Tuesday, November 19, 2024

client relations

    Nurturing. It’s the most effective method of moving leads and prospects through the sales funnel. Do it right, and you end up with clients who, if nurtured, can provide you with referrals.

    Nurturing your past clients requires reconnecting with them consistently after the transaction.

    1. Ensure that your customer service is unforgettable

    No, you don’t need to present them with a whirlwind trip worldwide at closing. It’s the small things that when added up, will leave the best impression and one that will last far into the future:

    • Keep probing, gently, until you fully understand their wants and needs.
    • Return calls as quickly as possible.
    • Reach out consistently to keep them abreast of the transaction’s process or see how they’re doing and if they have any questions or concerns.
    • Listen to your clients—really listen.
    • Let them know, in word and deed, that they are never alone during the transaction.
    2. Keep them abreast of the latest local housing market news

    Create a customized housing market news report template to send to former clients quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.

    Homeowners love to know how their home is holding or not holding its value. Keep it simple to understand by using lots of visuals.

    3. Just Listeds and Just Solds

    Be alert for just listed or sold homes in your former clients’ neighborhoods. This is the perfect time to reconnect and show you’re keeping abreast of local real estate.  You’ll find some brilliant Just Listed and Just Sold postcards right here.

    4. Celebrate with them 

    Hopefully, you’ve kept track of important dates in your former clients’ lives. This includes birthdays and anniversaries (especially the anniversary of when they purchased their home).

    Mark those dates to send a small gift to the former client’s office.

    Why the office?

    Ask anyone who has received a bouquet of flowers at work how many of their co-workers asked who they were from and what the occasion was.

    Just think how much free word-of-mouth advertising you’ll get when your former client tells coworkers that the gift is from their real estate agent to celebrate the anniversary of their home purchase.

    5. Send an updated CMA

    Your past client reconnection efforts should include an annual CMA to keep them abreast of how their home stacks up regarding market value. They may not be considering selling, but they are most likely curious about their home’s market value.

    Make sure you put this task in your CRM so you won’t forget about it.

    Reconnecting with folks you’ve done business with is a tried-and-true referral generator.


    PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

    1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

    Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

     

    2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Plan

    The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here 3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review
    The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here 4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg
    Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here
         
     

      The fact that 89% of homebuyers say they will use their agent again says a lot about the fantastic job real estate agents do with their clients.  

      Yet, only 12% of buyers used their former agent when buying another home (NAR).

      Weird, isn’t it?

      Something happens – or doesn’t – between the closing table and the time your client engages in another real estate transaction.

      Let’s cure the disconnect between “first-timer” and “client-for-life.”

      Former clients are “warm” contacts

      Unlike picking up the phone for cold calling, a call to a former client is like calling a friend.

      It is one of the more comfortable tasks in an agent’s business. If they hired you in the past, they clearly know, like, and trust you. 

      Your only job with these past clients, at least right now, is to remain top-of-mind with them.

      Here’s just one reason why:

      “Depending on which study you believe and what industry you’re in, acquiring a new customer is anywhere from five to 25 times more expensive than retaining an existing one,” claims Amy Gallo at Harvard Business Review.

      Here’s another stat that you may find impressive, “Increasing customer retention rates by 5% increases profits by 25% to 95%”, Frederick F. Reichheld and Phil Schefter, Harvard Business School

      The Holiday scheduled campaign is shown above. To learn more, Click Here.

      Large and splashy or understated?

      Reaching out to former clients doesn’t have to cost a lot or be overly extravagant.

      A phone call, a postcard dropped in the mail, or a check-in on social media are all perfectly appropriate ways to get your name back in front of a past client.

      Here are a few more inexpensive ways to reach out to former clients:

      • Put together a quarterly market update and direct mail it to former clients.
      • Keep in touch via a monthly or quarterly mailed newsletter
      • Send out birthday, anniversary, and annual home anniversary postcards.
      • Include them in Just listed/Just sold postcards you’re mailing to announce transactions near your clients’ homes.
      • Take them out for coffee, cocktails, or lunch.

      Naturally, a large and splashy “touch” would be more memorable. These include client appreciation events. The key to a successful client retention strategy is consistency. 

      The most important part of these conversations

      The question used to be, “Who do you know that might be thinking of buying or selling a home?”

      Today, the question is best when it’s narrowed down.

      If you have read the book Guerrilla Marketing in 30 Days, you are familiar with this concept. In it, Jay Conrad Levinson suggests trying to narrow “… the universe of those you ask.”

      Here’s an example:

      Marcy is a former client who loves playing tennis. Instead of using the broad question, narrow it down to “Who do you play tennis with who might be thinking of buying or selling a home?”

      Instead of combing through her mental database of everyone she knows, her mind turns to the tennis court and her conversations with fellow players.

      Former clients most likely want your services when they buy or sell real estate.

      Don’t let so much time go by that they forget your name. Reach out and stay in touch with them to stop leaving what should be easy money on the table.


      PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

      1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

      Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

       

      2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Plan

      The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

      3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review

      The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here

      4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

      This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

      Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


       

        Think of the home purchase process as a journey. I know, sometimes it feels like a never-ending one, but stick with me for a minute.

        On any journey, we all look for signs: city names, arrows, freeway exits, and mile markers. These signs guide us as we travel. You, as the buyer’s agent, need to be your client’s sign during the purchase process.

        Like all effective signs, you should convey clear, simple information and give it enough time for your client to provide a proper response.

        In other words, don’t put the yield sign in the middle of the merge lane. Especially at the last minute. Give your client enough time to safely pull into an adjacent lane before the big semi-truck is on top of him.

        Granted, the home purchase road is one full of potential potholes, but it’s up to you to keep your client from falling into one of them. Here are some considerations when guiding a client through a purchase.

        The First Time Buyer Series is shown above. To learn more, Click Here.

        Does the buyer have what it takes to keep going?

        While many of today’s buyers are savvy about the market (thanks to all the media attention), and assume they have the stomach for the process, it may be a whole different story when your client is knee-deep in it.

        Be honest with her about the things that may go wrong and how you will handle these issues if they come up. Don’t sugarcoat anything about the process. The last thing you want is for her to feel disillusioned after you’ve put time and effort into the deal. If she’s going to bail, then get her to bail upfront.

        Communication is critical

        Our goal as business owners is, overall, to build our businesses through repeat and referral clients. The client that refers you to her friends is one that was satisfied with your work.

        The key to client satisfaction is communication. This is never more important than when working with a nervous first-time homebuyer. Not only do you want a client for life, but you want this particular deal to come to a successful conclusion.

        Remember, you’re a signpost. Guide the client with clear communication every step of the way and she’ll get to her destination.

        This is So Exciting!

        While it’s tempting to think of yourself as keeping this buyer “on a hook,” it’s important to remember that she’s not a fish. She’s a person with hopes and dreams and the biggest of these right now is this house.

        Excitement and enthusiasm are, thankfully, contagious. Get excited. Yes, this may not be your only client, but she may be your most frightened and frustrated. If you’re excited about her new house, she will be too. And excitement is a powerful motivator.

        Keep her future-oriented. Where will she put the sofa? What color has she chosen for the living room?

        Yes, you’re a new agent and learning the ropes as you go. Focus on your client, however, and before you know it, you’ll have more of them!

         


        When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

        1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

        Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

        2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

        The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

        3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

        The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

        4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

        This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

        Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


         

          After you’ve finished counseling your potential real estate clients on what the whole NAR settlement thing means for them, it’s time to get busy convincing buyers that, yes, they do need an agent.

          The best way to do this is to clearly communicate your value in every newsletter, on every postcard, social media share, and email. 

          Yes, it may require an overhaul of your entire business marketing plan, but you’ll reap the rewards when potential and new clients understand what you bring to the table.

          Start with the initial buyer consultation

          The buyer consultation is critical. It’s during this process that the buyer gets to know you and, hopefully, likes and trusts you as well. It’s a critical component of a successful relationship.

          If you’re new to the world of real estate sales, here are some ideas:

          • Explain the changes brought about by the NAR settlement and how this may impact them as buyers.
          • Explain the mortgage process, in clear terms that consumers can understand.
          • Impress upon them the importance of obtaining mortgage pre-approval.
          • Learn what they’re looking for in a new home, size, age, location, and which aspects of the wish list they’re willing to compromise on.
          • Walk them through the post-accepted offer process. This includes inspections, appraisal, and how you will negotiate on their behalf if the need arises. Don’t forget to explain the loan estimate form and the closing disclosure from the lender. New agents can find information about both at consumerfinance.gov.
          • Explain the final walkthrough.
          • Closing: What it is and how it works.
          • Find out how often they expect to hear from you from the time escrow opens until closing. How do they prefer that you communicate with them? Email? Text? Telephone?

          Create a buyers’ version of a listing presentation packet

          You’ve most likely seen agent advice that extolls the “necessity” of coming up with a “unique value proposition (UVP).”

          “Your value proposition is the unique benefit that you offer to your clients that sets you apart from other agents. It should answer the question: why should someone work with you instead of someone else?”

          The only problem with this advice is that by and large, the American consumer is skeptical of self-promotion. This is reflected in the fact that, according to Global News Wire, “… 95% of customers read online reviews before buying a product.”

          Instead of the overtly self-promoting UVP, why not use a glowing testimonial? In fact, create an entire page of them, or sprinkle them throughout your buyers’ packets. 

          What else to put in your buyers’ packets?

          • Your bio
          • A text version of all of the things you counseled them on during the oral consultation. 
          • Remember, buyers are going to need negotiators in their corner when it comes to them having to pay a commission. If you have testimonials that highlight your negotiating skills, do include them.
          • Copies of some of the more important forms they will be asked to sign. 

          Yes, your industry is in a bit of turmoil right now, but if you get ahead of other agents in proving to homebuyers why they should hire you, you’ll be glad you didn’t get caught up in the whirlwind.


          When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

          1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

          Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

          2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

          The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

          3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

          The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

          4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

          This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

          Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


            As if the red-hot sellers’ market of late didn’t cause enough anxiety for Americans who long for their own homes, along comes a lawsuit to add to the problem.

            Not to get all doomy and gloomy, but Americans are being bombarded by mainstream media articles about what their journalists expect the NAR settlement will mean to buyers, sellers and agents.

            “And many headlines aren’t separating fact from fiction, feeding misinformation to you and your clients,” according to the legal team at the NAR.

            Only you, as the boots on the ground in the industry, can help clear it up for the average real estate consumer.

            The biggest myth you’ll most likely run up against

            Remember the aforementioned Reuters headline: “…“Home buying costs could fall.” 

            As you know, the only thing guaranteed to “fall” when this settlement is approved (sometime in mid-July) is home selling costs. The typical home seller makes out like a bandit in this deal.

            Maybe I’m wrong, but home sellers aren’t having a tough enough time selling right now that they are willing to give away, in concessions, a huge hunk of their equity. 

            The myth that homes will magically be more affordable to buyers is something that urgently needs busting. Who better to do that than the true experts in real estate: Agents?

            This will make it easier for buyers to negotiate fees

            “The $418 million settlement …  makes “it easier for buyers to negotiate fees with their own agents or use no agents at all.” (Emphasis is ours)

            How will the latter work? 

            How will the average homebuyer gain access to tour homes for sale without an agent? Will the listing agent have to be on hand to show their listings to unrepresented buyers? Many agents don’t mind double-ending deals (in states where it is legal) IF they are compensated for all the extra work and responsibility when representing both sides. 

            If these unrepresented buyers lack an agent because they don’t want to pay an agent, why would the listing agent act as a buyer’s agent as well? Especially when one considers that the listing agent still maintains all the legal and ethical ramifications of dual agency, without the additional compensation.

            Let your potential buyers know that, since they’ll most likely have to pay a fee for representation, they may as well have the protection of exclusive representation during the purchase.

            Present the coming reality, gently

            Judi Desiderio, chief executive of Town & Country Real Estate in East Hampton, New York told the folks at Reuters.com that “Some buyers could end up paying more for homes.”

            She is correct. Sellers will be no longer on the hook to pay the buyers’ agent commission. 

            At today’s average home price, nationwide, this outlay for buyers may be from 1% to 3%, or from $4,177 to $12,531.

            Again, real estate consumers are hearing from the media that not only will their homebuying costs come down, but prices may too.

            A gentle reminder to potential clients that “housing prices are dictated by market forces,” [NAR], not lawsuits, should help curb their enthusiasm to buy into the media’s narrative.


            When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

            1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

            Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

            2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

            The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

            3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

            The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

            4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

            This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

            Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


              Real estate agents often face scrutiny over their commission fees, with some questioning whether their expertise justifies the costs.

              However, the reality is that the value provided by a skilled real estate agent far surpasses their monetary compensation.

              Here are ten ways a real estate agent’s expertise is worth EVERY PENNY:

              1. Market Knowledge: Real estate agents possess in-depth knowledge of local markets, including trends, pricing dynamics, and neighborhood nuances.

              This expertise allows them to accurately assess the value of a property and advise clients on pricing strategies to maximize their return on investment.

              Homes sold without a real estate agent (FSBO) went for about $100,000 less on average and cost the seller more in repair fees (based on The 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers).

              2. Negotiation Skills: Negotiating the terms of a real estate transaction requires finesse, tact, and experience.

              Real estate agents are skilled negotiators who advocate for their client’s best interests and work to secure the most favorable terms and conditions based on years of expertise.

              3. Marketing Expertise: Successfully marketing a property requires a strategic approach, including professional photography, staging, virtual tours, and targeted advertising.

              Real estate agents have the expertise to create compelling marketing campaigns that attract qualified buyers and generate maximum exposure for their listings.

              4. Legal Guidance: The real estate transaction process involves a myriad of legal documents, contracts, and disclosures that must be handled with precision and compliance.

              Real estate agents provide invaluable guidance and assistance to ensure that transactions are conducted legally and ethically.

              5. Network Connections: Real estate agents have extensive networks of industry connections, including lenders, inspectors, contractors, and other professionals.

              These connections allow them to provide clients with access to a wide range of resources and services throughout the buying or selling process.

              6. Emotional Support: Buying or selling a home can be an emotional experience for clients, filled with uncertainty, stress, and anxiety.

              Real estate agents provide emotional support and reassurance, guiding clients through the process with empathy and understanding.

              7. Time Savings: Selling a home involves numerous tasks and responsibilities, from marketing and showings to negotiations and paperwork.

              Real estate agents save clients time and effort by managing these tasks efficiently and effectively on their behalf.

              8. Risk Mitigation: Real estate transactions involve inherent risks, including legal liabilities, financial losses, and unforeseen complications.

              Real estate agents help mitigate these risks by providing expert guidance, proactive problem-solving, and diligent oversight throughout the process.

              9. Market Insights: Real estate agents stay up-to-date on market trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes that may impact the buying or selling process.

              This knowledge allows them to provide clients with valuable insights and advice to make informed decisions.

              10. Long-Term Relationships: Real estate agents are invested in building long-term relationships with their clients based on trust, integrity, and professionalism.

              They strive to exceed client expectations and earn their loyalty, ensuring that clients return for future real estate needs and refer their friends and family.

              The expertise and value provided by real estate agents far outweigh their earnings.

              From market knowledge, negotiation skills, and marketing expertise real estate agents play a vital role in guiding clients through the complexities of buying or selling a home.

              Their commitment to their clients’ largest financial investment as well as their personal well-being delivers unparalleled value and peace of mind.


              When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

              1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

              Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

              2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

              The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

              3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

              The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

              4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

              This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

              Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


                The recent settlement between the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the Department of Justice has sparked discussions across the real estate industry.

                While there are concerns about potential impacts, there are also potentially positive aspects for real estate agents to consider.

                Anytime an industry experiences a disruption, innovation within the industry rises to meet these changes, and this time will be no different.

                The following are some thoughts to consider as you navigate the changing real estate industry landscape.

                Commission flexibility

                With more flexibility in commission structures and compensation arrangements, agents have the opportunity to differentiate themselves and offer unique value propositions to clients.

                This could incentivize agents to enhance their services and find new ways to add value throughout the home buying and selling process.

                If you don’t provide your clients a complete list of your services (including value-added) during the listing presentation, get one together.

                Now more than ever, buyers and sellers need to understand the irreplaceable level of value and expertise you provide for them.

                The Market Update Series is shown above. To learn more, Click Here.

                Increased transparency

                The changes brought about by the settlement may lead to more transparency and clarity for both agents and consumers.

                By removing blanket compensation offers and encouraging negotiation, the settlement empowers agents to have more open discussions with clients about commission rates and compensation structures.

                This transparency can help build trust and foster stronger relationships between you and your clients.

                New business models

                The settlement could result in a more dynamic and adaptable real estate market.

                With increased flexibility in commission arrangements, agents may have the opportunity to explore new business models including fee structures, partnerships, collaborations, consulting, and value-based services.

                This could lead to a more resilient and innovative real estate industry that is better equipped to serve the needs of clients in an ever-evolving market landscape.

                While the NAR settlement presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for real estate agents to innovate, build trust, and adapt to a changing industry landscape.

                By embracing these changes and leveraging them to your advantage, you can position yourself for success in the coming years.


                When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

                1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

                Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

                2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

                The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

                3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

                The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

                4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

                This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

                Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


                  “I think I’ll send my new patient a $50 Macy’s gift certificate to thank her for allowing me to perform her annual physical,” said no doctor, ever. Come to think of it, my hairdresser, accountant, and lawyer have never gifted me either.

                  Yet real estate agents, somewhere along the line, came up with this notion that they absolutely must provide a closing gift to their clients. 

                  Obviously, the agent who first gifted a client must’ve found the practice successful because it was quickly copied and has now become standard practice.

                  Does giving a gift to a client make you memorable? If that were the case, more service industries would take up the practice, don’t you think? I don’t know about you, but I return to my hair stylist every month because I love the way she cuts my hair.

                  My accountant saves me money on my taxes. So, is it the gift that makes them remember you, or was it your performance?

                  Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of giving closing gifts, to real estate clients.

                  Pros

                  I’m not a tax expert or an accountant, but the IRS says agents can deduct up to $25 for each person they gift during the year. No, that’s not a whole lot of money and if you make the big bucks, you’ll need to buy a whole lot of gifts throughout the year to even put a dent in your tax bill.

                  If you feel you must give a gift, consider handing your clients the keys to their new home on a quality (meaning, not plastic) keychain. With your branding on it, you’ll be able to deduct it as a marketing expense and possibly get a larger deduction. Talk to your tax professional.

                  A swanky annual client appreciation event, on the other hand, will give you a bigger tax deduction as well as put you right back there at the top of their mind.

                  The Content Card Series is shown above. To learn more, Click Here.

                  Cons

                  Since referrals are the lifeblood of a successful real estate practice, and keeping them coming in requires remaining top-of-mind with former clients, it would have to be a major gift to make you memorable throughout the years.

                  What will make you memorable is frequent contact throughout the year — the birthday cards, the client appreciation events, and the ongoing direct mail campaigns.

                  Here’s something else to consider: you are a buyer’s agent. You have been at your client’s beck and call, spending weeks or even months driving your clients to house after house before they finally found one they wanted. 

                  You submitted the offer, you coordinated your client’s end of the transaction, and you smoothly paved the way to a successful close. All parties are satisfied with the outcome. In return, you are paid a percentage of the sales price of the home.

                  You did your job and you got paid. Shake hands, as business people do, thank them for their business, and move on to your next client. 

                  The subject of closing gifts, as you know, is a point of contention among agents. How about you?  Do you gift?


                  PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

                  1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

                  Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

                  2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Plan

                  The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

                  3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review

                  The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here

                  4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

                  This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

                  Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


                    “There’s someone for everyone,” an old adage, but nevertheless accurate.

                    And it’s true for houses as well. There’s a buyer for every house; sometimes, it just takes longer to make the match.

                    But there are other reasons aside from being overpriced that homes don’t sell, as you well know.

                    Dated homes, from layout to easier-to-fix problems like nasty wallpaper, ugly carpet, or just plain filth, may send buyers fleeing back out to their cars.

                    It’s not only the home you’ll need to work with but your client as well.

                    What is a problem listing?

                    Aside from the obvious (filth, outdated features, bad layout), there are other reasons a home may end up on the hard-to-sell list. These include:

                    Location of the home

                    Unreasonable or unacceptable HOA rules

                    Cosmetic problems

                    Poor renovation choices

                    Bad neighbors

                    Yes, other problems may pop up that make a home a problem listing, but these are among the most common.

                    Offer solutions

                    “Some problems with properties require more work than others,” say the Chicagoagent.com editors. We would add that some require more money as well.

                    Agent Jolenta Averill of Madison, Wisconsin’s Lake & City Homes knows this first-hand.

                    Averill took a listing for a circa 1940s home. It had been gutted and remodeled, removing all traces of the charm of the period. 

                    The Call to Action Series is shown above. The learn more, Click Here.

                    In the process, the front door had also been removed and the space walled over, creating a major psychological barrier for potential homeowners. 

                    The homeowner fired her original listing agent and hired Averill before leaving the state to get to her new job in Florida.

                    With an absentee owner, the agent was forced to take control of the situation. She requested architectural renderings and price quotes from several contractors, tasking them with designing a walkway, a stairway, and, of course, a formal front entryway.

                    Rather than becoming overwhelmed by how much work might be required, Averill reviewed her analysis with an eye toward what might concern buyers the most. In the end, “There wasn’t an objection I didn’t consider and couldn’t handle,” she said.

                    Be their pillar

                    Sellers of problem homes are often frightened, and can you blame them? They worry about how much work and money it will cost to make the home competitive in the market. They worry that the home may not sell at all. 

                    They have no idea where to start the process. That’s where you come in.

                    “You have to take the time to investigate and tell them nothing is impossible,” according to agent Julie Brown at chicagoagentmagazine.com.

                    “Some things are harder than others, but you should be able to reach out and find resources to help you … It’s constant communication and just telling them that you’re there for them. You’re not just there to help them make a sale. You’re there to help them through the entire process, whatever comes up,” She concludes.


                    When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

                    1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazin

                    Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

                    2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Planner

                    The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

                    3. The Free Online Real Estate Business Plan

                    The Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your financial goals.   – Click Here

                    4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

                    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

                    Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here


                      At ProspectsPLUS!, we fully understand the profound impact of our customers’ feedback. It is a testament to their level of satisfaction with our service and underscores our commitment to providing world-class products and service.

                      With this in mind, we’re thrilled to announce a significant milestone we just achieved: ProspectsPLUS! surpassed 5,000 five-star customer reviews!

                      We would like to take this opportunity to thank you. This remarkable accomplishment would not have been possible without your continued loyalty and support.

                      Now, let’s delve into the topic of why customer reviews are indispensable to the success of every business, specifically a real estate business.

                      Why Customer Reviews Are Crucial

                      They Build Trust and Credibility

                      Real estate transactions are significant life events, often involving substantial financial investments. Customers want to work with agents they can trust.

                      Positive reviews from previous clients act as a vote of confidence, assuring potential clients that you are a reputable and reliable professional.

                      Provide Social Proof

                      In a highly competitive industry, social proof is invaluable. Customer reviews are authentic testimonials that demonstrate your ability to deliver excellent service.

                      They give prospective clients a reason to choose you over your competitors.

                      Positive reviews can also improve your online visibility and search engine rankings. When potential clients search for real estate services in your area, a strong presence with favorable reviews can help your business stand out.

                      Highlight Your Expertise

                      Customer reviews often highlight an agent’s specific skills, expertise, or standout qualities.

                      These insights can attract clients seeking a particular skill set, such as expertise in a specific neighborhood or property type.

                      Encourage Referrals

                      Satisfied clients are more likely to refer their friends and family to you. Positive reviews create a ripple effect, potentially expanding your client base through word-of-mouth recommendations.

                      How to Earn More Customer Reviews:
                      1. Make It Easy: Streamline the review process by providing clients clear instructions and links to review sites. The easier you make it, the more likely they’ll follow through.
                      2. Timing Matters: Ask for reviews at the right time. It’s often best to request them shortly after a successful closing when the positive experience is still fresh in the client’s mind.
                      3. Offer Incentives: Consider offering small incentives to clients for leaving their feedback. Make sure to adhere to FTC guidelines when offering any incentives for customer feedback.
                      4. Engage on Social Media: Actively engage with clients on social media platforms. Share success stories and client testimonials to encourage others to do the same.
                      5. Ask for Reviews: Don’t hesitate to request reviews from satisfied clients. After a successful transaction, politely ask them to share their feedback on platforms like Google, Yelp, or your website.
                      6. Respond to Reviews: Engage with both positive and negative reviews professionally and promptly. Your responses demonstrate that you value feedback and are committed to improving.

                      By consistently delivering exceptional service and proactively encouraging reviews, you can harness the power of customer feedback to grow your real estate business and establish yourself as a trusted professional in the industry.


                      PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

                      1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

                      Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

                      2. The Free 6-Month Done-For-You Strategic Marketing Plan

                      The Real Estate Marketing Planner is a powerful 6-Month Guide that strategically defines what marketing to do and when. Four key market segments include niche Markets, geographic farming, sphere of influence, and past clients. – Click Here

                      3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review

                      The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Review allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closing, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here

                      4. The Become a Listing Legend Free eBook 

                      This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Become-A-Listing-Legend-3D-Book-White-274x300.jpg

                      Ready to take a vertical leap in your real estate career? If you’re looking for inspiration…and the tools and methods to dominate a market and go to the top in real estate…you’ll find them in this free book. – Click Here