So much of this business gets focused on marketing ourselves that we sometimes forget how important it is to maintain and expand our knowledge.
Probably the most cost effective way to do that is by building your library. In my case, it has been about exploring other areas of real estate like development or commercial real estate. However, if your a brand new agent, there are plenty of resources out there for you to help guide you through your first year in the business. So here is a breakdown of some of the main books I return to again and again for guidance.
Your First Year In Real Estate, Zeller - Probably my favorite book for new agents.
How to Develop a Six Figure Income in Real Estate, Ferry - In general, you cannot go wrong with a Mike Ferry book. However, in this case, I felt like the Zeller book had a bit more to offer.
Mastering the Art of Selling Real Estate, Hopkins - I don't know about you, but the Hopkins books were standard issue by my broker when I first got into the business in the late '80s. Hopkins has lots to offer, and some of it will feel right for you. I took a few gems away from this, but cannot call myself a Hopkins Faithful.
The ABCs of Real Estate Investing, McElroy - The first book I suggest anyone interested in investing read. By a man who has been there and done that.
Investment Analysis For Real Estate Decisions, Greer - Ok, this is a textbook. A graduate level textbook. However, it is a great way to learn all the various ways to analyze properties. I refer to this book often when analyzing investments of all kinds in real estate. If cost is an issue, don't worry about getting the latest edition and go used on Amazon.
Real Estate Development Principles and Process, Myers/Berens/Weiss - Another graduate level textbook. However, just about the most complete resource on learning the development process. If you want to be able to talk the talk in this segment of the business, you could do a whole lot worse than getting this text and learning it.
Be a Successful Real Estate Developer, Woodson - This one is far more approachable than the textbook above. It will give you some good insights into development but does not explore every corner like the textbook does.
The Real Estate Game, Poorvu/Cruikshank - A great book of real estate war stories that illustrate points worth learning. Also an enjoyable read.
How to make Money in Commercial Real Estate for the Small Investor, Masters - A good intro and overview to commercial real estate. It will give you a good perspective on what concerns these types of investors most.
Finally, all the various books by Irwin, Myers, etc are worth your time after you have looked at the suggested reading. They give you different perspectives and often end up being useful from the standpoint of being books that the public will often read, so you can aquaint yourselves with that your potential clients might be reading.
Your always going to be surprised how books you read feed into your business... even if its something by Stephen King.
Comments(3)