There is no doubt that real esate is not for everyone, with the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations, not to mention the lack of a steady paycheck-that's for sure. But when everything is going right, I feel there is no better job. I was just reading that 40% of the 500k plus agents in CA were licensed in the last five years. Surely, many of those have thrown in the towel and no doubt more will do the same. Why? Because the easy money is over. Floor time has dryed up, eager buyers flocking to open houses are few and the sellers know it, so if they don't have to sell they are staying out of the market. Recently, someone I know and respect as a Realtor went back to his old job as a salaried salesman and the steady paycheck. "Why," I asked, "you have so much promise." He was too board he said, not enough business, plus he was getting worried it wouldn't turn around. Now this is a guy who has worked hard the three years he's been in the business-farming like crazy, always doing his follow up calls. Quit-because he's Board?!
What do I say to this? What was my sage advice? I didn't have anything to say because I knew he was too far gone. But I know what he means about being board because I too like to be busy. All I can offer is what I've done to deal with being slow: I've spent more time at home with my son, I've enjoyed skiing in Tahoe, I've worked on my relationships with my clients and co-workers. I've tried to learn more about the business, read more-fun reading and also books on marketing and business. I've spent more time working on my website. I've started a blog. I've made the office meetings and participated. I've spent more time around my hometown and have gotten to appreciate it even more. I've worked on my plans for the future and have reached out to people and asked for help as to how to get there. I've done home improvements that made my wife happy.....And now I've gotten busier and am putting in more hours in the office and getting out showing property. And you know what? I feel like I'm better at my job then I was 6 months ago-because I was slower.
So I think slowdowns should be embraced, they're times for self-enrichment and good to catch up on all the things that you've been meaning to do in and outside of the business. You'll emerge stronger and ready for when it gets busy again.
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