Why Network in Real Estate?
When I first got into the business I had no idea the importance of networking. I thought to myself I only have time to go into the office and do my work. I have no time or need for socializing or chit chat. I didn't realize the importance of getting to know other agents and building on those relationships.
Without even realizing it though I joined one of Santa Clarita's largest offices. I fell into some networking without even realizing it because the office I joined had so many agents. I started networking by just a little socializing in the building here and there.
I quickly learned in the world of real estate that your reputation and who you know is extremely important no matter what market you are in. Santa Clarita has over 275,000 residents yet amongst the agents our town runs on small town behavior. Never is it more apparent that 20% of the agents do 80% of the transactions than in Santa Clarita.
When I first started in the business there was basically two Real Estate Networking groups. One for the seasoned agents that had been in the business for 20 years and wanted to keep a hold of the lyon's share of the market and one where most the agents had been in the business less than three years. No matter which you were in it had it's benefits just being in a network.
When it's a buyer's market and inventory isn't moving it's great to have your network of agents bring their qualified buyers to your listings to make a sale.
When it's a seller's market and their is no inventory it's a great way to find out about listings before they hit the market.
No amount of networking will work if you are known as being difficult to get along with. Currently the inventory in Santa Clarita is extremely low. Luckily I have worked very hard at creating a great reputation as someone that is very easy to get along with and close a deal successfully. When I am calling upon fellow agents to find out what they may have in their pocket they are more than willing to tell me because they like working with me.
If you are not the networking type belonging to a larger Real Estate office helps as well. At the ReMax office I'm at we have two locations filled with agents. Go to company events to meet the agents. We also have an email system that connects everyone with one email address. We constantly communicate through email with buyer and seller needs.
Another avenue to take is to just show up to Real Estate functions. There is always an Escrow Company, Lender, Home Warranty rep putting on an event where you can network and meet other Realtors. This is no time to be shy. Wear your name tag and have a small 5 minute conversation with as many Realtors as you can. You never know when you will be putting in an offer on a home that already has 5 offers with someone you met. You can bring up the fact you met at that function or comment on the conversation the two of you had. If they remember they liked you it could give you that extra edge you need to get your offer accepted.
If you are really shy or not into social events you can network on the computer through active rain, facebook or other social medias. There are many ways to network you just have to start doing it.
Agents in Santa Clarita especially like working with agents they know. I am constantly finding ways to meet other agents. Even if it's a small conversation at an event or over the phone I want them to know I am a positive person and someone easy to get along with.
Don't be afraid to start your own group. When I couldn't find the right networking fit for myself I started my own. I wanted quality agents that did a large amount of business. I started calling agents that I knew and some that I didn't that I knew had a great reputation and did an abundance of business that shared my views and ethics.
It wasn't an easy task but well worth it. I created Top Agents United with approximately 20 of some the best Realtors in Santa Clarita. We meet twice a month and share insider listing information along with having a combined 275 years of experience each one brings their own expertise to the table. We share current information that we find out regarding Real Estate, current invents, or issues that would benefit knowing the inside track on.
Never in my experience has Real Estate been more difficult. I love having inside knowledge that gives me that edge to help my clients and myself. Being a Realtor is about building relationships. When building your business and your foundation don't forget about networking with agent relationships. They will help you more than you could ever imagine.
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