Real estate is a funny business, one that by its very nature is ever-changing. And I don’t just mean the industry itself; I am also referring to each individual agent’s business. For example, I have had an excellent 2017 by nearly any measure. I have listed a number of great homes, many of which have sold for record high prices in their neighborhood. So why do I feel unemployed right now? Why does it feel like I’m starting over?
For the first time in…I don’t know how long, I don’t have any listings in the pipeline. My inventory is cleared out. This is simultaneously a tremendous relief and extremely nerve-wracking. Selling homes is a strenuous process, after all, and it’s nice to pause and reflect on several jobs well done. But there’s that pesky lingering thought of where the next paycheck will come from that threatens to ruin everything.
This is not at all an unusual occurrence; indeed, I would go so far as to say this is the situation in which a real estate agent’s true ability is tested. Though it would be a stretch to say that anyone could sell a home effectively, the fact is that I work in the Bay Area. This area, quite frankly, does a lot of the selling for you. People want to live here, arguably more than any other place in America. That goes a long way when it comes to selling a home.
No, this is the time when an agent’s ability to sell themself is put to the test. This is a multifaceted process that requires dedication, innovation and plenty of effort. There is no one correct way to do this, but there are plenty of incorrect ways. Fortunately, as a seasoned agent, I have developed my own individualized marketing plan. In some ways, the lack of listings is even a blessing, as it allows me more time to expand this plan’s scope and build my client base. And, most significantly, it gives me more time to work on the most important part of real estate: my relationships with my clients, family and friends. It is all these wonderful people that prevent a lull between listings from actually signifying “starting over.” An established base of satisfied clients is the surest way to keep my real estate business moving forward, no matter what.
Referrals like these form one of the pillars of my business, and I am always thrilled to help out aspiring home buyers and sellers. And speaking of appreciation, I’d like to take a moment to express how truly grateful I am for the referrals I get from all of you. As a token of my appreciation, I am pleased to offer a $100 Amazon gift card to anyone who refers a client to me! If you’re interested in taking advantage of this offer, please email me at ejohal@kw.com for more information.
While speaking about this topic, I would be remiss to not mention my Zillow page here. If I have ever helped you in any way related to your real estate goals, please consider taking a moment and leaving me a positive review. In this day and age, these reviews are hugely important for any agent looking to grow their business, and I always appreciate them immensely.
Well, that’s about it for today. Thanks for taking the time to read about this interesting period in the real estate business cycle. I’m off to pound the pavement, ramp up my marketing and go hard as the fall settles in around us. Being “unemployed” is hard work!