6 Ways to Keep Your Real Estate Business Thriving

The real estate industry, like many other industries, has changed dramatically over the last few decades. Since technology is constantly changing it can be hard for agents and brokers to stay on top of every new gadget and system, and most brokerages offer endless training sessions (in house or via third parties) to keep their agents up to date on everything.- but this can be overwhelming.

Keeping up with the fast and changing pace, and still finding time to focus on current and past clients can make anyone crazy. So how does one maintain a healthy balance of what is new and helpful in this industry, and continue to support and grow relationships with valued clients? It can be difficult, but it is necessary. Here are some ways to do that.

1. Nuture client connections: There is nothing more important than keeping in touch with your clients. For me it is fun, because I love my clients. But when your database gets large it can also be difficult to carve out time. I try to meet clients for lunch or coffee, but when I have weeks where I am slammed I make calls or send emails saying hello, and try to make a future plan to meet.

Your clients are your BEST source of business. Because the majority of my work is referral based I would not be in business if I didn’t keep in touch with clients. Some clients have referred multiple parties to me, and some send me referrals years after they have bought or sold a home with me.

2. Stick to a Schedule: This is the most important aspect of any business, so if you are not working on a schedule you should be. To better clarify this, not working on a schedule is like living paycheck to paycheck (which ironically is what you will end up doing). You need to make time each day for phone calls, appointments, meetings, social media, and client contacts. I find the best way to do this is to plan out my week on Sunday nights.

Keep in mind that of course schedules can change – you may get a phone call to show property, for example – but try your best to stick to your schedule. I put everything in my schedule, even my workouts and personal appointments. That way I know what time I have free and I try to book last minute appointments during those times first.

3. Make time for technology: It is important to set aside time each week to learn something new, or to keep up with technology you are already using. With so many websites, apps, management systems and gadgets it can make anyone crazy. Set aside at least an hour or two each week to read up on what is new and possibly try something. Since it can be overwhelming to know where to start if you are new to this idea, it is helpful to ask other agents or simply read some great real estate blogs. You will find things you cannot live without and those that you can toss aside. It’s all a learning process and it is ongoing, so don’t be afraid to get started.

4. Use a client management system: I find that if there is one thing I don’t mind spending money on, it is my client management system. All my client data is in one place, including birthdays and house anniversaries. My clients all get a monthly email newsletter from me so they don’t forget about me, and I can sent mass emails on holidays and other important information I want to share. This is an investment that pays off in spades. If you don’t know which one to choose I suggest asking other agents what they use and whether they are satisfied. Just because one is more expensive than the others does not mean it is better.

5. Maintain a valuable website. Many agents’ websites are canned sites that do not offer fresh and valuable content. I am always adding to my site and it is a constant work in progress. My site is also linked to my blog site, where for the last 5 years I have been blogging about real estate, property law and my area. I also have helpful links on my site where clients can get current market data reports, learn about distressed sales, and research local schools, to name a few.

You don’t have to spend a lot on a website and can create one that you can manage yourself. If you want to link to the MLS you will have to pay a fee for that, but it is a good idea for your clients. Keep in mind that your website should be an extension of your personality and the way you do business – make it so that the visitors can get a good sense of who you are and how you can help them.

6. Blog.   I have been blogging for 5 years and I enjoy it. Even if you are not a writer like me you can be a blogger. The idea is to tell people about the industry and more importantly about issues that affect your specific area. Keep it relevant and fun. People love videos and photos, so if writing is not your thing you can use imagery instead of words. Setting yourself up as the local expert will help you make valuable human connections.

Of course, there are many more things you can do to grow and maintain your business, but sticking to the above will benefit you and make your daily schedule less hectic and manageable so that you can be more productive.