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We had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Brent Abrahm, President and CEO of Accruit, on Trailblazers for Success. Brent is not only a brilliant business leader, he is also a decent skier (his words, not ours). His company, Accruit, is a powerhouse in the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange space—yes, it sounds very technical! Brent has built something truly innovative that has stood the test of time. So, how do you create a business that lasts 25 years (and counting)? Brent had some gold to share!
1. Innovation is the Name of the Game
Accruit started as a wild idea back when the internet was just becoming a thing (yes, kids, there was a time before Google ran our lives). Brent and his co-founder saw an opportunity to streamline a cumbersome, paper-based process using technology—way ahead of their time. Fast forward to today, Accruit is the only qualified intermediary leveraging tech to make transactions seamless. The lesson? Keep evolving. The moment you stop innovating, you start becoming irrelevant. Brent has thrived by pushing boundaries, embracing change, and finding ways to disrupt his own industry before someone else does.
2. Navigating Uncertainty Like a Pro
Brent has faced serious challenges—like when a tax code change wiped out 75% of Accruit’s revenue overnight. (We imagine that moment required a deep breath and maybe a stiff drink.) Instead of panicking, he focused on what could be controlled, quickly pivoting to the real estate space and acquiring companies that aligned with their new direction. His key to keeping the team motivated during tough times? Transparency and connection. He checks in with employees personally, acknowledges challenges, and ensures people aren’t burning out. Leaders, take notes: Ignoring stress doesn’t make it go away—addressing it head-on does.
3. Hire (and Let Go) with Purpose
Brent's hiring philosophy is built around four core values: Creative, Curious, Competitive, and Collaborative (the 4 C’s). These aren’t just words slapped on a mug (okay, they are on a mug, and they actually mean something). He hires people who embody these values and isn’t afraid to shift employees around to find the right fit. And when it’s clear someone isn’t thriving? He moves quickly. Brent believes no one should ever be surprised when they’re let go. If they are, leadership hasn’t done their job. He prioritizes giving people chances, coaching, and repositioning before making tough calls.
Leadership Tip:
Want to keep your team engaged? Take Brent’s approach: Butterflies over bile. He tells employees that if they’re dreading Monday mornings (bile), it’s probably not the right fit. A little nervous excitement (butterflies) is a good thing—it means they’re challenged and invested. Ask your team: Are you feeling butterflies or bile? It’s a great gut-check for engagement.
Make It Fun:
Brent found a simple way to encourage team connection—Monday morning huddles with a $5 coffee card giveaway. The catch? You have to turn your camera on and rep some Accruit swag. A tiny incentive can create big engagement. Try adding a small prize or fun challenge to your meetings to keep energy up.
Brent’s journey proves that lasting success isn’t about having all the answers upfront—it’s about staying flexible, keeping people at the center, and embracing change as an opportunity instead of a threat. And if all else fails? Pick up the dinner tab and let your friends think you have unparalleled financial wisdom.
Thanks for the wisdom (and the laughs), Brent!
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Accruit, an Inspira Financial Solution, offers national 1031 Exchange Qualified Intermediary services and technology solutions.
For over 23 years, Accruit has been a national, leading 1031 exchange Qualified Intermediary and Also referred to as an "EAT", is typically a special purpose, limited-liability company that is used to own the legal title to property that is being parked as part of a reverse exchange.
They specialize in this complex, tax deferral strategy to help preserve wealth, build investments, and secure financial wellbeing. Through our modern technology systems, comprehensive set of solutions, and highly credentialed subject matter experts, you can feel confident that the job will be done to the highest standards.
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