I had not written any blogs targeted to rookie agents for a while. It is my heart to share with them some of my success tips because I remember how it feels like a rookie with not much guidance from my broker. Alot had to do with my "availability" for training, so I cannot put the blame on my broker entirely. So, here I am, reading on one of my favorite forums about a rookie agent who sounded extremely desperate to make that very first sale. Yes, I can hear and feel desperation all over her tone.
This is my advice to her:
Take this time to preview, learn about different neighborhoods, different price points in your target areas so that when consumers call, you can speak intelligently and know you are talking about.
Localism may be your outpour of your research and findings. So, you really can show your consumers the power of your knowledge here. To read more about Localism, please read more here. If you have not join Active Rain, what are you waiting for. Active Rain is a powerful resource and for whatever it's worth, Google LOVES Active Rain. I promise you that. You can begin your membership here. And who says that the Best things in life cannot be free? Active Rain has revolutionized my business and I am on top of my world. That's what I feel like.
Take time to build a Buyer's packet and a Seller's packet. They will come in handy to show your preparedness to serve them.
Build a solid, information packed website. When people google, they dont search for "you" as the realtor. They google for information and once your website is heavily focused on the areas you want to work or your specialties, you will see them calling.
I remain successful in my business because I know had invested the initial efforts for a time such as this. I had started part-time too. I used that "no sales" times to learn, educate myself on how to serve my clients and their needs. It took me 4 years before I felt comfortable. Could I have done it sooner? Absolutely. It might take me 6-12 months had I started full time. But I wouldnt have a clue to know what to focus on.
I also had saved up enough money to fund my business on a cash basis. It took a while to get here but I have no pressure on paying my bills because I only spend money on things I can pay for. If I had to use my credit card, I cant afford it. I continue to build my cash reserves until I become absolutely comfortable. I do not share my business profits with the family budget. My husband takes care of the house and my income is to pay off our mortgage early - very early!
What has your successful tips you had when you were a rookie agent? Can you share some of them here? Remember, you do not have to be in business for decades in order to feel "experienced". I still consider myself fairly new. I am just starting my 6th year but I do feel that each of us can always share something precious even if you are licensed one month. So, share them here.