Let’s face it, it is getting harder and harder to stand out as a real estate agent. It seems more and more people are opting to leave their regular 9-5’s and attempt to build their fortune in the real estate game. However, as you know that is easier said than done. Especially, since more and more competition floods and dilutes the market. So how are you supposed to build a name and reputation for yourself that helps you rise above the rest? Simple; just follow these tips.
Define Your Ideal Clients
One of the fastest ways to lose your motivation and your shirt as a real estate agent is to try and be an agent for everyone. Just as the old Chinese proverb says, when you try to chase two rabbits, you will wind up with none. Instead, you need to take the time to define who your ideal clients are and then position yourself in a way that stands out to those people.
Start by identifying the demographics (age, location, occupation, income, etc.) that define your ideal clients. From there, you will easily be able to predict common life and real estate goals and problems that those people experience which will help you tailor your messaging, marketing, and branding in a way that helps you stand out.
Define Your Brand
If you are anything like most real estate agents, defining your independent brand feels like a confusing uphill battle. Put simply, your brand needs to clearly communicate:
- Who you are
- What you do
- What makes you different
- Who you serve (your ideal clients)
- Why you are in real estate (your missions statement)
Each of these elements should be obvious in your brand colors, logo, and slogan because these will be plastered everywhere that you market yourself. Again, it is important to keep your ideal clients in mind when deciding on the key elements of your brand because you will want it to appeal to them.
Once you have clearly defined your brand as a real estate agent, you need to apply it to everything from your social media to your listing presentations and your closing gifts. The more frequently your prospects and clients are exposed to your branding, the more powerful it will become.
Define Your Value
Not only are there more agents entering the market trying to steal your client base, but there are big companies trying to undercut your commissions and convince the public that they don’t really need a real estate agent. That means you have no choice but to proactively communicate your very real value. The most effective way to do this is to refer back to your definition of your ideal client. Ask yourself what would be most important to those people in their real estate agent and then show them how you exemplify those qualities.
Maintain Your Presence After Closing
Finally, it is important to stay front of mind with your clients well after they close on their home. There are many ways that you can do this like sending cards for special occasions, newsletters, a strong social media presence, and occasionally calling or stopping by to check on them and the house. However, if you also choose a long-lasting and branded closing gift like these that your clients will be able to use frequently, it will become very difficult for them to forget you when they need you again.