Why are you switching from Commercial to Residential?  I am actually switching from Residential to Commercial.  I guess I should say I am switching my emphasis, I will always do Residential.  Remember I am a mortgage broker, but I am wondering why a realtor would make the switch.

John Cookman

It's really not that different, how did you get listings as a commercial realtor?  Talk to people you know, tell them what you're doing, tell everyone you know what you're doing, ask them for referrals.  Sit open houses and talk to people.  When I got started I went to neighborhoods where there was a lot of renovation happening and talked to people and before too long I had lots of listings.  Go to networking events like BNI, local chamber events etc., sponsor your home owners association newsletter.  Good luck!!

John Why am I switching? Well actually i'm not switching exactly, just venturing into residential to get a more rounded view of what goes on and also hopefully earn some extra money and make some new acquantances. We have a lot going on with our commercial but it takes soooooo long to get through a deal sometimes. I need something extra to stop my brain stagnating. This is my new challenge.

June Thanks for the advice. I suppose I need to choose a farm area first. What is a BNI, I am slow today i think i have an allergy :(

 Anyone else out there with some pearls of wisdom? Please comment...

Paul,

Some ways to get listings to start with.  Let family friends and past commericial clients know that you now do residential properties.  Send a letter to people in the neighborhood you live in that you now sell real estate in the subdivision and that since you live here you know the area and would love to easily help them sell their home.  Contact expired listings and FSBO which usually become listed by an agent with in a few months.  Offer them a market analysis to get your foot in the door and keep in contact with them.

The first few listings will be work.  Once you start to build a client base.  Referrals will come.  I have been in real estate for two years and my business lately has been referrals from past clients.

Good Luck and Stay Positive.

Paul,

About saying that your English.  I would let people know.  Since some of American words for things are different.  Immigrants may want to use you since they know you will understand them.  I am working with clients from the UK currently.  I know that we call some things differently than the English do.  Again good luck and stay positive.

Ronda Thank-you! The area I live in has many properties that are empty as they are second homes.

What would be the best way of listing these or turning them into property management prospects?

I have expired listings and FSBOs in the forefront of my mind. I'm trying to think of the perfect strategy to conquer these.

Sign up for Home Gain programs,  They have been good for me and there not that expensive compared to other lead generators.