When you begin to work as a real estate agent, you start by determining a niche. Some examples of niche real estate are historic homes, first-time homebuyers, vacation homes, and commercial real estate. Find a specific niche that interests you, learn everything you can about it and become an expert. Specializing in a niche allows you to focus your marketing efforts more effectively. It will also lead to you becoming a go-to choice for this group of prospective clients.
Once you established a specialty, it’s time to find new clients. Finding clients will likely be at the top of your priorities, but it’s not as easy as it sounds. You may need the help of real estate coaching to help you with the lead acquisition process. In addition, there are other tools and resources that can help you obtain new real estate clients.
Here are nine methods on how to get leads as a real estate agent:
1. Website
Potential clients need to be able to find you online. Building your online presence as a new real estate agent is necessary even if your brokerage gives you a page on their website. Not everyone uses social media. A website on your business cards and other promotional materials will allow you to build your brand. It is also a place where you can share reviews from satisfied clients and showcase your expertise.
2. Business Cards
One of the best ways to let people know that you are a real estate agent is with business cards. It is wise to take the time to create an attractive, flashy card as part of your branding strategy. Print off lots of cards and hand them out wherever you go. Be sure that your cards contain the necessary information: your name, how to contact you, your social media accounts, and your website.
3. Social Media
Get active on social media and start connecting with other real estate agents. Look for real estate groups specific to your area to stay on top of trends and learn about your local market. By engaging in conversations online with other professionals, you will learn more about the industry and how others obtain leads. Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn are worth considering when setting up profiles.
If you can budget for it, social media ads can be a great way to produce leads. Targeting specific demographics will allow you to reach people you may not otherwise be able to.
4. Referrals from Existing Clients
There is a significant advantage to starting with people you already have a personal connection. They will be more likely to work with you because they know you. Reach out to your family members and friends and ask them to refer you to people they know. You never know who might be on the hunt for a realtor.
Your previous and existing clients are one of the best sources of new leads. Be sure to provide exemplary service; they will refer you to their friends and family members. You can also approach people you are acquainted with through the community, whether you know them through a shared activity or connect with them online. Word of mouth will always be a great way to gain new clients.
5. Networking & Partnerships
Search out local businesses with potential for customer cross-over. Insurance companies, Mortgage Brokers, Personal Bankers, Staging Experts and Landscaping companies. These are a few examples of industries where you may be able to connect with clientele relevant to your goals. Local community events are another place you may be able to communicate with potential clients.
6. Traditional Media
In the internet age, it is still a good idea to remember to use more traditional advertising methods. Print ads in your local newspapers, billboards, and bus stop benches can be excellent resources to attract the attention of potential clients.
7. Cold Calling
Cold calling is an age-old method for generating leads. While it may not be anyone’s favourite method, you shouldn’t take it off your list, especially when you are new. Going door-to-door can be a great way to reach new clients, but you can also use email as a communication method. A great place to start is looking for properties in your area for sale by the owner. You can also curate a list of numbers and emails from any networking you have done. Create a script for yourself and start reaching out.
8. Seminars
Is there a topic related to your new career as a realtor that you know well enough to explain to others? Offer a class or give a presentation at a local community centre or your library. Giving a talk allows you to build a brand and show your expertise. It is a chance to meet people you may not have otherwise encountered.
Growing your career as a real estate agent will depend on you using a variety of different methods to generate leads. Using these tried-and-true methods will provide you with a steady supply of prospective clients, and soon, you’ll be on your way to success.
