It appears that during my month away a lot of new competition has sprung up.
But that's okay because I love competition! Why? Because it allows me to let the uniqueness of my business and myself shine through. I'm not afraid of daring to be different. This gets attention.
As Realtors or real estate agents you have a ton of competition in our small community. How are you daring to be different and unique? Why should a buyer or seller use you vs. Joe Schmoe? What do you do that is different and allows YOU to shine through?
I work with a lot of Realtors and agents...you are all very, very different. Some of you stand out well above the crowd, while others mingle in the masses. I dare YOU to be different starting today...are you up for the challenge?
1. Be Detail Oriented. Despite how small something may seem, don't ignore it. Buyers and sellers will notice and if they think you are trying to get something past them, you can forget any sort of future referral.
2. Be available. Seems too simple, doesn't it? However, you would be amazed how often I hear from sellers (and sometimes buyers) that their Realtor or agent either never replies to emails or returns phone calls or does so in an untimely manner. Institute a rule for yourself and make it known to your clients and colleagues...pick a time frame to reply and stick to it. I would suggest nothing more than 48 hours.
3. Be Different and Unique. Why do the same old, same old as everyone else? If you want to stand out, do some thing different. Use a home stager on every listing, offer free moving boxes or use of a moving van, send out an e-news letter (like this one), create an easy to read mailer, give clients a personal phone call to check-in, and definitely send thank you's not only for sales, but referrals as well. Take a look at the competition and dare to try something they aren't doing. Do you have your own up-to-date website? Why not? This is a great way to feature your listings and track potential buyers and/or sellers. Not to mention the million other ways a website can help you market for very, very little cost.
4. Be Organized and Be Punctual and Do What You Say. Nothing is more impressive than someone that is on top of things, responsive, timely, and does what they say they will, when they say they will do it. It really is this simple to impress people and get those repeat referrals. Trust me, doing these things will get you noticed and appreciated. I always remember this little quote: "Under promise and over deliver"
5. Be Professional. This means no smoking as you walk to the door of seller...yes, a real estate agent actually did this with me on a staging appointment. I still can't believe it. Please be professional...dress appropriately for the client and the property, no smoking, answer the phone with a smile, return phone calls and emails in a timely manner, keep a clean vehicle (inside and out) if driving clients to properties, etc.
