My first five articles on the Top Ten Strategies discussed, (1) the collaboration with referral sources/strategic partners, (2) how to get the most out of Open Houses using 2024 social media strategies, (3) the overlooked importance of staying in touch with clients after they buy/sell their home so you know when they are returning to the market again--and to get referrals of course, (4) maximizing your email marketing strategies in 2024 and (5) we addressed enhancing your online (business) presence beyond posting pictures on Instagram and Facebook. Your presence online can be so much more than picture posting of your latest client receiving the keys to their new home or attending the latest Florida Realtor Assoc meeting.
Please consider reviewing those posts before consuming this one.
Topic Six is why (and how) you should stay informed and educated on the latest in real estate from marketing, to sales, to legal, and more.
The top 10 ways to stay up to date on the ever-changing landscape that is real estate sales:
- Continuing Education Courses and Certifications: enroll in continuing education courses. These can be offered by real estate associations, colleges, or private organizations. Specialized certifications in areas like contracts, ethics, green housing, commercial real estate, or property management can also be beneficial. Kind of a non-brainer but how many agents enroll in more than one or two classes a year beyond CE credits?
- Professional Associations and Networking Groups: Joining professional associations like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or local real estate groups can provide access to exclusive resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights. There aren't too many things better than rubbing elbows with you colleagues!
- Conferences and Seminars: Attending industry conferences and seminars is a great way to learn about the latest trends and network with other professionals. These events often feature expert speakers and workshops on a variety of topics.
- Real Estate Publications and Blogs: Subscribing to reputable real estate publications, blogs, and newsletters can keep them updated on market trends, legal changes, and best practices. Online platforms like Inman, Realtor Magazine, and Bigger Pockets offer a wealth of information. Consider a few publications outside of real estate to give you a well-rounded view of business. Heard of the Harvard Business Review? (No, you don't have to have attended Harvard to subscribe! LOL)
- Social Media and Online Forums: Following real estate influencers, joining real estate groups on platforms and participating in online forums can provide real-time updates and a platform for discussion with peers. Have you searched for, and joined, Groups on LinkedIn connected to real estate?
- Podcasts and Webinars: Listening to real estate podcasts and attending webinars can be an efficient way to receive information from experts in the field. They often cover a range of topics from market analysis to marketing strategies. This is great for down-time in a car, while you're on a run, in someone's waiting room, or in my case, when I fold laundry! Heard of Audible?
- Market Analysis Tools and Reports: Utilizing market analysis tools and staying abreast of reports published by real estate research firms can help them understand market dynamics and make informed decisions. See CoreLogic and Black Knight.
- Local Government and Legal Updates: Keeping track of local government websites and legal bulletins is essential for staying updated on zoning laws, regulations, and other legal changes that affect real estate. A one-percenter attends zoning and real estate planning board meetings in their respective geographic area.
- Mentorship and Coaching: Seeking mentorship from experienced real estate professionals or hiring a coach can provide personalized guidance and insights based on practical experience. An experienced coach has probably made mistakes in their career you can avoid by working with them.
- Customer Feedback and Case Studies: Encourage them to learn from their own experiences by reviewing customer feedback, studying case studies, and analyzing their successful and unsuccessful transactions. I really don't like informal surveys done in person or by phone. Use a survey platform like Survey Monkey (there are others) to send a customized short questionnaire to you client via email.
- Bonus: there's a lot going on right now with real estate commissions and potential unfair collusion amongst the bigger players. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is at the center of these discussions and routinely posts updates about the latest occurrences.
Staying informed in the dynamic field of real estate requires a combination of formal education, self-learning, networking, and practical experience. I encourage you to find the right balance that suits your learning style and professional needs.
