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I was reading a great blog by Richard Wiseman on Knowing Your Competition.  It is crucial to understand what your competition is offering so you can create several higher levels of offerings that will make you stand out as a marketing guru.  Of course you need to provide a good track record to cement the ideas you implement.
Just this morning we emailed 3 of our sellers to let them know their homes were showcased in a local paper.  Since we list many homes in the community our homes are often selected.  We just came to terms on one of the homes but our seller emailed back with this response:

Hi, Dorie,
Thanks for the excellent advertising.  We know you guys do a great job on advertising and presenting the properties (by "you" I specifically meant you and Gene) so that is something we have come to expect of you (and one of the reasons we chose you).
Regards, Srinivas

20 years ago we worked with our "bible" a weekly book published of active, pending and sold properties.  In 1995 we leaped into the future with the next generation of communication - "The Computer."

While attending a Coldwell Banker International Business Conference we were introduced to "Top Producer" a new dimension of contact management.  Here we said is the vehicle that will set us apart as "Your Perfect Partner" in Real Estate.  Wow, letters to just whip out to FSBO's, a follow up program that all we had to do was print it out, stick on a stamp and away we went. Then it dawned on us - we just joined the crowd.

We stepped back, looked outside the box and decided to ask those who are most important to us: our sellers and buyers.  We asked them "what would you like to see in terms of marketing your home and what are you looking for as a buyer when looking for a home?" We checked out the competition and kicked our marketing up several notches.  We created our "Home Book" for each of our listings providing information about the home and community.  We created individual websites, virtual tours, sponsored community events, provided an interactive website for the community but one thing we never stopped doing was communicating with our sphere and clients on a regular basis.

Communicating with our clients is the singular most important step in creating a response like you just read from one of our clients.  We advertise in many venues on the internet, blog, answer our mail within 2 hours, call and/or email our sellers and buyers at least once a week plus provide them with weekly marketing reports and activity reports.  This isn't rocket science.  People entrust their largest asset to us and expect to hear from us with updates and valuable information on activity and what the market is doing on a consistent basis.  Your clients need to know you care before they can care what you know!

If you need to make a move in 2010, please contact us at 512-346-1799 or email us at dillard@reloaustin.com. Also, be sure to visit our websites: www.reloaustin.com and http://www.canyoncreeknews.com

We are your Neighborhood Real Estate Consultants                    

                               "Your Perfect Partners"

                       Click here to search for Austin homes

 

                            

            

 
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68 Comments on Your Clients Need To Know You Care - Before They Care What You Know

JUL
30
2010
801,306 Points 35 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

  this is a people business and it should be built on communication...saying you will...throwing it on mls and not talking to the sellers until you need something...eh....We have mega listers here who hound sellers to pieces to get the listing....and the word here is "If you want 'Joe' to stop calling you...list with him!"  We aren't that agent....and glad you are not either...this brings the folks who prefer to refer and build business..have a great weekend !

7:12am • #1
725,109 Points 16 Featured Posts

Looks like your doing all the right things in Austin. Your aggressive, innovative and are using all the up-to-date techniques for your clients and customers, so keep on blogging!

7:17am • #2
482,772 Points 41 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorrie, you obviously set yourself apart from the crowd which is the essence of being or becoming a top performer in your area.  Congratulations.

7:22am • #3
131,541 Points 1 Featured Post

Communication is important in any relationship.  I stay in constant contact with my clients to make sure their needs are being met. 

7:34am • #4
1,545,555 Points 416 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

With experience, we learn that thinking outside the box will give our buyer or seller confidence that we're doing a thorough job for them.  Of course, it's important to TELL THEM what you're doing and why. 

I have to laugh when I see what I believe to be a less than adequate practice in another area.  When asked about it, the agents says "that's the way we do it here."  Or, "here we . . . .  . "

I don't even know what "here we . . . . . " means.  Bad practice is bad practice, no matter where you are or how many are "doint it that way".

 

7:44am • #5

That is awesome! You are great! Have a great day! You deserve it! look forward to future posts!

7:45am • #6
3 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Dorie,

The agents that "get it" like you will soar above the competition! Always great to read your Blogs!

Marianne

7:50am • #7
143,779 Points Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Communication is constantly evolving. It sounds like you've done a great job of keeping up with the trends, Dorie.

7:52am • #8
157,291 Points 8 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

It is so important to know what everyone else is doing and when you need to step up your game to be competitive.

7:59am • #9
1,225,859 Points 262 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie...

An excellent example of how a "USP" can set you apart from the rest. Excellent post and a great lesson for those that are ready to roll up their sleeves and compete!

8:04am • #10
1,139,207 Points 139 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Dorie, Congrats on the feature!!! I echo Richard's statement...

8:19am • #11
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Sally and David,

You got it..this is a people business and communication is essential! Clients want to hear from you..good or bad news it doesn't matter.. they just want to be kept in the loop!!

8:26am • #12
399,039 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie:

Change is ever present and underway in real estate, and it is not E-Z to grasp we may need to re-invent ourselves many many times.

8:27am • #13
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Larry and Shelia,

I've had some wonderful mentors but Active Rain has replaced all the past connections..this site is remarkable to learn from so many specialists in other parts of the country! It's like mini courses every day!!

8:29am • #14

Wow. Great job of staying ahead of marketing technology, especially in tech & realtor-heavy Austin. Have a great Friday!

8:30am • #15
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Ginny,

Thank you! I have many that I follow and always realize I must be willing to change to something better or more effective! I get great ideas here in ActiveRain!

8:31am • #16
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Rita,

That is cruical if you want repeat business!

8:31am • #17
539,787 Points 12 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Dorie, thinking outside the box is what puts an agent above the crowd. Good message in this post. Thanks.

8:34am • #18
390,859 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

The first thing any new agent needs to know about this business is to think for themselves and not folllow what others do. Do what you would like done to you and you'll not go wrong!

8:36am • #19
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Lenn,

You are so right..you need to let them know all the things you are doing for them..it gives you a reason to touch base with them! Active Rain has so many great masters of real estate it gets your mind whirling with new ideas and reinforces many practices you are already doing. Communication is the key to any relationship but is paramount in this business! My Broker always says "Are you doing the right thing...are you exhausting all your avenues for your client?" It always makes realize I need to re-think to see if there is more I can be doing!

 

8:37am • #20
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Toni:Thanks for dropping by.

Hi Marianne: Thank you..like I said it is not rocket science ..it is consistent effort!

Hi Aaron: Active Rain has reinforced my need to make changes..learning from the best!

Yvette: Yes it is valuable to know what your competition is doing and then kick it up a notch!

8:40am • #21
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Richard,

You have that right..a little bit of elbow grease works every time! I've learned so much from posts here in Active Rain..new ideas, way to tweak marketing and it definitely has paid off!!

8:43am • #22
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Super Mike,

Thanks!! I appreciate your stopping by.

8:44am • #23
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Lorraine,

Change is ever present and with tweaking along the way we can remain on top by showing our ability to change with the times!

8:45am • #24
405,745 Points 34 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Providing that "good track record" is essential to establishing credibility! I remember an agent several years ago who used the catch phrase "Work with a Realtor who cares" At a listing appointment his name came up and the husband made the comment, "Cares about what?" Funny in a way but enlightening at the same time!

8:45am • #25
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Sam,

Austin is a great place to live, work and play. There is plenty of business for everyone but we do see many come and go in our business. Many think becasue they have a laptop they can jump right in and its easy! They forget about having contacts and marketing yourself!! In today's market clients want agents with experience to navigate them through the process! They want results..they need to see you providing results!

8:48am • #26
107,331 Points 6 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie, gosh, I didn't know you cared!  But I certainly do now.  And you are right, "It ain't rocket science."

8:50am • #27
509,625 Points 70 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

ABSOLUTELY ! It's actually a concept that so many just dont grasp !

... I just won a listing this week because the seller heard me chat about soltions for her situation, as opposed to my own personal accolades and why she shold go with me !

If they know you genuinely care, you are more than halfway there !

Cheers Dorie !

 

9:33am • #28
232,689 Points 6 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

Dorie, so TRUE!  Communication and caring go hand in hand & congratulations on the feature!  ~ Susan

9:36am • #29
367,545 Points 5 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

It's apparent that you nailed it, Dorie... connecting with your clients in a way that causes them to realize that you care about them and their goals.

And I love how you decided to "just ask" your clients what they want/expect from you, rather than simply adopting what the latest marketing technology offered. Nothing beats empirical data.

10:42am • #30
613,054 Points 139 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Dorie, So key that the sellers don't think you just stick a sign in the yard and the rest is magic.  They need to know, and they need updates.  Keep communicating and you can generally keep them happy :)

10:42am • #31
435,853 Points 8 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

I like the idea of a "HOme Book." we have all the information but have not assimilated it as you suggeted. Very good idea.

10:47am • #32

Dorie ~ The constant innovator here in Austin!  You mentioned one important thing, calling your clients.  So easy to send an email or now in some cases a test message.  Know your clients needs, but sometimes a phone call goes much further than electronic communication.

10:49am • #33
Localism Sponsor

Good Post...As a people person, I agree verbal contact regularly is priority.

Thanks for caring enough to post that lil jewel, reminder!

Have a great week and Hello from 'near' fellow REALTOR.  ( Wimberley Texas, just So. of Austin)

Good Day...Terrie Garza

11:03am • #34
Attended Rain Camp

Dorie, this is an OUTSTANDING post.

One would think that you are giving away all your trade SECRETS. But I'm sure you know that statistically, even though you just outlined a foolproof marketing plan, hardly anyone is going to follow it because of laziness. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for sharing.

11:22am • #35
1 Featured Post

Real estate is about relationships and relationships are all about communication.  It's vital yet something that gets neglected all too much! 

I set the expectations upfront.  I let me clients know how often I'll be in touch and then I follow up!  Obviously if something comes up in the meantime, I'm in contact with them immediatelY!

11:42am • #36

Dorie,

We have lots of "mega-listers" who do nothing except take lots of listings and hope for the best. No communication excpet to do price reductions.

12:00pm • #37

Dorie,

Further to that; these listers work on the model that they have all the listings, someone has to sell them. They also have a lot of expireds.

12:01pm • #38
482,745 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Hi Dorie,  Another excellent post and comment thread !  I liked everything you did by way of upgrading your marketing.  In the end, our clients want to see our face, hear our voice and feel our pasion for this business.

12:20pm • #39
271,533 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Having that attention to detail and mindset that you do really shows to the seller that you are going to provide a truley higher level of service than they could get elsewhere.

12:31pm • #40
133,179 Points 25 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie,  Looks to me like you run a pretty tight ship!  Great road map for anyone looking to kick their game up a notch! 

1:36pm • #41
1 Featured Post

Dorie, this post proves you do the best for your clients.  The list of what you do is outstanding, but I guess that is why you are so successful.  Awesome, thanks for posting.

2:43pm • #42

Thanks for telling us to "step outside the box"!!

3:56pm • #43
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Michael: Yes you are right thinking outside the box can put you in the lead.

Corinne:Thinking for yourself will go a long way..treating others like you would like to be treated..following the golden rule works!

4:10pm • #44
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Russell,

In today's market clients do want a proven track record..sellers want the most done to create activity and produce an offer on your home.

4:13pm • #45
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Patsy: It son't rocket science..its common sense!

Hi Sheldon: It is all about their wants and needs and rightfully so!!!

Hi Susan: Thanks!!

Hi Bill: Asking is the only way to go..I always so ask and you shall receive!

Liz and Bill: I always tell my sellers you won't get the three "P's" from me...Put the sign in the yard, Put the lockbox on the door and Pray that your home sells! We like to get paid so we pull out all the stops!!!

4:19pm • #46
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Lori: Our Homebook is a great listing tool and wonderful to show buyers looking in our listings.

Hi John: Calling is very important..they need to know you are there for them and a personal call can make that happen!

Hi Terry-ie in Wimberly! You live in a slice of heaven in Texas!

Hi Harj: It's amazing hoe many people you can tell to do these things and just can't find time!

4:28pm • #47
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Susan: Great way to let them know what to expect..then of course you need to follow through which it sounds like you do!!

Hi Terry: We have firms in our towns that do the same thing..it's all about numbers to them! Usually their list to sell ration leaves something to be desired!

Good afternoon Bill: Great point they want to feel our passion for the business!!

Hi Morgan: With that higher level of service our commission is justified!

Hi Deborah: I never thought of as a road map but that is a good way to put it!

4:36pm • #48
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Lesley,

I do try to do the best for my clients and pride myself on doing so!

 

4:40pm • #49
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Stephanie:

Stepping outside the box can be so englightning..good luck in trying it!

4:50pm • #50
861,446 Points 76 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie--Too many agents use canned scripts or marketing the company does only. You have to be creative and be DIFFERENT to stand out.

6:28pm • #51
1 Featured Post Outside Blog

i love zig ziglar... that guy's a rock star... loved him at family reunion in vegas

6:55pm • #52
781,702 Points 71 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie it sounds like Floyd Wickman is at the listing with you based on your title:) Nice job!

7:08pm • #53
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good evening Erica,

You are right..in order to stand out you need to be doing lots of things to set you apart!

8:23pm • #54
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good evening Vince,

Zig Ziggler is a legend for sure!! Love his quotes and is great in person!

8:24pm • #55
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good evening Bill,

There are things you learn with Floyd Wickman that will always be with you!!

8:25pm • #56
608,296 Points 26 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Dorie, I'm agreeing with Deborah - anyone could just copy this post, follow it and have a very successful real estate business!

10:28pm • #57
JUL
31
2010
398,290 Points 31 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Dorie, I couldn't agree with you more.

1:53am • #58
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morningSharon,

I love what I do so by following some basics that would apply to any field in consumer service success will follow!

 

9:16am • #59
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good morning Tammie,

Thanks for stopping by and checking my post out!

9:17am • #60
147,213 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Too many times we forget to be our own advocates.  Client need to know what we do for them.

10:32am • #61
2 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp

Hi Dorie. I've always enjoyed your blogs and this one is the best yet. I'm not a realtor, but a home stager, but I try to do the same for my clients as you. Somehow it has been working, since once an agent has used my services, she/he sticks with me and this means repeat clients. They know that I care about them and their listings, so our relationship is more than just a transaction. This has made all the difference in the growth of my business.

I'm going to copy this link and send it to my family in Austin. I've lots of aunts and cousins living in Texas and I want them to have the best for their real estate needs. One of my cousins just married last week in Austin and I know that they'll be looking for a home soon. So, if you get a call from any Ahmadi, you'll know who referred them to you. 

 

12:38pm • #62
437,333 Points 35 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Dorie....tells the storie

thank you

2:01pm • #63
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Linda,

Yes you are right..it is our place to keep them informed so they know what you are doing behind the scenes!

6:24pm • #64
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Shirin,

That is very kind of you! Austin is a wonderful place to live..did you make the wedding?

6:25pm • #65
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Good afternoon Richie,

I'll bet your a poet and didn't know it! LOL

6:26pm • #66
AUG
01
2010
2 Featured Posts Attended Rain Camp

No, I didn't make the wedding, since I was in UK to visit my mom. But three of my siblings did. I was there for another wedding while back, we are a large family, and I loved the city and all of that Texmex food. Nothing like it. My family also took me to a comedy club, which was fun too.

2:52am • #67
805,362 Points 27 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Shirin,

Sounds like you got a good taste of Austin! There is so much to do here and also many places to kick back and relax..whatever you are in the mood for!! Austin is a vibrant city and prides itself on outdoor athletic events..there is also a race going on somewhere!

10:20am • #68

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Dorie Dillard Realtor® Canyon Creek NW Austin TX homes for sale

Austin, TX

More about me…

Coldwell Banker United Realtors

Address: 9442 N. Capital TX Highway, Plaza One Suite 600, Austin, TX, 78759

Office Phone: (512) 346-1799

Email Me

Welcome to my ActiveRain real estate blog and profile. I'm a Realtor with Coldwell Banker United and specialize in NW Austin. Once a school teacher I still like the learning process. Only now I enjoy learning what dreams my clients have and what I can do to help them. Dorie Dillard, Real Estate Professional in Austin, TX

Dorie Dillard

Dorie Dillard on Zillow

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