By Lizzie Weakley
Successful real estate agents understand the importance of consistently recruiting new clients to coordinate home purchases and sales. During times of economic uncertainty or community transitions, agents need to be proactive in finding new clients. Here are some helpful tips for how to target new niches which you can build or add to your client base:
Network With Industry Colleagues
Introduce yourself to local builders, contractors, tradespersons and agents to let them know you're available to represent clients they might know of. Find out about the areas where they're building or renovating homes for information about new construction or home investment opportunities that may interest potential clients. Also, attend trade shows or construction expositions and hand out business cards. You may want to set up a table or booth to attract prospective buyers or sellers.
Research Target Communities
Get familiar with the neighborhoods where you would like to represent properties. Find out about the median home price, as well as recent home sales or new construction. Check out the school district and crime statistics, as well as nearby amenities, such as bus lines, pharmacies and supermarkets. The more you know about a community, the better you'll be at identifying serious buyers or sellers, as well as representing the area to someone with questions who is looking for a home.
Maintain an Online Presence
Set up a LinkedIn profile where you can be easily found based on keyword and hashtag searches. Establish a Facebook page and contact former clients, as well as old friends and colleagues, to let them know where to find you. Start tweeting frequently about housing news and trends in the local housing market. You may want to set up your own website with a profile, Q&A about real estate, your credentials and practical information about buying or selling a home. Also, consider publishing blogs or vlogs on related topics, such as applying for a mortgage loan or how to save money during a home renovation. There are numerous ways to attract readers who may decide to become your clients.
Partner With Marketing Specialists
If you don't have the time to develop marketing strategies for your services, consult a real estate broker marketing service for assistance. These professionals can put their experience and skills to work on your behalf to alert the public about your services and availability.
Since housing is an essential need, agents will continue to be in demand. Make yourself visible and sought after by trying techniques like these!
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her three-year-old Husky, Snowball. Weakley recommends Homes.com for your real estate needs.
