A Modern PropTech Leader

Managing investments has always been a complex task, something that William is well versed in. Being able to identify the potential for disruptive technologies, and adapting to changing dynamics and innovation within the real estate investment space has propelled the Extrance team ahead of the competition. “The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and being able to pivot and adapt quickly to new trends and market shifts is crucial. Our ability to stay agile and embrace change has enabled us to seize opportunities and mitigate risks effectively,” he shares.

As a leader and an innovator, William strongly believes that building a strong, motivated, and skilled team is paramount. He sets clear goals, fosters a collaborative culture, and empowers his employees with all the necessary tools and time to contribute their best work. Additionally, transparent and open communication with all employees and stakeholders has always helped William convey his company’s strategy and stay true to his vision. “Effective communication is essential for fostering trust and alignment among employees, stakeholders, and investors,” says he. 

From a customer standpoint, understanding the needs and pain points of their customers remains at the core of the EXtrance business model. William constantly seeks the feedback of his clients and uses it to enhance his products and services, ensuring that they genuinely address the challenges faced by real estate professionals, property owners, and investors. A robust feedback loop with customers and users helps Lively understand and cater to their evolving needs and preferences.

While strong management capabilities and a responsible budget have been key contributors to EXtrance’s growth, Lively has gained a stronghold in the market by building strategic partnerships with other technology companies, real estate firms, and industry organizations. “Successful tech leaders understand that calculated risks are part of any growth strategy. It’s crucial to assess and manage risks effectively to maintain the company’s financial health and reputation,” he shares.

Staying Current

Staying up-to-date with new technologies and gaining an in-depth understanding of markets is crucial for success in the tech industry, especially in a field like Proptech. William’s commitment to lifelong learning through any means necessary has ensured that his company remains innovative and competitive. “I stay curious and regularly invest time in studying emerging technologies, industry trends, and market developments. This can include reading books, research papers, blogs, and industry publications,” he mentions.

A regular at industry-specific conferences, events, and seminars, Lively seizes every opportunity he can to network, learn from thought leaders, and gain insights into the latest innovations. As a prop-tech leader, he remains focused on building a strong network of peers and seeks advice from experts who provide him with valuable insights and guidance.

At EXtrance, William also likes to invest in comprehensive market research to better understand his target audience, their needs, and market dynamics. This includes analyzing data, conducting surveys, and studying competitors to identify gaps and opportunities. “We keep a close eye on industry reports and insights from reputable analysts and research firms. These reports often provide valuable data and trends that can guide our strategic decisions,” he states.

Within his organization, William encourages his cross-functional teams to share their knowledge and insights with each other. “Different team members may have expertise in various areas, and their input can be invaluable for understanding market dynamics and technology trends,” he states. Often encouraging thought leadership within EXtrance, Lively motivates his team members to research and share their insights and expertise through blogs, webinars, or speaking engagements.