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Why I'm Kicking Your Butt in Selling Real Estate

DISCLAIMER: THIS IS FICTIONAL AND SATIRICAL.

It is not a first hand account of my personal real estate business nor is directed at any real person in any way. It is designed to prod anyone in any industry who is losing business but refuses to embrace technology that is readily available. If this offends you, you're reading it incorrectly.

Dear Ineffective Realtor,

You used to be a big dog in this business, but not anymore. Today I watch you in the office as you read the latest edition of Realtor Magazine, make some phone calls and sit around visit with others or read the latest funny email someone sent you.

I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

It texts, talks, takes pics, videos and plays music You see, your comment about how texting is for young people tells me that you choose to be ineffective, outdated and broke. I use texting today with many of those young people who are now my clients. And I use texting to communicate with people my age too. And I'm in my 40's. I cannot believe that you refuse to learn how to text. Your grandchildren and grown children would love to talk to you this way. But that's okay. You go ahead and stay in 1990. I'll take those clients who are looking for technical saavy agents. Yep, I'll work with them.

I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

As I watch you struggle to figure out how to get pictures from a digital camera to a computer and then to the MLS, I just have to shake my head. It just isn't that hard, if you are willing to learn. But all you want to talk about is how you used to sell real estate with the "big book" that had pages and pages of pre-printed listings. And you love that the MLS people or the office people used to do all that work for you. And I'm glad you know about virtual tours, but it's too bad that you do not understand how important it is to put them on Youtube and in blogs. That's a discussion reserved for people who choose to sell real estate in the here and now of the real world because even if we had that talk, you wouldn't understand it and you wouldn't do it.

I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

You see, I came along in January 2007 knowing virtually nothing about this business. And since then, I've outsold you more than 100 to 1...even in a recession. I found this very cool website called Active Rain. And I jumped in and met some really great folks. And I've learned from them. And I know how to blog now. And I draw business because of my ability to dominate on the internet while you are still invisible. And I have Real Estate friends nationwide and locally that you will never know because you will never understand how Real Estate connectivity works via the internet.

I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

Instead, you inspire me to never quit learning and to never throw in the towel and say, "I can't learn that or do that because I'm too old." As much as I'd love to be sad for you, I really have to thank you. You are keeping me driven, young and profitable.

I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

Let's Go My listings are now syndicated, blogged and visible to the world while you don't have any any more. (Disclaimer - I don't have THAT many listings either as I work with more buyers than sellers). When I get a listing, my pictures, marketing and abilty to push a listing out to the world is like an Indy car speeding around the track while you're crawling around the track at 10 mph. No wonder sellers are turning to people like me now.

Finally, I want to be sad for you, but I can't.

You simply shake your head in wonder when I'm on Facebook staying connected with thousands of people. And you still have no clue what the word "Tweet" actually means. It's like I"m speaking a foreign language to you, which I guess I am. You will never understand how Social Media is an intrigal part of Real Estate because you chose to check out instead of embracing the new business model in order to keep making money.

Thank you and enjoy your magazine...I've got some money to make today.

Friday, September 4th - If you're reading this for the first time, please read the follow up by clicking the link below...

http://activerain.com/blogsview/1224353/kicking-your-butt-part-two

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Information and content in this blog is original to Bob Haywood.

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Bob Haywood
Owasso, Oklahoma Realtor
Tulsa, OK Realtor®/ McGraw Realtors
Bob@BobHaywood.com
(918) 272-7272

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Posted by Bob Haywood, www.BobHaywood.com on 09/03/2009 09:41 AM

Comments (265)

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265 Comments on Why I'm Kicking Your Butt in Selling Real Estate

SEP

2009

Hmmmm.... each to his own, I guess? Some people may never need to text or get on Facebook. Some people are just happy where they are at. If everyone was as competitive, we have alot more problems, dont we?

Good points...the old lions of real estate are going to be outdone, they rely on referrals....but that's only a short pipeline without adding new technology and tools. Congrats on your success.....see you on AR

Bob, the excuse.. I'm too old is ridiculous.. I'm old and so are many others in my office, I have figured it out, I do facebook, activerain, have a website I made myself, blog on others as guest bloggers and have even published an article or two on the INternet. In 1995 I visited the Internet the first time, since then, its MINE :))

The Internet is here to stay folks, just like the horseless carriage was way back when... it's time to stop making excuses and get on board.

Bob - This is an awesome post. I have given up trying to convince those who are suspicious/wary of social media of its real value. Keep up the good work!

Lorenna - good point!

Karen - Referral business is a part of my business too...but it's only one tool in a much larger toolbag!

South Austin (name?) - I love that you jumped in and are making the internet yours. I agree, age is not a barrier if you don't let it be! Way to go!

Jason, thank you. Thank you very much! LOL (That's laugh out loud by the way...not Lot's of love!)

Hey, what's too old? I'm 55 and text every day. I love the Internet and all of the new technologies available. Granted, I may be slow to figure them out - but figure them out I do - I Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, LinkedIn among about a dozenother social network and industry relevant sites that I keep up with - in addition to at least 3 blogs I post to every week.

Listen sonny, I got my first computer before there were even hard drives - just two 5 1/2" floppies (and they really were floppy!)

Heck, I met my wife in an AOL Chat room back in 1995!

But then again, you are right, if you can't keep up - then step aside...what did we use to say, oh yeah...

"Lead, Follow or Get the H*LL Out of the Way" Me, I'll continue to blaze trails - regardless of how old I am.

I agree with just about everything you said. However, about this texting thing. It's not that I can't do it, I just simply cannot comprehend the 'backwardness' of it. Meaning, we got cell phones so we could TALK to people anytime, anywhere. Why now must we write our messages? What's wrong with pushing the green button and just saying what you need to say? Not to mention, I find texting rude, obnoxious, and very dangerous for those to refuse to stop texting and driving. I had a women's meeting and a lady sat there typing into her iphone the ENTIRE meeting! It was very rude. (don't know why she even came)

Not into the tweet thing either..just see no use for it in my business. Frankly, I don't care to know everything you are thinking and doing all day long.

It's surprising that more seasoned ( you can substitute "older") agents aren't getting into the new marketing methods. IF there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that change is inevitable. We can embrace it or we can resist it. But it's still going to happen

Bob: I have struggled for 10 minutes trying to come up with something constructive to say … I finally have up.

John, Love it! I got my first IBM XT computer in 1984! It ran at a whopping 4 mghzt! And I loved it!

Kimberly - Let's go backwards. I use Tweeting selectively. Right now I'm sending out the daily countdown to get the 8K tax credit. It takes 5 seconds to do that.

In regards to texting...there are certain times one should not text. It can be rude. But I would challenge you to change your thinking from "Why can't we use the phone to talk to each other?" to "That's the way people choose to communicate and so I will communicate with them."

You cannot MAKE people talk on the phone, but you can see what they are doing and capitalize on it. That's what texting is all about.

Kate - change is inevitable. Someone is always building a better mouse trap!

Kathleen - It will come to you! LOL

Some people seem to get thier hackles up over this post Bob....find whatever works and use it!

Bob, in defense of the dinosaurs, the top producers in my office are on neither Facebook or Twitter, but I get your point. We have to adapt to the times.

Bob, you could send this post out to every agent in the country, but many would still not get it. While I've taught blogging classes at my brokerage this year several times, are they blogging? Not many.

Wow this is SO true. I am the youngest agent in my office (in my very late 30's) and many are over their mid-50's. They behave as if they simply cannot embrace technology. There are some that do and they do a fabulous job at it. We are always comparing notes and encouraging one another, high fiving when each other gets another deal. The others sit around and grumble and say things like "at least I have my health". Are you kidding? What they don't realize is they have so much more than that if they would only reach out and try something new.

It makes me very sad but at the same time, I'm too busy and it's not my job to teach them how to sell real estate in the 21st century.

Club Chaos at Active Rain

Featured @ Club Chaos

Bob, I like the way you put this post together and often I find myself trying to share all the possibilities that the Internet has for real estate professionals and businesses that I work with. It's a fact - everyone is on the internet from our children to our parents (mine are 70) and consumers are always investigating who has a presence. It truly does come down to finding the tools that work for you and using them - not every tool is for everyone but I think you at least need to try, explore and then use what you are willing to commit your time and efforts to. I congratulate you on finding success with your online presence and making it all work for you! ~Anne Marie

Bob, Very effective post! You did an excellent job on this. If it were public post I would ask to reblog... they don't reblog when it's members only.

Bob, I was telling a friend the other day who is getting her license how we will leave the other agents in the dust who don't realize there's a new way of doing business.

It's interesting, Bob - I even have some of the older agents come to me and PAY ME to teach them how to blog - AND THEN THEY DON'T!!!!!!!!!!!!! How on earth do they expect to stay on top of the curve if they are even paying for the education and not using it???

Judi - thanks for your comment. I didn't want to offend people on the "outside" so I kept it as members only...

As a new Realtor in my market - I believe that social media is very important and an online presence is vital to success. I am looking for suggestions on web hosting and development if you have one. It needs to be fairly inexpensive but not "cheap" looking.

I checked your website out - it was great - easy to navigate and not filled with so much fluff that one gets lost just looking. Just FYI - other than the office website no one in my office that I am aware of has a website or does facebook. etc. so I am reading everything I can find to educate myself on how to go about establishing a web presence.

How very true. My dad is 69 and is on Facebook and Twitter. It isn't just for the young folks. Technology has mad things so much easier.

I took a leadership class back in the Spring and one of the points made by a speaker was that things will never get back to the way they were before the recession. The internet, social media, smart phones, Generation X and Y, etc. are all changing how we do business without us even realizing it. By the time the economy turns around, we will be doing business in a totally different way.

Snooze you lose in many cases Bob ! I'm with you with these current tactics, and I also know many that dont see the benefit - oh well ! Send those techy buyers my way - I'll text and tweet them all day !

Cheers !

Sheldon :o)

Bob, great post. Times they are a changing...fast! It's only a matter of time....heee, heee, heee.

Change is the only constant. I think that still applies.

And IMO, many of the folks who are a few steps behind actually are leagues ahead of where they were yars ago when they showed homes out of a book. The pace of change can be astounding.

As someone else already said, I completely get what you said, but in my Large office and in my market, the Big Hitters, don't spend any time on facebook, twitter, their web sites etc. etc.

The real big hitter still mail postcards and get out and meet people in public. The #1 agent in my area has a boring web site, doesn't do anything electronic, etc. but she mails consistently and kicks butt.

Times are changing and I think they might need to someday, but by then they've made their millions and it won't matter. Something for everyone.

You are so right on Bob. This is all the 'now' and clearly it's the 'furture' of marketing and doing business. No there is no going back folks. I do my best to get them to 'get it' but some just don't want to. Meanwhile the rest of us will just keep moving forward and blazing the trails - and creating mighty fine businesses as a result.

When you're through changing - you're through!

Bob, great comments. I used to be one of those old realtors who felt it wasn't important to keep up with technonogy. Well, let me say at 67 I've loving activerain and learning new skills that will get me to the top. I love this business and working with both buyers and sellers. Thanks again. Your comments rock!

Like Jason, I am tired of trying to convince others the future has come and gone, and they missed the train. I am the only one in my office active on things other than Facebook. And if they ever decide to catch up, and ask me for help, you can bet I will be billing hourly at a high rate

In reading through some of the responses, Kimberlys' stuck out to me. I agree with her in that texting is not necessary to be a successful agent. If one chooses not to text, it does not mean that they are ineffective s an agent or adverse to grasping technology and change. I agree that social networking is important via FB, AR, etc. to continue growing ones business. But do we really need a tweet/text update telling us that "so and so is craving a root beer float", for example during the course of a business day?

Hi Bob:

I loved your post, but you are preaching to the choir here. Those people who won't adapt to the "new" ways of doing business aren't here on AR. ;-)

I am number 3 in the Akron area on Twitter grader! My last 6 sellers found me on Google searches for akron ohio key words. (Mostly due to high placement after I post on ActiveRain) I post my listings to all the real estate sites available with all the pictures they allow me to post. I did one whole sale with 90% texting because that's what my buyer wanted as he was in classes 2 days. It can be done!

I am 60

Awesome post! Well worth the feature! Goes hand in hand with the post I just wrote about reinventing yourself...Nice job.

Carol - You're right. I just removed the members only condition.

David - I love that you did the deal with the texting. I've got one going right now in the same way. Way to go!

Clint - thanks!

Nora - I'm not saying you're ineffective if you aren't texting or Tweeting - just that these are tools I have found to be very effective.

Bob ~ if you snooze you loose. If you can't or refuse to stay up to date and current with technology, your going to get lost in the crowd or worse yet you will be underfoot of the evergrowing stampede.

Well what works for you might not work for me, as they say. I've been an agent for over 20 years. My webiste is 85% of my business.....

I'm not interested in texting or Facebook or Twitte....

AR is the place for me.

Thanks for the idea though, glad it works for you.

Patricia Aulson/portsmouth nh homes

Regardless of your profession, once you stop learning, you have given up and you might as well hang it up.

Just encourage others to use and see the benefits of social networking. No need to feel sorry or deride.

So brash and bold. Love it.

When I am in a new client interview and they ask how long I have been in the business I am no longer afraid to say less than two years. I now say it with pride. Cutting my teeth in this challenging market and using new technology to do it is my strength. I wear my newbie badge proudly!

Thank you,

Carolynn Santaniello

I remember years ago an office meeting. Of course, only the usual suspects attended because we were independent contractors--you couldn't require agents to come--though the promise of FREE food seemed to lure more than normal.

But this fine morning we were taking up the issue of renewing our web site. To make a long story short, the vote was NO. So me and my broker decided to pay for it ourselves. Near 75% of my business came from that site as the years went on.

I've since moved to a different part of the country, but that broker has gone on to syndicate and franchise his original lead capture sites, selling them as lead generators for hundreds of agents.

I also had a phone in a bag and one of the original 20 pound laptops with a HUGE 2 gb of memory! WOW! Cutting edge!!

And remember the MLS books?

Things change. Embrace technology as much as you can. The internet is not a fad that's going to go away.

Great post Jason and great comments crew!! All of us find a niche that works for us,.. Most of my business is referral,.. the one danger of the computer, text, along with all of the methods you so elegantly highlighted is that often agents forget that regardless of all of the technology, Real Estate is still relational, and relationships are not easily solidified on-line.

When there is a program that will help that personal, one to one process occur more effectively,.. I'll buy it regardless of cost,.. Are they making clones yet??? I need one. :-)

Change IS inevitable,.. and each of us HAS to be willing to embrace and see the opportunities created in that change or we WILL be left behind in the dust,.. but change IS difficult and there will always be those agents who refuse to change their philosophies,.. ultimately,.. that is their choice,.. maybe it works for them,.. each of us has to find what works for us,.. individually.

Best of luck!!

Terrific post! This is the way I feel on most days when I read agents lamenting their lack of business. Even if you have "embraced" new technology are you using it effectively? I may not be the most techie in the bunch but I am listening to those who are successful and picking the pieces that work for me. My sales record this year says its working.

Hey Bob,

Don't knock that fellow Realtor, someday when you get less hungry, some new-be will be looking at you with the same disdain.

Embrace what works for you, but social networking IS the NOW and the future. Keep learning and trying new things. You have nothing to lose.

Bob,

You are SO right - I've volunteered to teach many people who have the mindset they CANNOT learn. An old dog can learn new tricks if they're willing!

One thing about technology is that people are very time-oriented. If you snooze you lose. We have to be able to respond quickly to our customers wherever we are. If we can't they WILL move on.

Thanks for blogging about this.

The Regan Team

"Come to the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains where man and nature come together"

I love this post and have taken on the 2.0 world.

If you owned the domain name OWASSOREALESTATE.com you wouldn't have time to tweet. Most Realtors are still in the dark with theirname.com

OWASSOREALESTATE.COM is for sale....you should buy it!

As an almost 3 year old agent, I too am very proud to tout my experience in this business. To be able to show sellers and buyers that I have the market saavy and technological "know-how" to market their listings and my services is an excellent way to show consumers that you're serious about your career!

Great Post Bob. I personally loved the pithy comments and wish I had written them myself. You were able to present my feelings abou the subject better than I would have. I lOVE technology and use it whenever and wherever I can. I love the challenge and love, even more, being able to really wow our clients with what we can do. Of course, the ultimate success is the sale of the home. That is why we are all in this to begin with. Charge on... and I will definitely keep you in mind for Oklahoma referrals! Linda

Bob: Knowing that a new tech service is out there is wonderful! Now knowing how to use it - that is devine. Sometimes locating the training to be able to use the new tech is really the hardest part. Good overall comments.

So many good points. A great part of our business is the ability to adapt as to the ways business is conducted these days, which is very, very quickly and instantaneously. Those that do not adapt, may not fail, but they will certainly miss many opportunities.
The internet is expanding so quickly, I doubt any one person can really keep up with everything, and living in Silicon Valley, I hear about a lot of the "Next New, New Things" that are coming down the road.I think humankind has had desire to communicate since our first grunt, and any means of commuication are vital to good business practices. Email and texting are just an outgrowth of this.

I often think of new industries emerging, and old ones going by the wayside. Who will adapt and survive, and who will be pushed out of the game.

An excellent post. We need to keep up with technology and the preferences of our clients. It is amazing those who don't even try!

Good points. It's too bad that the people who need to read this won't be.

Bob,

Great post. I have heard agents in my company say that facebook and all the other social media stuff is silly, that they like doing it "the old way". I too am in my mid 40's and try to embrace new technology as it comes along.

It's a good thing I have kids to help me out with this stuff!! :) It is definitely where we all need to be in this day and time! Great post.

Bob,

Great Post! It is so true in the mortgage business as well. I amazed at the lack of desire to learn new things. I am also amazed that so many in my industry still try to do business the way that it was done before Web 2.0. I love it so much though because it allows me to get that much further ahead of them.

Mike

You just stated the "cold hard facts!" Change is inevitable and in this profession we must keep up or get passed up.

It's really up to each of us to take advantage of the advances in technology, the educational opportunites and the networking that is out there. Everyday I look to learn something new. My clients deserve an agent who is doing business in the most efficient and effective ways out there.

Thanks for being clear and "just stating the facts."

Linda Formella - Manatee River Realty- Bradenton FL

The sad part is that those who it really applies to won't be reading it! The advantage I have as an "older" Realtor (and, gosh, who draws that line--I don't think of myself as old) is that I do use the new technology but also have a sound foundation of knowing the basics of follow up, prospecting, time management, business planning and old fashioned ettiquette. Old or young, there is something to learn every day in this business! Embrace it!

Bob, Love your post and the not so subliminal message of "get up to speed or die". I have to mention one of the top producers in my office, 69 years young, just finished her e-pro course, has a system (secret) that she is operating where she generates leads, via the computer, and it works for her. You can't keep up with her, a stack of deal folders in her left hand and her I-phone in her right. She is there before you arrive in the morning and there after you go home at night, the hardest working agent I have ever been around. Nothing gets by her and she is relentless in grinding through deals. I don't think I have seen her reading her Realtor magazine lately....but she probably does that too.

Sad but true.. Brokers and sales associates need to stay up to date on all levels of marketing.

We are having our best year ever. It is all about the internet and putting yourself out there for people to find you. Embrace change and go for it. If the business is not filling up your typical basket find a new basket and fill it up.

This is such a great post! I have a few fellow agents that are getting left behind in the "back when" mentality. I don't even try to train them anymore. I just jump into my Corvette and speed off! They are left on the porch with their mouths open!

Hi Bob, To all the " Big Dogs " out there. My patience and sympathies are limited. I will help you in any way I can but feel little remorse for your self inflicted impediments to success !

I love this post. I am learning more every day about the tech world! I have some great older folks in my office who embrace technology.

When I first started blogging on Active Rain I tried to convince all of my realtor friends to join in. Very few of them did. Now I don't try to encourage anyone else to get connected. First, it means less competition for me. Second, if they haven't heard about the value of Active Rain by now, then they just aren't connected to the Internet.

Great post Bob! I've been in the business for 6 years and am texting to whomever wants text messages and blogging -when I can think of something to say that isn't too banal, and am on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. My listings are syndicated out through two websites that I use, Real Pro and Point2Agent. And I'm 60 this month...so age has nothing to do with technology in my case. I have some young (20s) clients that don't text, twitter or blog... Thanks for sharing!

Roberta Kayne, Re/Max Affiliates, Dublin, OH

Bob,

You have hit a homer with this one. Accept change and prosper.

Fred in Florida

Bravo post!

thanks for sharing it. I applaud you on this one....so many agents want to stay in the dark ages!

tamara

Bob, An excellent post! I have been in this business for 25 years this fall and I adapted a couple of years ago. I text, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Plaxo, AR and so much more. So an old doggie can learn new tricks and I encourage others to embrace social networking.

Bob

I'm 60 and have only been a Realtor since 2004. I embraced technology because I saw it then as the best way to earn a living in this business. I got a website, and then another and now I have Tigerlead Solutions, which brings me 350+ buyers a month. I'm elated and in the top 1/4% of all Remax Realtors in Florida! Technology is where it's at, kid.

HAhAHAhahHAHA!!! I LOVE IT!! what a great Blog about Real Estate... I directly work with someone that hires assistants to do that work for him so he doesnt have to learn any new techniques while I am sitting right next door making a new path of business flow and saving my money not hiring the assistant... I just dont understand not wanting to learn.

Great work!!!

Aaron Heard, John L. Scott Portland, Oregon

Bob,

The Realtors that do the same old thing the same old way are going to left behind that is for sure!

As a technology (MLS) trainer to Real Estate professionals, I can empathize with many of the points you've made, especially when it comes to our colleagues who are resistant to adopting new technology. While it is possible to learn new technology and languages, and technology is analogous to learning a language, the challenges do increase as adults age.

Some of this can be attributed to Luddite attitudes ("I've done business for X years and I've never had to... blah blah blah"); I believe part of this can also be blamed on the industry's low value of continued training. When I first started in this industry during the "boom" period, most medium to large brokerages I worked with had full time trainers. Since the market correction, almost all of these professional trainers are no longer with their companies. Laid off, because they don't directly produce revenue. If there is any time that Real Estate professionals need extra training and development, it's at a time like this and the indirect revenue lost is likely immeasureable.

I don't mean to belittle each agent's responsibility to train and educate themselves, but most people are ignorant of their own ignorance. Without guidance, many established agents can look at the tidal wave of social media and technology and not even know where to begin and then retreat back to the soft, cuddly security blanket of their usual routine. If education can become a integral part of the agent's experience and continued development, not only would we see more agents adopt new technologies, but I believe a lot of the frustrations experienced in the industry as a whole would diminish greatly.

Interesting post. The interent is responsible for a lot of my business as well. But, I hate to be so tied to my search results.

Great Post! Sometimes you have to have the truth in your face to make sense of it!

Way to put it into perspective for many people. I have always told people that I do not want to be like my parents were and have to ask my kids 'How do you work the VCR?'. Technology is key and realtors especially need to keep up or ship out! However while they are not, We'll take their business!

Hey Bob,

What's ironic is, the ones who really to know this, will never read it!

Bob,

I really enjoyed reading you article. It's true, progress is inevitable and so are the tools we must now use to promote and market ourselves competitively. Not only that, but most importantly, the internet is the way to put your face, name and product out there.

Hey Everyone - I am loving reading the comments. Thank you so much for the great input. I can't respond to everyone right now as I'm off to show houses!

I just got back from teaching an entire class of artists about blogging, tweeting and facebook. They're so much more eager to learn than real estate folks.

I couldn't agree with this more. I think exactly the same way except I don't tell everyone how I am getting the job done. They can learn the way I did. I will keep closing their deals! :-)

Why gloat? I agree with the premise that those who do not adapt to change will not survive; but, they have pearls of wisdom you will never comprehend. The second you start thinking your techniques are superior is the time when they out fox you or out negotiate you. Their mental database and Rolodex can likely open far more doors than a text or tweet ever will. Text away and tweet all you want ...but when a silver fox out performs you will realize that there is something that technolgy just can't bring to the table. That is called street smarts and wisdom.

SSSSHHHHHH, don't tell them our secrets.

I too have taught over and over again, can't even name how many office, conventions and agents.

Very small number are blogging and using social media.

I have no idea why not?

Well, I can't worry about it anymore. I told one office I spoke at twice. Don't ask me back until you are doing Part 1 blogging and Part 2 Social Media. They looked at me funny, but I was dead serious. I am not going to waste my time to teach folks who have no desire to learn.

Thank you -- I am going to print & frame this for the days when "dated" agents irk me!!!

What a great post! I agree with what you have to say, it's the truth! I sometimes feel bad for the "realtorssaurus" who I spend hours and hours trying to teach new technology to and when they leave my office they go back to the same bad habits. Why not take the time to learn the new things that affect their livelihood. Life is about change and if you don't embrace it will pass you by. So with that said I will text and tweet you ya later. :-)

FLEX MLS Approved Trainer

The most rewarding things you do in life are
often the ones that look like they cannot be done.
--Arnold Palmer

Mark - well said. I do get outfoxed by "seasoned" agents all the time. My point is directed to people who have been successful, but who allowed technology to pass them by...

I want to be sad for you, but I can't. I don't play "those little games" you have been playing for years because "you've always done it that way."

Great Comments . The real estate industry is a great industry because it takes all kinds those that meet and greet face to face and those that embrace the new communication spheres like yourself. I ask that you challenge your title companies if they are also keeping up with the indusrty. If you are texting shouldn't they be. Be a fan of your title company on facebook be their friend those employees have facebooks and referrals just waiting. Thanks for the kick in the behin. I will stop reading Fast Company and go make some money Thanks

Bob, I am 61 but the joy of learning new stuff keeps me feeling young, and connects me with the average age of our buyers, 28. Just becasue I have been in the business 20 years means very little in this brave new world.

Great post and great comments. Love this. Very true. I love technology and where its taken us.

Really great post!! I currently have a client who isn't into technology. It has made me think about how much I take for granted with the use of email, texting, smartphones etc. It sounds like you use every tool in your toolbox- from old- fashioned hard work to newer tweeting! Keep up the good work. Good luck showing homes!

Homer Simpson: “They have the Internet on computers, now?”

Very true but not news. As with anything new - some will do some won't. And for those that won't it's their choice. We know what effects online marketing bring to us. I'm giving a Social Networking presentation to my colleagues next week and NOT one of the naysayers are coming. I am sad for them. They've stopped the passion for learning and growth.

Hey Bob, the audience whom this is intended isn't receiving the post. Therefore, I printed it out and taped it to the wall in our office bathroom, also put a copy on the Folgers can next to the Sunbeam. Maybe they will see it there.

This is one of the best posts I've read in a long time, it is so right on target. We see the same thing in our area and have been able to take over a lot of market share in a short amount of time for these exact reasons.

Great post Bob,

Having only been in the biz since January, these things that you are talking about are only things that I expect myself to do..it's just second nature to me, I'm almost glad that I don't know how all the ins and outs of other marketing..much less debate in my head.

Oh I so agree with you. You see I am 50 next week, and I have been texting for well probably 5 years now, with kids you have to do it! I still pale into insignificance in terms of speed. Remember the ad, parents do about 8 words a minute, kids 80. Will I am better than 8, but then my son is way better than 80. His fingers move like lightening! Have not used it with clients yet but I know it will come.

Wow! I love it. I spoke to the media in 1999 at the NAR conference on technology and its impact on real estate and how agents needed to grasp a hold of the tools offered. I can't believe 10 years later how many wonderful tools are available to us as agents to market and sell our homes and services. I think its exciting to watch all the ideas roll around and be implemented. I'm so re-bloggin this. Thanks for making it available.

Bob,

Great post! Ironically, the ones that read this are way ahead of the curve in that they're using Active Rain. Sort like the preacher lecturing those in church for poor attendance. I've worked with Agents, trying to sell our web site who've said, "The best way to sell a house is a yard sign." When asked how many online sites have him, the listing agent as the contact person? None. "Let others sell my listings." was the reply. Duh!

Bob - So true, so true - I live by the montra, "It's not the big that eat the small, it's the Fast that eat the Slow'

Bob,

I could work full time just helping agents in my office get connected. I understand that I might be creating competition for myself, but I can't help but open their eyes to the AR community. You know the old saying "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink." I give them the tools, its up to them to actually apply them. I try to explain the value of social media and how much business it's generating for me. I've found out recently that my friends really enjoy the value that my facebook updates (linked to AR).

Good stuff. I've noticed the same thing. I'm sailing past some of the agents that refuse to make the effort. It's not more effort it's just different effort.

I. Love. Your. Blog. So perfect, and so true. I can relate perfectly - I started in 2006, and am kicking butt. :-)

Bob,

The agents in my office shake their heads at all my "blogging". It takes so much time... I wouldn't know what to say... I tell them to join AR and let it flow. I jumping for joy especially after gaining another client because of a post on AR. And the client was a senior citizen looking for 55+ active lifestyle community, imagine that.

Linda

Bob,

Although a bit blunt, you are right on. 12 years ago when I got into this business, an agent much more wise than myself told me ... "Those agents who are not embracing technology, who are not utilizing the internet and email ... are planning to retire. Whether they know it or not, they are planning to retire."

I took her advice and embraced the internet and technology in real estate and it is what has made me and kept me a leader in my market. I've just in the last few months started with blogging, tweets and Facebook with wonder and excitement because of all the possibilities and how these means of networking can further explode my business.

Bob - congrats on your feature!

A smart Realtor learns how to communicate with each client - whether that be text, e-mail or phone. My 74 year-old mother text messages thankfully!

And I've seen a few struggle getting the photos downloaded from the camera. All we can do is offer our help. Always so much to gain from teaching!

While I agree in principle with most of your points, I don't see why it's necessary to take such a superior attitude toward people who do things differently. If you feel that strongly, offer to help them learn some new techniques. If they are not interested, move on. But why the sarcastic, "gotcha" attitude?

BTW, I am one of those "older" agents and am also a near-newbie in real estate, having had my license only about 18 months. I started using computers in the very early '80s and have never looked back. I'm on Facebook and advertise on CraigsList, I have my own web page, I'm on Active Rain, and I even know how to text, but since none of my clients do, I don't bother with it much.

I think you have to match your approach to the clients you want--and the clients you have. I deal with a number of elderly folks who don't even own a computer. They love that I send written thank-you notes, return old-fashioned telephone calls quickly, and otherwise treat them like honored aassociates in the real estate buying or selling process. My younger clients would never guess my age by the kind and amount of technology I use when working with them. Different strokes for different folks, to exhume an old cliche.

Bob,

When I see blogs like yours here, I have to LOL see I have offered my site so people working in real estate no matter if your an agent, broker, loan offer, inspector, selling, byuing, etc I have been working hard to bring new ways to expand the old brick and mortar walls. And I offer www.iwannatrade.com over and over and over and over again to list services and or properties and other items easy and free. Heck even open your own real estate store. Now just like you, I don't feel sad or sorry. The writing is and has been on the walls "Get Your Butt Up With The Times" Anybody under the age of about 40 look on the internet first for just about anything they are shopping for and guess what I even found my house on the net from PA. I live in Apple Valley Ca. Hmmmm I am 58yrs old so if I look here first then what about the ones who live on computers!!

Over 7 yrs ago I started developing iwannatrade.com-The 4 way I started marketing was Online Auction, Online Real Estate, Online Jewelry, Online Cars. My strong points are 3 sites in 1 with free worldwide classifieds (not just county wide), A way cool trade section(use it for marketing or trade anything) and the best online auctions flat fees only, then when a bid is placed in the last minute we add 60 seconds to the time(hence a true online live auction) a final a place to open your own store fro nickle n dime or multi million dollar real estate store. Only a couple of up to date agents didi anything. And if you google bank repo's in norco, corona, apple valley, perris, we have blogs st the top!!

GREAT BLOG KEEP FEEDING THESE MAYBE THEY WILL GET IT SOMEDAY!!

FABULOUS post, Bob! This is so very true. There are so many great ways to increase your business these days, and the old way of doing real estate just doesn't work any more.

Like any profession, you need to stay on top of the new techniques. Would you want your surgeon to never get any more training, and never learn the latest procedures to increase your chances of survival/health?

IF you are serious about giving your sellers and buyers the best service possible, you have to impliment the technology that will help you help them.

Thanks for this post!

~Michelle Fradella, Broker

Pinnacle Real Estate Services - Picayune, MS

http://www.picayunehomefinder.com

Join me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pinnacleservice

Tweet with me at www.twitter.com/msred1986

Bob,

Well put. I would agree that the world as we know it is making drastic changes, right before our eyes. We are part of the change. As I heard today, in regards to a comment that Bill Gates made about 11 years ago, "If you are in business and you are not on the world wide web with in the next 10 years, you will no longer be in business". Just think how true that is for most, not just the real estate world, other than gas stations!

Again, well put and I think your comments should open some eyes.

Bob, good post, a little snide, but good. I really try to keep up with technology, but trying to get clients to text is hard, trying to explain the internet's usability is hard in the woods of Maine. However, drive bys and meeting people in the area is whats driving my sales right now.

Bob,

Great blog. I'm trying to embrace technology and have recently started a blog. I am quickly rising to the top of the Active Rain charts for my area on localism but have yet to convert anything to leads. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Mark

It's all about technology these days! It's important to provide extra-sensational market exposure for listings...and to communicate with buyers in the way they wish!

I love technology and hats off to you for making it work for you! Not all social media is working in my market......there is nothing more irritating than opening yet another e-mail from Twitter about another wanna be exotic star following my tweets! I wish they could clean up the trash on these social media sites!

Great points, Bob. And you've written it in such a way as to make people really think about how they're doing business. Great post, but you're not gonna kick my butt!

Bob,

Love it! Great post and very true. Keep it up!

I hate to say it but we refer to the group you are writing this blog to as "dinosaurs" you know the agents that have to wait for the "front desk girl" to return to show them how to send a fax. . . . . .

I am like you, I am everywhere with technology.

My tool box has just gotten fuller over the past 12 years.

When I got in the business, the small office I worked out of had the book (the older Realtors know what the book is), cold call nights and floor time.

Floor time, door knocking, cold calling, open house have all changed.

I still see realtors sitting in an open house without internet.

Personal contact will never change, but I find when something is removed, another avenue opens up.

Embrass the opportunities you are given, it's more productive than resisting.

Denise Stuart

Mother of Triplets

Things change, yet stay the same - but in different ways.

When I started in real estate back in 1985 we didn't use computers. In fact, getting a FAX machine was a major event.

My broker instructed us to stay off the darned phone! She said to leave the line open for incoming calls and if we needed to contact someone, to write a letter and put it in the mail.

Phones on every desk? No way. Our phone had a looonnng cord so whoever was on floor day could have it handy to answer.

And later, when I was with a different broker, there was no way I could convince him that we needed to be on line. After a couple years of trying, I left and opened my own office.Change still came slowly because in 1994 our customers hadn't yet embraced the internet.

And even now, when I connect with agents across the U.S. in my capacity as a copywriter, I find a strong resistance to using e-mail and autoresponders to stay in touch with prospects. I see agents whose websites are nothing more than chamber of commerce sites - and some that that don't even feature the name of the agent. They don't blog and they don't offer any web enticements to urge visitors to call them.

Some understand when I explain the benefits, and others aren't interested. I have to agree with you that for the most part, those agents will be left in your dust.

I see some strong reactions here to your comments - but I also sense that you have tried to help some of these agents catch up, and they're not interested. And I understand your attitude of "Well then, phooey on you!" When you lead a horse to water, it's his fault if he leaves thirsty.

I do agree with the agent who said "different strokes for different folks" when it comes to dealing with clients. How you should communicate depends entirely on the customer/client - so being rigid in your activities either way is a big mistake.

Shocking as it may be, there are still people who don't own a computer and don't want to own one... and even more who don't text or have any desire to do so.

Bob - Interesting post...and very true. I am an "older" agent however I feel keeping up with the times is VERY IMPORTANT! I ALSO feel you "owe" it to your clients....

The other thing "I want to feel sad for you but I don't" that I would like to add is this - the agents who have been successful in this business and no longer have the "hunger". It shows in their attitude towards other agents, fellow team members and sadly, "John Q. Public".

I want to be sad for you but I can't because I am a real estate investor. While I always market my properties via MLS, I'm always approached by realtors who tell me that they can market my property better than the next guy.

My response always is... will you setup a dedicated website where the property will be marketed on Craigslist, Backpage, Kijiji and a dozen other sites several times per day?

Will you take several videos and upload them to YouTube and a dozen other video sites? Will you blog about the property? Will you create flyers for my property, get up at 4:30am and put those flyers on 500 cars before sunrise? Will you go to other realtors offices to drop off flyers? Will you drive a 10 mile radius and drop flyers off at laundromats and restaurants? Will you tell all your friends and neighbors around this property and offer them $1000 if they bring you a buyer who closes? Will you put my property in local newspapers? Are you willing to have an Open House every other weekend? Will you promote my property on Facebook and Twitter... marketing the property on Twitter means getting local folks to Follow You? Do you have a buyers list?

and lastly, If I offered you a limited time incentive (one week) of 6% commission (to buyer broker and however his/her office does the split) would you be able to sell my properly priced property.

I ask the above because that is what I do as a real estate investor and the inevitable answer that I receive from a realtor is that the property will be listed on MLS, promoted online and possibly in a newspaper. That is usually why I choose to put my property on a flat fee MLS. I was once told by a local realtor that I was putting in too much work to sell a property. She said to "just list it on MLS and if it is priced right it will sell". She was heading off to work her part time job.

So, my question to everyone. I currently have a 3 bedroom 1.5 bath townhouse priced at $124,900 (priced right) in Bolingbrook, IL that has been updated throughout and includes new stainless steel appliances. I will pay 6% commission to the buyers broker (however your office handles that split) if the property is under contract within one week (end of day September 10, 2009) and can close within 30 days after the acceptance of the contract. Could you get a reasonable offer and close on this deal?

John:

You met your wife in an AOL chatroom in 1995? I would love to hear that story some time.

Bob:

Congratulations on all of your success.

I don't think age has anything to do with being up on technology. I to am connected and I am in the baby boomer (tail end) generation. I do have a story of actually loosing a listing because of texting, I had a past (young) client text me about a property he wanted to list in the middle of a very intense closing where the buyer was texting me every minute. He texted in during a volley back to my buyer client and got lost. He thought I wasn't responding so he called another past realtor friend. I just don't think that we shoukd just depend on texting, calling is still the best way of communicating.

As a general manger for a real estate marketing firm, I appreciated your blog post. It is appalling to see just how many real estate professionals refuse to use social marketing in their business. Keep up the good work.

Great Post Bob, I just finished presenting a online presentation about this very thing to a seller. Amazingly, the seller says: I will have to think about what ONLINE can do for me. I agree with you, I want to feel sorry for you, but I can't! Technology is marketing real estate today!

Bob,

I am assuming your post is both satyrical in nature and informative to nudge us all into the cyber age, and not a direct response to someone who has difficulties with entering the age of technology? After all, self-aggrandizement is a rather harshly worn coat.

I remember an agent once telling me that I was wasting my time checking my inbox and should try to do something more productive.

That was 4 years ago: He's out of the business and my inbox is still full of people interested in buying or selling real estate.

..and I like the agents that still refuse to learn how to work short sales. I am the busiest I have ever been, and yes they are more work and hassle, but too many agents are afraid to take the challenge..they are waiting on the sidelines hoping 2005-06 will come back. Adapt your business and you too can have a very successful year!

I can learn all the technology and do all the blogging and tweet and text and post and friend people until my head explodes, but when I have a seller who doesn't know how his answering machine works and is afraid to open anything in an attachment sent via email, or my buyer can receive email but needs me to call him to tell him I sent something or he won't check it and then he can't print it out to sign it - - what good does it do? These clients are not impressed with my technical wizardry, they are bewildered by technology. The key is to use technology appropriately, courteously and as requested. I don't text because I want to text; I text because someone has requested that method of communication - - same goes with all the other stuff - - it's about choices and I have clients who want me to snail mail their marketing services reports rather than post them onto a private client website where they can view the info 24/7 - - if that's what they want, I am so willing to pay for the postage stamp!

Sounds like technology is working as a wonderful tool for you. Congrats. Ooops! Did I just trip over your cord and unplug you? Oh, I'm so sorry, I've got to go sell a home... in person.

Good and informative post.

I do know a lot of agents who just "can't" learn this new stuff. I have seen them cry over not being able to understand some of today's technology. For them, I will bend over backwards to help. I hope that others do the same.

Yes, keeping up in our industry can be a challenge to some (like myself). Next time you see another Realtor not up to snuff with the newness of our industry, ask if you can help or teach them in some way. Sharing your knowledge can be extremely rewarding.

I'm not a young Realtor, but I have tried to keep up. And I know what you mean. It is incredible what some agents MAKE hard. We switch to efax a few months back and I had one guy going to kinkos to use a fax machine instead of just scanning the document and sending it! I'll have to admit they all seem to like it now...but in the beginning, WOW!

The ability to go online, blog, social networking and the technology that goes with all of it has been a huge boon to my business.

Hopefully, if I'm no longer "with it" when I get older, someone (my sons?) will remind me that I need to stay with the times.

Bob - Your post reminds me of story I once heard about a group of REALTORS who were out camping in the woods.

The leader of the group was a very curious individual and while he was looking a rock formations, he noticed some very shiny objects. He scrutinized them closely and to his amazement he realized he had found gold!

He immediately turned to the group of REALTORS and yelled ... "Guys, I just found a gold mine, come help me dig", to which most of the REALTORS in the group replied ... "I don't have a shovel!"

Enough said.

John Carr

How's this for quaint? We used to retrieve messages from secretary's deck. They were nicely filed, handwritten messages which we retreived whenever we walked in the office. There were no faxes, all was done in person or hand-delivered. Homes got sold just the same.

Linda Metallo, Re/max Impact, Lockport, Il.

You got your first IBM in the year I was born! That rocks!

LOVE. IT. I started in 2006-2007 too so I am right there with ya buddy!

I loved it !!!! I started RE when we did not even have a computer, no fax, no technology. Every year I have changed with the times to keep up!!! This is a little hard at first but I am getting the hang of it and love it!!!

Thanks again

Great article Bob! Go Danica!!!

C'mon Bob... stop giving up the gold!!!

Bob,

Great post. I see many agents in our company taking to Facebook and Twitter and are texting away on their Blackberry or iPhone. Part of our core values is: "Constant improvement, innovation and growth." so you can bet that management at Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties will continue to provide us with the training necessary in regards to becoming tech saavy.

-Mako

That was really fun to read. I started in 2005 and have been thrilled with my success every year. I listen to so many people say how bad it is now. No one likes a whiner. Have a fantastic day!

You are so right! I pride myself on being very "internet savvy" yet I did not have an Active Rain account... So you know what I did today? I became a member! Thanks so much for your post -- agents need to get with it and realize the internet IS our sales platform -not "the big book of properties"!!

There is certainly a lot of tools offered now that havent been around before :)

Bob, you are so right on! I am 73 years young, and still going strong. My one concern is that RE offices, Brokers, are not in touch with today's technology. My grandchildren help to keep me in the present. If I want pictures from them I have to have a camera phone. We also use webcam. I hear from them more with texting than by phone. Technology is changing by the minute. To wait or ignore it is like being left in the dark ages. I enjoy using my tech skills working with young clients.

Carole "CAT"

I don't text on a regular basis, yet, but if I find it is what my customers want they will get it from me. I will not be left in the dust.

While social networking and other "technical" tools aren't the end-all-be-all, they can certainly be excellent tools to have in your arsenal and should at least be seriously looked at in your marketing plan! While you do need to do your own texting, the other things (Twitter, Facebook, virtual tours, blogging, etc.) can easily be done by your virtual assistant! Think outside the box. Yes, all this technical stuff isn't for everyone, but it shouldn't be written off just because you don't understand it. Someone else DOES understand it. One of the best ways to be successful is to hire people who know more than you!

It's actually not an "age thing"... it's a mindset.

As someone who was trying to move Realtors onto the net starting in 1997.... and someone who has been trying to get realtors to do video since 2005...... been there, done that.

Some people just 'get it'. Some don't. It's that simple. I have many clients in the 60s and even 70s who are quite "with it" (or hire people who are) when it comes to marketing in this new online business of real estate. I have others in their 20s who just don't have a clue....

Some people can just "look" at something and see that it can benefit them, then CHOOSE to learn about it... others just turn their head the other direction in the hopes that whatever used to work... will continue to work.

I think people who are true businesspeople look at the world a bit differently than most. Unfortunately, even though most realtors ARE technically in business for themselves, the vast majority don't have a business mindset and don't ACT like they're in business. They have an employee/ employer relationship with their broker and pretty much do whatever their broker tells them to do and whatever they provide to them at no or low cost. The idea of doing something different, learning something different, making their own "brand" and marketing a bit outside the box - not so much! I think sometimes if the broker didn't provide business cards and postcards and advertising and "web pages" on the broker's site for free, most realtors would have no cards, no website and no advertising! Most true businesspeople are always looking for ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors, and to elevate their brand above their competition. Most realtors are exactly the same as their competitors.... same business cards, same branding, same marketing materials, same marketing plan (usually not much of anything!)... they all look and act the same. And most are sitting around reading that magazine trying to figure out to make the phone ring....

Think about it...

Age really has nothing to do with it.....

Bob,

(I should really comment more....I read so many of your blogs!)

Excellent point, my dear! I've been chewed out before for calling agents who were stuck in the dark ages "dinosaurs" here on this very site, and honestly, I stand by my words for this very reason. If you adapt and reach out to the people you want to sell to on a channel that they are familiar with, they are way more likely to listen to what you have to say, and in turn, employ you.

~My apologies to Nim@TrexGlobal... I was helping with her blog and accidentally posted my comment as her. Whoopsie!

Well I've got news for you freind. This 64 year good ole boy isn't letting the California surf pull the sand out from under his feet either. Don't cast all of us ole F___TS out of the same mold. What with 5 children and 9 grandchildren all in tune with all the latest futsie watsies and hootgots dare I be out of the loop if I want to stay in their lives.

You can find me in anyone or all of those groups your talking about. Albeit some of it is still a little Greek I'm learning real fast. As far as staying in tune. My Grandmother taught me the key board when I was in the 6th grade because I had such deplorable pinmenship. I was the fastest typest in my 10th grade typing class and I've never looked back. I've been using computors in one form or another since they were introduced in the late 70's. My business couldn't be better.

Have Fun

It is a 'some do- some do not' thing. The client generally sets the method or level of technology desired. Most often that is indicated by the means the lead was found. I text, but dislike receiving them as I feel they are intrusive. I've had a website- several- for a long time. I'd rather hear a voice than see a tweet as most are a rediculous waste of time- but if that is how the client wastes their time they will find me there too. Still, nothing like a face to face over coffee at Starbucks with the laptop fired up.

Bob... awesome and totally legit! right? The average first time home buyer is 28... we have to "speak" their language! GREAT POST!!

Good post Bob ... We saw the same thing happen back in the 80's when we threw away our MLS books and upgraded to a dumb terminal/mainframe MLS system. Many of the "experienced" agents were terrified, but most adapted.

BTW, I am in my 50's and bought my first computer in 1980. It was a TRS 80 Model II. No hard drive and it used 8 inch floppy disks. With the daisy wheel printer and some software, it set me back nearly $10,000. Since then, I've not seen an expensive computer :-)

I too am sad for those realtors who refuse to embrace...but all the more to you! :) I love this post!

Really on target, Pardner! Well said, well intentioned and, I hope, well received by those who just don't see the role that a deep, consumer-oriented personal Web site and using today's technology play in capturing business in today's world!

It's a beautiful day here on the lake in Reston...hope it's a beautiful day wherever you are, too!

Wow, what a day! I've just returned from showing property this afternoon. I almost got car sick from reading comments as I could on my Blackberry! Again, thanks to everyone for the great dialogue. As a follow up, tomorrow I plan to post a blog on the most important part of working with customers. It is currently my biggest weakness and it's what I'm working hard to fix.

For now...

Claire - I'm honored to know you've been reading some of my stuff.

Tom - The post is completely satirical.

Paul T - Your comments have given me much to consider as a Real Estate professional.

To the rest of you, thank you for the comments.

And to those who have connected with me directly and/or through Facebook, I will be in touch soon!

I agree with your post, for the most part. I do believe that even the agents that have been around forever do need to get on the bandwagon, where the Internet is involved. We live in a web based society now, whether they like it or not.

I don't think that all agents can make money from social networking. What works for some doesn't work for everyone, just as in all practices of our business. I think a healthy balance of old and new is best. (or it works for me :)

Haha, this post is amusing and true!!! I love it! I am young so I totally take advantage of all the techie tools to help promote myself and my business... but I find that even some of my 'grandma' clients prefer to be contacted via text or email... and want to be with a 'cool and hip' young Realtor who knows her stuff!

Wow what great vision you have. I'm glad I've found Active Rain too. Unfornately I feel you were preaching to me. I've read all the great things that the internet can accomplish for me....I've just been sitting here wondering where to start. I have the determination to get started. September is my month of action. Google me in October I WILL be found. Thanks for the inspiration!

Sherry, begin by blogging everyday. Then start blogging about your listings. Wanna get really good at blogging? Take on the small business challenge in your area and go interview a small business owner. Take some pics and write a blog about the business. Then print it out and take it to the business owner for their approval. You'll be the hero of the day!

Bob - you are so right. Try building a house with the tools of yester-year, try sending a lettter to your cousin in Ireland like we used to by snail-mail. The list could go on and on. Real Estate is no exception. If you want to succeed in this business you have to go with technology. You did a great job with this post but many old dogs will never learn. It's because they are happy with their business the way it is.

Thanks for spelling it out!

Bob, You rock!!!!

Thank you!

I love that you called it like it is. I have shared your insights wiht my whole company wiht the hopes of all of us undersatmding the need to pay attebtion and get active!

All the best to you and your continued success

Megan MacArthur

Hawaii

I just love the guys who knew even more than we do now back in 2004. You know, the ones who got rich selling agents websites? Those guys.

167 commentts. Wow. Congrats. Seems like many of us on AR completely agree with you. Social meida is the next level. You either rise with the tide or get washed away by it. :)

Bob,

This is one of the best posts I have ever read-especially the part about how important it is to put virtual tours on YouTube and blogs. The only problem I have with your post is the part where you left out VIDEO :).

Congrats on the feature.

Bob. If we all did it the same way I'd have to change the way I do things! There are lots of ways to get buisness and social media, texting, twittering etc are some of them.

The heaviest hitter in my area doesn't have a website and I'd be very surprised if he used social media or texting. What he does have is listings. 100s of them. He closes more than 100 transactions......a MONTH!!!!

Check out these stats. The sales are only for this year.

Holy moly!!!

I can't even fathom doing this much business. And he is very old fashion. I guess the point is that there are many ways to sell real estate.

Wow, that's harsh....I'm thinking pride cometh before a fall. I know Realtors who do really well without any Internet or social media. I happen to love technology and work hard to maintain #1 Google rankings for my market area. I'm always ready to give someone a hand with technology or other issues including agents old and new. If I see someone struggling with a text, or e-mail I'll take a few minutes of my time to give them a hand. I may need that same person one day to share their expertise and experience with me on a contract issue. I would never propose that my success is simply technology related. It is also old fashioned customer service, genuine caring and attention to detail. I certainly would never fault those who choose not to do business this way, or propose that my wild success is at their benefit. Ouch!

Yay Bob! You're singing my song! Now if only I can figure out the point system on this Active Rain site. ;)

Text me some business!

Bob,

Great Post - It reminds me of the old shaggy dog story, how long has that cat been in the house eating my dog food? By the time the dog ponnders the question, most of the dog food is already gone.

It's a great post Bob and all very,very true! I have even learned to text agents who will not return my phone calls! They are more likely to text me than call me!...seriously! So I totally gotta a kick outta your post...I hafta to tell you I am new to this site...I signed in awhile back and forgot about it and now and going on more often...I realize the value of daily blogging...I like the idea of writing about a local business...see ya later you strutting peacock!...lol

You really touched a nerve here, didn't you! I run into people all the who refuse to catch up w/the times. It's tought learning all this new stuff but I bet it was a struggle getting through the RE school, too. I know, my hubby just passed his test in Feb! (Yeah!)

As a home stager I also know how important it is to be up on all the new techie stuff. I struggle, but I use it! Actually, since most of it's FREE, it's a good thing to learn! Remember when we had to PAY for all those ads?

I'm getting my staging business up on the internet, offering ebooks, virtual staging and decorating and lots more!

The Home Decor Genie! Denver stager.

Eager to learn means eager to earn! My daughter calls me a computer "alien!" Not nice. I'm trying.

Hey Broker Bryant, I'm amazed at the output of that gentleman, but I couldn't help but notice the big ole 8 bedroom home that sold for $936,250 that LOOKS like it was on the market for 3,495 days. That's 9.6 YEARS! Talk about patience! And then the one that was on the market for -113 days...does that mean it sold 4 months before it came on the market?? Crap on a cracker, he's good!

All kidding aside, I wish there was someone like him in my neck of the woods, I'd be sitting at his knee every day soaking up everything he knows...assuming he'd part with the knowledge!

Sorry for the detour, Bob...we agree with you, but we kind of hope the agents in our area who aren't using social media and technology to grow their business will continue to NOT use it...we'll be happy to clean up the business they're leaving behind!

Crap on a craker...love it.

If agents can't keep up with their skill set ...they deserve to be taken out. I love all the "old folk" that feel entitled to the business.

I see this happening in our market by the minute. "We call it The Changing of the Guard."

Bob,

I so love it! You go!

I too was one of those agent that waited for the "big book" back in the late 80's -90's, heck I would tackle the deliver guy or get after him cause he was a day late!

Now, I can search, email, send a link to a tour, tweet, F/B and text my clients within the same amount of time that I went charging out of the office door into the parking lot to tackle that deliver man.

Poor guy!

I am a trainer and an MCE instructor and I specialize in teaching technology and online marketing. I tell my students...MEET THEM WHERE THEY ARE OR THEY WILL MEET SOMEONE ELSE!!! We must embrace and utilize this marketing platform, because this is where the consumers are! I have a strong online presence and I told one of my classes recently, let me tell you how this works...I am on Facebook strong with my business and when I attended my class reunion in August, not one single classmate had to ask what I do for a living...they all said the same thing..."We KNOW what you do!!!" I got a referral, a buyer and three listings at my reunion!!! :o))))

I enjoyed your post and it made me laugh out loud! ROCK ON! To each his own, however, I appreciate your reminder that it is VITAL to stay current and stretch for new Technologies!

Constant Connectivity is expected these days.

Show and Sell!

Doreen Johan RE/MAX Sunset Coast 269-449-9897 www.johanrealestate.com

2009 REALTOR of the YEAR Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS

Bob, I'm in my fifties,30+ yrs. in the business and totally get and agree with your post ! I have a 18 yr. old at home who by growing up with the start of social networking(ie. MY Space) has helped me stay current !

Hey Everyone,

Just for the record, many of you visited my website today. I made a mistake of leaving my Meebo notifyer on...as if I was at the computer. My apologies! See, technology isn't foolproof!

Nasty, mean spirited and the worst tone in a post I have every read. I was looking for your intentions and all I found was saracism.

I also think you embellished a lot and I found it hard to believe you. I out sell 100 to 1. Sure!

Next time you might share your successes differently and certainly think about a new picture. It says a thousand words.

Bob,

I'm 57 and became a realtor when I was 48. I have had my own website for over 4 years, am on Facebook, Twitter, Linked-in and of course AR I still have a lot to learn about social networking but fully believe that this is the way to get business.

Steve, my apolgies. This piece was written simply as satire and in order to help all of us to think about technology and drive. I apologize if I offended you.

Change is inevitable. Live it or die.

Since you bring up how much you are selling, can you tell us just how many sales you have had so far this year? I just want to know what the potential is for knowing how to text and doing a lot on Facebook. Your personal sales stats from your MLS would really impress me.

Tim, this piece was written as satire to make a point. I don't think getting into the how much do you sell comparison is called for as that wasn't my point. My point was utilizing social media to drive business...as you yourself do.

I understand how the comment 100 to 1 may be seen as bragging and the truth is that that is a large number that is fictional. It was simply to make the point. My texting activities are with clietns who are text active - not everyone. My Facebook activies are personal posts and blogs from AR.

I apologize.

Hi Bob -- If I were a home seller or buyer today, I would work with you! Well said.

Hi Bob, Great post. yes we have to be willing to keep up with technology, and change with the times. thanks for sharing!

The dinosaurs are exceptionally evident and dying a slow death in my market. Men and women who used to dominate now price their listings to die a slow death. No blogs, no social media, sameeeeeeeeeeeeeeee olddddddddddddddddddddddd website that totally suckssssssssssssssss.

I want not to laugh, but I do...

Wow... I 'm there.

Congratulations on receiving so many comments on this well-written post. Our community has so many agents that are 60+ that I feel confident, perhaps overly so, about my own position.

Great post!

Dude! It's not an age thing, it's an attitute thing. When people are open to learning new things, they thrive. I remember the big book, I remember when faxes were a novelty, I remember when the internet was new, I remember when a portable comptuer weight 40 lbs. I remember when a pocket calculator with basic functions cost $100 (and that was when $100 was lot of money) Some move forward, some don't.

But, technology isn't the end-all. In addition to the tools there needs to be relationships. Both are important. I know some people that spend all of their time on the computer and wouldn't recognize a customer if it bit them. I also know people that are very technically adept, but have such other negative traits I wouldn't want to have a face-to-face conversation. Key word "Balance"

And yes, I'm in my 50's.

BTW my mother-in-law is 87 and kicks at getting her photos to her friends. She's not on facebook but does send us emails fairly consistantly. It's a "want to" sort of a thing, not age related at all.

Excellant, excellant article. You said it all. Thanks!

Bob.. you have hit a home run on this one.. If someone is not willing to stay up with todays technology, they will fade away.

Nicely done - but you ain't kicking my butt! Keep up the good work.

Very true Bob. If you don't adapt, you will be weak and be replaced

If I had a nickel for every time I've heard "it's a waste of time"...

If you aren't moving forward you're falling behind.

I work hard and pray not to be THAT guy.

Hi Bob - It does bother me to hear other agents pooh-pooh my blogging, texting and social media time while they complain about how exhausted they are trying to find clients. With my computer presence I get calls and emails from people who have gotten to know me on line and want to do business with me. They seek me out! How is anyone even going to know that those other agents exist? People these days go first to their computer to start their search for just about everything.

And chronological age shouldn't be a factor - my 91 year old uncle and I communicate every day by email, and he is also on LinkedIn and facebook and loves it. He has always been a writer, and his emails are clever and witty and I find myself saving many of them. I consider him a successful man, and I wouldn't trade him for a dozen of the agents and others who are too self-important to spend time on the computer.

That was pompous and unnecessary. Very self-serving and arrogant post. You can take your Black Berry and shove it if you disregard hard work not based on technology. I run 100% internet based operation on international level ligth years bigger than yours, but still don't rest on my laurels at old timer's expense. They do their best too.

Hi Bob~ The truth is that we have to meet each and evey client on their level. Some hate texting, some love it. Some have computers and some do not. Some do social networking, some do not. There is no preset right or wrong way. The only right way is what works for each client. We need to cater to their specific needs. It is that simple. Yes, most buyers begin their search on the internet, so we do need a presence. I strive to get better every day to meet the needsof my future and present clients.

Bob, shhhhh. The less people know about the new secrets the better. How silly that many of these people didn't get your intention - boost everybody to the current age. Oh well, I guess there are those REALTORS that are "doing there own thing" in a horse and wagon too.

Robert Pfeiler - First Team Real Estate - Orange County, California - 714-307-7633

Hi Bob: The truth is just what you have said, either you keep up or get out. All of my younger clients text.

Great post. The majority of the agents in our office are jumping on board and embracing technology. In fact we feel so strongly about agent education and technology that we have a once a month tech forum for 2 hours devoted to social media, blogging, tech tools etc.

Seattle agents are eager to learn as evidenced by the nearly 600 RSVPs we have for the upcoming RE Barcamp Seattle.

A very special agent who passed away a few years ago shared this quote with me:

"Technology will not replace the real estate agent...The real estate agent using technology will"

--anonymous

HI Bob: the truth hurts! I am on facebook and tweeter...but the bottom line is to have listings. You don't need to be on facebook for that to sell but one has to adapt to the times.

Bob, I cannot believe all these comments! And I agree with most of them. It is not about age, or how long you have been in the business. (But, experience does help.) It is about an attitude, about learning how to use new technologies that make things easier, work better, or that your clients want you to do with them. IF they want email, I email, If they want to twxt, I text. (even though I do not like to do it, personally.) If they want a fax, I fax, and if they want me to mail it to them I mail it to them.

But, really, I stopped sending faxes unless a bank forced me to or a client really needed me to, about 7 years ago. I simply will not do it. I do not believe how many agents still want me to fax in offers and responses. Those agents are the dinasours. It was really fun reading your post.

True words, Bob, but very local in nature...I'm still waiting for this revolution to hit CT like a tidal wave...and I'll be one of the few actually riding it, instead of being swamped by it, thank heavens...

SEP

2009

Great Post Bob, I love IT!

Great post, Bob. I just re-blogged it.

I would like to think you're posting about some fictional character - a relic in some other industry or profession. But I know you're not. And it makes me sad.

Bob,

I think the agent who learns what their client wants be it

email, text, snail mail, phone call and then does it is ahead of the pack.

But be careful with the kicking butt it puts you in an awkward position.

Very intresting article n contibutions :)

Hello Bob,

Great post, I am going to email this blog to some of my real estate coworkers. I have been teaching computer applications for 10 years and I know just enough to survive when doing my work. I do not understand how some of them survive without learning any computer or internet skills.

Bob, I totally agree that you have to embrace social networking and use technology in this day an age. I try to express that to my father, whom is my business partner with our finance company & construction company. But, as a custom home builder at heart, I learned from the old guys and you have to give them some credit. Because even know you haven't been in this business for that long, your doing so well with your social networking and all your other tools. Don't forget Bob, that you would be a liar to say, that you didn't learn some tricks from those old, stubborn, salty, salty big dogs that used to be on top. Even know I totally agree with what you are saying, it kind of makes you sound a little bitter and negative. Maybe you should go into his office on Tuesday morning, and say "Look bro, if you don't wake up and smell the coffee soon, your gonna be broke and sleeping on your kids couch. Maybe you could try some of these things other agents are doing, and it might help your business". I find that being positive and helping others goes a long way. And if he inspires you to because he is so lost in this world of technology, than maybe you can inspire him by helping him, instead of criticizing him and making him sound like a moron to the internet world. Not to mention that some of your competitor's probably use this site, and to steal your business because they are shady, they might crap all over your name by telling people that your greedy and say mean things to old people on the internet. And once that happens everyone hears about it, and you might be sitting next to that old man saying, " I wish I would have shared, been more helpful, and inspired more". Cuz, in this industry Bob, people are your referrals. And even know i use the internet like crazy for marketing and embrace social networking. I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for the old top dogs that taught me, and for all the clients that love my work and my positive personality. Now, that inspires people Bob. With that said, I commend you on saying what you feel, and ready some more of your positive, informative, and INSPIRING blogs.

"Some people MAKE things happen

Some Watch things Happen

while others wonder WHAT has happened."

Bob,

You've just made me feel a lot younger because I don't give you reasons to want to be sad!

Mix in a little humility. Some if the Luddites may be on the other side of a tough transaction sometime, and those old fashioned things like empathy, negotiation skills, connections and generousity may make money for you.

Right on, Bob, but what I fear is that will one day be me.

Bob, your post is a true reality. I am in my mid forties and that was me 5 yrs ago. I did not feel I needed to improve my skills with technology, we had the office support to do it so why did I have to learn? wrong, wrong and wrong. All of a sudden I started noticing Agents that had come into the business way after I had and their sales were beyond impressive. I made the decision to jump on board and started taking classes and teaching myself all I could when it came to texting, dowloading & uploading pictures, setting up my social media accts and what a difference it has made in my Real Estate business. It's never too late to learn if you are open minded to our ever changing world. I enjoyed your post, I thought it had allot of funny but very true points.

Alba Henesy/Watson Realty Corp Gainesville, Fl

Liked this post a lot, Bob. As a newer agent, I've had to get up to speed on technology in a much bigger way than when I was in corporate America where I had administrative help. It is challenging to keep up with all the communication methods, but if you're to survive , you need to be flexible and open to change. My problem is info overload. But I'm determined to use the tools and be a savvy agent in every area possible.

Barb Mihalik Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty Wilmington, NC

Bob, excellent post. Real estate is ever changing, and if you are going to continue in the business, no matter what age you are - it is imperative to take advantage of all of the classes offered at the local board of realtors, and to take as many additional classes as possible at a local tech center or community college to stay on top of the trends. And, of course social media connections is truly a key tool these days.

I enjoyed this post. I find even the older Realtors (me included) are right out there on FB and twitter, but can't seem to get them to blog on AR. Oh well, their loss, my gain.

Rebecca, I think I'm beginning to understand that many people lack the self confidence to try their hand at writing (blogging). Getting them over that hump is difficult. And truth be told, it might not be the thing for them.

Kimberley (and anyone else who hates texting),

Initially, I felt the same way you do about texting. I thought texting was completely stupid and a throwback to the days of pagers. Why would anyone text when they could simply "Press the green button" and Talk! Well, for a lot of reasons it turns out.

Texting is rude? No, to many people, Texting is polite. They might be shy and not want to interrupt your busy day with a phone call that takes your attention away from your business (or the road) while they ask you a small unimportant (in their mind) question. Texting can be answered leisurely, and does NOT require an immediate response (contrary to popular belief). Answering a phone call does though!

What's that you say? "That's what email is for"? (giggles) No, email for them probably requires logging in to a computer at home or office... or the library or friends house. Texting goes with them anywhere, anytime, and on the simplest of phones. Everyone has it. Even YOU! So use it and be happy you can. Your clients are!! Even many of your old-timer clients, you'd be surprised!

notice the part in italics and underlined

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Satire is often strictly defined as a literary genre or form; although, in practice, it is also found in the graphic and performing arts. In satire, human or individual vices, follies, abuses, or shortcomings are held up to censure by means of ridicule, derision, burlesque, irony, or other methods, ideally with the intent to bring about improvement.^[1] Although satire is usually meant to be funny, the purpose of satire is not primarily humour in itself so much as an attack on something of which the author strongly disapproves, using the weapon of wit.

A very common, almost defining feature of satire is its strong vein of irony or sarcasm, but parody, burlesque, exaggeration, juxtaposition, comparison, analogy, and double entendre are all frequently used in satirical speech and writing. The essential point, however, is that "in satire, irony is militant".^[2] This "militant irony" (or sarcasm) often professes to approve (or at least accept as natural) the very things the satirist actually wishes to attack.

HEY YOU NEGATIVE GUYS. DID YOU REALLY READ WHAT BOB SAID. IF YOUR MAKING TONS OF MONEY WITH YOUR PRESENT METHODS THEN HE IS NOT TALKING ABOUT YOU ... PLEASE USE YOUR BRAIN HOW GOD INTENDED... TO THINK.

Hey Bob - I've got some thoughts on this blog, but I'll text them to you, instead. (Great blog...229 comments and counting? That will keep you busy)

notice the part in italics and underlined

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Satire is often strictly defined as a literary genre or form; although, in practice, it is also found in the graphic and performing arts. In satire, human or individual vices, follies, abuses, or shortcomings are held up to censure by means of ridicule, derision, burlesque, irony, or other methods, ideally with the intent to bring about improvement.^[1] Although satire is usually meant to be funny, the purpose of satire is not primarily humour in itself so much as an attack on something of which the author strongly disapproves, using the weapon of wit.

Bob, Bob, Bob.... I did enjoy your posts but I have to ask... where did you go wrong?

A few points..

1. The loudest person in the room is usually not the best at what they do.

2. At the end of the day it does not matter what method you use to attract clients if you are not good at the basic skills that the job requires you will fail.

3. Twitter (imho) is the new graffiti - a recent Harris poll agreed with me when they determined that consumers and advertisers have opposite opinions on the value of tweeting. (see article)

Tweet to Bob.. I am sitting in my office - wishing for another espresso.

Lee ;-^)

bob

Ok that said I at first I agreed with every thing but the texting. I just did not see the point of texting as i have unlimited minutes on my cell. But after reading some of these post I reluctantly agree that I am going to have to learn texting. If it only make the one right deal , it would be worth the learing.

One post asked where to get started. Actually I am stupid and need a plan to follow. Is there a step by step plan of action to implement what you have suggested. Tho I am a seasoned agent; in the past I did not act as a Realtor per se. I was more of an investor (and quite successful).My money from investing has run out, and now I am faced with the prospect that I may have to earn a living (lol). I would like to know how and where to begin and get to where you suggest. I cant even afford my dues. What is a guy to do to pull himself up by the bootstraps. Can you lend me some bootstraps lol

sorry i forgot to click the notify button

bob

BILL DAVIS

I recently read that the 45-65 aged female demographic is the fastest growing demographic in facebook users. I started on Facebook to reach more Gen Y's and it turns out that my business has been more of a broader spectrum.

Bill, I can't seem to click through to your profile to answer your question. Can you shoot me an email and I'll answer it that way?

it would seem that people like texting specifically to avoid talkg to people. As we advance technologically, we also drift further and further from actual human interaction. Texting is a perfect example. We can talk, but we instead choose to be more imperrsonal, less expressive, and less involved in other people's lives.

To me it smacks of alienation, so to speak...

Never the less, for those who do it, I do it with them.

NOTE ON TEXTING: a tenant of mine was driving while texting. A friend of his received a text message from him at 12:28 AM last Thursday. The police listed as the time of his car accident, 12:30 AM. 2 minutes after the friend said he received the message. He replied, he said, which took about 20 seconds.

So this tenant, now with 3 cracked vertebrae, a dislocated shoulder, and a split on his head running from just above the brow in front to the nape of the neck in back, straight over the top of his head, has decided that texting is simply not worth it when driving. He is lucky to be alive. He is young, and expects full recovery. He does not know what I know, which is that the injuries from a car accident I had when 16 yrs old hurts more today at 50 than it did then.

Great post. The thing that really amazes me is that people will ask me about how I get so many internet leads and I tell them about my webmarketing and that they may need to spend about $50/month they freak out. However, they have no problem dropping $150 a pop for an open house add that will get no response.

As Albert Einstein said "insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results"

Bob-

Any I deas on using new technologies to attract sellers?

What are you doing to get listings?

Great post! There's a different kind of cheese out there and we need to lift our noses and find it. Tons of different cheese....just find the one that tastes the best to you. My clients and other agent use texting more than their cells. I use the countdown for First Time Buyer on my Twitter page as well :D

Attracting sellers is a fine art using the technology available. A presence on Facebook, at open houses and using other tools seems to be the best. One of the other things I am using right now is a dedicated blog about the property. This is something I've just recently learned on AR.

One other thing is to syndicate the listings.

sorry wasn't logged in...

I love....love....love this post. It could not be more true and what I have been trying so hard to get accross to our many realtor clients over the last couple of years. I even wrote an e-book on how easy it is to get people started because I am so passionate about it. I want to help our Real Estate/Mortgage clients find new business as so many of them have become personal friends and I hate watching them suffer through this difficult market.

My friends must change with the times and the Internet is where it is at! I am in the process of rewriting this book so it is just for realtors, but the book that isn't specific to real estate will still help you understand why the Internet will MAKE your business and how easy it is to begin. I will make sure to update teh post with the Real Estate Specific e-book when I am done, which should be in the next couple of days. Here is the link to the current book.

Bob is absolutely correct and using the Internet to find new clients is absolutely the MOST EFFECTIVE and the CHEAPEST way to find them. If you set up your site correctly, Google will send you more leads than you know what to do with! Here is a link to the download, no strings attached, no required email...just good information that I hope you will follow through with. BTW....put down your Realtor Magazine and read this e-book instead. It is just over 20 pages and you will find results if you follow through!

Thanks for such a great post Bob!!!! I love how blunt you are!

Nadine

P.S. I also started a new blog with all of my Internet marketing secrets to teach you how PrinterBees is on page one of Google for so many different search terms like "Keller Williams Business Cards", "Century 21 Business Cards" "Coldwell Banker Business Cards" and many more. The blog with all my tips and tricks is http://www.nadineblogs.com. I really do want to help you succeed at "making it" on the Internet and I know how to do it. If you read the blog, you will too! :-)

Bob I've been licensed 33 years

My first cell phone was a Motorola brick
My first website was 1997
Yes, I'm on Twitter and Linked-In
All of my listings have had virtual tours for ions
I don't sit in the office and read - I haven't been in an office for years - I have an extremely high tech office in my home

Besides, there are too many young upstarts in the office that would keep me from managing my business.

Karen

It's gonna hurt when you fall from your lofty perch! You're really pretty scary if you could just take a look at yourself. Good luck to you.

Bob, It's great that embracing technology is working so well for you. I too, love technology and see how it has helped so many like yourself. But that's not all...

A local Realtor I know has sold 210 properties this year and currently has 215 under contract. Guess what? He doesn't have a website. He doesn't tweet or use Facebook. Go figure.

A broker I know has 50 listings on the market. Her secret? A purple newsletter with black print (nothing special looking) that she sends out to her target market area.

I am convinced there is more than one way to be a success at this business. Do what you know how to do, and do it often and well.

You will not send faxes...you refuse to do it? If I substituted "texting" for "faxes," you'd be the supposed Luddite you are complaining about. And when will you be ceasing to use the telephone, because it's so old fashioned and nobody uses it anymore...they just text (or email)? Seems like a pretty self-defeating attitude to me.

I thought the point of customer service and being tuned in to the needs of your client was to serve them as they prefer (or need) to be served, and providing excellent results...not deciding it's time to stop faxing because YOU don't want to anymore. And this goes for the other agent, who, in a way, you need to serve so that the deal goes through.

Refusing to cooperate with a request for a fax just to prove your point doesn't endear you to the other agent, and in fact probably just annoys the heck out of them. That's no way to gain cooperation and complete a deal smoothly.

One of my current buyers is an 88-year-old who is deaf as a post, can't use a telephone, and has no computer. We communicate via handwritten letters and personal visits. It works perfectly for her, and I'm willing to do what is needed to serve my client even though it is time-consuming and certainly not "techie."

Nice post Bob. I couldn't have said it beter myself. You got to move with the times.

Is this your revenge for getting beat up in high school on a daily basis? Now you seek revenge and want to thump on the ol' timers? Well more power to you my friend. LOL!

J/K man. Even though I think your post is amusing, it's a tad strange. Good luck to ya, and take it easy on the vetrans. :)

Good point but a little on the negative side..

Is this a public blog?

SEP

2009

Bob, I love this post. I've read it again & again. Right now for my island I am #1 in closed sales (number of sides- not dollar amount). Some agents are jealous. I feel like yelling at them, start blogging, start developing a niche, stop crying and put it in gear, "but I can't". Aloha

SEP

2009

I am a lucky dinosaur - I have 3 daughters who taught me how to text, instant message, etc. Amazing how much I use it with clients and other agents. One of my daughters is very internet savvy and built my first website and told me to get on Active Rain. She is now my paid virtual assistant. Lucky for me.

But I know many realtors, more successful than I am, who 'do not internet'. Their clients are very happy with them and they do a wonderful job.

Some folks don't need to be on the internet and have a huge referral base from other areas and their own networking. They are still doing it their way, it is still working for them and probably will for a very long time.

Would I hire 'a dinosaur' if I needed an agent? I might. Depends on the dinosaur.

SEP

2009

You are never to old to learn...I am fortunate to also be part of a brokerage that shares techie ideas in mind sharing sessions. Continuous education is about growing your business not meeting licensing requirements.

The last vendor who called me to index my site on google told me I was the only Teller county realtor with Facebook and Twitter link and a blog on their website.

The only drawback is that I am so extended that I don't always have the time I need to keep everything fresh. An intern would be a treat for sure.

SEP

2009

Bob, you have had to establish some kind of a record with as many responses that yoiu received. I'm 74 years old, came from an organization where I spent 8 years in oceanfront condo sales in Myrtle Beach with the office doing just about everything for me except writing the contract, now I'm in residential in Tucson, AZ, and I'm learning it all from the beginning and in a very different market enviornment. I quite agree with you as far as trying to expose yourself to as many opportunities as possible, but I do believe in SOME moderation. I guess one has to figure out just how much time they are willing to give and them try and figure out which social media pays off the best. Your comments has certainly made me much more aware of the need for me to get more involved. Many thanks.

SEP

2009

All I can say is...I COULDN'T AGREE MORE! In my 50's and I'm more computer, text, Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, YouTube, well you get it...internet savvy then most I know! Plus, I love all the newest and the latest techy stuff and always ready for the next new thing to figure it out and see if it is a good fit for 'the business!' Nice post!

Our MLS was supposed to switch to a new platform but the membership rebelled largely because they're unwilling to change. If you don't change in this business you'll be a dinasour very soon.

SEP

2009

100 to 1, How many transactions have done since your start in Real Estate?

Roy, you're kidding me right? I cannot believe you asked this question. You need to go back and re-read the comments and the disclaimer. For Pete's sake...the story ain't real! Give me a break!

SEP

2009

Hey Bob...

I absolutely love this post so much that I wrote a new blog referring back to this one.

Here is the link and I hope that most people find it useful.

"I Don't know how to do a CMA or a BPO, but..."

Nadine

P.S. I saw your disclaimer, but still feel everything you posted is absolutely true!!!!

I am not sure it is always an age issue. I am 62 and love all the new tech stuff. I am learning to twitter, text, blog, attract google juice to my site.... and best of all I see it starting to pay off for me. My daughter (much younger than me, of course) has been a RE agent all her adult life (I've been an agent 5 years)and is doing great without a blog or website. I say take what you enjoy and what works for you and keep growing with it.

SEP

2009

The best information to blog is about your local market and what is happening around your area. The larger cities drive more clients, but when you live near the smaller towns, you have to research more. However, even though I'm pushing 50, I do have a Master's Degree in Management of Technology and it has helped a lot when advertising.

JAN

2010

WOW! I love it!!!!

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Bob Haywood, www.BobHaywood.com

Owasso, OK

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McGraw Realtors

Address: 12620 East 86th Street North, Owasso, OK, 74055

Office Phone: (918) 592-6000

Cell Phone: (918) 272-7272

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Bob Haywood

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