January 2023 begins my 21st year in real estate. Although I already had a broker license, in January 2012, I ventured out on my own as an independent real estate broker.
There were many reasons I decided to become an independent real estate broker. Among them was the expectation that as an affiliate broker with a Big Box Brokerage, I was expected to do things that my moral and ethical compass would not do.
Being an independent real estate broker is not for everyone. I get that. Neither is owning a brokerage and managing agents. I get that too because it is not something I have ever wanted to do.
The real estate marketing that has worked for me may not work for others. Real estate agents are not one size fits all. Our personalities and styles are different.
Adhering to real estate laws, MLS Rules, Board Rules, and even rules of the road, what follows is what works best for me.
Just be Me. I know I am not a good fit for everyone and everyone is not a good fit for me. Having the wisdom and acceptance of that fact, I never attempt to fit into a box that someone else wants me to be in, no matter what.
Always be kind and respectful. Honor others. What I mean by that is, agree to disagree without argument. Simply embrace where someone else is coming from even if we do not understand it or agree with it.
Listen Actively. If my mouth is moving my ears can’t hear. I ask a lot of questions. If necessary, I explain why I am asking. I check in to confirm people understand. I will ask, does that make sense? Any questions? Avoid interrupting. It is rude and unprofessional. There are times when a polite interruption is warranted. When that happens, I apologize for interrupting, acknowledge it is rude, and explain why at the exact moment I interrupted. For me, it is always about connecting the dots and clarifying what I heard.
Unwavering Honesty. Just being me means I am honest with myself and others. Speak with Integrity. When necessary, speak with compassion and a kind heart. It is okay to say, “I do not know. Let me look into that and I will get back to you.” Then do what you say you will do when you say you will do it.
Ongoing Education and Training. This is huge. Know the contracts inside and out. Know how to explain them. Never. Never. Ever give legal, tax, or other professional advice outside of my wheelhouse. Have resources to refer/recommend.
Specialize in a Niche. Find a niche and know it better than anyone in your market. Be able to explain your value and why people want to hire you versus a competitor. Always focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. Never. Ever. Talk down or put down others.
Real estate is a People Business. What we say and do, and how we say and do it, is marketing. Treat others the way you want to be treated. If someone is being unkind it more likely than not means they need kindness. Lead by example.
Kathleen Daniels, Probate Real Estate Specialist entry in the January 2023 Challenge: Sharing Your Marketing Tips For Real Estate Business hosted by Miss Anna Banana Kruchten Phoenix Broker Miss Aura Alex. Thank you both for hosting the challenge.
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