7 Things Real Estate Agents Can Do in December for 2024 Success!

Many agents I know would not say that 2023 has been their favorite year in the real estate business. Between interest rate challenges, lack of housing choices, and industry shake-ups that have us learning new processes when it comes to how we serve our clients and get compensated, it has been a tough one for sure.

But you know what? YOU are tougher. You are here reading this article because you care about our industry and doing the best job possible for your clients. Let's celebrate THAT!! You WILL survive and thrive in 2024, but you need to take some action if your business these past few months has been lackluster.

This article isn't here to tell you that you need to adjust your mindset in order to have a super-profitable 2024. We get it that are challenges out there beyond your control. However, you absolutely have control over the actions you take and THAT is what is going to set you apart. Furthermore, these activities are designed to give you hope and perspective. Who doesn't need a little hope and perspective right now?

Here are the 7 things to do this December. Your 2024 will thank you for the action you take today!

#1: Make a List of Your 2023 Accomplishments

Yup! Start with this list. What have you gotten done so far in terms of projects or new systems for your business? Did you add anything new? Refine anything? Make a list of the changes you need to make in your business to accommodate transparency and choice when it comes to negotiating compensation with your buyers or sellers. Include work you did towards new designations or certifications, milestone sales, trips taken, and other personal successes like a fitness routine kept or a personal boundary you stuck with.

Celebrate ALL of your wins! It is so easy to focus on the negative, so grab a cup of coffee and begin writing! Put this list up somewhere so you can continue to add to it over the next few weeks until the new year and revel in your accomplishments!

#2: Two Weeks of Client Meetings

Reach out to your past clients and set up one-on-one meetings to review their approximate market value, equity position, upcoming real estate investment goals, upsizing or downsizing goals, objectives regarding helping kids buy property – whatever. Although they may not be ready to do anything at this moment, thinking and talking through a problem is a great way to move the milestone closer if the timing is right. Plus, this is a GREAT way to re-engage.

#3: Get in Touch with Everyone On Your Potential Client List

I mean, EVERYONE. If you have been paying attention, you will have noticed that mortgage interest rates have clicked down a bit over the last few weeks. Do you have potential clients who had decided to wait? Their moment may be getting closer.

#4: Take a Walk

Seriously. Taking a walk outside is a great way to get some endorphins kicking in. It also helps you be in the moment rather than focusing on your stress. Another great way to take action!

#5: Volunteer

This holiday season, gain some perspective by giving your time. There is no shortage of volunteer activities during the holidays and it feels great to be of service for our most vulnerable. Although you and I can't solve all the world's problems, we give hope by volunteering.

You can volunteer for a single shift or put in time on an ongoing schedule. Just type in "volunteer opportunities near me " in your search engine!

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Check out our LeadMagnet program or email [email protected] for more info.

#6: Clean Your Office

For a fresh start in 2024, take an afternoon to do a deep clean. Do any filing that needs to be done. Throw away those pens that no longer work, old magazines that you aren't going to go back to reading, and anything that is holding you back. Dust everything. Make it neat and ready for business in 2024!

#7: Make Your 2024 Campaign Plan

Every real estate agent should be running at least 3 campaigns in their business at all times:

1. Database Campaign: For everyone that you have a real estate relationship with including past and potential clients
2. Past Client Campaign: In addition to your database campaign, what else do your past clients get? An event? A gift? A report?
3. Potential Client Campaign: In addition to your database campaign, what is your process for making sure your potential clients use your services when they are ready? Do you reach out once a month? Once every other month? Create a custom report?

Your campaign activities may be live, by phone, mail, etc. Some agents may also have plans for their lead generation campaigns. You can use this handy Campaign Master Plan document to create your 2024 plan and rev yourself up for more action in January as your implement it (our LeadMagnet program can also help with this implementation).

Not on This List

Did you notice that none of the items on this list cost any money? The only costs here are your time. If your business is slow right now, then you may have time to spare. If 2023 was tough, you can choose to wallow out the rest of the year or you can take the action needed to propel your business forward in 2024. I hope you choose the latter!

By Denise Lones CSP, CMP, M.I.R.M. The founding partner of The Lones Group , Denise Lones, over nearly three decades of experience in the real estate industry. With agent/broker coaching , expertise in branding , lead generation, strategic marketing , business analysis , new home project planning, product development, Denise is nationally recognized as the source for all things real estate. With a passion for improvement, Denise has helped thousands of real estate agents , brokers, and managers build their business to unprecedented levels of success, while helping them maintain balance and quality of life.