How to Make Your Real Estate Career Survive

The real estate market is cyclical -- it is going to have its ups and downs. It's how you deal with the downturns that will determine your success as a licensed real estate salesperson. Many people think that becoming a real estate agent means fast cash. As the market changes -- homes stay on the market longer and interest rates rise -- many of the agents with this mentality will get impatient and leave real estate all together. Good agents, or agents that know the tricks of the trade, will survive in this ever-changing field and benefit in the long run. Here how:

1. Market, market, market -- place advertisements in local newspapers, create a mailer, or write an article for a real estate magazine.
2. Call past clients -- see if they are planning to move or know someone looking to buy or sell.
3. Provide incentives to potential customers -- offer to pay for a home inspection out of your own pocket, or take a smaller commission on a sale.
4. Create a new website or make additions to your current site -- add podcasts, maps, MLS listings, etc.
5. Network in neighborhoods within your community -- introduce yourself and hand out business cards to homeowners.
6. Set up a booth at community events -- offer free advice to potential buyers and sellers.
7. Attend first-time homebuyer seminars -- get your name and face in front of new homebuyers.
8. Complete your continuing education units (CEUs) for the year -- keep yourself busy and stay up to date with recent laws and changes.
9. Advance your career by getting your broker's license.

Labels: Accredited Real Estate School, real estate broker, real estate career, Real Estate School

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Choose the Best Real Estate Agent

You've decided that it's time for a new house. You've watched the office become a nursery, the garage get taken over by bikes and toys and the small backyard become even smaller with the addition of a swingset. The decision is made, but how do you find the best real estate agent for the job? Buying a house is one of the biggest investments you can make. Make sure you have the best agent on your side!

The Search

Start by asking your family and friends for the name of a good real estate agent. If they've had a positive experience with someone, he or she might be a good candidate for you. If you plan to move to a new area and don't know anyone, you can use the Internet to find a realtor in the area. You can also drive around your desired neighborhood and see if the same name is on some of the real estate signs. This can indicate that the individual specializes in the area you want and might have extensive knowledge of the homes, schools and surrounding community.

Interview the Real Estate Agent

Once you've decided on a suitable candidate, you should set up an initial meeting. Use this time to find out additional information about the real estate agent. Some questions you should ask include:
-- How long have you been licensed?
-- Have you received any awards or recognition?
-- What will be your marketing plan or strategy for me?
-- What are you hours? How can I reach you?
-- How much do you charge?
-- Can you provide some references?
-- What separates you from the competition?

Keep in Mind

When asking the above questions, the real estate agent should be able to demonstrate the following:

-- An understanding of your needs - and be willing to work with you until your needs are met
-- A sense of professionalism
-- Dedication to their job
-- Familiarity in the area where you want to move
-- Ability to provide strong references
-- Accessibility

Choosing a real estate agent is like choosing a partner in the homebuying process. You want that partner to act in your best interests at all times. Make sure that he or she is qualified, has quantifiable experience and will represent you with the highest standards.

Labels: Real Estate Agent

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