Burt Smith began his path to real estate during his formative years when he would accompany his stepfather, Gary Georgine, on explorations of foreclosed homes. Those early experiences sparked an innate interest in Burt and laid the foundation for his future career. 

After graduating from high school, Burt had the privilege of working closely with his stepfather, gaining invaluable hands-on experience by assisting with appraisal errands for G.D. Georgine & Associates. This exposure led Burt to obtain his real estate license at the age of 20. Shortly thereafter, he commenced his professional journey with CENTURY 21 Associates in 1995. For the initial year or two, Burt balanced his real estate work with a part-time job at a body shop, where he painted cars while embarking on his college education at Wayne State University, eventually graduating summa cum laude. This period was a testament to Burt’s commitment and passion for real estate, setting the stage for his future successes in the industry. 

“My decision to become a professional in real estate was influenced by my stepfather, who emulated a larger-than-life persona and was driven by a strong sense of purpose,” Burt shared. “I originally pursued a college education as a strategic move, providing me with a safety net should my career trajectory ever shift. However, despite graduation leading to potential opportunities in the Federal Reserve or banking, as suggested by friends, I chose to remain committed to real estate.”

With 25 years of experience as an agent and 15 years as a broker, Burt holds a career volume of almost $160 million in sales. He is also a state-certified residential appraiser, a title that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. “I teach an appraisal class at North Oakland County Board of REALTORS®, where I’m educating agents on the basics and general understanding of appraisals,” Burt explained. “I’m also a member of an appraiser panel board for the largest appraisal management company in the country, guiding and advocating appraisers and agents.” Burt’s knowledge and experience is an asset to these organizations, where he is loved by his students for his charisma and ability to simplify complex concepts.

In 2009, while at CENTURY 21 Town & Country in Birmingham, Burt became a broker to expand his knowledge base and understanding of contracts, and to also add an additional layer of credibility and trust to his clients. After years of working with the same brokerage, Burt decided it was time for a change: He wanted to create something of his own, a venture where he could implement his ideas freely. In 2019, he left his position and took a leap of faith, opening Caldera Real Estate Group — a company that quickly became synonymous with trust and excellence in the industry.

According to Burt, his team at Caldera Real Estate is more than an office: It’s a growing family of 20 dedicated agents. “Our uniqueness stems from our extraordinary team that is always ready to lend a hand and foster an environment of camaraderie,” he said. “We've built a model that empowers our agents with the latest tools and technology, augmenting their efficiency and technological prowess. Moreover, I personally ensure that they receive one-on-one guidance, enhancing their knowledge and credibility with our clients. We champion a low-fee structure, enabling our agents to invest and shape their business as they envision.”

Burt’s passion lies in assisting people to make important decisions about their homes — whether that means they are buying or selling. “My drive extends further to serving clients who are tasked with selling estate or probate homes, a responsibility often shouldered during a time of loss,” he said. “My aim is simple: guide individuals through overwhelming situations and help them navigate the multitude of decisions involved. The gratification comes from alleviating some of their burdens during challenging moments.”

For agents aspiring to become brokers, Burt gives straightforward advice: Embrace the opportunity! “While leadership is a trait that may not be innate to every agent, the journey to becoming a broker undoubtedly broadens one’s knowledge and enhances their skill set,” he shared. “I uphold my professional ethics with integrity and character, always honoring the commitments I make to my clients. A motto passed down from my grandfather serves as a constant reminder: A person’s worth is measured by the reliability of their word.”

Burt defines success by the ability to assist others while leaving an enduring legacy. “My aspiration is to be remembered as a genuine and grounded individual, always available to lend a hand to friends, family and clients,” he said. “My journey involves continual self-improvement in my roles as an individual, husband and father. Perfection may be elusive, but my aim is to be recognized as a good person, a Christian and a God-fearing man. It is of utmost importance to me that my son inherits these values, ensuring that they are passed onto future generations.”

When he’s not working, Burt spends time with his wife, Amy, and their son, Knox. As a family, they enjoy taking walks in nature, going to amusement parks, visiting family, playing sports and participating in drag racing — a big passion that Burt is proudly sharing with his son. 

Burt encourages his team — and aspiring brokers — to challenge their comfort zones. “Comfort in your current state as an individual or real estate professional signifies stagnation, not growth,” he said. “Embrace the sense of being overwhelmed, because it is a clear indication of your personal and professional development.”