Revisiting the Basics--Part 3

In these challenging times the basics are the rock on which we need to build our own stimulus plan.

BE THE EXPERT IN YOUR AREA OR FIELD  In a competitive business like real estate sales we need to known as the Expert for the services we provide.  Chapter One in every training manual:  Know the inventory by personally viewing each new listing.  Set aside time each day to preview properties either by yourself or with a client or fellow agent.  Some agents call a friend to be the 'stand in client' if the seller objects to agent previews.  Read the Washburn report for sales that occur outside the MLS.  Visist as many FSBO properties as possible.  This is a 'two-fer' as you may even get a listing appointment with the FSBO as well as learn about your market.  I have used knowledge learned from FSBO properties when pricing others in their neighborhood.  A good time to preview lots of properties on open house days.  This is great for FSBO contact, too.  They can't avoid you when you are standing at their open door. Remember: The more you know the more you grow and so does your business.

KNOW YOUR COMPETITION  Being aware of how you compare to your competitors allows you to differtiate yourself from the competition.  Track statistics for your area on a regular basis:  New listings, pendings, solds, average price range, days on market, marketing strategies, type of advertising, any and every relevant detail.  Even if the competition is stronger than you are right now, look for little details that you can leverage to your advantage. As a newer agent I was in competition with the top listing agent in my market.  I got the listing because my follow-up with them was more frequent AND personal than the busy top agent. Once again:  The more you know the more you grow and so does your business.

Let's get out there.  Make money and have fun, too.  

Revisting the Basics

Revisiting the Basics--Part 2