledgeable and skilled agent from Coldwell Banker American Homes, you are working with a professional who likely contributes to this cause out of every single commission check.

Rapid Response for Urgent Needs

Crisis doesn't follow a schedule. If we receive a request for assistance today, our committee of five typically reviews and votes on it by tomorrow. We understand that a family displaced by a fire needs a hotel deposit immediately, not weeks from now.

Pro Tip: Community support is about more than just financial aid. It is about expertise and time. Our foundation often pairs financial grants for materials with the volunteer labor of our talented network to solve problems like building wheelchair ramps for returning neighbors.

Fundraising for a Brighter Future

To date, we have raised over $750,000 and assisted with over 250 different situations. Our agents are the heartbeat of this effort, constantly asking, "What family are we adopting this year?" From our "Night at the Races" events to Super Bowl boxes and comedy nights, our fundraisers allow the community to come together for a common goal.

We prioritize the privacy of those we help, as many are going through the most difficult moments of their lives. Whether it is supporting a grandmother raising four grandchildren alone or helping a single mother with unexpected funeral expenses, we are here to provide strength and grace during the transaction and beyond.

How You Can Get Involved

If you would like to support our mission or if you are a member of the community in need of assistance, there are multiple pathways to connect with us. You can visit any of our 20 local offices or use the resources below to learn more about our impact and tools.

• Make a Donation: Visit our website and look for the "Heart of American Homes" donate button.
• Calculate Your Move: If you are planning a transition, use our Move Meter to compare locations and make an informed decision.

Success in our communities is never accidental; it is the result of intentional planning and unwavering support. We invite you to join us—whether through your time or your contributions—to help us continue guiding our neighbors home. For a professional evaluation of your current property, please visit our valuation tool.