By Joseph Palumbo III
I was attending a real estate networking function recently. In attendance were Realtors, many of whom said they may need to find another job, were thankful their spouses are still working or thankful they were still employed.
This reflects how tough the real estate market has become for realtors. The real estate industry can be financially rewarding if you plan for the long haul. In today’s real estate market, set up that sales pipeline and follow up with potential clients.
Two of the biggest complaints I hear from the public about Realtors is getting in touch with them or receiving a return call from them in a timely manner. You must get back to your customers right away — no more than 24 to 48 hours. If you have a listing for one of your clients, you must answer and service any questions or concerns they may have in the same timeframe.
There is no excuse for not responding with a phone call or e-mail. Get an assistant to help you or team up with other Realtors. Offer an assistant a small hourly salary and a reasonable commission on sales generated. An assistant can be huge in helping with paperwork and completing tasks that will hinder you from being out in the field and bringing deals to fruition.
If you decide to work with other Realtors, formulate a game plan. Perhaps one goes out and gets listings and the other works the buyers. As long as you pick a solid partner and work out a fair deal, you will both do well.
You must attend networking functions. No one, aside from family and friends, usually knows you are a Realtor. If people do not know, then how can they use your services?
So How’s Business regarding being a successful Realtor in 2010? If you want to be a success in real estate, you must go out and hunt for business. Then you must professionally, efficiently and effectively work and service that business. When fruits begin to flourish back in the real estate arena, think how far ahead you will be in business volume and deal flow.
Contact Joe Palumbo at 516-297-4034 or jp@c21amhomes.com.
