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Building a Stronger Tomorrow With MTSU

February 3, 2025

A burgeoning real estate market calls for nurturing skilled professionals to handle its dynamism. The evolving partnership between Ole South Properties, Tennessee’s largest homebuilder, and Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) addresses this need head-on. This collaboration stands at the forefront of a real-life learning program that is transforming the landscape of real estate education.

With Raider Realty at its core, this unique program allows MTSU students to venture into the real world of real estate even before they graduate. 

Philip Seagraves, associate professor of Real Estate in MTSU's Jennings A. Jones College of Business, launched Raider Realty as a licensed, profit-making brokerage for students. Not only do they get to work with seasoned local executives like Ole South's John Floyd, who lend their expertise and mentorship, but they also earn commissions from their work at the brokerage.

This venture started as an extension of MTSU’s Blue Raider Real Estate Club in 2015. It took shape when students got a shot at renovating and marketing commercial properties in downtown Murfreesboro. 

In this one-of-a-kind initiative, students balance learning with earning while gaining valuable industry knowledge. They learn business and entrepreneurship from insiders' perspectives as they grapple with the financial aspects, such as managing expenses and profits and understanding how brokerage works. 

Apart from contributing to student scholarships and educational programming, Raider Realty also ensures that students see their hard work pay off literally, with commissions echoed in their yearly 1099 forms.

John Floyd, the founder of Ole South Properties, has been a significant supporter of this program. He employs many graduates from Raider Realty and acknowledges their readiness to hit the ground running. Floyd believes in investing in these students' future, preparing them for a reliable career path from their university years. His contributions reflect his commitment to giving back to a community that’s been instrumental in his success.

The collaboration between Ole South Properties and MTSU via Raider Realty reflects a profound fusion of education and industry experience. Enabling students to dive headfirst into real estate transactions and developments while still under the tutelage of professors and experienced professionals equips them with industry competency. 

This initiative cultivates skilled professionals who are readily employable post-graduation and significantly contributes to strengthening the real estate backbone of the Nashville region, creating a brighter future for all.

To view the full and original press release, read here.