Silly question, isn't it?  Or is it?

It has been said that "a person doesn't plan to fail, they just fail to plan."  A statement well worth considering as we enter the new year and look to the future.

Many real estate licensees do not seem to grasp the concept that even though they may be associated with a brokerage firm and work "for" the firm, they are in business for themselves and that individual success requires treating their real estate business like a business.

A critical component of any successful business is having and working a business plan, and the real estate business is no different.

Here are some tips to help you plan your business for the coming year.  You have probably heard many of them before as have I, but a little reminder never hurts. :)

1.  Establish Goals.  Your goals need to be well defined, measurable and in writing.  Take your time as you think about your goals and consider all life areas: spiritual, physical, material, financial, social, work and family.  Consider balance in all areas.

2.  Develop A Plan.  Identify problems that stand in your way and explore opportunities to offset the problem.  A problem is not a problem, but a challenge to overcome.

3.  Act on the Plan.  A simple statement, yet probably the most important step.  If you can't, won't or have difficulty acting on your plan, it just might be time to re-evaluate the plan.

4.  Maintain The System.  Your system is simply your plan "in action".  Keep good record, follow up and provide outstanding customer service.

For further assistance, comprehensive guidance, tools and resources for business planning may be found at the web site of the Small Business Administration.

Mike Fair
Director

Illinois Academy of Real Estate