By Rey Post
Associate Broker, Sotheby’s International Realty &
Host of the “All Things Real Estate” Radio Show
December 9, 2018
Throughout the month of December, I plan to use the “All Things real Estate” radio show (ATREradio.com) and our blog to offer some thoughts on real estate issues that emerged in 2018, and what may be on the agenda in the New Year.
In an article published in the on-line real estate resource RISMedia, real estate professional Brian Buffini offered some useful advice for those who practice our trade. I believe that for home owners, buyers and sellers, there is also some valuable information contained in his recommendations.
Here are some of Brian’s observations to give a bit of attention to as we come to the start of 2019:
We’re in the midst of a shakeup in the real estate industry. Technology is threatening to take agents out of the equation, making the profession obsolete. Or is it? The real estate industry is definitely in a state of flux; however, a true professional will never be replaced by the latest gadget, app or tech trend. How can you shore up your business to thrive in this new era? And, how can you sharpen your skills so you can exceed your clients’ changing needs?
Use technology as a tool. Technology is not the enemy. In fact, technology is a useful tool to help you streamline your business and become a more efficient and effective agent. The key is to use it as a component to your business, not as the basis for your business.
Focus on the fundamentals, which include consistent contact, filling needs and delivering the unexpected extras. These are the timeless tools that make up the foundation of a lasting business and can weather any changes in the market. The truth is the fundamentals remain relevant regardless of the latest trends.
Understand your market. In addition to knowing your own sales numbers, learn all you can about your local market. What factors are having the biggest impact on your local economy and the market? Get involved in your local real estate organizations to stay up-to-date. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to answer your clients’ market-related questions.
Invest in your relationships. According to Brian Tracy, “The value of a relationship is in direct proportion to the time that you invest in the relationship.” When you work by referral, your relationships drive your business. Regardless of what’s going on in the market and the latest industry trends, if you devote your time, effort and energy into each and every client in your database, you can be sure you’ll outlast your competition in the business.
Sharpen your skills. The sharper your skills, the better equipped you’ll be to meet and exceed the needs and demands of your current and potential buyers and sellers. Regardless of how easy technology makes it to buy and sell a home, your clients still need you on their team throughout the process to help them negotiate with the other party, find the right home and guide them if challenges arise during the transaction. Let’s face it; technology is a poor substitute for true human advocacy.
So “Rey’s Real Estate Recommendation” for this week, is to consider some of Brian’s recommendations to help better your own real estate transaction process.
I also want to remind you that a place for you to learn about home buying and selling elements, is to join us each Sunday on the “All Things Real Estate” radio show at 12-2pm Mountain Time.
Also, if you go to my website, you can send me your own real estate questions, or suggestions for topics that he will handle on the program (that’s ATREradio.com). I will treat your questions confidentially and will send you answers I hope will help you in your own real estate activities.