Core Viewpoint - The real estate brokerage industry in China has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, particularly through the efforts of companies like Lianjia, which have focused on professionalizing the role of real estate agents and improving service quality [3][17][32]. Group 1: Industry Background - The real estate brokerage industry in China faced numerous challenges two decades ago, including rampant issues such as "price gouging," "fake listings," and agents absconding with funds, leading to a negative perception of the profession [2]. - Lianjia emerged with a mission to challenge these malpractices by implementing initiatives like "no price gouging" and "real listings," marking the beginning of a new era for the industry [3][6]. Group 2: Professionalization of Agents - Over the past ten years, Lianjia has successfully cultivated a new generation of professional real estate agents, with over 15,000 agents in Beijing having more than five years of experience and 7,500 with over ten years [4][28]. - The company introduced a performance-based points system to encourage long-term development among agents, linking their performance to career advancement and revenue sharing [7]. Group 3: Supportive Ecosystem - Lianjia has established a cooperative network (ACN) that allows agents to collaborate efficiently, transforming competitive dynamics into a symbiotic relationship [8]. - The company has implemented various mechanisms to ensure fair competition and protect agents, thereby enhancing their respect and recognition among consumers [9][10]. Group 4: Training and Development - Lianjia has developed a comprehensive training system for agents, offering 44 talent development programs and 461 training courses in 2024 alone, with an average of 214 hours of training per agent [19]. - The company also emphasizes mentorship through a "master-apprentice" system, pairing new agents with experienced mentors to enhance their skills in real-world scenarios [20]. Group 5: Work-Life Balance and Employee Welfare - In 2023, Lianjia introduced a "5+7" work-rest system, allowing agents to have more time for family and personal well-being, which includes additional vacation days for those with school-aged children [25]. - The company also offers a mutual assistance program to support employees and their families during difficult times [25]. Group 6: Future Directions - Lianjia is expanding its service capabilities to meet diverse consumer needs, encouraging agents to transition into multifaceted residential consultants [27]. - The ongoing professionalization of agents is reflected in their evolving roles, with many now identifying as community experts, technology enthusiasts, and real estate influencers [32].