Realtor & Real Estate Agent Defined

When asking, “What is a realtor vs real estate agent, and what does it stand for?” it’s best to look at the definition. 

Realtor: According to NAR, the term REALTOR® has one, and only one, meaning: REALTOR® is a federally registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

Real estate agent: The Cambridge dictionary defines a real estate agent as someone who arranges the selling, renting, or management of homes, land, and buildings for the owners. 

Differences Between a Realtor and a Real Estate Agent

The public widely adopted the term “Realtor” as a universal title for real estate agents, but that’s not how it was initially intended. Realtors are National Association of Realtors (NAR) members, and the title was once reserved for members only. That aside, real estate agents and Realtors mostly share the same job responsibilities, but there are distinctions between them. Here is a further breakdown of the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent:

Important Note: The term ‘Realtor’ is a registered trademark and should always be spelled with a capital ‘R’ when referring to a real estate agent who is a NAR member. However, the general public often uses ‘realtor’ to refer to all real estate agents, not all of whom may be NAR members. In this case, the term should be spelled with a lowercase ‘r.’

Shared Duties & Responsibilities

Now that we’ve broken down the differences between a real estate agent and a realtor, let’s look at some similarities. When it comes down to it, the main goal of both is to represent our buyer, seller, and renter clients to the best of our abilities. But there are other shared duties and responsibilities that include the following:

• Abide by Fair Housing Laws
• Complete continuing education
• Find and evaluate properties
• Write contracts
• Provide market data
• Market their brand
• Generate leads
• Close sales
• Deliver necessary documents to all parties of a transaction
• Coordinate appraisals and home inspections
• Negotiate on behalf of clients
• Market their listings

Pros & Cons of Real Estate Agents vs Realtors

Of course, we can’t discuss the difference between a realtor and a real estate agent without breaking down the advantages and disadvantages of each. Before joining NAR to become a Realtor or choosing to remain a real estate agent independent of additional affiliations, take a look through the pros and cons of these two real estate roles. 

Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is the most common among real estate professionals, as obtaining this license is the first step to working in the real estate industry. It’s a slightly more cost-effective option since agents don’t have to worry about additional membership dues to NAR.

Realtors

Any real estate agent can join NAR by paying their membership dues. But depending on where they work and which brokerage they’re affiliated with, some agents might even be required to join if their broker is a member. Being a Realtor under NAR means they’re held to higher ethical standards, so there’s a perception that they’re more trustworthy.

What additional benefits does NAR give to its members?

When further diving into the difference between realtor and real estate agent, let’s take a closer look at NAR. As the largest trade association in the U.S., NAR provides its members with support and resources, including professional development courses, local discounts, and opportunities to contribute to charity and volunteer events. Some additional benefits of being a Realtor include the following:

• Public advertising and campaigns supporting Realtors
• Support for federal, state, and local policy initiatives
• Resources like Realtor Magazine, designations, and certifications
• International network
• Discounts for equipment, insurance, services, and tools
• Further educational and networking opportunities at the state and national conventions
• Opportunities to contribute to local and national charities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it better to say Realtor or real estate agent?

Is a real estate agent and broker the same thing?

Bringing It All Together

So whether you are a real estate agent, a NAR Realtor, or labeled a realtor by a client, it’s safe to say that there are more similarities than differences. As we’ve learned today, the term Realtor comes from being a part of the NAR network and gaining access to those advantages. However, guiding clients through the journey of buying, selling, and renting homes is paramount. No matter your title, working in real estate offers a chance to build rewarding relationships and enjoy the flexibility to create your success.

The post Realtor vs Real Estate Agent: What’s the Difference? appeared first on The Close.

What Is a Pop-by Gift?

Real estate pop-by gifts are small gestures of appreciation that help you stay connected with your clients. When you “pop by,” you’re not just dropping off a gift. You’re nurturing your client relationships in a meaningful way. These thoughtful gestures help you stay top of mind, build trust, and pave the way for even more leads and return business.

Pop-by Ideas for Real Estate 

With these realtor pop by ideas, create a routine to see your clients face-to-face throughout the year regularly. Your goal should be to keep the gifts simple but memorable and, most importantly, have fun with them!

1. Tea & Honey: ‘Clients Like You Are Tea-rific!’

• When to give: Fall, Winter
• Cost: Around $5 to $15 per pack of tea and honey (+ $.50 per printed tag)
• Purchase: Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack + Honey Sticks from Amazon

Tea has a way of making people feel all warm and cozy inside. That’s why it makes for the perfect real estate pop-by gift during fall and winter. There are so many delicious flavors to choose from, including limited-edition holiday options. If your clients are tea connoisseurs, consider going for a high-end tea. And don’t forget the honey—go for a local brand if you can.

Once you’ve chosen the perfect tea, search online for a customizable tag to add your own branding and message. Pop the tea bag and a honey stick in a gift bag, tie it up with your custom tag, and voila—you’ve got a thoughtful and heartwarming gift. 

2. S’mores Kit: ‘I’m Never Too Busy for S’More of Your Referrals’

• When to give: Summer, Fall
• Cost: Around $18 for kit of 18 (+ $10 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: S’mores Kit—Makes 18 S’mores from Amazon and S’mores Pop by Tag from Etsy

Who doesn’t love the nostalgic feeling of sharing s’mores? Giving your clients a s’mores kit and a cute card will help them think of you as someone sweet. The best part about these kits is that you can keep it simple or fancy it up by including gourmet chocolate and handcrafted marshmallows. This pop-by gift is the perfect go-to option for visiting multiple clients since you can easily make many s’mores kits at once.

3. Heart-shaped Cookies or Chocolates: ‘You Are the Heart of My Business!’

• When to give: Winter, Valentine’s Day
• Cost: Around $3 per cookie (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Heart-shaped cookies from Wicked Good Cookies and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Roses are red, violets are blue, holidays are the perfect excuse to do realtor pop-bys for you. Choose festive heart-shaped cookies for Valentine’s Day and spread the love to your clients and sphere. Even better, order custom cookies with your branding on them! 

4. Bag of Goldfish Crackers: ‘Fishing for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: $9 per box of 20 packs (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Goldfish crackers from Walmart and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Don’t be afraid to couple your pop-by with an “ask” on occasion. Make custom stickers with the phrase “fishing for your referrals,” along with your information, and place them on any fish-themed snack. Switch between sweet and savory by picking up Goldfish crackers and Swedish Fish. This sweet and salty gift idea is a light-hearted way to ask for referrals while showing your clients that you appreciate them.

Pro Tip: While you’re in the spirit of asking for things, consider asking your client for a testimonial that you can use to promote your business. Sometimes, a testimonial will be just what you need to lead to your next client.

5. Packet of Seeds: ‘Thank You for Helping My Business Grow’

• When to give: Spring
• Cost: Around $6 per variety pack (+ $45 for 25 custom seed envelopes)
• Purchase: Seed variety packets from Walmart and Pop by Envelope from Etsy

One of my favorite spring pop by ideas for realtors is a packet of seeds. It’s the gift that keeps on giving! Whether it’s plants, veggies for their garden, or beautiful flowers, your clients will surely think of you as they watch them grow. Get a variety of seeds and order personalized packets to put them in, creating your very own blossoming business cards.

6. Bag of Popcorn: ‘Popping by to Offer an Update on the Current Market’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $6 per box of 12 (+ $.50 per unit for tags)
• Purchase: Popcorn from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When it comes to simple yet delightful gifts, nothing beats a bag of popcorn. Whether it’s microwave popcorn or individual-sized bags, it doesn’t get easier than this. Order custom tags or stickers to attach to the popcorn featuring your personal note and contact information. Keep these tags on hand, and you’ll always be ready to brighten a client’s day with a friendly visit. This gift really puts the perfect POP into your real estate pop by gifts. 

7. Sparklers or Flags: ‘You Add So Much Sparkle to My Business’

• When to give: Summer
• Cost: Around $9 per 6 packs of sparklers (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Sparklers from Walmart and Pop by Tag from Etsy

If you’re looking for sizzling summer pop-by ideas for realtors, this could be the one for you. Buy some sparklers, pop-its, or American flags to create a fun and memorable celebration for your clients. These goodies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. If sparklers aren’t an option, anything with an American flag theme will do the trick. 

8. Small Pumpkin & Carving Kit: ‘I’m Always Ready to Carve Out Time for You’

• When to give: Fall
• Cost: Around $7 per kit (+ cost of pumpkin)
• Purchase: Pumpkin carving kit from Amazon (+ pumpkin from your local nursery)

If you’re stumped for gift ideas, stick with festive and fun. Whether you align your pop-by with an upcoming holiday or choose something seasonal, coordinating your visits with a purpose makes it easier. After all, it’s not about finding the perfect gift; it’s about sharing a warm gesture and building a solid connection. In the fall, pick up some small pumpkins and carving kits, then head on over to your clients’ homes to share the joy of the season.

Pro Tip: Include a note encouraging your clients to tag you in a social media post with pictures of their carved pumpkins to enter a drawing to win a gift card!

9. Bottle of Wine: ‘I Have Nothing to Wine About With Clients Like You’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $8 or more per bottle (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Wine from Walmart (or local liquor store) and Pop by Card from Etsy

Offering a bottle of wine is said to be a gesture of appreciation. While this might initially seem extravagant, it doesn’t have to be. Reserve this option for your loyal clients or those who have referred business to you. There are so many different price ranges from which to choose, allowing you to select the perfect bottle.

Pro Tip: Be mindful when gifting alcohol, as not everyone drinks. If you’re unsure whether or not your client would appreciate this option, choose one of our other gifts to stay on the safe side. 

10. Free Cup of Coffee: ‘Thanks a Whole Latte for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $5 to $10 per gift card ($15 for ten pre-printed cards)
• Purchase: Coffee gift card from Starbucks (or your local coffee shop) and Pop by Card from Etsy

Not all real estate pop by ideas have to include beverages, but we can’t leave out coffee. It’s hard to go wrong with a gift card to a local coffee shop, and it would work perfectly for people who have just moved into a new neighborhood. With this option, you’ll get the added bonus of supporting a local business.

Pro Tip: While it may not be the same as an in-person visit, you can still brighten your client’s day by sending them a virtual cup of coffee (in the form of a gift card) via text or email. This virtual gift is a beautiful way to express gratitude if you’re pressed for time and can’t make it for a face-to-face thank you.

11. Pumpkin Pie or Fall-themed Treats: ‘Grateful for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Fall
• Cost: Around $15 to $20 per pie ($15 for 10 pre-printed cards)
• Purchase: Pecan pie from Wood Pecan Company (or your local bakery) and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Showing your clients gratitude is what pop by gifts are all about. So, lining up some of these visits with Thanksgiving is a no-brainer. Pick up some pies and tie a thank-you note to the pie with a bow, and you’ll be all set! Make sure to time your deliveries close to the holiday so your clients can share the joy with their loved ones. You might even land a referral when their friends and family ask where they got the tasty treat. 

12. Easter Candy: ‘Your Referrals Are Eggstra Special’

• When to give: Spring, Easter
• Cost: Around $2 per candy (+ $7 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Reese’s Easter Egg from Walmart and Pop by Sticker from Chevelly Designs

You can’t go wrong with a simple and easy gift idea that your clients might really look forward to every year! Get your hands on some limited edition Reese’s Easter egg-inspired chocolates (you know the ones!) that only come around once a year, and add a personalized sticker to the wrapper. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you could even put a few in a cute gift bag and throw in some other festive candy.

Whenever you give food as a pop-by gift, be mindful of allergens. When in doubt, avoiding common food allergens like nuts, soy, dairy, and wheat is a good idea.

13. Flashlights: ‘Don’t Be in the Dark About the Real Estate Market!’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $38 per pack of 30 (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Mini Flashlights from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

The beauty of real estate pop by gifts is that they’re designed to be small tokens of appreciation that keep you on your clients’ minds. Flashlights may seem ordinary, but they’re a great way to remind your clients that you’ve got their back. They represent your ability to guide them every step of the way. Just attach a card with a friendly note and your contact information, and you’re all set!

14. Lotto Tickets: ‘Lucky to Have You & Your Referrals’

• When to give: St. Patrick’s Day or Anytime
• Cost: Around $2 to $10 per ticket (+ $20 for a set of ten cards)
• Purchase: Lotto tickets from your local store and Pop by Card from Etsy

Let your clients know how lucky you feel to have their support, and spread that good luck by giving them a lottery ticket. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or any time of year, show your appreciation with this fun pop-by gift idea. Get a set of custom cards that can hold your business card and the lotto ticket. Easily grab these whenever you want to stop by and see your clients.

15. Sunblock: ‘Don’t Let Your Friends Get Burned in This Market’

• When to give: Summer
• Cost: Around $38 per box of 24 (+ $7 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Box of travel size sunblock from Amazon or your local dollar store and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Catchy real estate marketing helps set you apart from other agents and gives you a chance to show a bit of your personality. For example, in the summer, give out sunblock with a tagline like, “Don’t let your friends get burned in this market.” It’s simple yet memorable; every time your clients use the sunblock, they’ll think of you. Opt for travel-size bottles and buy in bulk to cut your costs.

16. Cooking Seasoning: ‘From Your Seasoned Real Estate Professional’ 

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $3 per bottle (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Cooking seasoning from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Don’t be afraid to brag about yourself a little! If you’re looking for a pop by gift to remind your clients of all your hard-earned experience, hand out cooking seasoning. Not only is it a practical and long-lasting gift, but it’s a subtle way to show that you really know your stuff when it comes to real estate. Purchase various seasonings and stick a custom label on them, dubbing yourself a “seasoned agent.” 

17. First Aid Kit: ‘Let Me Be Your First Aid for All Your Real Estate Needs’

• When to give: Anytime; or in September for First Aid Day
• Cost: Around $2 per kit (+ $8 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: First aid kit from Amazon (or your local dollar store) and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When all else fails, check out the “national days” that take place throughout the year for some gift inspiration. September is all about safety and national preparedness, but on the 2nd of the month, it’s also “first aid day.” This season is perfect for connecting with your clients, raising awareness, and giving out mini first aid kits.

Pro Tip: Team up with a home security company to amp up your promotional efforts and show your clients that you genuinely care about their safety and well-being. If possible, add an exclusive discount code for a home security system to the back of your card to give them a little extra something.

18. Donuts: ‘Sprinkling Joy & Gratitude for Being a Sweet Part of My Business!’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $2 per donut (+ $6 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Donuts from your local bakery or donut shop and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When you’re creating your marketing plan and scheduling your realtor pop by ideas, you don’t always have to think outside the box. In fact, some ideas are best inside the box. Take donuts, for example! Whether it’s a single donut or a whole dozen, pair them with a card to express your joy and gratitude that your clients have chosen you as their real estate resource. This option also allows you to support a local bakery and build connections in the community.

19. Shout Wipes: ‘Give Me a Shout for All Your Real Estate Needs’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $3 per pack of 4 (+ $6 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: On-the-go Shout Wipe from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Want your clients to give you a shout? Gift them some Shout wipes, letting them know you’re available whenever they’re ready to buy or sell. Yes, your pop-bys can be this quick and easy! Plus, you might get a thank-you call the next time your client encounters a coffee stain emergency.

20. Hand Sanitizer: ‘If I Can Give You a Hand, Please Call’

• When to give: Winter or Anytime
• Cost: Around $9 per pack of 5 (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Hand sanitizer from Bath & Body Works and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Gifting hand sanitizer is a great way to remind your clients that you’re here to support them with all their real estate needs. It’s a simple and thoughtful gesture they can use often, helping keep you top-of-mind. Purchase hand sanitizer in bulk to grab and go for spontaneous visits. Don’t forget to tie a short note around the bottle to make it more personal. 

How to Send a Pop-by Gift 

When putting together your real estate pop by ideas, don’t forget to think about the best way to deliver them to your clients. While traditional pop-bys involve visiting your clients in person, alternative methods exist. Whether you operate in a city with numerous buildings and gated communities or simply want to respect your client’s privacy, physically visiting each client’s home may not always be an option. 

• Stop by your client’s house: The first option for giving a pop by gift is to actually visit your clients in person. This most personal approach will lead to a stronger connection and bond with your clients.  
• Use a delivery service: If you’d still like a personalized delivery, you can hire a delivery service to bring the gifts to your client’s house for you. This service is not the same as showing up and conversing, but it could be an option if you have a fragile gift that you want hand-delivered when you can’t make it. 
• Put a gift in the mail: If you find it challenging to get to your clients’ houses or work in a location where it’s impossible, schedule your gifts to be delivered via mail. This approach will require you to choose gifts that are easy to mail, but it can still be done. 
• Send a digital gift: The quickest and easiest way to get a gift to your client is to send a digital gift. There are various gift card options that you can send and other online gifting services that allow your clients to select a gift of their choosing.  

As a general rule of thumb, giving your clients a heads-up before you stop by their house is always a good idea. Unexpected visits might not have the effect you’re hoping for. Once your clients get into the swing of these visits as part of your business, they may even start to look forward to them. 

How to Choose the Right Gift

When sorting through realtor pop-by ideas and making a plan for the year, consider the following steps to choose what gifts you’ll send, when you’ll send them, and how much you’ll spend. Planning out your pop-bys is as important as planning any other business task. 

• Decide on your budget
• Categorize your clients
• Decide what holidays you will gift for
• Choose the seasonal gifts you want to send
• Align gifts with market conditions
• Order cards or tags for each gift
• Decide on your delivery method
• Set the pace and timeframe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do pop-bys work for realtors?

How do you make yourself stand out in real estate?

How can I impress a real estate client?

Bringing It All Together

Staying in touch with your people doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. Use these pop by ideas for real estate marketing or to come up with your unique gift-giving concepts. Make connecting with your clients an enjoyable experience; remember, the bond you create is what really counts.

Are there fun or affordable gifts you swear by? Know a great source for nice-looking pop-by gifts? Let us know in the comments.

The post 20 Clever Real Estate Pop-by Ideas to Get More Referrals appeared first on The Close.

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What Is Lead Nurturing? 

When considering how to nurture real estate leads, think of it as relationship building. While you will use a strategy akin to a sales funnel, leading a prospect from capture to close, you are also forming a genuine connection that will hopefully create a long-lasting relationship and yield referral business. 

The goal of lead nurturing is to be the agent who your leads call when they’re ready to make a move. This is where your patience pays off and results from the genuine foundation on which your relationship was built. 

• Awareness: In this initial stage, leads just learn about your services. They seek information, resources, and education but may not know much about you and your business. They will review your real estate website, search online, and check out your social media profiles. 
• Interest: The next step is when a lead shows interest in working with you. They may call you or attend your open house. Your goal at this point is to build a relationship with the lead and address any questions they may have. 
• Consideration: Once leads know their needs, they research possible solutions. If they’re a seller lead, they’ll consider if you’ve sold properties similar to theirs and how many listings you have. During this stage, they actively look for options, compare features and costs, and try to find the best fit for their needs.
• Conversion: You’ve been waiting for this stage—you’ve converted the lead into a client! At this point, you will have your new client sign the necessary representation paperwork.
• Closing: The final stage is when you start actively working directly with your client to help them reach their real estate goals.

The idea of nurturing your leads for months, or even years, may seem tedious. However, tracking the progress of each lead and understanding where they are in the funnel will help you stay efficient and consistent. Starting from the ‘awareness’ stage, right at the top of the funnel, your strategic approach will propel every lead towards the ‘closing’ stage in no time. 

Real Estate Lead Nurturing Strategies & Tools

Now that you’ve set your systems and processes in place, it’s time to take the next step and start building connections with potential clients. With these seven easy steps and helpful scripts, you’ll not only bring in more leads but also improve your conversion skills.

Tip 1: Make Sure Your Database Is in Your CRM

Transferring all your leads and clients to a CRM is a great way to ensure you’re on top of all your outreach and communication efforts. With a full real estate CRM, you’ll have all your info and data at your fingertips whenever needed. Create a personalized system that suits you best. However, automating the transfer of leads from text or email directly into the CRM will save you time and effort and help you create a streamlined nurturing system. Here’s what a CRM will do for you: 

• Lead capture system: Create a pipeline in your CRM to segment and organize your leads so you know where they are in the sales funnel. There are many real estate lead generation platforms from which to choose. 
• Outreach and follow-up process: Once you have the leads in your database, you’ll need a system for reaching out to them as soon as possible. Automate these drip campaigns through your CRM to provide a series of follow-ups that build trust, provide value, and encourage your database to reach out to you for your services. 
• Prioritize leads likely to convert: Based on user activity and responses, CRMs will help you prioritize the leads with the most opportunity. Some CRMs come with predictive analytics that shows the likelihood of sellers who may be ready to list their homes. 

Want a system that does all the above tasks? Check out Top Producer! It is an efficient CRM with high-level functionality and many options for lead gen and nurturing. Their social advertising function sends leads directly to your Top Producer CRM, where the automated nurturing system kicks in, increasing your conversion rate.

Grow your database with a steady stream of affordable, exclusive real estate leads from social media ads. Social Connect from Top Producer is designed to get you a high volume of leads and move them through your pipeline until they’re ready to buy and sell real estate. Connect with an average of 30 consumers interested in real estate in your local market for just $300 per month!

How Social Connect works:

• Digital advertising experts create and run social media ad campaigns on your behalf
• You get exclusive leads from your desired local area
• All leads are automatically nurtured via text and email on your behalf until they’re ready to connect, saving you time and effort

Tip 2: Utilize Your Phone to Make Calls Or Send Texts

While methods of communication have changed over the years, there is still value in a good old-fashioned phone call. When you receive a lead, call the lead as soon as you can. If you need help starting a conversation, practice with phone scripts before you start taking leads so you will be prepared with questions. 

If you can’t get through, send a text message as a follow-up to the phone call, as some people may initially prefer to communicate that way. Phone call check-ins should also be a regular part of your follow-up process, as this helps build the relationship.

Pro Tip: Remember to stay up-to-date on the do-not-call list. If a lead is not on the list, always respect their wishes if they request that you stop contacting them.

Tip 3: Set Up Drip Campaigns

When you’re sending emails, it’s great to keep things interesting for your recipients. Mix it up with four to 10 different targeted emails in your campaigns, strategically spaced out over several days or weeks. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where you stay top of mind without overwhelming anyone. 

• Email 1 (Day 1): Introduction email to you and your services/newsletter
• Email 2 (Day 3): Listings in the area that have sold in the last three months, stats about how quickly and how much these were sold for
• Email 3 (Day 6): Informational packet for sellers
• Email 4 (Day 8): Send link to receive a free home valuation report
• Email 5 (Day 11): Show examples of homes sold and marketing tactics that contributed

The key to a solid drip campaign is to remember your goal: to create a lasting relationship that nurtures your leads over time. Your emails should lead to a call to action (CTA), such as an in-person meeting.

Tip 4: Create Monthly Newsletters 

Another great way to engage with your leads, showcase your expertise, and build trust is by sending out a monthly newsletter. While drip campaigns are geared towards driving sales, newsletters focus on offering valuable insights and allowing recipients to get to know you and your business more deeply.

Use a site like Coffee & Contracts to schedule newsletters in advance and save time. Coordinate your content with seasons and holidays, and don’t forget to include community news for the areas you serve. It’s a great way to keep everyone in the loop and build stronger connections.

Tip 5: Engage on Social Media

Staying in touch through social media is super important these days. Engage with your prospects on social platforms instead of just using emails, calls, and texts. Comment on prospects’ posts, send a relevant article, or even tag them in posts about great new spots in town. Keep the conversation going, and I bet you’ll start to see those friends on social media turn into clients and referrals.

Tip 6: Send Direct Mail 

Before the days of phone calls, there were—you guessed it—letters in the mail. Although times have changed, direct mail shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s still a tried and true method of connecting and nurturing leads. Send out postcards, flyers, and even a quarterly recipe. Take it further and send handwritten notes to warm leads further down the funnel.

Signing up to work with a direct mail company allows you to set up a seamless mailing campaign. With a company like ProspectsPLUS!, you can select from various direct mailers, including postcards, flyers, brochures, and door hangers. You also have the option to schedule your campaigns for the entire year, ensuring that you remain top of mind and provide valuable information.

Tip 7: Host Events

A key element to an effective lead nurturing strategy is to connect face-to-face. When leads have the chance to meet you in person, they are much more likely to feel comfortable and confident in choosing your services. Organize an event to provide them with this opportunity. Host a class on the home buying process, throw a client appreciation event, or hold an annual holiday party. I’ve also invited leads to one of my open houses as a way to meet in person and showcase my expertise.

Best Practices for Lead Nurturing 

By incorporating these lead nurturing best practices into your approach, you’ll have the opportunity to show off your unique style as an agent and how you get things done. Creating your own systems for your personal business is a great way to distinguish yourself from other agents.

• Follow-up with leads promptly
• Stay organized by categorizing your leads
• Personalize your communication
• Use multi-channel outreach
• Create targeted campaigns
• Always provide valuable content
• Practice patience
• Use active listening to connect with leads
• Tap into your customer service skills
• Practice time management
• Use past testimonials to build trust
• Have confidence in your skills
• Automate some of your outreach
• Set pace and timeframe for outreach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do real estate agents get leads?

How important is lead generation in real estate?

What is the ROI of lead nurturing?

Bringing It All Together

Lead nurturing in real estate is much like everything else—best when practiced authentically. When you put together a thoughtful nurturing campaign, with the help of your CRM, and begin a warm, lasting relationship, there is more of a chance of turning that lead into a happy client. Have any tips or strategies on how to nurture real estate leads and convert them? Leave us a comment below!

The post Real Estate Lead Nurturing: 7 Strategies for Conversion in 2024 appeared first on The Close.

Snag our free home offer letter templates, learn what to include and avoid in your letter, and get the inside scoop on how to deliver it to sellers.

What Is a Real Estate Home Offer Letter? 

A real estate home offer letter, sometimes called a cover letter, is a written document submitted by a real estate agent on behalf of a potential buyer. This letter accompanies the formal purchase offer, expressing the buyer’s interest in purchasing a specific property, and helps the seller visualize the offer terms. The letter should highlight particular terms or conditions that the buyer believes will make their offer more appealing to the seller.

The goal of the real estate home offer letter is to connect with the seller to set the buyer’s offer apart from others. This strategy is particularly useful in competitive real estate markets where sellers receive multiple offers on their property.

Important Note: Don’t confuse a home offer letter with a buyer love letter. Offer letters, written by agents, focus on the technical details of the purchase. Love letters, written by buyers, express personal feelings about the property. See what the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) says about Buyer Love Letters.

6 Items to Include in the Home Offer Letter

Imagine you are the seller for a moment. You have multiple offers in front of you. Which offers will you look at more carefully: the offers accompanied by a clear, detailed home offer letter or those without one? I’ll let you answer that question yourself.

When competition is high, real estate agents seek ways to get their clients’ offers noticed. Now is the time to showcase your ability to deliver the offer clearly and concisely. Real estate offer letter templates vary, but make sure to include the following elements: 

1. Introduce yourself professionally
2. Provide details of the offer
3. Explain the contingencies
4. Flex the financials
5. Close the deal
6. Put a signature on it

1. Introduce Yourself Professionally

Open your letter with a professional greeting to the listing agent. Clearly state your role as the buyer’s agent, introducing the letter’s purpose as an offer submission. Keep it clear and to the point, directing the focus toward the property and the offer details. Ensure the cover letter is well-structured, free of grammatical errors, and written in a professional tone. Focus on the property and offer details to create a strong first impression.

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[Date]

[Listing Agent Name]
[Real Estate Agency]

RE: Offer to Purchase – [Property Address]

Dear [Listing Agent Name],

I am writing to submit an offer on behalf of my clients, [Buyer Name(s)], to purchase the property located at [Property Address].

2. Provide Details of the Offer

Provide a comprehensive breakdown of the offer. Be transparent about the buyer’s financing situation, ensuring the listing agent and seller will understand all the terms of the offer and what makes your buyer stand out from the competition. You can choose between two different styles when presenting the offer details. You can write it out as a paragraph or list the details in a bulleted list.

PARAGRAPH VERSION

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We are prepared to offer [offer amount] for the property with [earnest money amount] as an earnest money deposit. [Optional: earnest money calculation explanation.] We are making this purchase [describe the financing situation objectively, e.g., preapproved for a mortgage, able to make a cash offer]. An inspection period of [# days] is requested to conduct [list of inspections]. We [are/are not] flexible on the closing date. [Optional: provide reasoning.] This offer expires on [Date] at [Time]. [Optional: provide reason for the deadline.]

BULLETED VERSION

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Purchase Price: $[Offer Price]
Earnest Money Deposit: $[Earnest Money Deposit Amount]
Financing: [Financing Type (e.g., Conventional Mortgage, Cash)]
Inspection Period: [Number] days
Contingencies: Briefly explain any contingencies tied to the offer
Closing Date: [Proposed Closing Date]
Offer Expiration: This offer expires at [Time] on [Date].

[Briefly describe any justification for price, earnest money, inspection period, closing dates, or offer expirations.]

3. Explain the Contingencies

Contingencies are conditions or stipulations included in the offer that, when met, allow the buyer to proceed with the purchase. Each contingency acts as a safeguard, offering the buyer protection and the opportunity to withdraw from the deal without penalties if certain conditions are not satisfied. 

After defining the contingency type, take this opportunity to showcase the buyer’s awareness of potential challenges and their willingness to work collaboratively with the seller to address them, leading to a smooth closing.

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This offer is contingent upon [list contingencies objectively, e.g., sale of current home, satisfactory home inspection, mortgage approval]. We understand that contingencies can impact the timeline. [Buyer Name(s)] are highly motivated buyers and are committed to working diligently to meet all contingencies on time to ensure a smooth closing.

4. Flex the Financials

Transparency about the buyer’s financing situation is important, even if the offer is not the strongest. Clearly outline the buyer’s financial strength by providing a preapproval letter. If the offer is cash, submit redacted proof of funds to strengthen the offer further. If funds are limited, such as in the case of a first-time home buyer, clearly explain how the buyer has prepared for this purchase.

Common types of financing include the following: 

• Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
• Veterans Affairs (VA)
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• Conventional
• Cash

5. Close the Deal

Wrap up the letter with a summary of the main points, reiterating the strengths of the offer. Assure the listing agent and seller about your and your buyer’s commitment to a seamless transaction. Encourage open communication between both parties and express your willingness to promptly address any questions or concerns. Finally, express gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to work together.

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We believe our offer is strong and represents a serious buyer who is ready to close quickly. We are confident that [Buyer Name(s)] will take excellent care of this property. We are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you toward a successful closing.

6. Put a Signature on It

If possible, provide a signature line on the letter instead of typed text. This adds an element of personalization that helps the listing agent and seller view this purchase as more than just another transaction. Underneath your signature, provide the phone number and email address where you can be reached.

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Sincerely,

[Your Signature (Optional)]

[Your Printed Name]
[Your Real Estate Agency]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

Pro Tip: Build trust with leads. Showcase expertise and highlight skills in real estate lead generation by sharing home offer letter templates and successful letters you’ve written in initial buyer consultations. Explain how your personalized approach can help buyers win an offer!

What to Avoid in Your Offer Letter 

When creating home purchase offer letter templates, it’s important to avoid certain details that could potentially harm yourself or your buyer. Here are some key things to steer clear of:

• Overly personal information: While a degree of personalization is encouraged, avoid sharing excessive personal details about your client or yourself. Stick to information relevant to the transaction to maintain professionalism and comply with privacy norms and fair housing guidelines.
• Ignoring the seller’s preferences: If the seller has provided specific instructions or preferences for offer submissions, make sure to adhere to them. Ignoring such guidelines could create a negative impression and potentially harm your offer’s chances of acceptance.
• Making unrealistic promises: Avoid making promises you cannot keep or that are beyond your control. This may lead to disappointment and potentially harm your credibility.
• Being too impersonal: While you should maintain professionalism, don’t make the letter overly formal. Find a balance between professionalism and a friendly, approachable tone to connect with the seller on a human level.
• Neglecting legal and ethical considerations: Be mindful of fair housing laws and avoid any language or content that could be interpreted as discriminatory (words, phrases, or statements that stereotype specific individuals or groups based on their race, nationality, or protected class). Also, refrain from providing legal advice unless you are licensed to do so.

How to Deliver the Letter to the Seller’s Agent

Once you have crafted your letter, it’s time to get the letter in the right hands. Send the home offer letter in a professional format, typically as an email attachment or a physical document, depending on the agent’s preference. Be aware of any deadlines set by the listing agent and seller to ensure you are delivering the letter and the offer in a timely manner. 

• Personalize your email subject line: Write a professional subject line for your email, for example, “Offer Submission for [Property Address] – [Your Client’s Name].” This helps the listing agent identify the purpose of the email immediately.
• Include a cover email: In your email, provide a brief introduction and a quick overview of the key terms of the offer. For example, highlight the purchase price and closing date of the offer.
• Attach the offer letter: Clearly state that the offer letter is attached. Keep the email concise, encouraging the listing agent to review the attached document.
• Confirm receipt: Request a confirmation of receipt from the listing agent. You can include a sentence like, “Please confirm receipt at your earliest convenience.”
• Follow preferred communication channels: If the listing agent has a preferred mode of communication, such as email or an online platform, adhere to their preferences. 
• Consider a follow-up call: If you haven’t received confirmation within a reasonable timeframe, consider making a follow-up call to ensure the offer has been received and inquire about the seller’s timeline for reviewing offers.
• Respect timing: Be mindful of any specified deadlines or preferred submission times indicated by the listing agent. Timely delivery reflects professionalism and respect for the agent’s and seller’s time.
• Maintain professionalism: Throughout the communication, maintain a professional and respectful tone. Avoid unnecessary urgency or pressure tactics, as these may have a negative impact on the negotiation process and your reputation.
• Be responsive: Once the offer is submitted, be prepared to respond quickly to any inquiries or requests for additional information from the listing agent. 

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your offer letter is delivered in a professional and effective manner, increasing the likelihood of a positive response from the listing agent.

Home Offer Letter Templates

Real estate offer letters are necessary in today’s hot real estate market. They help buyers and agents craft strong overviews of an offer that grab sellers’ attention. These house purchase offer letter templates act as a roadmap, guiding you on how to professionally express your clients’ interest in a property.  

Using a well-written template ensures your offer is clear, persuasive, and follows industry best practices. You can tailor the home offer letter real estate templates below based on the specific property and your situation.

Template 1: Noncontingent Offer—Paragraph Version

The first example is a paragraph-style home offer letter template in which the sale is not subject to any contingencies. It has a traditional letter format and provides all the details of the proposed sale.

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[Date]

[Listing Agent Name]
[Real Estate Agency]

RE: Offer to Purchase – [Property Address]

Dear [Listing Agent Name],

I am writing to submit an offer on behalf of my clients, [Buyer Name(s)], to purchase the property located at [Property Address].

They are very interested in this home and believe it would be a perfect fit for their needs. We have been very impressed with [mention objective features of the property, e.g., the spacious layout, the well-maintained landscaping, the desirable neighborhood]. We believe this property would be a [describe your situation objectively, e.g., ideal location for our work commute].

[Buyer Name(s)] are [Describe Buyer Type (e.g., first-time homebuyers, purchasing a vacation home)]. They are very excited about this property and are committed to a smooth and timely transaction.

We are prepared to offer [offer amount] for the property with [earnest money amount] as an earnest money deposit. [Optional: earnest money calculation explanation.] We are making this purchase [describe the financing situation objectively, e.g., preapproved for a mortgage, able to make a cash offer]. An inspection period of [# Days] is requested to conduct [List inspections]. We [are/are not] flexible on the closing date. [Optional: provide reasoning.] This offer expires on [Date] at [Time]. [Optional: provide reason for the deadline.]

We believe our offer is strong and represents a serious buyer who is ready to close quickly. We are confident that [Buyer Name(s)] will take excellent care of this property. We are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you towards a successful closing.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (Optional)]

[Your Printed Name]
[Your Real Estate Agency]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

Template 2: Contingent—Paragraph Version

This example is a paragraph-style template in which the sale is subject to certain contingencies. It is still in a traditional letter format but adds the details of the contingency. Here you will add details about financing, appraisal, sale of prior home, or any other situation that needs to be completed for a successful sale. Remember to be specific and transparent.

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[Date]

[Listing Agent Name]
[Real Estate Agency]

RE: Offer to Purchase – [Property Address]

Dear [Listing Agent Name],

I am writing to submit an offer on behalf of my clients, [Buyer Name(s)], to purchase the property located at [Property Address].

They are very interested in this home and believe it would be a perfect fit for their needs. We have been very impressed with [mention objective features of the property, e.g., the spacious layout, the well-maintained landscaping, the desirable neighborhood]. We believe this property would be a [describe your situation objectively, e.g., ideal location for our work commute].

[Buyer Name(s)] are [Describe Buyer Type (e.g., first-time homebuyers, purchasing a vacation home)]. They are very excited about this property and are committed to a smooth and timely transaction.

We are prepared to offer [offer amount] for the property with [earnest money amount] as an earnest money deposit. [Optional: earnest money calculation explanation.] We are making this purchase [describe the financing situation objectively, e.g., preapproved for a mortgage, able to make a cash offer]. An inspection period of [# Days] is requested to conduct [List inspections]. We [are/are not] flexible on the closing date. [Optional: provide reasoning.] This offer expires on [Date] at [Time]. [Optional: provide reason for the deadline.]

This offer is contingent upon [list contingencies objectively, e.g., sale of current home, satisfactory home inspection, mortgage approval]. We understand that contingencies can impact the timeline. [Buyer Name(s)] are highly motivated buyers and are committed to working diligently to meet all contingencies in a timely manner to ensure a smooth closing. We are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you towards a successful closing.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (Optional)]

[Your Printed Name]
[Your Real Estate Agency]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

Template 3: Bulleted Style—Noncontingent

This bulleted example for a house offer letter template provides the same level of detail as the paragraph version. The layout is a bit more straightforward and easier to read. There is no correct answer for which template you use. Choose the template that best fits your writing style.

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[Date]

[Listing Agent Name]
[Real Estate Agency]

RE: Offer to Purchase – [Property Address]

Dear [Listing Agent Name],

I am writing to submit an offer on behalf of my clients, [Buyer Name(s)], to purchase the property located at [Property Address].

They are very interested in this home and believe it would be a perfect fit for their needs. We have been very impressed with [mention objective features of the property, e.g., the spacious layout, the well-maintained landscaping, the desirable neighborhood]. We believe this property would be a [describe your situation objectively, e.g., ideal location for our work commute].

[Buyer Name(s)] are [Describe Buyer Type (e.g., first-time homebuyers, purchasing a vacation home)]. They are very excited about this property and are committed to a smooth and timely transaction.

Purchase Price: $[Offer Price]
Earnest Money Deposit: $[Earnest Money Deposit Amount] 
Financing: [Financing Type (e.g., Conventional Mortgage, Cash)]
Inspection Period: [Number] days
Contingencies: [Briefly explain any contingencies tied to the offer]
Closing Date: [Proposed Closing Date]
Offer Expiration: This offer expires at [Time] on [Date].

[Briefly describe any justification for price, earnest money, inspection period, closing dates, or offer expirations.]

We believe our offer is strong and represents a serious buyer who is ready to close quickly. We are confident that [Buyer Name(s)] will take excellent care of this property. We are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you towards a successful closing.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (Optional)]

[Your Printed Name]
[Your Real Estate Agency]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth it to write a cover letter for a home offer?

How do you write a counter-offer letter for a house?

What are the guidelines surrounding real estate offer letters and fair housing?

Bringing It All Together

A strong real estate home offer letter isn’t just part of an agent’s job—it’s a secret weapon in competitive markets. Mastering this skill is one way you can set yourself apart from other agents. By focusing on details, being transparent, and adding a personal touch, you’ll show sellers you’re serious about making your client’s dream home a reality. Do you use an offer letter in your business?

The post An Agent Guide to Writing a Home Offer Letter (+ Templates) appeared first on The Close.

What Is Circle Prospecting?

Circle prospecting is a real estate strategy that agents use when trying to generate more leads. The goal is to laser-focus on a smaller area surrounding a specific property, making building solid and lasting relationships easier. Plus, you can showcase your experience in the area by leveraging closed transactions. Using this prospecting technique gives you a reason to reach out to potential clients, making it feel more like a warm outreach rather than using the cold call method. 

Before You Begin Circle Prospecting

Circle prospecting is a great way to connect with more people, but without strong systems in place, it may not live up to its potential. I get it—you’re eager to start filling your pipeline, but it’s crucial to take the time to establish a solid foundation for maximum prospecting success. To prepare, make sure to do the following things: 

• Scrub your database for any numbers on the “do not call” list. 
• Create a solid system for outreach and follow-up.  
• Establish the goals you want to accomplish with the circle prospecting method. 
• Practice your circle prospecting scripts. 
• Choose a tool, like Vulcan7, to help you with lead conversion and follow-up.

Vulcan7 is a lead generation platform that provides agents with seller leads and tools to convert leads into clients effectively. Agents can leverage its circle prospecting software to target neighborhoods and access reliable databases.

Circle Prospecting Tips & Scripts 

Now that you’ve got everything set up, it’s time to take the next step and start building connections with potential clients. With these eight easy steps and helpful scripts, you’ll not only bring in more leads but also improve your conversion skills.

Tip 1: Don’t Make Your Circle Too Large

Filling your pipeline in real estate is often a numbers game, so it may seem counterintuitive to keep your circle small rather than cast a wide net. However, focusing on a smaller group of between 20-50 homes near the subject property is actually more effective. You target homeowners with a vested interest in the area by focusing on the immediate vicinity. This targeted approach ensures you’re concentrating on connecting with people who genuinely care about your listing and the neighborhood you’re working in.

• What to Do: Use your MLS or a site like Zillow to create a radius around the subject property. This pinpointed focus will help you gather the addresses of the homes you want to focus on and build your database.

Tip 2: Know the Market

Stay ahead of the game with daily market research. Keeping up with the latest trends will help you provide valuable information to the people you interact with—from your social media followers to your current clients and sphere of influence. By focusing on recent sales, new listings, property values, and local amenities, you can position yourself as the ultimate expert in your field and your circle prospecting area.

• What to Do: To really get to know a community, it’s essential to become a part of it. Spend time in the places you want to work in and keep an eye on the market trends. Immersing yourself in the community will help you discover the best schools, restaurants, and shops and stay updated on real estate trends.

Tip 3: Use Multiple Outreach Methods 

Create prospecting letter templates for outreach and mix things up using postcards, texts, phone calls, and door-knocking to increase your chances of success. It’s important to plan and spread out your outreach attempts so as not to overwhelm potential clients. Include details about recently sold listings, exclusive open house invitations, or a list of off-market properties. Make sure your focus includes offering something of value, like a comparative market analysis (CMA) or a new neighborhood amenity announcement, to the people you’re connecting with.

• What to Do: Send postcards 2-3 times a year or whenever you have a sale in the area. This outreach should be in addition to your monthly newsletter and regular calls and texts. You can even get ahead by batching your postcard mailings so they’re all set to go when the time is right.

Tip 4: Leverage Tech

You can’t do it alone, and you shouldn’t have to! There are plenty of options for incorporating circle prospecting and client relationship management (CRM) software into your lead gen efforts. Using a CRM like LionDesk, you can keep track of your outreach, stay organized, and effectively manage your leads. This system will help drive your success and make your job a whole lot easier.

• What to Do: Sign up for a circle prospecting or CRM software. This step is a great way to keep all your contact information in one place and stay organized.

Tip 5: Use Scripts

When using a circle prospecting script for real estate, don’t overthink it. Think of it as a friendly conversation starter or a tool to kick-start and sustain a conversation. Remember, it’s all about building relationships. As you continue to nurture your leads, it will start feeling more natural. So, don’t hesitate to use scripts as a gentle nudge to start a great conversation. 

Here’s a quick and easy neighbors-only open house invite script:

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“Hi, this is [your name] from [your brokerage]. I just wanted to let you know we’re hosting an open house at [listing address] on Sunday, and I wanted to personally invite you for a neighbor-only sneak peek. The market is picking up again, so I wanted to give you a chance to see what [price of listing] gets you if you’re considering making a move in the next year or so.”

Here’s a simple “just listed” script you can use to keep the conversation going:

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Agent: This is [your name] with [your brokerage]. I just listed a home in [community name], and I was wondering if you knew anyone who might be moving to the neighborhood.

Homeowner: No, I can’t think of anyone right now. Sorry.

Agent: No worries. The market is a little tricky right now, but I am just trying to get my client the best possible price for their home. That’s the commitment I made when I got the listing, and I want to do as much as possible to make them happy. Just out of curiosity, when do you plan to move?

Homeowner: We just moved here last year and aren’t looking for a new house anytime soon. Sorry.

Agent: I wouldn’t either. It’s a great neighborhood and not a lot of homes come on the market. By the way, I send all my clients a monthly [off-market listings update or market report]. Even if you’re not moving, seeing what’s happening in the market is a great resource. I can send it to you in a text message if you want.

Here’s a script perfect for circle prospecting around a listing you just sold:

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“Hello, sorry to bother you. My name is [your name], and I am the listing agent for the property down the street [point in the direction of the property]. We received multiple offers, and, of course, we can only accept one. The home sold well above the asking price, and these other buyers are still looking for a home in [neighborhood]. Who do you know who would like to sell their home in this hot market?”

Here’s a script crafted by Tom Ferry and Christina Griffin to leave a message on voicemail:

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“This is Christina Griffin with the Griffin Group at Coldwell Banker. We just listed a home in your community, [neighborhood name]. If you know anyone looking to move, give us a call.”

• What to Do: Use these scripts as they are or as a guide to create your own. Once you choose what script you want to use, take some time to practice it so it sounds natural.

Tip 6: Form Relationships

Circle prospecting is like planting seeds of opportunity. Although you might not see immediate results, with some nurturing, those seeds will start to sprout. Ultimately, circle prospecting is all about building relationships. The goal is to connect with more homeowners and establish yourself as a reliable and well-known presence in the neighborhood.

• What to Do: Be yourself! People can tell when you’re genuine. They’ll appreciate your knowledge, guidance, and expertise, and they will also connect with who you are. Share a text or email with a link to an article that you think they’d like, or drop by with a gift card to a great new local hangout.

Tip 7: Don’t Forget Door Knocking ← This One’s Important!

Sure, door-knocking can be a bit intimidating, but there are ways to make it easier on yourself and the homeowners. Instead of just showing up unannounced, start by using a circle prospecting script to make a call, send out postcards, or leave door hangers. This way, when you knock on doors, you’ll already seem more familiar and welcoming. It’s all about making a positive connection and giving yourself something tangible to reference when they open the door.

• What to Do: Check local laws on door-knocking before visiting homes, and then prepare to engage with homeowners in the best way possible. Bring an informational flyer to leave behind and start providing value immediately.

Tip 8: Get Comfortable With Follow-Up

Follow-up is key in real estate relationships. Converting leads into successful deals requires skill and an effective lead nurturing approach. Using modern technology and reaching out to prospects through different channels will build strong relationships and grow your business. With this strategy, you can experience the potential of circle prospecting to drive leads and propel your business forward, even if you don’t have a sphere of influence to work with.

• What to Do: Leverage a CRM system to track every interaction with your prospects. Mix things up by using various outreach methods and tailoring the information you share with each follow-up.

Benefits of Circle Prospecting

Real estate circle prospecting goes beyond simply connecting with potential clients. It can also significantly impact establishing a strong presence in the target community where you want to work. Let’s look at the numerous ways you can benefit from circle prospecting in real estate. 

• Develop local authority: When people see how well you know the neighborhood, including all its features, property values, and more, it builds a sense of trust that makes them comfortable turning to you for help with buying or selling in the area.
• Build relationships: It’s important to stay in touch with people not only to work with them directly but also to get referrals. Building genuine relationships is key to generating more leads.
• Long-term lead generation: Having a consistent pipeline of business coming in is a goal for many agents. Circle prospecting is a great way to help you achieve that.

• Genuine lead nurturing: Staying in touch with potential clients is a great way to build strong connections and ensure you remain top-of-mind. These efforts will definitely help boost your business in the long run.
• Increase presence: Having a strong, recognizable name and brand in your target community can make all the difference! It builds trust and confidence that you’re the right person for the job.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I be circle prospecting?

What is the best circle prospecting tool?

Bringing It All Together

Circle prospecting is a great way to establish yourself as a go-to person in the neighborhood. Incorporating this lead gen method into your business allows you to tailor your marketing efforts and form genuine connections.

Have you had success with circle prospecting? Or maybe you know a great real estate agent who creatively leverages new (or old) technology to generate listings and leads. We’d love to hear from you; let us know in the comments! 

The post 8 Circle Prospecting Strategies to Boost Lead Generation appeared first on The Close.

Real Estate Agent Memes 

Come on, we can’t take ourselves too seriously all the time. Let’s have some fun with the madness that ensues when working as a real estate agent. And hey, if you’re aiming to grow your Instagram following, how about brightening up your feed with some funny real estate agent memes? You might be wondering how posts that appeal to agents could help your business, but just picture the referrals that could come your way from agents who have the same sense of humor! 

1. You know who you are…

2. Back to basics

3. Hmmm, for some reason, I don’t believe you

4. Award-winning agents

5. I even helped him with his CMA!

6. Thinking vs doing

7. We’ve all been there…

8. I need this shower curtain, actually…

9. Repeat after me: SELLING SUNSET IS NOT REAL LIFE

10. What we all really want to say

11. The final straw was me talking about rent stabilization

12. Starting to think the market is slowing down…

13. Sneaky

14. Did my guidance counselor lie to me?

15. First rodeo

16. Beast mode activated

17. 100% commission brokers

Client Memes 

When compiling memes for realtors, we couldn’t leave out the ones who make our job worthwhile—our clients. After all, without clients, being a realtor is pretty much pointless, right? Plus, I’m sure we’ve all had moments when we thought about creating a side hustle by turning our client experiences into memes. But for now, just getting a good laugh at some of these will have to do. 

18. It’s complicated!

19. I really should just put it on silent

20. You’re the expert!

21. I wonder how many client pictures I’m lurking in the background of…

22. Important research!

23. I’m sorry, I didn’t hear that

24. Future me, shmuture me

25. Sometimes, the training pays off

26. Oh hey, how’s the sale going?

27. Silly goose

28. I can’t wait to hear what he has to say!

29. It’s a 20-minute drive… I’ll be there in 10

30. Did I ask you?

31. This is the wrong market for you…

32. Yeah, no problem! How does the 47th of Octvember work for you?

33. One of the best feelings a real estate agent can have

34. Just smile and nod, smile and nod…

Pro Tip: Looking for more clever memes that you can share with buyers and sellers? Coffee & Contracts offers fresh viral memes from the Broke Agent every month that you can customize and use to promote your brand, not theirs! They also have hundreds of realtor-created templates for Reels, Stories, posts, and more.

Real Estate Marketing Memes 

Have you ever noticed that your Instagram or Facebook feed is filled with the same old real estate marketing posts from all the agents you follow? It can start to feel repetitive, right? Shake things up by adding a touch of humor to your timeline with a relatable real estate marketing meme. Show off your fun side and watch how you attract new clients who appreciate a good sense of humor. 

35. Headshots are never good enough!

36. So much for that career writing listing descriptions…

37. Have you seen my new headshot?

38. Don’t you have Photoshop?

39. Hello?

40. This one will be different!

41. Location, location, location!

42. No one will know…

43. Just step away from Canva

44. You get what you pay for

45. Money, money, money!

46. New listing alert

47. Property pictures

48. Where are all the leads?!

49. Phone pics

50. Outdoor kitchen, anyone?

51. This isn’t Zillow?

Work-life Balance Memes 

No one should be all work and no play all of the time. But in real estate, it can be easy to get wrapped up in the demands of the job. If you’re feeling stressed and bogged down, take a break and check out these fun real estate memes that might just hit a little too close to home. 

52. Sometimes Sundays need to be Sun-days

53. We’ve all been there

54. What days off?

55. Summertime!

56. There’s no crying in real estate!

57. Just waiting for a response to my offer…

58. Just kidding!

59. Weekend warrior

60. I’ve never been more balanced in my life.

61. Just trying to relax

62. Finally! Time to relax and unwind…

63. That must be nice for you.

64. 365 days a year

65. If you know, you know…

66. I’m not stressed at all!

67. Sleep? What’s that?

68. This should be illegal

What to Do With Memes About Real Estate

The best thing about real estate agent memes is that they can be used in various ways. Whether you want to brighten someone’s mood, use them in your marketing, or break the ice with a potential client. Showing off your real estate skills doesn’t always have to come in the form of business information. Sometimes, connecting with potential clients is about forming a bond outside of business-related topics. 

• Social media: Create a post with a meme and share it on your timeline or story. A platform like Canva makes the process simple, as you can easily design and customize your post with various templates and tools.
• Mailing campaigns: Step outside the norm and jazz up your postcards with a funny real estate meme. Personalize the message on the back to match the meme and bring joy to your clients with a little dose of humor in their mailbox!
• Newsletters: When you send your clients a newsletter, consider incorporating some realtor memes that will stand out and keep clients reading.
• Text messages: If you are working with a client down on their luck, choose a funny meme and send it to them in a text message to provide reassurance that they will achieve their real estate goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some funny real estate videos?

Where can I get real estate facts?

What helps motivate real estate agents?

How do I become a real estate content creator?

Bringing It All Together

Do your cheeks hurt from laughing and smiling too much? Because mine do after compiling these for you. If you have a real estate meme to add to our collection, let us know in the comments!

The post 68 Hilarious Real Estate Memes Realtors Can’t Stop Sharing appeared first on The Close.

Benefits of Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Retirement 

According to the National Association of Realtors, the median age of all Realtors is 60. This fact means that if you’re considering a career in real estate during retirement, you may find yourself among peers who have made a similar choice. Additionally, there are several benefits that you can enjoy by taking this path.

• Sense of purpose: Maintaining a sense of purpose as life changes is important. Choosing a new career can be a great way to find direction and fulfillment and feel more productive. 
• Social connections: Staying connected to peers and your community is good for the soul. If you miss the social interactions from your previous career, you might find real estate to be a way to maintain relationships. 
• Continued education/Intellectual stimulation: Retirement is a great time to learn something new and take on a new challenge. Getting your real estate license can provide an avenue for intellectual growth and the chance to keep your mind razor-sharp.
• Low barrier for entry: Starting a real estate career in retirement doesn’t mean years of schooling. Real estate education is affordable and can be taken online, leading to licensure within months, not years.
• Financial stability: Living on a fixed income can be tough for many people. While various factors determine how much a real estate agent can earn, it’s great to have the opportunity to make extra income during retirement.
• Adapting to change: Retirement is such a transformative phase, and it’s completely normal to feel the mental strain that comes with it. However, becoming a real estate agent in retirement can truly help ease this transition and foster a greater sense of resilience.
• Flexible schedule: Working as a real estate agent allows you to control your schedule, whether you decide to work as a full-time or part-time agent. This means you can still enjoy other things you want to do in retirement while pursuing a fulfilling career. 

Skills Needed to Succeed

Did you know that the expertise you gained from your previous career can be a huge advantage in real estate? The skills needed to excel as a real estate agent often overlap with those required in various other fields and can be leveraged to thrive in your venture into this new industry. Here are some of the more important skills you may tap into:

• Research and market knowledge
• Communication skills
• Basic technology understanding
• Networking capability
• Patience
• Negotiation skills
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Motivation
• Customer service
• Active listening
• Transaction management
• Confidence
• Data analysis
• Mathematics
• Advertising and marketing

One of the best parts of the real estate industry is the variety. Check out our article about the different types of agents for more details on the various roles you may encounter and the different skills required while working in the real estate industry. 

Tips for Success in Real Estate for Retirees  

Leaping into real estate is exciting and a great way to set goals and give yourself something to work towards. Following the tips below, you can kick-start your real estate career and embrace this new chapter of your professional life.

Tip 1: Enroll in Real Estate School & Get Your License 

When you’ve decided to try your hand at real estate, enroll in a real estate class to start absorbing all the real estate terms, laws, and more. After passing your real estate class, you can take the licensing exam. Online real estate schools, like AceableAgent, offer flexible, self-paced courses tailored to your schedule and exam prep to help you get licensed as smoothly as possible.

Tip 2: Find a Brokerage That Fits Your Needs

Once you’ve completed your real estate class and aced the exam to become a licensed real estate agent, it’s time for the next step: finding a brokerage to hang your license. This is an important step, so you’ll want to meet with multiple brokerages. This will help you understand the various commission splits offered, uncover the training and support available, and discover the resources waiting to help you grow your business.

Types of Brokerages	National Franchise	Boutique	Virtual
Pros	Instant credibility	Individualized attention	Higher commission splits
Cons	More competition	Smaller marketing budget	Less networking potential
Example Brokerage	RE/MAX, Keller Williams	Dream Town, John Greene	eXp Realty, REAL

Tip 3: Create a Business Plan 

Don’t underestimate the power of creating a solid business plan when entering real estate. This will give you the insights you need to focus on the right aspects of your business, manage your budget effectively, and reach your goals. The following elements are some examples of what to include in your business plan:

• Your why: What drives you?  
• Production goal
• Income goal 
• Marketing and advertising goals and budget  
• Education goal 

Ready to dive into all things real estate business planning? Head over to our article, 7 Steps to Writing a Real Estate Business Plan, to get started and download your business plan template. 

Tip 4: Set a Marketing Budget 

When it comes to real estate, it’s all about marketing. Whether it’s through engaging farm mailings or investing in lead generation, it’s important to consider your marketing expenses. Even if you’re just starting and your budget is tight, consider investing roughly 10% of your commission income into marketing efforts. As you begin to reap the rewards and watch your income grow, you can allocate even more towards marketing if you choose. 

Tip 5: Work With a Mentor or Coach

If the brokerage you decide to work with has a bunch of training resources, it’s definitely worth taking full advantage of them. Real estate can be quite a lot to take in, so working with someone experienced in the field is an awesome way to ease into things. Your mentor or coach should be someone who’s willing to help, available to answer your questions, and ready to show you the ropes of the industry.

Tip 6: Get Comfortable With Tech  

In today’s real estate industry, technology is at the forefront of everything we do. If you’re transitioning from an industry that isn’t tech-heavy, take some time to familiarize yourself with real estate tech. You will regularly use your cell phone, email, transaction management software, client management software, and more. 

For example, having a trusted customer relationship management (CRM) system, like Wise Agent, will make a huge difference in how you work on transactions and with your clients.

Tip 7: Work Open Houses 

One of the most important things in real estate is getting yourself out there and meeting potential clients. Working open houses can be a great way to do just that and start to grow your real estate business. Keep an eye out for agents who are looking for open house coverage. If you don’t see any opportunities, just search for the listings in your office and contact the listing agents to ask if you can assist with an open house for their listing. 

Tip 8: Get Involved in Your Community 

One of the pros of being a real estate agent is the opportunity to network and make connections. It encourages you to be more social, which is essential for building a client base. It’s also a fantastic way to combat loneliness or isolation after retiring. Attending networking events, supporting local businesses, and participating in community organizations all help to build connections and maintain in-person interactions.

Tip 9: Know How to Generate Leads

Want to become a lead gen machine? Put systems in place and stay consistent. Planning, tracking, and consistency are vital to securing leads and building your business. After you’ve created your budget, you will better understand your ability to partner with a lead generation company. While teaming up with a company that captures leads for you is a great move, having multiple lead sources, such as referrals, cold calling, and farm mailing, is beneficial.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How old is too old to start in real estate?

Can a real estate agent have a 401(k)?

What is the best age to start a real estate career?

Bringing It All Together

Real estate offers many individuals the exciting opportunity to grow a business, including those who have already had a career in another field. That’s why becoming a real estate agent in retirement is pretty common, and if you’re thinking about it, I’d say go for it! Let us know in the comments if you have any questions about how to jumpstart this exciting new adventure.

The post Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Retirement appeared first on The Close.

Agent Jokes

Being a real estate agent is no joke, but finding humor in the daily grind is a way to cut down on stress and may just be one of the keys to success. Sure, we’ve all heard the house hunter jokes, but we also have to be able to poke fun at ourselves. Check out some of our favorite realtor jokes and real estate broker jokes that we hope you enjoy as much as we do.

1. The dual agent: How does a dual agent sleep? Well, first, he lies on one side, then he lies on the other.

2. Not that bright: The last buyer I worked with wasn’t that bright. When I handed him an exclusive buyer agreement that said “sign here” at the bottom, instead of signing his name, he just wrote “Capricorn.”

3.The wedding: I’m getting married to a top-producing Realtor tomorrow. He’s so dreamy. Check out the diamond engagement ring he sold me.

4. A natural miracle: A Realtor’s brain is a miracle of nature. It starts working the day they’re born and stops working as soon as they need to pitch a homeowner.

5. The two-story house: My clients put in an offer on a two-story house. One story before the offer, another story after the offer.

6. The truck driver client: My truck driver client was such a pain. Kept saying he wanted a house with long haul ways.

7. Don’t trust the listing agent: A listing agent I know promises a free abacus with every closed deal, but I wouldn’t count on it.

8. Being on time: The only problem with being on time for your showings is that no one else is there to appreciate it.

9. Formal licensing: Good news! The federal government has announced that they will begin using real estate licenses as official ID. The rationale is that not everyone has a driver’s license.

10. A realtor’s prayer: Dear Lord, all I ask is that you prove to me that money won’t make me happier by tripling my GCI this year.

11. Real estate success: After reading books by Tom Ferry and Brian Buffini and going to seven coaching seminars this year, I think I’ve finally discovered the secret to making serious money in the real estate industry. I’m going to become a real estate coach!

12. Communication skills: My managing broker just told me I was fired for having poor communication skills. I didn’t know what to say to that.

13. Home run: A commercial broker was working with a client who wanted to buy a hockey rink, but had trouble estimating closing costs. She ended up losing the client because she could only give him a ballpark estimate.

Dad Joke Inspired

I absolutely love jokes about realtors—they help us not take ourselves too seriously. But when you throw in a classic real estate pun delivered in the beloved “dad-joke” style, it’s pure comedy gold! These are the jokes that never fail to make everyone crack a smile.

14. House attire: What does a house wear? Address.

15. The lightest building: What kind of building weighs the least? A lighthouse.

16. The lowest inventory: Did you hear about the last remaining unit in the apartment building? It was last but not leased.

17. Realtor magazine: A Realtor I know asked me if I read “Realtor Magazine.” I said I did read it—periodically.

18. A pretty catchy tune: What’s a Realtor’s favorite Christmas song? For Lease Navidad. 

19. Climate change: I got worried about climate change when Realtors in Iowa started advertising their listings as “potential waterfront property.”

20. Insects: How many insects do you need to make money from your rental unit? Tenants.

21. Doctor House, MD: Why did the house go to the doctor? It had a window pane.

22. The one about the roof: Did you hear the joke about the roof? I doubt you’d get it—it’s over your head.

23. Zombies: Which room in your house are zombies most afraid of? The living room.

24. Hipster real estate: What’s the worst thing about broken elevator puns? They’re not very uplifting.

25. The Cheap Apartment Buyer: My buyer didn’t have a lot of money to spend on an apartment, so I asked the listing agent what would be the condominimum offer the owner would accept.

26. I could take ‘em: “Eh, that Realtor doesn’t look so strong. I bet I can take him in a fight!” “Are you crazy? That guy says he flips houses in his spare time!”

27. The nautical need: Why did the new real estate agent get on a boat? He was a sailor’s agent.

Pick-up Lines

While pick-up lines are things you should never say to your clients, these real estate jokes are perfect for livening up your social media or entertaining your inner circle. They’re also a fantastic way to spice up your postcard mailers in a new and fun way.

28. Couldn’t help but notice: Hey, girl, are you a mortgage? Because you’ve got my interest!

29. NAR no-no: Hey, big guy, are you a NAR violation? Because you’ve got fine written all over you.

30. Lien on me: Hey cowboy, I’m not asking you for an easement, just a mere right of recreation and amusement.

31. My nickname: Around the office, the other Realtors call me coffee ’cause I grind so fine.

32. My heart belongs to you: You probably don’t know it, but you have a lien on my heart.

33. Signal is strong: Is your name Wi-Fi? Because I’m feeling a connection here.

34. Cold caller: Hey good lookin’, I cold call expireds all day, but if you give me your phone number, I’ll make a hot call tonight.

35. Did you feel that too: Is this listing in an earthquake zone, or did you just rock my world?

36. State regs: I’m sorry, but state regulations and the NAR code of ethics require me to disclose how beautiful your eyes are.

37. First-timer: Talking to you makes me feel like a first-time homebuyer—nervous but thrilled.

38. Where’ve you been: Hey hunk, your showing today must have been on the equator because you’re hot!

39. Garden is secluded: This listing has a beautiful garden where we can put our tulips together.

40. The outfit: Hey sailor, you like my blazer? It’s made out of girlfriend material.

41. Legalese: If you were words on my exclusive buyer agency agreement, you’d be the fine print.

42. Inspector is here: Baby, we can definitely skip the inspection because I can already tell you’re flawless!

43. Time for a redesign: Sadly, I had to fire my web designer today and get a Placester site. We just weren’t on the same landing page anymore.

44. Let’s skedaddle: What do you say you and me get out of here and go back to my place to check out my pocket listings?

45. Meet me on the porch: With curb appeal like that, you’re a prime property in my heart’s MLS.

46. Due diligence: Hey baby, what’s your sign, and are you already working with another agent?

47. So social: You must have a killer Facebook ad strategy because you made quite the impression on me.

Affiliate Relationships

We have the pleasure of collaborating with many amazing individuals in the real estate industry, and it’s a journey filled with its fair share of ups and downs. Take a moment to smile over our diverse and interesting experiences in this field.

48. Say it ain’t so: What’s the difference between a Realtor and a mortgage broker? The mortgage broker knows he’s boring.

49. The truth is out there: What do professional, affordable contractors have in common with UFOs? You always hear stories about them, but no one you know has actually seen one.

50. No interest in company: Why did the mortgage broker always eat lunch by himself? He was a loaner.

The IT Department

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a bit hesitant, the ever-evolving world of real estate tech is something we all have to get accustomed to. We don’t all have to be tech wizards, but approaching it with a bit of humor can definitely make it more manageable.

51. The perfect CRM: CRM salesperson: “This CRM will cut your workload in half.” Real estate agent: “That’s great, I’ll take two!”

52. The zestimate: An agent shows up at a seller’s appointment and repeats his favorite mantra, crossing his fingers and chanting, “They have not checked their Zestimate. They have not checked their Zestimate. They have not checked their Zestimate.” 

53. Subscription fee: You know what the difference is between you and my CRM? My CRM costs $70 a month, but you’re priceless.

What to Do With Jokes About Real Estate

The best thing about real estate agent jokes is that they can be used in various ways. Whether you want to brighten someone’s mood, use them in your marketing, or break the ice with a potential client. Showing off your real estate skills doesn’t always have to come in the form of business information. Sometimes, connecting with potential clients is about forming a bond outside of business-related topics. 

• Social media: Create a post with the joke and share it on your timeline or story. A platform like Canva makes the process simple, as you can easily design and customize your post with various templates and tools.
• Mailing campaigns: Step outside the norm and jazz up your postcards with a funny joke. Personalize the message on the back to match the joke and bring joy to your clients with a little dose of humor in their mailbox!
• Newsletters: When you send your clients a newsletter, consider incorporating some realtor puns that will stand out and keep clients reading.
• Text messages: If you are working with a client down on their luck, choose a funny joke and send it to them in a text message to provide reassurance that they will achieve their real estate goals.
• Handwritten notes: Change up your handwritten notes with some jokes. Maybe this will become your “thing” that clients know you for and look forward to your notes throughout the year.

FAQs

How can I use real estate quotes?

What are some funny real estate videos?

Where can I get real estate facts?

Bringing It All Together

As they say, laughter is the best medicine. So now that you’ve had your dose, or at least had a good eye-roll, you can get back to your business with a renewed attitude. Do you have any great real estate jokes, puns, or pick-up lines we missed? Let us know in the comments!

The post 53 Real Estate Jokes, Puns & Pick-up Lines appeared first on The Close.

Bonus: Download the Recipes for these Open House Food Ideas

Why Provide Food & Beverages at Open Houses

Picture this: it’s a crisp autumn day, and you step into a house filled with the irresistible scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. How does that make you feel? Research shows that our sense of smell can stir up nostalgic memories and emotions. It’s no wonder why real estate agents often bake cookies during open houses—it creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. But it’s not just about the smell—offering snacks and drinks adds to the feeling of togetherness and hospitality, like gathering around a kitchen table.

When people feel welcomed, they tend to relax and open up more. Regardless of whether or not the home you’re selling is the perfect fit for them, they will still enjoy getting to know you and how you presented the home. This added touch could lead to them wanting to work with you to find a home that does work for them.

Savory Foods

People tend to enjoy savory foods because they provide a sense of comfort. When you greet potential buyers arriving at the open house, guiding them to the food and drink creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. This warm welcome also helps them feel at home and relax while interacting with you. 

Examples of Savory Foods:

1. Charcuterie board: The possibilities are endless when it comes to putting together a charcuterie board. The classic combo of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruits is always a hit, or you can customize it however you like. You can even get creative by serving everything in individual bowls.
2. Skewers: Skewers are awesome because they’re easy to eat. You can also easily mix and match with vegetarian and meat options. 
3. Mini nachos: Set up a fun mini nacho bar. You can lay out individual servings of tortilla chips with the option to add melted cheese, salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. This way, everyone can make their own nachos just the way they like.
4. Sliders: If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, try sliders. Go with a standard burger slider, or opt for pulled pork or chicken. These bite-sized snacks are easy to eat and can be paired with one of our other open house food suggestions as well. 

Sweets & Baked Goods

Sweet treats have the power to bring people happiness. And there’s nothing better than seeing happy guests as they explore your listing. After the open house guests sign in, offer them a delicious treat while they get to know the home. This simple gesture creates a positive and memorable experience for them.

Examples of Sweet Foods:

5. Brownies or cookies: Don’t underestimate the power of these classic treats. Who doesn’t love a delicious brownie or cookie? And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even get a baker to decorate the cookies with your own custom designs.
6. Candy: Use mini chocolate bars and other candies to create a candy assortment. Guests can customize their own sweet goody bags, choosing their favorites to take home.
7. Pastries: If you’re looking for an option that pairs well with coffee or tea, go the pastry route. Serving puff pastries, cannolis, or danishes makes it feel like an open house tea party.
8. Cupcakes or muffins: Cupcakes and muffins are the perfect individual portion size, making them ideal for an open house. Whether you bake them in regular or mini sizes, the variety of flavors you can use allows for a diverse and enjoyable selection.

Pro Tip: Do a little cross-promotion. Swing by a local bakery for some baked goods and ask if you can leave your open house flyer there for their patrons to see. It’s a great way to promote your open house and support a local business.

Finger Foods 

Remember that presentation is everything when setting up food for an open house. Even if you’re not serving a fancy meal, you can still make it look appealing. Finger foods are a hit and easy for guests to grab, so add a reminder on your open house checklist to keep some extras in the fridge to refill the table as the event goes on.

Examples of Finger Foods:

9. Pinwheels or finger sandwiches: When guests come to an open house, they love to snack on easy-to-grab treats. Finger sandwiches are perfect because you can offer different flavors to cater to everyone’s tastes.
10. Mini bagels: Mini bagels are a great choice for your open house and require little prep. Make them extra tasty by including toppings like cream cheese, peanut butter, regular butter, or jam. And if you feel like providing a more savory option, consider making mini pizza bagels.
11. Mini quiche: If you like the idea of providing bite-sized deliciousness, mini quiches are a fantastic choice. You can load them up with your favorite veggies or simply use cheese. They’ll go wonderfully with some of our other open house food ideas, giving your guests a delightful brunch experience.

Snacky Foods 

Food and drinks are usually not top priority when attending an open house, as they mainly want to see the home and gauge how they feel. However, offering refreshments can also serve as a takeaway for open house guests to snack on between visiting different homes. This added touch could also help them remember your listing when you send your follow-up by saying something like, “It was great to meet you at my open house on Main St. I hope you enjoyed the trail mix!”

Examples of Open House Snack Ideas:

12. Popcorn: Popcorn is a versatile snack that you can easily customize to match the theme of your choice. Create individual servings and place your logo on the bag or cup. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
13. Pretzels: You’ve got a lot of options to choose from – soft or hard pretzels in various flavors. You can also enhance the experience by offering delicious dipping sauces like cheese or chocolate. It’s an easy yet impressive way to elevate your hosting game with minimal effort.
14. Chips: When it comes to easy, no-cook snacks, chips are a great choice. Grab a variety pack with different flavors and even pair them with your favorite dips if you’d like. For a homemade option, make your own in an air-fryer!
15. Trail mix/Mixed nuts: Mixed nuts are another easy open house snack. These can be pecans, cashews, almonds, and more. You can even take it up a notch by adding raisins or chocolate chips to create a trail mix. Just divide it up into individual servings, and you’re all set.

Themed Foods 

The beauty of providing snacks for open houses is that they really can be anything you want. So when compiling open house food ideas, we couldn’t leave themed options out. Have some fun with the refreshments you provide and make a lasting impression on the attendees.

Examples of Themed Foods:

16. Holidays: If you’re hosting an open house around a holiday, make it even more fun by incorporating holiday-themed snacks. For instance, you can add a festive touch with Reese’s eggs or trees. Or, you can create a patriotic atmosphere by offering snacks with a red, white, and blue theme for the Fourth of July celebration.
17. Seasonal: As you plan your open house, consider offering apple cider in the Fall or hot cocoa in winter. You could even host a lively football-themed open house during football season, with a game on the TV and all! Offering refreshments with a seasonal theme is a fun and creative way to spice up your open house.
18. House specific: If the house or town has an interesting feature, tailor your refreshments to reflect that. For example, consider providing deviled eggs or pigs in a blanket if the home is a farmhouse.

Don’t Forget The Drinks…

It’s not just about the food. Quench the thirst of your attendees with some of these open house refreshment ideas. I’ve hosted many open houses, and I’ve come to realize that people are much more likely to grab a drink. I believe the easier it is to “grab and go,” the better and more popular it will be among potential buyers.

Examples of Drinks:

19. Water: Try custom water bottle labels with your logo and contact information.
20. Soda: There are a wide variety of soda options, most of which come in mini sizes. Choose some popular flavors, as it’s a safer bet that people will enjoy them.
21. Juice: The best thing about soda, water, and juice is that you can usually find mini bottles rather than full-size bottles. You might even consider juice boxes for the kids who attend with their parents.
22. Coffee: Try a local coffee shop that provides a carafe of coffee to make it easy and simple.
23. Tea: Since you can snag a variety of individual tea bags, this option requires only hot water, cups, and maybe some honey!
24. Hot chocolate: In the cooler months or around the holidays, providing hot chocolate is a great choice.
25. Alcohol: Proceed with caution when providing alcohol, as you’ll want to monitor the amount served. However, a workaround to overserving would be to offer a mini champagne bottle with a mini orange juice bottle for a single-serve mimosa.

Pro Tip: Have a plan for the leftovers. If you still have quite a bit after your open house and don’t want to get stuck with it, take it to a nearby shelter. Remember, not everyone is comfortable eating food provided at an open house. So don’t take it personally if people pass up on the refreshments. 

Tips for Serving Refreshments

When serving food to guests in someone else’s home, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure everyone’s safety and respect the space. By keeping these tips in mind, you can provide refreshments in a way that is enjoyable and considerate to the homeowner.

Tip 1: Stick with individual or pre-packaged items. 

Providing individual servings helps keep everything more sanitary and may encourage attendees to indulge. Look around the home for any wrappers or packaging left behind by guests. 

Tip 2: Present refreshments in a grab-and-go style setup.

Open house guests may not initially want to take any refreshments you’re offering. However, after they’ve walked through the home, they may change their mind on the way out. A grab-and-go setup allows for easy access; anyone coming or going can take what they’d like. 

Tip 3: Keep it simple with items that aren’t messy or hard to eat. 

It’s best to choose refreshments that won’t cause a mess you must clean at the end or that the sellers find later. Also, remember to have trash cans available to keep the space clean when guests are done with their food or drink.

Tip 4: Display allergen and alcohol disclaimers next to the food.

It’s impossible to know the dietary restrictions of those attending your open house, so if you’re providing foods that are common allergens or there is alcohol in a beverage being offered, be sure to have a sign or label making guests aware. 

Tip 5: Make sure to leave the home tidy. 

Since you’re providing the refreshments, make sure to take everything with you and clean up at the end. The goal is to leave the home in the same or better condition than when you arrived.

Tip 6: Customize refreshments to match your branding with water bottle labels, stickers, or tags that can be hung on baggies. 

Branding your refreshments can help you stand out among the other homes guests may be seeing that day. If they take a water bottle with your contact info on it, for instance, they may be more likely to remember your listing or reach out to you with questions. 

FAQs

How do you prepare for an open house?

Is it required to provide food at an open house?

Should I serve refreshments at a broker open house?

Bringing It All Together

Hosting an open house is a chance for you to really bring the home to life. Have fun with it, and don’t forget to inform the homeowner what refreshments you’ll provide. What do you usually serve at an open house? Let us know in the comments.

The post 25 Open House Food Ideas That Will Help Sell Your Listing appeared first on The Close.

Real Estate Inspirational Quotes

1. “Don’t wait to buy real estate, buy real estate and wait.”―Will Rogers, vaudeville performer and actor

2. “Our favorite holding period is forever.”―Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway

3. “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.”―Vince Lombardi, former football coach

4. “Success in real estate comes down to two factors: taking care of and valuing the customer.”―Michael Miedler, CEO of Century 21

5. “Entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t so that you can spend the rest of your life like most people can’t.”―Anonymous

6. “Like bathing, motivation doesn’t last. That’s why we recommend it daily.”―Zig Ziglar, American author, salesman, and motivational speaker

7. “The highest levels of success don’t come from more grinding. They come from more alignment.”―Brett Jennings, founder of Real Estate Experts

8. “Your past doesn’t define you. It prepares you.”―Darren Hardy, author and former publisher of SUCCESS Magazine

Real Estate Quotes for Agents

9. “The most important asset you can own in your business is the attention of your customer. If you don’t own it, someone else does.”―Adam Contos, former CEO and director of RE/MAX Holdings, Inc.

10. “When you invest, you are buying a day that you don’t have to work.”―Aya Laraya, founder of Pesos and Sense, professor of corporate finance and economics

11. “Paradise is a state of being, more than just the name of a suburb or a home.”―Raquel Cepeda, author of Birds of Paradise

12. “You need to fear not having the business more than you fear calling your leads.”―Beverly Ruffner, real estate coach

13. “A forever real estate agent understands that the concept of home is predicated on the many changes life can bring, and it doesn’t start—or end—with the transaction.”―Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America

14. “The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.”―Benjamin E. Mays, Baptist minister and civil rights leader

15. “I suck at selling, I’m great at talking about the things I care about.”―Gary Vaynerchuk, serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, and CEO of VaynerMedia

16. “You will be amazed at how you can predict the future with your confidence.”―Ryan Serhant, broker, and CEO and founder of SERHANT. Real Estate

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Funny Real Estate Quotes

17. “A man complained that on his way home to dinner he had every day to pass through that long field of his neighbors. I advised him to buy it and it would never seem long again.”―Ralph Waldo Emerson, writer and philosopher

18. “People say they get into real estate for freedom, but if you have a lot of freedom, you’re probably not selling any houses!”―Dana Galli, HM Properties

19. “I need your listing, I already sold all of mine.”―Anonymous

20. “I had probably seven agents by the time I became a legitimate real estate broker.”―Barbara Corcoran, founder of The Corcoran Group

21. “To my real estate agent, Chernobyl is a fixer-upper.”―Yakov Smirnoff, Ukrainian-American comedian

22. “I would do dry January, but I’m a real estate agent.”―Eric Simon, The Broke Agent

23. “If you want to get rich in real estate, sell things to Realtors.”―Anonymous

24. “In real estate, you make 10% of your money because you’re a genius and 90% because you catch a great wave.”―Jeff Greene, real estate entrepreneur

Shareable Realtor Quotes

25. “When you put genuine inspiration behind your actions, the whole world opens up to you.”―Tom Ferry, real estate coach

26. “When one door closes, buy another one and open it yourself.”―Anonymous

27. “If you love life, don’t waste time, for time is what life is made up of.”―Bruce Lee, martial artist

28. “If you circle above Central Park at night in a helicopter, you’re looking down at the most expensive real estate in the world. It’s the American Monopoly board.”―Ridley Scott, film director

29. “Buildings don’t move, but neighborhoods change all the time.”―Anonymous 

30. “Perhaps the secret to making a billion dollars in real estate is that there is no secret.”―David Lichtenstein, CEO of The Lightstone Group

31. “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”―Ralph Waldo Emerson, author and philosopher

32. “The real estate market doesn’t care about your feelings.”―Eric Simon, The Broke Agent

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Real Estate Motivational Quotes

33. “Routine is the sign of an ambitious individual.”―Tom Ferry, real estate coach

34. “If you aim for nothing, you’ll hit it every time.”―Zig Ziglar, American author, salesman, and motivational speaker

35. “If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy, and inspires your hopes.”―Andrew Carnegie, Founder Carnegie Steel Co.

36. “A goal properly set is halfway reached.”―Zig Ziglar, American author, salesman, and motivational speaker

37. “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.”―Tony Robbins, American author and motivational speaker

38. “Never let people who chose the path of least resistance steer you away from your chosen path of most resistance.”―David Goggins, retired United States Navy SEAL, athlete, and author.

39. “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”―Chinese proverb

40. “Your excuses are just the lies your fear has sold you.”―Darren Hardy, author and former publisher of SUCCESS Magazine

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Real Estate Negotiation Quotes

41. “You must never try to make all the money that’s in a deal. Let the other fellow make some money too because if you have a reputation for always making all the money, you won’t have many deals.”―J. Paul Getty, founder of the Getty Oil Company

42. “If there are nine rabbits on the ground, if you want to catch one, just focus on one.”―Jack Ma, cofounder of Alibaba

43. “Never forget the power of silence, that massively disconcerting pause that goes on and on and may at last induce an opponent to babble and backtrack nervously.”―Lance Morrow, essayist and writer

44. “Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way.”―Sir David Frost, British television host, journalist, comedian, and writer

45. “Allow other people to speak first; the important factor is not who talks … it’s who listens.”―Ilana Eberson, founder and CEO of The NYC Business Networking Group

46. “Just because someone’s nodding along doesn’t mean they’re comprehending everything you’re saying. Be disciplined about pausing, checking in, and making sure you’re on the same page.”―Christina Woo, founder of Canopy Realty

47. “Do not let any obstacles stop you. Where there are obstacles, there are also great opportunities.”―Dottie Herman, vice chair at Douglas Elliman

48. “If you’re committed to it, you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find an excuse.”―Adam Contos, former CEO and director of RE/MAX Holdings, Inc.

Real Estate Broker Quotes

49. “Make a customer, not a sale.”―Katherine Barchetti, retail expert

50. “The consistency of your actions directly correlates with the consistency of your income.”―Melissa Sofia, founder of Avenue Home Collective

51. “Every sale has five obstacles: no need, no money, no hurry, no desire, no trust.”―Zig Ziglar, American author, salesman, and motivational speaker

52. “In business, you’re the chief salesman. Create a sense of demand, rather than waiting to have demand.”―Barbara Corcoran, founder of The Corcoran Group

53. “Great agents are not constrained by opportunity—they’re constrained by capacity.”―Guy Gal, CEO of Side

54. “Look at market fluctuations as your friend rather than your enemy; profit from folly rather than participate in it.”―Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway

55. “Being a real estate investor is almost essential to being a real estate agent.”―Anthony Navarro, founder of Harper Real Estate

56. “Don’t sit around waiting for your broker to feed you, because you will starve.”―Terrica Lynn Smith, broker-owner of Cachet Real Estate

Real Estate Marketing & Advertising Quotes

57. “Without interest, you’re plain white toast. Boring. Uninteresting. Seen it. Heard it. Moving on.”―Jessica Swesey, chief content strategist at 1000watt

58. “Learn how to leverage technology, because that’s going to put you into this next generation of how business is being done.”―Chad Nash, broker-owner at Nash & Company Real Estate

59. “If you don’t adopt disruptive technology, you will be disrupted.”―Brad Inman, publisher and founder of Inman Group

60. “On average, five times as many people read the headline as read the body copy. When you have written your headline, you have spent 80 cents out of your dollar.”―David Ogilvy, British advertising executive and founder of Ogilvy & Mather

61. “Wealth exists in the gap between ideas and their implementation.”―Brett Jennings, founder of Real Estate Experts

62. “Owning a home is a keystone of wealth, both financial affluence and emotional security.”―Suze Orman, financial advisor and bestselling author

63. “Don’t get mad at yourself for being someone you’re not. Just know who you are, then find the ways to let that person be as successful as possible.”―Josh Altman, real estate broker at The Altman Brothers

64. “Your brand is a promise. It tells clients what the experience of working with you will be like.”―Kofi Nartey, founder of GLOBL RED

Where to Use Real Estate Quotes 

Don’t gatekeep the inspiration you come across; weave it into your business. Take, for instance, our quotes about real estate. Adopting creativity in your marketing is one way to set yourself apart from your competition, and sharing unique content with your clients from time to time is a way to capture their attention. Here are some ways to use your favorite real estate quotes in your marketing. 

• Social media: Create a post with the quote and share it on your timeline or story. A platform like Canva makes the process simple, as you can easily design and customize your post with various templates and tools.
• Mailing campaigns: Step outside the norm and jazz up your postcards with an inspiring quote. Personalize the message on the back to match the quote and bring joy to your clients with a little dose of inspiration in their mailbox!
• Newsletters: When you send your clients a newsletter, consider incorporating some real estate investing or purchasing quotes that may be helpful to clients interested in building their portfolios.
• Text messages: If you are working with a client down on their luck, find an uplifting quote that resonates with you. Send it to them in a text message and provide reassurance that they will achieve their real estate goals.

FAQs

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Bringing It All Together

Take some of these great realtor quotes and use their powerful messages in your business and life. Anytime you feel stressed or need a little boost, you can refer to this list. Do you have a great real estate quote that needs to be on the list? Let us know in the comments.

The post 64 Real Estate Quotes to Motivate You appeared first on The Close.