Shannon Sharpe – The Close

The 33 Best Real Estate Text Message Scripts for Agents

Shannon Sharpe — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 14:55:57 +0000

Real estate text message scripts can be a game-changer for converting leads, especially when so many people prefer texting over phone calls—just think about how often you ignore calls yourself! Having a stash of ready-to-go text message scripts in your phone or CRM can seriously up your game, helping you respond faster and more effectively to leads.

I’ve put together a variety of scripts to cover you from initial contact to closing day. Plus, I’ve included a six-day text campaign for new leads below that you can start using right away.

Download The Close’s Text Campaigns

Initial Contact Scripts for Buyer Leads

Objective: Introduce yourself to potential buyers using texting scripts for real estate and encourage them to engage with you.
What to keep in mind:

Keep it short and to the point.
Introduce yourself and your brokerage.
Personalize the message and include an action item.

Script 1

“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Realty]. I noticed you’re interested in [property type/location]. I’d love to provide more details or schedule a time for you to see it. When’s a good time to chat?”

Script 2

“Hello [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Your Realty]. I saw your inquiry about [property address]. Are you available for a quick call or text to discuss what you’re looking for in a home?”

Script 3

“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Realty]. I’d love to help you find your next home. Do you have any specific properties in mind or a general idea of what you’re looking for?”

Send one of these real estate text message scripts as soon as the lead comes in to get the highest response rate. For a more automated system, try adding real estate text scripts to your CRM. Most CRM platforms allow you to store text message scripts and track everything you send.

CRM dashboard (Source: LionDesk)

If you’re looking to boost your lead conversion by using real estate SMS scripts, LionDesk CRM has you covered. Its Text Manager feature lets you easily manage and automate text messages, helping you stay connected with your leads and respond faster. Whether it’s follow-ups or reminders, LionDesk makes it simple to keep your pipeline moving. You can try LionDesk free for two weeks and see if it improves your productivity.

Visit LionDesk

Initial Contact Scripts for Seller Leads

Objective: Use texting scripts for real estate to engage with leads looking to sell their homes.
What to keep in mind:

Be prepared with market knowledge and a comparative market analysis (CMA).
Converting FSBO leads can be the most challenging because they are most likely trying to save money.
Ask questions. Show your value.

Script 4

“Hello [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Your Realty]. I saw your inquiry about selling your home at [property address]. Are you available for a quick call or text to discuss next steps?”

Script 5

Agent: “Hi! Is this the owner of {home address}?”

Lead: “Yes.”

Agent: “Great! This is {your name} with {your brokerage}. I was checking the market and noticed that your home is no longer available. Are you still interested in selling?

Script 6

Agent: “Hi! My name is {your first name}. I’m a Realtor with {your brokerage}. Is your home at {home’s address} still for sale?”

Lead: “Yes.”

Agent: Awesome! Are you working with buyer’s agents? I’d love to come by and preview the home in person. It shouldn’t take more than 10 to 15 minutes. That way, I can see it in person, take some notes, ask any questions about it, and see if it matches any of my buyers.

Text scripts for real estate agents are helpful when approaching a seller of an expired listing. When a listing first expires, sellers are flooded with calls from agents. Instead of joining the rush, smart agents wait at least two months to reach out to expired listings—or even up to 12 months. By then, the sellers’ objections are usually limited, they are often still interested in selling, and competition is minimal.

Follow-up Scripts for Unresponsive Leads

Objective: Reengage unresponsive leads with persistence—without being pushy.
What to keep in mind:

Be patient—convey understanding that they may be busy.
Offer new information to renew their interest.
Be aware of your tone—you’re there to help, not pressure them.

Script 7

“Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up and see if you’re still interested in [property type/location]. I’m here to help whenever you’re ready. Feel free to reach out with any questions!”

Script 8

“Hello [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Your Realty]. Just checking in to see if you’re still considering a move to [location]. I’d be happy to assist with any next steps.”

Script 9

“Hi [Name], I know you’re busy, so I wanted to quickly check if you’re still interested in [property address]. I’m available to answer any questions or arrange a viewing at your convenience.”

These text messaging scripts are simple and clearly outline the next steps for your lead. They work because they’re not salesy—they’re simple and easy to understand. If you need a powerful system to manage your leads with built-in text messages you can send right from the platform, try Zurple.

Text and email campaigns (Source: Zurple)

Their campaigns include both text and email scripts designed to keep your leads engaged, ensuring no opportunity slips through the cracks. Content is tailored to each individual lead and includes valuable information specific to their location and price range.

Visit Zurple

Appointment Reminder Scripts for Leads

Objective: Ensure your leads remember their scheduled appointment and know where to meet you.
What to keep in mind:

Send a reminder the day before the appointment.
Include all necessary details like time, date, and location.
Offer directions or to meet them at a public place—whatever is easier for them.

Script 10

“Hi [Name], this is a quick reminder about our appointment tomorrow at [time] to view [property address]. Looking forward to seeing you there!”

Script 11

“Hello [Name], just a friendly reminder of our showing at [property address] on [date] at [time]. Please let me know if you need to reschedule.”

Script 12

“Hi [Name], excited to meet with you tomorrow at [time] to tour [property address]. Let me know if anything comes up or if you need directions!”

The main goal of the text conversation is to get in the door. Set the appointment, and then make your move once you’re face-to-face with the lead.

Property Update Scripts for Interested Leads

Objective: Keep leads informed of new listings, price changes, or other relevant information to maintain interest.
What to keep in mind:

Make sure the update pertains to what the lead needs.
Highlight the significance of the update.
Encourage immediate action.

Script 13

“Hi [Name], I wanted to let you know that a new property just came on the market in [location] that fits your criteria. Would you like more details?”

Script 14

“Hello [Name], I have some exciting news—[property address] just had a price reduction. It’s a great opportunity if you’re still interested. Let me know if you’d like to see it again.”

Script 15

“Hi [Name], a new listing in [location] just became available. It’s similar to the one you liked at [previous property]. Want to schedule a viewing?”

Event Invitation Scripts for Engaging Leads

Objective: Build relationships by inviting leads to events where they can view properties and engage with you personally.
What to keep in mind:

Emphasize why they should attend your event.
Be specific—provide the date, time, and location.
Follow-up after the event.

Script 16

“Hi [Name], we’re hosting an open house at [property address] this Saturday from [time]. It’s a great opportunity to see the property in person. Can I count on seeing you there?”

Script 17

“Hello [Name], I wanted to personally invite you to an exclusive open house this weekend at [property address]. Let me know if you’re interested in attending!”

Script 18

“Hi [Name], we have a special event at [property address] this weekend—a first look before it hits the market. Would you like to stop by?”

Thank-you Scripts to Nurture Leads

Objective: Express appreciation to leads after meeting in person and keep lines of communication open.
What to keep in mind:

Keep your tone warm and genuine.
Personalize your message.
Encourage them to reach out with questions or take action.

Script 19

“Hi [Name], thank you for meeting with me today to view [property address]. I’m here to answer any follow-up questions you might have. Let’s stay in touch!”

Script 20

“Hello [Name], thanks for taking the time to explore [property address] with me. If you have further thoughts or questions, I’m just a text away.”

Script 21

“Hi [Name], it was great meeting with you today. I’ll be in touch with more information, but feel free to reach out if anything comes to mind before then.”

If you’re still struggling to convert leads, try using the LPMAMA framework—location, price, motivation, agent, mortgage, and appointment. It helps you quickly qualify leads by focusing on what matters most, making guiding them toward a decision easier. This simple approach can boost your conversion rate and streamline your conversations.

Referral Request Scripts from Satisfied Leads

Objective: Ask for referrals from satisfied clients to expand your network.
What to keep in mind:

Don’t wait—clients are more likely to refer you right after a positive interaction.
Make it easy by providing a digital contact card.
Show your appreciation.

Script 22

“Hi [Name], I’m glad we connected about [property address]. If you know anyone else looking for a new home, I’d appreciate it if you could share my contact info!”

Script 23

“Hello [Name], I hope our meeting was helpful. If you have friends or family considering buying or selling, I’d love to assist them as well. Referrals are always appreciated!”

Script 24

“Hi [Name], it was great working with you. If you know anyone else who could benefit from my services, please feel free to pass along my information.”

Lead Nurturing Scripts for Long-term Prospects

Objective: Maintain regular contact with leads who aren’t ready to buy or sell immediately.
What to keep in mind:

Check in periodically.
Share relevant market updates.
Be patient and offer support.

Script 25

“Hi [Name], just touching base to see how your home search is going. No rush, but I’m here when you’re ready to explore more options.”

Script 26

“Hello [Name], it’s been a little while since we last spoke. If your plans have changed or you’re ready to start looking again, I’m here to help!”

Script 27

“Hi [first name], this is [your first name] with [your brokerage]. A bunch of homes just sold in your area. Want me to send a report that tells you what’s going on in your neighborhood?”

When reconnecting with cold leads, make it personal and instill a sense of urgency without being pushy. Mention something specific from your last chat or a property they liked. It helps jog their memory and shows you’re genuinely interested in helping them.

Text follow-up tracking (Source: Top Producer)

Top Producer’s text messaging feature gives users a first-class experience. It allows you to send personalized messages directly from the platform, making it easy to reengage leads and keep the conversation going. Turn cold leads into warm opportunities with Top Producer.

Visit Top Producer

Holiday Greeting Scripts to Stay Top of Mind

Objective: Show leads that you think of them even when no immediate business is at hand.
What to keep in mind:

Keep it festive.
Be mindful of religious holidays—not everyone will celebrate every holiday.
Consider using pop-by gifts for a personal touch.

Script 28

“Happy holidays, [Name]! Wishing you all the best this season. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in the new year, I’d love to assist.”

Script 29

“Hello [Name], wishing you a joyful holiday season! When you’re ready to resume your home search, I’m here to help.”

Script 30

“Hi [Name], I hope you have a wonderful holiday! If you need any real estate advice or are planning a move soon, I’m just a text away.”

Closing Day Follow-up Scripts for Building Long-term Relationships

Objective: Congratulate leads on closing to build long-term relationships so they use you in the future.
What to keep in mind:

Celebrate their success.
Offer to help with post-closing needs like movers or contractors.
Stay in touch—your relationship doesn’t end when the transaction closes.

Scrip 31

“Hi [Name], congratulations on closing! I’m so happy for you. If you need anything as you settle in, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here for you beyond just this sale.”

Script 32

“Hello [Name], congrats on your new home! I’m thrilled we could work together. If you ever need any advice or know someone else looking to buy or sell, I’m here to help.”

Script 33

“Hi [Name], it’s official—congratulations on your new home! Remember, I’m here for you not just today but for any future real estate needs you might have.”

Effectiveness of Text Messaging in Real Estate

Text messaging is a powerful tool for real estate agents. 40% of prospects would rather communicate with you via text messaging resulting in a 45% response rate, far surpassing email and direct mail. 82% of text messages are read within five minutes of being received—making text messaging an essential part of any real estate communication strategy.

These high engagement rates allow agents to connect quickly and personally with leads, keeping them engaged throughout the sales process. To maximize effectiveness, agents can create a “swipe file” of go-to messages in your phone’s notes app for easy access. Integrating these scripts into your CRM streamlines the process, enabling consistent follow-up with minimal effort.

Pros & Cons

Although real estate text message scripts are an incredibly effective tool for agents, there are some potential downsides. Here’s a quick overview to help you weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks of incorporating text messaging into your real estate lead generation strategy.

Pros	Cons
Quick and convenient communication	Limited message length
High open rates	A bit intrusive sometimes
Personalized interaction	Risk of miscommunication
CRM integration available	No formality

Like anything, text messaging works best when used wisely and balanced with other communication methods. Knowing when and how to use texting can help you get the most out of it, build stronger relationships, and see better results, all while avoiding any potential downsides.

Best Practices for Crafting & Sending Effective Text Messages

Incorporating text messaging into your real estate script strategy can really enhance your connection with leads. Still, it takes a bit of strategy to get it right. Whether you’re reaching out to new prospects, following up, or trying to reengage cold leads, how you word your real estate text message scripts can make a huge difference. Remember to be careful when using cold texting real estate scripts; you don’t want to come off as impersonal or aggressive.

Let’s look at some simple best practices that will help you craft new messages, connect with your audience, and get the results you aim for in your real estate business.

Keep it short and sweet: Text messages should be concise and to the point. Aim for clarity and brevity to ensure your message is easily understood and quick to read.

Personalize your messages: Use the lead’s name and reference specific details like properties they’ve shown interest in. Personalization increases engagement and shows that you’re attentive to their needs.

Timing is everything: Send messages during appropriate hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Avoid early morning or late-night texts to respect your leads’ time.

Be clear about next steps: Include a clear call-to-action (CTA) in your message, such as scheduling a call, viewing a property, or responding with a simple “yes” or “no.”

Use a warm and friendly tone: Maintain an approachable and professional tone. Avoid overly formal language, but stay respectful and courteous.

Respond promptly: If a lead replies to your text, respond quickly. Prompt replies show that you’re attentive and serious about helping them.

Avoid overloading leads with information: Don’t cram too much into one text. If more details are needed, offer to follow up with a call or email.

Leverage automation and technology: Use CRM tools to automate and schedule texts, but make sure they still feel personal. Automated messages should be relevant and timely.

Test and refine your messages: Regularly review your text messaging campaigns. Test different messages, track response rates, and refine your approach based on what works best.

Respect the “NO”: Always provide an easy way for leads to opt out of receiving texts, and immediately respect their request if they choose to do so.

Bringing It All Together

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your strategy, using well-crafted scripts makes a difference in connecting with leads, keeping them engaged, and ultimately closing more deals. Remember, the key is to be authentic, timely, and thoughtful in your communication. As you get more comfortable, you’ll find your rhythm and style, and those scripts will become second nature.

Do you have some great real estate text message scripts that you’re using in your business? Do you use text messaging scripts in a different way than I mentioned? Drop me a comment and share what you’re doing differently so we can keep this conversation going.

The post The 33 Best Real Estate Text Message Scripts for Agents appeared first on The Close.

36 Real Estate Blog Ideas (+ Examples & Expert Tips)

Shannon Sharpe — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:55:25 +0000

Are you looking for fresh and engaging content to elevate your real estate blog? I’ve got you covered! Having a variety of captivating blog ideas can set you apart and attract more readers to your site. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate agent, a newbie blogger, or somewhere in between, the right content can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of real estate blog ideas that will not only spark your creativity but also help you connect with your audience.

Creative Blog Ideas for Captivating Homebuyers

Want to grab the attention of potential homebuyers with your blog? Check out these creative and engaging real estate blogging ideas that will hook your readers and provide them with the valuable tips and insights they need on their homebuying journey.

1. First-time Homebuyer Tips

Example title: 10 Must-know Tips for First-time Homebuyers

Sharing tips for first-time homebuyers is a great way to provide valuable information to those looking to purchase a home for the first time. Use this post to educate buyers on what to look for in a Realtor, how the homebuying process works, and also subtly play up your strong suits.

2. Real Estate Negotiation Tips

Example title: 5 Negotiation Secrets Smart Buyers Use to Get Better Deals

Since most consumers have minimal experience in negotiating, offering them a peek inside the process of negotiating a deal can make a great blog post. If you really want to wow them with your skills, try using actual examples from your career.

3. Renting vs Buying

Example title: Renting vs Buying: Which Is Right for You?

This topic is always relevant as many people struggle with this decision—especially first-time homebuyers. Providing a balanced view with pros and cons can help your readers make informed choices that suit their personal circumstances.

4. Mortgage Advice

Example title: Understanding Mortgage Options: A Guide for New Homebuyers

Helping your readers navigate the complex world of mortgages can alleviate a lot of stress. By breaking down different mortgage options and go-to resources, you can make the process feel more manageable and less intimidating.

Lead magnet marketing (Source: Coffee and Contracts)

Need a boost for your real estate blog? Look no further than Coffee and Contracts! They’ve got fantastic marketing resources designed just for real estate pros. With ready-to-use content and automation options, they make it super easy to keep your blog fresh and engaging. Check them out and see how they can help you make a lasting impression on your readers.

Visit Coffee and Contracts

Engaging Topics to Help Homesellers Succeed

Selling a home can be complex, emotional, and stressful. That’s why you’re the one to show your community how it’s done. Offering tips, advice, checklists, and strategies for selling a home will help prospects trust you to be the one to list and sell their home.

5. Home Staging Mistakes to Avoid

Example title: 7 Embarrassing Home Staging Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Home’s Value

Home staging mistakes is a fantastic blog idea because it’s something every homeowner thinks they can do on their own. The reality, of course, is that home staging can be difficult and expensive—something most homeowners don’t realize until they actually try to stage their own.

6. Home Staging Tips & Tricks to Sell Faster

Example title: 7 Interior Paint Colors That Will Help Your Home Sell Quicker

The trick with this blog post idea is to make sure to interview (or research) experts who actually know a thing or two about interior design and how it might affect a listing. Just be careful about making any promises here. Avoid saying things like “This landscaping will increase your listing price” and instead say something like, “One study showed this type of curb appeal helped homes sell X% faster.”

7. What Does a Listing Agent Actually Do?

Example title: 12 Hidden Ways Listing Agents Help Homeowners Sell Faster & for More Money

Justifying your own job might seem a little desperate, but if you focus on the positive and talk about some uncommon but essential ways you can help homeowners, you just might end up with a viral blog post.

8. A Property Marketing Case Study

Example title: Case Study: How 3 {Your Farm Area} Luxury Homes Sold 20% Over Asking

This blog post requires a little more research, but if you have a few listings under your belt where marketing your listing made the difference, or know an agent who does, then this is a great post to show off your marketing knowledge to your readers.

9. Easy Curb Appeal Ideas for Your Local Market

Example title: 11 Affordable Curb Appeal Ideas for {Your Farm Area} Homes

Curb appeal is one of those things that most homeowners don’t quite understand. They think they do, but when it comes down to pulling out their credit card or rolling up their sleeves, they will inevitably head to Google—or you, if you have a well-written article on your blog!

Helpful Improvement Tips for Homeowners

Targeting buyers and sellers is a no-brainer, but don’t forget about what comes after the transaction. Your homebuyers are now homeowners. Your sellers are still homeowners. This is a topic area that appeals to the masses, and there’s plenty of content to write about. Help your audience take care of their homes so that you can sell them at top dollar.

10. Home Renovations that Offer the Best ROI for Resale

Example title: 7 Home Projects That Will Get You Money Back at the Closing Table

Here’s a real estate blog idea that most homeowners thinking of selling will find irresistible. After all, renovating their older home will cost them tons of money, and most homeowners don’t have a clue if they will ever get any of that money back at the closing table.

11. Before & After Renovation Examples

Example title: Before & After: This Humble Bungalow in {Your Town} Was Transformed Into a Luxe Retreat

People love Cinderella stories, so writing about local homes transformed by tasteful renovations is a great way to get readers hooked on your blog. The more specific you can get here, the better. Check sites like Curbed for examples of local renovations and see if you can get a quick comment from a local architect or interior designer.

Choosing the Right Real Estate Professional (& Why You’re the Best)

These real estate agent blog ideas offer a chance for a subtle flex, showing that not only do you know the biz, but you also know how to outperform the competition. These real estate blog content ideas let you show off your high standards and impeccable professionalism with branded content.

12. Open House Food Ideas

Example title: 17 Open House Food Ideas to Make Your Open House a Success

Writing up a short article on popular open house food ideas is a great way to impress potential homesellers. They’ll see that if they hire you, you’ll go way beyond a box of stale store-bought cookies and bottled water.

13. Dual Agency Explained: What You Need to Know

Example title: 7 Reasons Dual Agency Can Be a Mistake in {Your State}

Dual agency is one of those real estate topics to discuss that seems easy to understand at first but gets more complicated as you dig in. That makes it a perfect blog post to show off your sales expertise. If it’s legal in your state, make sure to be clear about its complexities and list the pros and cons honestly.

14. Horror ‘Behind the Scenes’ Stories

Example title: 12 Common Lies Realtors Tell New Buyers in {Your Town}

Pull back the curtain and dish on what really goes on in the industry. This is a great way to differentiate yourself from the bad apples. Just remember to keep it PG, and don’t accuse fellow agents or brokerages by name.

Uncovering Local Market Insights & Attractions

Your blog post is one of the best ways to show off your local bona fides. In fact, your blog could become so popular that you generate leads just from Google searches on local goings-on.

15. In-depth Neighborhood Guides for Relocation Buyers

Example title: An In-depth Guide to {Your Area} for New Homeowners

In-depth neighborhood guides make excellent lead magnets, e-books, and social media content. The trick here is to go deep. Most agents will write fluffy overviews, so make sure you get into the nitty-gritty of what moving to your neighborhood will be like.

16. Hyper-local New Homebuyer’s Guide

Example title: A New Homebuyer’s Guide to Moving to {Your Farm Area}

Are you working with new buyers? If not, you’re missing out. Many first-time buyers these days have excellent income and credit, and all they really need is someone to walk them through the transaction. If you get it right, you could have a devoted evangelist for life.

17. Monthly or Quarterly Aggregated Market Reports

Example title: Your {Month Year} Market Report for {Your Farm Area}

While most agents post some kind of market report and charts on their blogs, they tend to be pretty thin and not actually useful to their readers. If you want to stand out, take the time and effort to make your monthly or quarterly local market reports as in-depth and nerdy as you can manage.

18. Local Listing(s) of the Week

Example title: 3 Drop-dead Gorgeous, Mid-century Modern Homes in {Your Town}

This is a fun one and can help you build relationships with local listing agents. Try to choose three to five listings every week that might fit a specific theme your audience will like for more impact. For example, if you’re working in Miami, waterfront listings would be fun to write about. If you’re working in Manhattan, then you can’t go wrong writing about penthouses.

19. How Economic News Affects Your Farm Area

Example title: What the {Recent Economic News} Means for {Your Farm Area} Homeowners

While your wealthy clients might read The Wall Street Journal every morning, most of the economic news won’t be directly relevant to their real estate portfolio. That’s why taking that news and contextualizing it for them is another excellent way to use your blog to offer something of value to your audience.

20. A Guide to Local Architectural Styles

Example title: A Cheat Sheet to the Architectural Styles of {Your Town}

When people start thinking about buying or selling a home, they generally go into education mode. Learning about local architectural styles is a great way to get them to click on your posts on social media.

21. A Guide to Local HOA Covenants

Example title: 15 Common HOA Covenants & What They Really Mean

For most people, homeowners associations (HOAs) are right up there with the IRS when it comes to confusing and potentially expensive adversaries. That’s why a friendly explainer piece on HOA covenants can help new homeowners or anyone who never lived under their rules feel a little more comfortable about them.

22. A Guide to Up & Coming Micro-neighborhoods

Example title: 3 Neighborhoods in {Your Town} Set to Take Off in 2024

While every agent in your farm area is probably opining about the hot new neighborhood, writing about smaller micro-neighborhoods with appealing qualities is a great way to show off your local market knowledge.

23. Chat With a Lawyer on Common Local Legal Issues

Example title: A {Your Area} Lawyer Explains Eminent Domain

Real estate lawyers also want to show off their local expertise to your audience because your leads might potentially be their leads too. Interviewing local experts can help build relationships that lead to referrals down the road.

24. Interview a Local Real Estate Developer

Example title: What 100 New Affordable Housing Units Means for {Your Community}

Developers have their finger on the pulse of local communities. They know the demographics, trends, permitting processes, the movers and shakers—in other words, they have plenty of intel that would make a fascinating blog post. Plus, it’s an excellent networking opportunity for you—after all, who’s going to sell all of those new units?

Profitable Ideas for Real Estate Investors

Your audience might be interested in learning how to leverage real estate in their investment portfolio, and you’re exactly the person to teach them. Break down complicated topics like real estate market cycles or commercial opportunities into bite-sized pieces so your readers can not only gain knowledge but also see you as a conduit for investment success.

25. A 101-level Crash Course in Real Estate Investing

Example title: Investing in {Your Town} Real Estate 101

Since everyone wants to make a great investment, a crash course in real estate investing is a great idea for a blog post. You can explain some common industry terms and investment strategies and then discuss which one works best in your farm area.

26. Fix & Flip Guide

Example title: How to Fix & Flip Homes in {Your Town}

With the popularity of real estate reality TV shows growing every day, writing blog posts that educate your audience on investing is a great way to increase traffic and conversions. If you’re serious about working with new investors, writing an in-depth ebook explaining the fix-and-flip process in detail would be a great way to capture leads.

27. A Guide to Evaluating & Purchasing Rental Properties

Example title: 8 Tips for Buying Rental Properties in {Your Town}

Since the real estate investment niche is red-hot these days, an expert guide to purchasing a rental property in your farm area can get you clicks and conversions on your blog. If you’re not an expert in rental property, work with your broker or a local investor to write this one.

28. A Guide to Buying Foreclosures

Example title: How to Buy Distressed Properties 101

Your audience might have heard of foreclosed properties, and maybe the idea of getting a bargain appeals to them. Better, though, that they have all of the information before starting down a road that offers both opportunity and plenty of potential frustration.

29. 1031 Exchange Rules

Example title: How 1031 Exchanges Can Save Property Investors Real Money

This topic is a bit more technical than the previous ones, but that means more consumers are looking for help with it. We have the perfect guide to help you explain what 1031 exchanges are and how they can benefit your investor clients.

In-depth Analysis of Real Estate Market Trends

Real estate blogs on market trends help readers make sense of current patterns and predict future changes, whether they’re buying, selling, or investing. By breaking down the numbers and explaining what they mean, you’ll become the go-to expert for anyone looking for a real estate professional.

30. Current Housing Market Trends

Example title: What’s Happening in the Housing Market Right Now?

Staying up-to-date with the latest housing market trends and statistics is crucial for buyers, sellers, and investors. This type of content keeps your audience informed about the current market conditions and what they mean for their real estate decisions.

31. Predicting Future Market Changes

Example title: 2025 Real Estate Market Predictions: What Experts Are Saying

People love to know what’s coming next, especially in the volatile world of real estate. Offering expert predictions helps your readers plan ahead and make informed decisions based on anticipated market shifts.

32. Local or Regional Market Analysis

Example title: Why {City/Region} Is the Next Real Estate Hotspot

Highlighting specific regions that are experiencing growth or change can attract local readers and those considering relocating. This content helps readers understand why certain areas are becoming more desirable and what that means for their investments.

33. Seasonal Trends in Real Estate

Example title: Why Winter Could Be the Best Time to Buy a Home

Seasonal trends can significantly affect the real estate market, and understanding these patterns can be a game-changer for buyers and sellers. Sharing insights on the best times of year for real estate activities makes your content timely and relevant.

Innovative Blog Ideas on Real Estate Technology

Technology has made a huge impact on the real estate industry in recent years. These real estate blog examples will help you explore how cutting-edge tools and trends are transforming the industry. From smart home gadgets to virtual reality tours, you can tell readers what’s hot and what’s not—all while showing them how you know your stuff.

34. An Overview of Virtual Staging Software

Example title: How Virtual Staging Software Can Drive Traffic to Your Home

This one falls into the “seems easy until you try it” category for homeowners. Virtual staging looks like magic, but once they try to do it, they will realize that hiring a professional like you to market their home might be a better investment.

35. Smart Home Technology

Example title: How 1031 Exchanges Can Save Property Investors Real Money

This real estate blog topic showcases the latest smart home gadgets is a surefire way to attract tech-savvy readers. This type of content highlights how technology can make homes more convenient and appealing, which is a big selling point for today’s buyers.

36. Real Estate Apps & Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Example title: Must-have Real Estate Apps for Buyers and Sellers and How AI Can Work for You

With the rise of mobile technology and AI, real estate apps are essential tools for staying ahead. Reviewing the best apps for real estate needs keeps your audience informed about tools that can simplify their buying or selling journey.

Even More Real Estate Blog Topics to Explore

I’ve already shared 36 real estate blog ideas, but there’s so much more to explore! If you’re looking for more inspiration, here are 30 more real estate blog topics to spark your creativity.

Real Estate Blog Best Practices

Now that you’re inspired to start blogging, sit down and plan out your content using your real estate marketing plan. Then, use these insider tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years that will help you get more page views.

Tip 1: Write Three Different Versions of Your Headline

The headline is by far the most important element of your real estate blog post, just like your business logo. It’s the first—and sometimes only—thing your audience will see before they decide to click on it and read it. So, take the time to learn how to write headlines that get clicks. Write three and then pick your best.

Tip 2: Break Up Text in Your Posts

Since your readers are busy, do them a favor and break up your blog posts into bite-sized chunks using subheadings. Most people are going to skim your posts anyway. Make it easy for them. Using H2, H3, and H4 tags (rather than just bolding the text of your headings) is also a best practice for search engine optimization (SEO).

Tip 3: Include Links to Your Other Related Blog Posts

This will not only help your reader quickly get to related posts but will also help Google crawl your site and might help you rank better. You can also link to your posts on your social media profiles. LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook are all great places to find new readers.

Tip 4: Use Keyword Research to Answer Your Audience’s Questions

If you want a chance of ranking your blog posts on Google, you need to research what keywords your audience is searching for. You can start by checking out some other successful real estate blogs in your farm area. Which articles do you think are most helpful for buyers and sellers? If you want to get serious and do professional keyword research, check out our in-depth guide below.

Tip 5: Use Descriptive Language & Keep Paragraphs Short

Long paragraphs are like homework, and you have about 10 seconds to capture your reader’s attention before they click back over to Facebook. Be sure that the words you are using are descriptive and engaging.

Tip 6: Use Images & Infographics

We are naturally drawn to attractive images, so sprinkle some throughout your blog post. Make sure you have the rights to use the photos—you can use photos of your listings, your home, and your neighborhood. Unsplash is a great place to find great high-res, free images.

You can also utilize infographics and catchy real estate slogans to capture attention and illustrate your points. We have a great collection in our guide below.

Tip 7: Read Your Writing Out Loud Before Hitting Publish

Editing your own writing can be tricky, but one way to make it easier is to read your entire post out loud and see if you stumble. If you can read through it without stumbling, then chances are so will your readers.

Tip 8: Always Put the Reader First

Always put your reader first. Make sure to focus on their needs and experience rather than search engine optimization (SEO), selling, trying to sound clever, or anything else. Always remember your blog is for your readers! Putting your audience first is the best way to put out your marketing message in a subtle way.

Tip 9: Make Sure Readers Know Who You Are

Having a bio and headshot on your website is a must. Your bio lets readers get to know you better, sharing your background, expertise, and a bit of your personality. And don’t forget a professional headshot! It adds a personal touch and helps potential clients feel more connected to you.

FAQs

Is a real estate blog a good idea?

Absolutely! A real estate blog is a fantastic way to share your expertise, connect with potential clients, and build your brand. By providing valuable insights and tips, you can establish yourself as a trusted authority in the industry, which can lead to more business opportunities.

How do I write a real estate blog?

Start by identifying topics that interest your audience, like market trends, homebuying tips, and local neighborhood guides. Write in a clear, conversational tone, and be sure to include personal insights and experiences. Consistency is key, so try to post regularly and engage with your readers through comments and social media.

Do real estate blogs make money?

Yes, they can! While it might take some time to build up your audience, real estate blogs can generate income through advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. Plus, a successful blog can attract more clients to your real estate business, indirectly boosting your earnings.

Bringing It All Together

Writing a real estate blog is a proven way to market your services, generate leads, and help others. It can be hard to keep your content fresh and engaging, but this list of ideas should keep you brainstorming and busy. Don’t forget that the whole point of your blog is to let others see you as the local expert, the one who can solve their problems, and make all of their real estate dreams come true.

Have some favorite real estate blog post ideas? Let us know in the comments!

The post 36 Real Estate Blog Ideas (+ Examples & Expert Tips) appeared first on The Close.

The 15 Best Expired Listing Scripts & Best Practices

Shannon Sharpe — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:23:59 +0000

Let’s be real for a second. Cold-calling expired listings is never on the top of any agent’s to-do list. It can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to real estate. But here’s a little secret veteran agents know, having killer expired listing scripts can make all the difference.

Think of it this way—homeowners with expired listings are probably frustrated, unsure of their next move, and need someone who has a clear plan to get their home sold. That’s where you come in. Do your homework, personalize your approach, and use the right expired listing scripts to stand out and handle any challenges. So let’s dive in and see how you can become the go-to listing agent with the best expired listings scripts.

1. The Initial Contact Script

Objective: Introduce yourself and understand the homeowner’s previous experience.
What to keep in mind:
- Be empathetic and professional.
- Show genuine interest in their situation.
- Keep the conversation open-ended to gather information.

Agent: Hi, this is {your name}, and I wanted to know if your home is still for sale.

Homeowner: Yes, it’s still for sale.

Agent: The reason I ask is that your home showed up on the MLS as an expired listing. This means it’s no longer listed for sale. I’m a real estate agent in the area who specializes in working with sellers whose homes didn’t sell the first time around. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to show you my unique approach to getting houses sold! Are you available for 20 minutes today at {time of day} or is {time of day} tomorrow a better time?

2. The Follow-up Script

Objective: Reestablish contact, provide value, and move towards setting an appointment.
What to keep in mind:
- Be persistent, but polite.
- Provide value by offering ideas you have in mind for their property.
- Aim for setting up another call or even a meeting.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage] again. I hope you’re doing well. I was thinking about your property at [Address] and had some new ideas on how we could attract more buyers. I’d love to share these with you and discuss how we can get your home sold quickly. Do you have some time later this week to chat?”

Pro Tip: Always follow up, even if the homeowner says they’re selling the house as For Sale By Owner (FSBO). If it hasn’t sold by your follow-up call, you might have a chance to secure the listing the second time around.

3. The Appointment Setting Script

Objective: Secure an in-person meeting to discuss your marketing strategies for selling their home.
What to keep in mind:
- Be specific during this cold call and show them you’ve done your homework.
- Suggest a specific day and time, making it easier for them to say yes.
- Be flexible and offer alternative times.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I’ve been reviewing the details of your property at [Address], and I have a few tailored strategies that I believe could really make a difference in getting it sold quickly and at the best price. I’d love to meet with you to go over these ideas in detail. How does [specific day and time] work for you?”

4. The Voicemail Script

Objective: Leave a compelling message that encourages a callback.
What to keep in mind:
- Keep your message brief and to the point.
- Personalize the message by mentioning the property specifically.
- Use a positive tone and clearly state your contact info.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I noticed your home at [Address] recently came off the market, and I specialize in helping homeowners like you successfully sell their properties.

I have some fresh ideas and strategies that could make a big difference. Please give me a call back at [Your Phone Number] when you have a moment. I look forward to speaking with you soon. Have a great day!”

5. The Text Message Script

Objective: To use an expired listing script to make initial contact by text message in a clear and engaging way.
What to keep in mind:
- Make it personal and feel less spammy.
- Make it clear who you are and the brokerage you work for.
- Keep it short and ask to chat.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I noticed your home at [Address] recently came off the market. I specialize in helping homeowners like you get their properties sold quickly and for the best price. I have some fresh ideas and strategies that could really make a difference. Would you be open to a quick chat to discuss how we can get your home sold? Thanks!”

6. The Email Script

Objective: Engage with the homeowner through expired listings scripts to provide valuable insights and a call to action.
What to keep in mind:
- The subject line should grab their attention.
- Be sure they know you have new strategies to discuss.
- Provide a clear call to action, asking for the next meeting or call.

Hi [Homeowner’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m a real estate agent with [Your Brokerage]. I noticed that your beautiful home at [Address] recently came off the market. I specialize in helping homeowners like you successfully sell their properties, and I have some fresh strategies that I believe could make a big difference.

I’d love to share these ideas with you and discuss how we can get your home sold quickly and at the best price. Are you available for a brief call or meeting this week? Please let me know a time that works for you.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to the opportunity to work together.

Best regards,

[Signature]

7. The Door Knocking Script

Objective: Make a strong first impression by knocking on the door and introducing yourself.
What to keep in mind:
- Start with a friendly introduction and mention your brokerage.
- Ask if they have time to chat now or if they’d prefer to schedule a follow-up meeting.
- Stay upbeat and positive, no matter what their reaction may be.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], I’m [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I was in the neighborhood and noticed your home at [Address] recently came off the market. I specialize in helping homeowners like you get their properties sold quickly and at the best price.

I have some fresh ideas and strategies that I believe could really make a difference. Would you have a few minutes to chat now, or can we set up a time that works better for you to discuss how we can get your home sold?”

Pro Tip: Whether you’re using expired listings scripts or prospecting any other type of lead, it can be difficult to convert leads into clients. Try the LPMAMA technique to build rapport and increase sales.

8. The Market Analysis Script

Objective: Offer to provide a detailed market analysis to provide value and build trust.
What to keep in mind:
- Mention that you have valuable insights to share.
- Make sure they know it’s important since their house didn’t sell the last time.
- Once they agree, set up a follow-up meeting right away to discuss the analysis and next steps.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I wanted to follow up with you regarding your property at [Address]. I’ve conducted a detailed market analysis and have some valuable insights on why it may not have sold and what we can do differently.

I’d love to share this information with you and discuss how we can position your home to attract more buyers. When would be a convenient time for us to meet and go over this together?”

9. The Price Adjustment Script

Objective: Discuss the need for a price change from the last time they listed to sell the home.
What to keep in mind:
- Be sensitive to the homeowner’s feelings.
- Emphasize that your recommendation is based on thorough market analysis.
- Explain how a price adjustment can attract more buyers and increase the chances of a sale.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I’ve been reviewing the market data and buyer feedback on your property at [Address], and I believe we may need to consider a price adjustment to attract more interest at this time.

The current market conditions and comparable properties suggest that a slight adjustment from the last time you listed the home could make a significant difference in getting more buyers through the door. I’d love to meet with you to discuss this in detail and explain how it can help us achieve your selling goals. When would be a convenient time for us to chat?”

10. The Client Success Story Script

Objective: Share a success story to build trust and demonstrate your expertise.
What to keep in mind:
- The success story should relate to their current situation.
- Be sure your story is specific.
- Express confidence in achieving similar results.

Agent: “I wanted to share a recent success story that might resonate with your situation. I recently worked with a homeowner whose property had been on the market for months without any offers. After implementing a few strategic changes, including a targeted marketing campaign and some minor staging adjustments, we were able to sell their home in just three weeks at a great price.

I believe we can achieve similar success with your property at [Address]. I’d love to discuss how we can make that happen. When would be a convenient time for us to meet to go over my strategy for your home?”

11. The Staging Consultant Script

Objective: Offer a consultation with a stager to help the homeowner visualize how enhancing the property’s appeal will attract more buyers.
What to keep in mind:
- Explain the benefits of professional staging.
- Mention your consultant specifically.
- Reference a few specific staging techniques you’ve personally used that added value.

Agent: “I’ve been thinking about ways to make your property at [Address] stand out to potential buyers. One of the most effective strategies is professional staging, which can highlight your home’s best features and create a more inviting atmosphere. I work with a fantastic staging consultant who has a proven track record of helping homes sell faster and for higher prices.

Would you be interested in setting up a consultation to see how we can enhance your home’s appeal? When would be a good time for us to discuss this further?”

12. The First Meeting Script

Objective: Build trust, understand the homeowner’s goals, and present your marketing plan.
What to keep in mind:
- Be sure to greet the homeowner and thank them for their time.
- Ask about their previous experience and listen to their concerns.
- Invite them to ask questions and ensure they feel comfortable.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], it’s great to finally meet you in person. I’m [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage], and I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me today. I’ve reviewed the details of your property at [Address], and I understand how important it is for you to sell quickly and at the best possible price.

To start, I’d love to hear about your previous experience and what you felt might have been missing. From there, I can share my comprehensive marketing plan tailored specifically for your home. This includes targeted online advertising, professional photography, staging, and open houses designed to attract serious buyers. I believe we can position your home in a way that highlights its best features and sets it apart from other listings.

We will go through this plan together and I’ll answer any questions you have. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and excited about the process moving forward. How does that sound?”

13. The Marketing Plan Presentation Script

Objective: Present a detailed marketing plan tailored to the homeowner and secure the listing.
What to keep in mind:
- Be sure to provide a clear, step-by-step marketing plan.
- Highlight how each part of your plan will attract buyers.
- Invite questions and provide detailed answers.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], thank you for meeting with me today. I’m [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage], and I’m excited to share my comprehensive marketing plan for your property at [Address].

First, I want to assure you that I’ve carefully analyzed the local market and reviewed what happened during your previous listing. My goal is to create a strategy that highlights your home’s unique features and reaches the right buyers.

[Provide overview of marketing plan – include the below items that are part of your plan]

Professional Photography and Videography: High-quality images and a virtual tour to showcase your home beautifully online.
Staging Consultation: Partnering with a top-notch staging consultant to make your home look its best.
Online Advertising: Targeted ads on major real estate websites, social media platforms, and Google to reach potential buyers.
Email Marketing: Sending out professionally designed emails to my database of buyers and local real estate agents.
Open Houses and Private Showings: Coordinating open houses and private showings to attract serious buyers.
Print Marketing: High-quality brochures and postcards to be distributed in the neighborhood and at key locations.
MLS and Syndication: Ensuring your listing appears on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and is syndicated to all major real estate websites.

Each of these elements is designed to maximize exposure and attract serious buyers. I’m confident that with this approach, we can generate a lot of interest and get your home sold quickly and for the best price.

Do you have any questions or specific concerns about the marketing plan? I’m here to address them and make sure you feel confident moving forward.”

14. The Reengagement Script

Objective: Reconnect with the homeowner to reignite their interest in selling and offer new strategies.
What to keep in mind:
- Show you understand and respect their decision to step back from the market.
- Mention new market trends that would be beneficial to selling their home now.
- Be sure to have fresh ideas to share.

Agent: “Hi [Homeowner’s Name], this is [Your Name] from [Your Brokerage]. I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to touch base with you regarding your property at [Address]. I know you took a break from the market, and I completely understand. Sometimes, stepping back can provide a fresh perspective.

I’ve been keeping an eye on the market, and there have been some exciting changes and new trends that could work in your favor. I have a few new strategies and marketing ideas that I believe could make a big difference in getting your home sold quickly and for a great price.

Would you be interested in meeting to discuss these new opportunities? I’d love to help you achieve your home selling goals. When would be a convenient time for us to chat?”

15. The Closing the Deal Script

Objective: Secure the homeowner’s commitment to list their property with you.
What to keep in mind:
- This is your opportunity to get a listing agreement signed—ask for the listing.
- Be sure to have the paperwork ready to be signed.
- Show confidence in your marketing plan and get them excited to get their home sold.

“Hi [Homeowner’s Name], it’s been great discussing your property at [Address] and exploring how we can achieve your selling goals. I believe that with the detailed marketing plan we’ve outlined and the tailored strategies we’ve discussed, we have a strong path forward to getting your home sold quickly and at the best possible price.

I’m confident that my approach will deliver the results you’re looking for. Are you ready to move forward and get your home back on the market? I have all the paperwork ready, and we can get started right away. When would be a good time for us to finalize the details?”

“Or if it’s easier, I can have the paperwork sent over to you electronically!”

Expired Listing Tips & Best Practices

Turning expired listings into successful sales requires a smart approach. Following these tips will boost your success whale using expired listing scripts. Every homeowner’s situation is different, so customize your approach to fit their needs. If you do your research, personalize your communication, and build trust, you’ll be turning expired listings into sales in no time. Here are some top tips to help you make the most out of these opportunities:

Tip 1: Do Your Research

Before reaching out, gather as much information as possible about the property and its previous listing. Understand why it may not have sold, such as pricing issues, inadequate marketing, or market conditions.

Best Practices:

Review the MLS listing for photos, descriptions, and pricing history.
Analyze market trends in the neighborhood.
Check out the competition and what similar homes have sold for recently.

Tip 2: Personalize Your Communication

Personalization is key when contacting homeowners with expired listings. Generic messages can come off as insincere and ineffective.

Best Practices:

Address the homeowner by name.
Reference specific details about their property.
Mention any unique selling points or potential improvements.

Tip 3: Use Multiple Methods of Contact

Don’t rely solely on one method of communication. Different homeowners may respond better to different approaches.

Best Practices:

Start with a phone call to make a personal connection.
Follow up with an email that includes valuable information like a simple market analysis.
Consider sending a handwritten note or a postcard for a personal touch.

Tip 4: Highlight Your Expertise & Success

Homeowners need to feel confident that you can achieve what their previous agent could not. Highlight your expertise and past successes.

Best Practices:

Share client success stories from satisfied clients.
Provide statistics on your success rate with similar properties.
Explain your marketing strategy and how it differs from what they experienced before.

Tip 5: Focus on Building Trust

Trust is critical in real estate transactions, especially for homeowners who have had a negative experience.

Best Practices:

Actively listen and empathize with their frustrations.
Be transparent about what may have gone wrong previously and how you plan to do things differently.
Follow through on any promises or commitments you make to the homeowner.

Tip 6: Use No-pressure Strategies

A no-pressure consultation can help homeowners feel more comfortable and willing to engage with you.

Best Practices:

Provide a detailed, no-obligation market analysis.
Offer to discuss potential improvements or staging ideas.
Be prepared to answer any questions they might have about the selling process.

Tip 7: Be Persistent—but Respectful

Persistence shows your commitment, but it’s important to strike the right balance to avoid being perceived as pushy. Handle objections as they come, but also be mindful of their previous experiences with real estate agents.

Best Practices:

Set a follow-up schedule and stick to it.
Respect their space if they ask for time to think things over.
Send occasional updates or valuable information without overwhelming them.

Tip 8: Leverage Technology

Make technology your new best friend. It makes your work easier and interactions smoother.

Best Practices:

Use a CRM system to track your interactions and follow-ups.
Implement virtual tours or digital marketing tools to showcase their property.
Use data analytics to provide insights and market trends.

CRM contact summary page (Source: Wise Agent)

Wise Agent CRM makes managing contacts and following up with leads easy-peasy! It keeps track of all your interactions, sets reminders, and automates follow-up tasks, so you never miss a beat. With Wise Agent, you’ll stay organized and ready to turn more leads into happy clients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do expired listing letters work?

Absolutely, expired listing letters can work, but the key is personalization. Homeowners who’ve had their listings expire are often frustrated and looking for a fresh approach—so they may not respond to a letter. However, a well-written letter that addresses their specific concerns, offers insights into why their home didn’t sell, and highlights your unique strategies can grab their attention and build trust. It’s about showing empathy, providing value, and standing out from the generic pitches they might have already received. Don’t forget to close your letter with a call to action, or else the letter will likely find its way to the trash can.

How do you market an expired listing?

Marketing an expired listing starts with understanding why it didn’t sell in the first place. Once you’ve got that figured out, you can tailor a new strategy. This might include professional photography, staging, and creating compelling online and print advertisements. Leveraging social media and targeted online ads can also increase visibility. Hosting open houses and virtual tours are great ways to attract potential buyers. The goal is to reintroduce the property to the market with a fresh, appealing approach that corrects any past issues.

What happens when listings expire?

When listings expire, it means the home didn’t sell within the agreed-upon timeframe. This can be disheartening for homeowners, but it’s also an opportunity for a fresh start. If an agent can get them to reevaluate their pricing strategy or condition of the property, it just might sell. Expired listings present a chance for new agents to step in with new ideas and strategies to get the home sold.

Bringing It All Together

Expired listings are a goldmine for agents ready to put in the work. Cold-calling is not easy or comfortable if you’re not used to doing it. By using these expired listing scripts, you can build trust, offer real value, and win new clients. The secret sauce? A mix of empathy, persistence, and professionalism.

What are your favorite expired listing scripts? Let us know in the comments. We love sharing success stories and awesome tools with other agents! Good luck and happy selling!

The post The 15 Best Expired Listing Scripts & Best Practices appeared first on The Close.

7 Savvy Ways to Get Real Estate Referrals

Shannon Sharpe — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:13:16 +0000

Real estate referrals have always been a lucrative source of leads for seasoned agents, so knowing how to generate referrals is vital to building your business. Referrals typically result from you providing such an exceptional customer experience that clients, friends, and neighbors are all compelled to recommend your services to others.

So, how do you consistently turn satisfied clients into championing supporters who bring new prospects to your door? I’ll explore how to get real estate referrals from your sphere of influence, creating a continuous flow of new clients through trusted word-of-mouth recommendations.

1. Tap Into Your Existing Network

Estimated Cost: $0-$50 (per person)
Time Investment: 1 hour each day
Go-to Close Resource: Building Client Relationships: A Complete Guide for Agents

Connect with clients on social media regularly.
Show genuine appreciation by hosting client appreciation events.
Surprise your past clients with pop-by gifts.

Your existing network is a goldmine of potential real estate agent referrals just waiting to be tapped into. These people already know, like, and trust you—making them your best cheerleaders! Stay in touch regularly through personalized emails, holiday cards, and milestone check-ins to keep yourself top-of-mind.

Show appreciation for any referrals with handwritten thank-you notes and drop off pop-by gifts. By actively engaging with your existing network, you will create a steady stream of new clients and grow your business.

2. Join a Referral Network

Estimated Cost: Varies
Time Investment: 5-10 hours for setup and 2-3 hours of engagement each week
Go-to Close Resource: The Complete Guide to Real Estate Referral Fees

Choose the right network.
Build strong relationships.
Harness the power of follow-up.

Becoming part of a referral network can truly transform your real estate business, but the key lies in selecting the one that aligns perfectly with your goals and values. Not all networks are created equally, especially ones you find on social media. Paid or pay-per-transaction referral programs tend to be more lucrative and yield a better return on your investment.

To get the most out of a referral network, attend meetings, join the discussions, and genuinely engage with the referral network. When you get a referral, follow up quickly and professionally, keep the referring member in the loop, and show appreciation. This diligence boosts your reputation in the network and encourages even more real estate referrals down the line.

Popular Referral Networks

Start by looking for networks that focus on building relationships and passing real estate referrals among professionals, provide platforms for receiving leads from buyers and sellers, and match clients with top local agents. These networks can help you expand your client base and grow your business.

Here are our top picks based on popularity to get you started.

Referral Network	What They Offer	Starting Price	Learn More
Zillow Premier Agent	Exclusive zip code advertising High volume of leads Integrated CRM	Pricing varies based on the location. Pricing starts around $200-plus per month. Potential costs can be up to $1,000-plus per month.	Visit Zillow Premier Agent
Sold.com	Qualified leads No upfront costs Increased exposure via online agent profiles	It has no upfront costs or membership fees. Pay a referral fee per closed transaction. Referral fees average 30%.	Visit Sold.com
Movoto	No upfront costs; pay-at-closing model Comprehensive data and listings Lead matching algorithm	It has no upfront costs or membership fees. Pay a referral fee per closed transaction. Referral fees range from 25% to 35%.	Visit Movoto
ReadyConnect Concierge	Real-time lead connection No upfront costs; pay-at-closing model Lead screening and nurturing	It has no upfront costs or membership fees. Pay a referral fee per closed transaction. Referral fees range from 30% to 35%.	Visit ReadyConnect

Things to Consider When Choosing a Referral Network

Referral fee percentage: Some networks charge as much as 40% referral fees. With these companies, consider whether the juice is really worth the squeeze.
Subscription fees: Some referral networks charge a monthly or annual subscription fee. Consider whether you’ll be able to justify the amount you’re paying to be a part of the network and whether you’ll be able to recoup any of the costs. A few networks don’t charge a subscription fee and only collect the referral percentage. Weigh whether the leads you get are of high enough quality to justify your investment.
Lead quality: Will the leads convert? Before signing up, getting feedback from current referral network members, especially paid networks, is never a bad idea. Check company reviews to see what other agents say about the lead quality.
Lead volume: If you’re paying a subscription for a referral network but aren’t getting a lot of leads, reconsider your investment. Learn as much as you can about how many leads to expect from any referral source before signing up for a long-term commitment.

When thinking outside the box to figure out how to get real estate referrals, these are just a few elements to consider if you’re contemplating joining an agent-to-agent referral network. In addition to these, there are many other networks where you can pay for leads. If you want to learn more about companies specializing in paid lead generation, check out our recommended top lead generation companies.

3. Boost Your Online Presence

Estimated Cost: $0-$50
Time Investment: 3-5 hours each week
Go-to Close Resource: Real Estate Testimonial Examples to Inspire Your Referral Marketing

Create a professional website.
Leverage online reviews and testimonials.
Use social media platforms and paid advertising.

A solid online presence is crucial to attracting real estate referrals. Start by creating a clean, easy-to-navigate, and mobile-friendly professional website. Ensure all the essential information, like your services, contact details, and client testimonials, is easy to find. Keep a regularly updated blog that offers valuable content to engage visitors and boost your search engine optimization (SEO). Positive reviews and testimonials are gold, so don’t be shy about asking happy clients to leave reviews and respond to all feedback. Share these glowing testimonials across your social media profiles and website.

Speaking of social media, it’s a fantastic tool for building your brand. Keep active profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter by sharing engaging content regularly. High-quality images, videos, and interactions with your audience go a long way. And don’t forget about targeted ads—they can help you reach an even broader audience.

4. Connect With Local Businesses

Estimated Cost: $0-$500
Time Investment: 1-2 hours each week
Go-to Close Resource: Underrated Real Estate Lead Generation Ideas

Build a mutual partnership to refer each other’s services.
Host joint events.
Collaborate on marketing efforts.

Ok, so we’ve all likely walked into a local coffee shop, restaurant, or store and thought, “Oh, maybe I should see about putting my business cards here.”—only to see five other real estate agents who have beaten you to the punch. Building mutual partnerships with local businesses can be a fantastic way to boost your referrals, but just putting your business cards out isn’t going to do the trick. Take it a step further and ask to speak to the owner to see if you can team up to refer clients to each other.

Offer to cohost events in their space, like holding a first-time homebuyer’s workshop. At the same time, the coffee shop provides the coffee—or consider hosting client appreciation events at a local business. You can even collaborate on marketing efforts to reduce costs by cosponsoring ads or other promotional materials. These partnerships are not only smart but also super exciting, adding a dynamic edge to your business and strengthening your community ties.

5. Get Involved in the Community

Estimated Cost: Free
Time Investment: 2-3 hours each week
Go-to Close Resource: How Parkbench Helps Agents Drive Community Connections

Volunteer your time for local causes.
Sponsor community events.
Join local business organizations.

Immerse yourself in the community to build lasting connections and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you locally. Start by volunteering for local causes you’re passionate about, whether it’s helping at a food bank or joining a neighborhood clean-up. This engagement shows you care and builds genuine connections. Consider sponsoring community events like charity runs or local festivals to get your name out there and show your support for the fun and important things happening locally.

So, if you’re looking for how to get real estate referrals, don’t forget to join local business organizations like the Chamber of Commerce. It’s a great way to network, meet other professionals, and establish yourself as a community leader, all while building a strong foundation for referrals for real estate agents.

6. Provide Value to Your Clients & Prospects

Estimated Cost: $0-$50 (per person)
Time Investment: 2-3 hours each week
Go-to Close Resource: How to Do a Comparative Market Analysis: A Step-by-Step Guide

Offer expert advice and insights.
Host educational events.
Go the extra mile with exclusive perks and personalized services.

What’s the secret sauce for building strong relationships and securing those all-important realtor referrals? Start by offering expert advice and insights on the real estate market. Share valuable information through engaging blog posts, fun newsletters, or personalized one-on-one consultations to help clients make informed decisions about market trends. Hosting educational events like workshops and seminars on home buying, selling strategies, or property investment is another fantastic way to provide your clients with the knowledge they need while showcasing your expertise.

Go the extra mile by offering exclusive perks and personalized services. Give clients first dibs on your new listings or special deals with local businesses. By consistently adding these special touches, you’ll show your commitment to their success and satisfaction, setting yourself apart as a trusted and dedicated real estate professional.

7. Ask for Real Estate Referrals

Estimated Cost: Free
Time Investment: 30 minutes each week
Go-to Close Resource: Tips to Earn More Reviews & Help Build Referrals & Repeat Clients

Pick the right moment.
Connect on a personal level.
Make it easy for them to refer you.

Asking for real estate referrals can feel daunting, but it’s one of the most effective ways to grow your real estate business. Pick the right moment, typically right after a successful transaction, when your client is most satisfied with your service. Connect with them personally by sending a heartfelt message or a friendly phone call to express your appreciation.

Make it easy for them to refer you by providing business cards, referral links, or other simple ways to share your information with their network. This approach ensures a positive and seamless referral process that can significantly boost your business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a reasonable referral fee?

Great question—and one that’s hard to answer. While there’s no set commission rate and no set referral fee, a reasonable referral fee in real estate is typically around 25% of the commission earned from a transaction. This means that if you close a deal through a referral, you will pay 25% of your commission to the referrer. However, this can vary based on factors like the referral network, which might charge between 20% and 35%, and direct agreements between agents.

Brokerage policies can also influence the fee. The key is to balance the fee against the benefits of receiving prequalified leads, often making the cost worthwhile. Ultimately, a fair referral fee is one both parties find mutually beneficial, encouraging future business collaborations.

How do you make money with real estate referrals?

To make money with real estate referrals, you start by building a network of trusted real estate professionals, such as agents, brokers, and service providers. You earn a referral fee when you refer a client to a licensed professional in your network who successfully closes a transaction. You can do this by joining referral networks that connect agents with prequalified leads or networking directly with other agents. Past clients and encouraging them to refer new clients, although you won’t be able to compensate them for it unless they are licensed as well.

How important are referrals in real estate?

Referrals are a big deal in real estate. They’re like a personal endorsement that builds instant trust with new clients. When someone refers you, it shows they trust you enough to recommend you to their friends or family, which makes it easier to close deals. Plus, referral leads are often of higher quality since they come from people already interested and motivated.

Final Thoughts

Referrals are the lifeline of a thriving real estate business. There are multiple ways of obtaining referrals, from leveraging your existing network to creating new relationships to drive business your way. Get in front of as many people as you can whether it’s in person at local community events or using your online presence on social media. Don’t be shy about who you are and why you’re in this business. Ask for referrals or join conversations where you can get to know people who may have referrals for you.

Do you have any unique ways to generate referrals organically that we didn’t cover here? Let us know in the comments.

The post 7 Savvy Ways to Get Real Estate Referrals appeared first on The Close.

10 Tips to Choose Great Real Estate Domain Names (+ Name Generator)

Shannon Sharpe — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:46:40 +0000

Choosing real estate domain names for a business is like picking the perfect storefront location. It must be memorable, easy to find, and a true reflection of your brand. Whether you’re just starting or rebranding your existing business, the right domain names for real estate can make all the difference in how potential clients perceive and interact with you online. So, grab a cup of coffee as I dive into choosing the perfect real estate website name and tools to simplify it.

What are Real Estate Domain Names?

Real estate domain name example (Waterfront Properties and Club Communities)

Real estate domain names are web addresses (URLs) that represent your real estate business online. They are the links that clients type into their web browsers to find your real estate website. A domain name for real estate serves as your digital identity, making it easier for potential clients to locate and remember your business. Your domain name should be unique to you and a part of your overall branding and marketing strategy.

Why You Need a Great Name

Picking the right domain name for your real estate business can boost your online presence, make your brand more recognizable, and attract more clients. It’s like having a prime location for your business online. Strong real estate domain names help build credibility and trust with potential clients. It’s often their first impression of your business, and a catchy, professional domain can really make you stand out.

Plus, a good domain name can improve your search engine rankings, making it easier for clients to find you. Taking the time to choose the perfect domain name for real estate is important in building a successful online presence for your business.

Excellent Real Estate Domain Name Examples

Before getting into the nitty-gritty, let’s check out these examples of great real estate domain ideas for realtors. They’re memorable, professional, and perfectly capture their brand. These examples can help spark ideas for your own domain name, making sure it stands out and represents your business effectively.

P.S. Some of these are available if you’re looking

AllenSellsHomes.com
FromHousetoHome.com
SmithSpencer.com
ChuckTownHomes.com
UltraAgent.com
SellingMyCity.com
HomeAuthority.com
YourExpertBroker.com
NeighborhoodGuru.com
WaterfrontHomesCity.com

YourExpertAgent.com
PerfectViews.com
RubyHome.com
TheAltmanBrothers.com
TheAgencyRE.com
CondosByTheLake.com
Homes4SaleByMe.com
OceanfrontHomes.com
DiscoverMyCity.com
HeartOfMyCity.com

HomePros.com
PropertyExperts.com
BuyWithMe.com
CityDwellings.com
BuySellMyCity.com
TeamNameHomes.com
MyBrokerage.com
DreamHomeBuyers.com
DreamHomeSellers.com
HomesByMe.com

Bruce Ailion is hard to beat when choosing great real estate domain names. He was lucky enough to snag locationlocationlocation.com. But that was years ago, and all the good domain names are taken now, right? Not so fast. Keep reading to get The Close’s tips and name generator (#9)!

Google search engine results (Source: Google)

Tip 1: Understand Your Brand

Before choosing your real estate domain name, you must clearly understand your brand. It should be a natural extension of your brand identity, reflecting who you are and what you have to offer. Ask yourself these three questions as you start to think about your domain name for real estate.

What are the core values and mission of my real estate business?: Think about what your business stands for and what you aim to achieve. Are you focused on luxury, affordability, eco-friendly homes, or exceptional customer service? Your domain name should reflect your values.

Who is my target audience, and what are their needs and preferences?: Know who you’re trying to reach. Are your clients first-time homebuyers, investors, or families? Will you be focused on getting listings or helping buyers? Choose a domain name that speaks directly to their needs and interests.

What is my unique selling proposition (USP) that differentiates me from my competitors?: Identify what makes you unique. Do you offer personalized service, deep market expertise, or specialize in a niche area? Highlight this in your domain name to stand out and attract the right clients.

With a clear understanding of your brand, you can now focus on the specifics of your realty domain name.

Tip 2: Keep It Short & Unique

When it comes to choosing your domain name, less is definitely more. A short and unique domain name can make a huge difference in how easily your clients find and remember you. Here’s why you should aim for a short and sweet name:

Easy to remember: If someone can recall your domain after just one glance, they’re much more likely to return to your site.
Reduces typos: The longer and more complicated your domain name, the more likely people will make typos and land on another site.
Enhances brand recognition: It should stand out in a crowded market and reflect your brand’s personality. Make it catchy and distinct.
Shareable: Whether you’re sharing it verbally, in print, or online, a short domain name is much easier to pass along if it’s easy to say and spell.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check your domain name for silly hidden meanings. Sometimes when you take two perfectly innocent words and put them together…Well, you end up with something not so innocent. No one wants to type in Pen Island as penisland.com

Tip 3: Don’t Stress About Keywords

Keywords are great for search engine optimization (SEO) because they help people find you online. Including relevant keywords in your domain name can boost your search rankings. But don’t stress too much about fitting them in. Ranking on Google is super competitive, and keywords are just one piece of the puzzle.

Overloading your domain with keywords can make it look spammy and hard to remember. Instead, focus on a name that’s brandable, easy to remember, and reflects your business. Keep it simple and authentic to your brand!

Real estate SEO package (Source: Agent Image)

If you really want to make an impact, hire a web design company that knows how to rank real estate websites on Google. Agent Image has 24 years of experience building websites for Realtors and using cutting-edge SEO strategies to get you to the front page faster. Click the button below for 20% off.

Visit Agent Image

Tip 4: Choose the Right Domain Extension

Selecting the right domain extension is just as important as the domain name itself. While .com is the most popular and widely recognized extension, other options like .realtor or .biz can offer unique benefits for your real estate business.

The .realtor extension was created specifically for real estate professionals and is only available if you are a National Association of Realtors (NAR) member. Also, NAR has announced a .realestate domain name which is available to anyone wanting to brand themselves within the real estate industry

While this extension can lend itself to a certain level of credibility for your business, there are some other factors to consider. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of using this extension:

Pros	Cons
Shows agents you are a real estate professional	Only available to NAR members
Helps identify that you are a realtor	Less common than .com or .net
Builds client confidence	Limits your business scope if you offer other services

Neutral Effect on SEO: It’s important to note that the domain extension has a neutral effect on SEO. Google and other search engines do not prioritize .com over .realtor or any other extension. The key factors for SEO are the quality of your content, user experience, and overall site performance. So, while a .realtor extension can help with branding and trust, it won’t necessarily boost your search engine rankings by itself.

Tip 5: Avoid Hyphens & Numbers

When choosing a domain name for your real estate business, it’s best to steer clear of hyphens and numbers. While they might seem like a good way to get around the unavailability of certain names, they can create more problems than they solve. Which domain looks professional and easy to remember?

DO: myrealestatebiz.com
DON’T: my-realestate-biz.com

Hyphens and numbers can make your domain name harder to remember, leading to increased typos and confusion when clients try to recall or share your web address. They can also make your site look less professional, resembling spammy or temporary sites. Also, while hyphens were once thought to help with SEO, search engines now prioritize user experience. Clean, straightforward real estate domain names are best.

Tip 6: Check for Trademarks & Copyrights

Coming up with unique names is not as easy as you might think. Using a domain name infringing on an existing trademark can have serious legal consequences. You might receive a cease-and-desist letter, face legal battles, or be forced to change your domain name, which can be costly and time-consuming.

You wouldn’t believe the number of people claiming a trademark infringement, even on general phrases. As a broker, I once received a cease and desist letter for the use of “Moving from XYZ to City.” Another broker had trademarked the phrase, so my agents in that city could not use that phrase in their marketing. Talk about a headache! Imagine spending countless hours and marketing dollars becoming a local expert, only to discover you violated a trademark.

Conducting a thorough trademark search helps you avoid these potential pitfalls. Use trademark search tools like USPTO or WIPO to ensure your domain name does not infringe on any existing trademarks. Also, do an online search to ensure you’re not infringing on someone’s copyright. If someone had the domain name first and you began using it, you could face copyright infringement claims.

Tip 7: Scale Your Website Slowly

One all-too-common mistake agents make in building websites is signing up for an “all-in-one” real estate website platform and loading it up with bells and whistles on day one. There is a big problem with this approach: the price. These platforms sell you on “upgrades” by “tiers” for a reason. They want you to spend money today on features you won’t need for years.

Template or custom real estate website builder (Source: AgentFire)

Instead of feeling pressured to “upgrade” to the next “tier,” try the number one rated agent website platform on Facebook and Google with an average rating of 4.9: AgentFire. AgentFire lets you add features to your site as you scale your business. If your business scales slowly, you upgrade your site slowly. Simple.

Visit AgentFire

Pro Tip: Check your socials. Make sure your domain name is available on Facebook, Instagram, and any other social media platforms you use regularly. It doesn’t have to be exact, but make sure it can tie into your brand.

Tip 8: Think About the Future

When choosing a domain name for your real estate business, it’s important to think long-term. While it might be tempting to pick a name that fits your current situation perfectly, considering how your business might grow and evolve can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Remember, you won’t always be a newbie. So, here are some essential questions to ask yourself before choosing your real estate domain name.

Are you going to build an IDX website?
Do you even know what an IDX website is all about?
Will you use landing pages to promote your listings?
Will you focus on niche markets like luxury, rentals, or commercial real estate?

These are all important questions to ask yourself when you think about what your business will look like in five years. A word of advice for choosing realtor domain names: plan for growth, avoid trends, stay flexible, and consider your future SEO needs. Choose a name that can grow with your business, and you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.

Tip 9: Pick a Place to Host Your Website

Choosing the right hosting provider is key to making your real estate website perform flawlessly and stay reliable. One highly recommended option is BlueHost. Here’s why BlueHost is an awesome choice for your real estate website:

Reliable Performance: BlueHost keeps your website running smoothly with a 99.9% uptime guarantee, so clients can always reach you. Reliability is key to maintaining a professional online presence.

Affordable Pricing: BlueHost offers competitive pricing plans that fit all budgets. Their basic plan starts at $2.95 a month and includes a free domain for the first year, a free SSL certificate, and a one-click WordPress installation, making it an affordable and comprehensive option for real estate pros.

Excellent Customer Support: BlueHost offers 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email. Their knowledgeable support team is always ready to help with any issues or questions, ensuring your website runs smoothly.

WordPress-compatible sites (Source: BlueHost)

BlueHost offers a ton of benefits as your web hosting provider, like reliable performance, easy management, great customer support, and room to grow. These features make it a perfect choice for real estate pros wanting to build a strong, dependable online presence.

Visit BlueHost

Tip 10: Use The Close’s Domain Name Generator

If you’re struggling to come up with a domain name, use our free real estate domain name generator. While there are a lot of sites out there that let you pick a domain name, very few offer good alternatives when the name you want is taken. That’s why we built this free real estate domain name generator. Just plug in your name, farm area, or both, and click generate.

Real Estate Domain Name Generator

Warning: The Domain Names produced by this generator were created by our team, but it is up to you to verify their available status.

FAQs

How do you choose a domain name for a real estate agent?

Choosing a domain name for a real estate agent is an important part of your branding. Start by making sure it reflects your brand and services, giving clients an immediate sense of what you offer. Keep it short and memorable, and use relevant keywords without overdoing it. Make sure the name is available and not too similar to existing ones. Think long-term and choose a name that can grow with your business to avoid future rebranding. Following these steps will help you create a domain name that strengthens your brand and makes a lasting impression.

How do I create a catchy domain name?

Start by making it short and simple so it’s easy to remember and type. Aim for something unique that stands out, avoiding hyphens and numbers, which can confuse people. Check for availability and make sure it’s not too similar to existing names to avoid confusion. If you’re having trouble thinking of a good one, you can always try using our free real estate domain name generator.

Can REALTOR® be used in a domain name?

This is a great question. The answer is yes, with exceptions. The .realtor extension requires you to be a member of NAR and to obtain it through them. For the actual domain name (pre-extension), NAR has specific guidelines that must be followed to use the term appropriately. Before finalizing your domain name, review NAR’s trademark usage guidelines to ensure compliance. This helps maintain the integrity of the REALTOR® brand and ensures you are using it correctly.

Bringing It All Together

Picking the right domain name is key to building a strong online presence for your real estate business. Keep it short, unique, and easy to remember. Avoid hyphens and numbers, think about your future growth, and check for trademarks. While keywords are helpful, don’t stress too much about them. A great domain name boosts your credibility and attracts more clients. Take your time, get creative, and choose a name that truly represents your business.

Have a tip for choosing a catchy real estate domain name that we missed? Have a favorite we’d love? Let us know in the comment section.

The post 10 Tips to Choose Great Real Estate Domain Names (+ Name Generator) appeared first on The Close.

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: A Complete Agent Guide

Shannon Sharpe — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 16:45:09 +0000

With the new changes from the NAR settlement coming down the pike, now’s the perfect time to get up to speed on what buyer broker agreements are all about. This guide is here to break it all down—covering the key parts, the benefits, and what the new rules mean for us. So, whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting out, understanding a buyer’s broker agreement will help you stay ahead of the competition and keep your clients smiling.

What Is a Buyer Broker Agreement?

So, what is a buyer broker agreement anyway? Simply put, a buyer broker agreement—also known as a buyer agency agreement—is a contract between a buyer client and a real estate agent that says, “Hey, I know you’re my agent, and you’re going to help me buy a home.” It outlines the duties and responsibilities of the buyer’s agent to ensure it represents the buyer’s best interests throughout the home-buying process.

It also outlines how the real estate agent’s compensation, which is where things start to get tricky due to the NAR settlement. This provides transparency for the client and solidifies the payment for the agent. The bottom line is that a buyer broker agreement ensures that the buyer receives dedicated representation and support from their real estate agent.

Here is a sample Buyer Agency Agreement from North Carolina for review.

Sample Buyer Agency Agreement in North Carolina (Source: NCAR)

Types of Buyer Broker Agreements

Buyer agency agreements come in two forms—exclusive and non-exclusive. Knowing which type of agreement best suits your business—or the type your firm requires, can make a big difference in how you approach conversations with potential clients.

Let’s look at the key differences of each agreement.

Exclusive Agreements	Non-exclusive Agreements
Buyer commits to only working with you as their agent. You can devote more time and effort to finding the right property for the client. If you sell the client a home during the buyers agreement contract term, you are owed the commission as outlined in the agreement.	Buyers can work with multiple agents. If buyers view specific properties with you, they must conduct the transaction using your services. (Agreements can vary by state) There is no guarantee the client will use you as their agent. This agreement can lead to increased competition and potential conflicts with other agents working with the same client.

When deciding between exclusive buyer broker agreements or non-exclusive agreements, consider what works best for your client’s needs and your business. Use an exclusive agreement if you want a solid commitment where you can focus all your efforts on finding the perfect home for your client.

If your client prefers more flexibility and likes the idea of working with multiple agents, a non-exclusive agreement might be the way to go. This can be especially common in competitive markets, giving clients access to more properties and different perspectives from various agents. Each type has its perks, so pick the one that best fits your client’s needs and how you like to work.

The Importance of a Buyer Broker Agreement

I’ve been asked countless times why a buyer brokerage agreement is so important. My response is always that it tells the buyers how you will work together, for how long, what you will do for them, and how you will get paid. It ensures everyone is on the same page, protects both parties, and makes the whole real estate process flow smoothly. Let’s break these down a bit further.

Benefits & Protections

A buyer broker agreement is in the best interest of you and your clients. For you, it means compensation for your hard work and time while building trust and security with your clients. It gives your client a clear understanding of your services—like property searches, market analysis, negotiating offers, and handling paperwork.

Benefits include:

Dedicated professional support
Saves the buyer time, money, and stress during the homebuying process
Ensures the broker will be compensated for their efforts and time
Builds security and trust between the buyer and broker
Encourages the agent to work diligently on behalf of the buyer
Clarifies expectations and responsibilities for both parties
Reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes

A buyer broker agreement is great because it sets clear roles and responsibilities for everyone. For buyers, the agent is committed to their best interests, offering loyalty, confidentiality, and complete transparency about properties and the market. For agents, it ensures the buyer works exclusively with them, avoiding conflicts of interest, and guarantees they get paid for their services.

Issues Avoided with an Agreement

Without a buyer broker agreement, several issues can arise that may complicate the homebuying process:

Miscommunication: There may be misunderstandings about the services the agent will provide and the buyer’s expectations, leading to frustration on both sides.
Conflicts of interest: A buyer may work with multiple agents, leading to conflicts of interest and potential legal issues. An agreement ensures that the buyer has a single point of contact and representation.
Lack of commitment: The broker may not feel fully committed to the buyer, knowing that the buyer could switch to another agent at any time. This can result in a lack of effort and dedication from the broker.
Compensation disputes: There may be confusion or disputes about how and when the broker will be compensated. An agreement clearly outlines the commission structure and ensures the broker is paid fairly for their work.
Legal and ethical violations: Legal and ethical standards can be broken without a clear understanding of the expectations. Buyer agency agreements provide a framework for resolving disputes and protecting the interests of both the buyer and the broker.

Key Elements of Your Agreement

A buyer broker agreement includes several key clauses that outline the terms and conditions of the relationship between the buyer and the broker. Let’s be honest. It can get quite confusing if you’re unfamiliar with legal jargon. In North Carolina, we have a brochure we give our clients to simplify agreements, but as an agent, you should be well-versed in what each clause means.

Understanding the key elements of this agreement will help you explain the buyer broker contract and benefits to your clients before they sign on the dotted line. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

Type of Clause	Explanation
Type of Agreement	Exclusive or non-exclusive
Duties	Outlines broker responsibilities
Compensation	Defines how the broker will be paid and how much
Duration	Determines how long the agreement will last
Termination	Explains how either party can terminate the contract
Confidentiality	Ensures that any personal or financial information remains confidential

Pro Tip: Go back and review your fiduciary duties regularly. Remember, your primary responsibilities to your clients are loyalty, confidentiality, full disclosure, obedience, reasonable care, and accounting. Remembering these ensures you always act in your client’s best interests and maintain their trust.

Common Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about buyer broker agreements that can cause confusion and hesitation among both buyers and brokers.

Here are some of the most common myths and thoughts that set the record straight:

Myth 1: Buyer broker agreements are binding traps: A lot of buyers worry that signing an agreement locks them in and forces them to work with a broker they may not like. But the reality is that most agreements have termination clauses. If things aren’t working, you or your buyers can usually end the relationship under certain conditions.
Myth 2: They only benefit the broker: Some think these agreements are just there to ensure brokers get paid. Sure, they protect the broker’s interests, but they also protect the buyer by ensuring you get dedicated representation and clear responsibilities from your broker.
Myth 3: No flexibility in terms: Another big misconception is that the terms of these agreements are set in stone. Actually, many parts, like how long the agreement lasts and which services are included, can be negotiated. You can work with your buyer to customize the agreement to fit their needs.

Client Conversations: Scripts & Starters for Success

Now for the fun part! Let’s discuss how to have these conversations with your clients. Getting the discussion started with clients can sometimes feel a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some easy and effective ways to break the ice, build rapport, and keep the dialogue flowing smoothly.

Feel free to snag these as your own!

Opening Lines to Introduce the Buyer Broker Agreement

Starting the conversation on the right foot is super important. In your first meeting, you should go through your real estate buyer agent checklist. This will help you cover all the key points, like understanding what the client needs, discussing the buyer broker agreement, and outlining the steps in the homebuying process.

A checklist ensures nothing is missed and helps you feel confident from the start. Here are some opening lines that will help you lead into discussing the buyer broker agreement:

“Hi [Client’s Name], I’m really excited to work with you on finding your new home. To make sure we’re on the same page and to give you the best service possible, I’d like to go over our buyer broker agreement. It outlines what you can expect from me and ensures we have a clear plan moving forward.”
“Hello [Client’s Name], I’m looking forward to helping you find the perfect home. To start, I’d like to explain our buyer broker agreement. This document will detail how I will assist you and how we can work together effectively. It’s designed to protect your interests and make our partnership smooth and transparent.”
“Hey [Client’s Name], I’m thrilled to get started on your home search. Before we dive in, I want to talk about our buyer broker agreement. It’s just a simple way to outline how I can best help you and make sure we’re both clear on what to expect throughout this process.”
“Hi [Client’s Name], to kick off our home search on the right foot, I’d like to review the buyer broker agreement with you. It’s a quick rundown of how I’ll support you and what we can both expect. This helps ensure a smooth and successful home buying journey.”
“Hi [Client’s Name], I’m excited to work with you! Let’s take a moment to review our buyer broker agreement. This will help us set clear expectations and ensure we’re working together to find your dream home.”

Handling Objections About the Agreement

Sometimes clients have reservations or questions that need to be handled carefully. Let’s look at a few objections and how to respond:

Objection: “What is a buyer broker agreement?”
Response: “A buyer broker agreement is basically a contract between you and me that outlines how we’ll work together. It spells out my responsibilities, like finding homes that match your criteria, negotiating offers, and handling paperwork. In return, it specifies how I’ll be compensated. It’s designed to protect both of us and make sure we’re on the same page throughout the whole process.”

Objection: “I don’t want to be tied down to one agent.”
Response: “I totally understand wanting flexibility. The great thing about an exclusive agreement is that it allows me to dedicate all my resources and time to finding the perfect home for you. If, for any reason, things aren’t working out, we can discuss terminating the agreement. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and supported throughout the process.”

Objection: “I’m not sure what benefits this agreement provides.”
Response: “That’s a great question. The buyer broker agreement clearly outlines my commitment to you, including property searches, market analysis, and negotiating on your behalf. It ensures that your interests are my top priority, giving you peace of mind and a dedicated advocate throughout your homebuying journey.”

Objection: “What if I find a home on my own?”
Response: “If you come across a property you’re interested in, just let me know! The agreement allows me to step in and handle the negotiations and paperwork, ensuring you get the best deal and that all details are managed professionally. My role is to support you, whether you find the home or I do.”

Objection: “I’m worried about hidden fees.”
Response: “I understand that concern. The buyer broker agreement will clearly outline any potential costs upfront. If there are any unique circumstances, we’ll discuss them together to make sure there are no surprises.”

Objection: “I’ve never had to sign an agreement with an agent before.”
Response: “It’s becoming more common as it helps clarify our working relationship and ensures we both have the same expectations. The agreement protects both of us and lays out exactly what I’ll be doing to help you find your home. It’s all about making the process as smooth and transparent as possible.”

Objection: “I want to review it more before signing.”
Response: “Absolutely, take your time to review the agreement. I want you to feel completely comfortable with everything before we move forward. If you have any questions or need further clarification on any part, I’m here to help.”

Objection: “I’m not ready to commit right now.”
Response: “That’s okay! It’s important to move at a pace you’re comfortable with. We can start with some initial property searches and discussions without the agreement, and when you’re ready to take the next step, we can revisit it. My aim is to support you in the way that feels right for you.”

Always listen actively and show you care about their needs and concerns. Objection handling is a huge part of being successful in sales. Make sure you don’t get frustrated, and keep calm when things get stressful. Practicing these scripts can help you become more comfortable with having difficult conversations.

Words of Wisdom

I have been in real estate and mortgage nearly my entire life. For the past six years, I have been a broker at large firms, overseeing thousands of agents and even more transactions. I can tell you the one thing that has been a saving grace for my agents is their buyer broker agreement. Disputes with other agents or clients can be handled relatively quickly by simply revisiting the agreement. It truly is meant to protect both parties from harm. If you’re not using an agreement in your business, now is the time to start.

Do you have any helpful conversation starters? Leave a comment below.

The post Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: A Complete Agent Guide appeared first on The Close.

Divorce Leads for Realtors: The Complete Guide

Shannon Sharpe — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:31:29 +0000

Working in real estate means working with all kinds of clients, including those going through a divorce. These situations can be tricky but very lucrative if you know how to handle them properly. This guide gives you everything you need to work with divorce leads for realtors. I will cover why they are different from other leads, tips on how to get divorce real estate leads, and insights from other professionals in our industry.

Understanding Divorce Leads in Real Estate

As real estate agents, we help people with one of the largest financial purchases of their lives. In divorce situations, the couple has to sell their largest asset—sometimes unwillingly. This makes these types of transactions very volatile, and a real estate agent must handle them with the utmost care. Divorce real estate listings are not for the faint of heart. You must be discerning in your communication with both sellers and keep them focused on the one thing they must do—sell the home.

Divorce leads for realtors can be lucrative if you know what you are doing. Here are a few potential benefits of working with divorce leads:

High motivation to buy or sell: Clients going through a divorce are often highly motivated to sell their home quickly. Also, each party may need to purchase a new home, potentially resulting in multiple transactions from a single lead.
Increased future listings: Divorce leads can contribute to a steady stream of new listings for future income.
Potential for repeat business: Clients who feel supported and understood during a difficult time are likelier to recommend your services to friends and family or return to you for future real estate needs (especially because they’ll both need someplace to live after selling).
Building trust and empathy: Building trust with these clients can set you apart from other realtors and develop long-term relationships. They need someone who can empathize with their situation and provide compassionate guidance.
Collaboration with other professionals: Handling divorce real estate leads often involves working closely with other professionals such as divorce attorneys, mediators, real estate investors, and financial advisors. Establishing strong relationships with these professionals can lead to a reliable referral network, which enhances future business opportunities.
Emotional reward: Helping clients navigate a difficult period and find new beginnings can provide a deep sense of satisfaction and professional fulfillment.

If you are someone with a deep compassion for others coupled with the ability to tackle emotional and legal complexities, learning how to become a divorce listing agent may be just what you need to thrive in a niche market.

How Divorce Leads Differ from Other Leads

Unlike typical transactions, working with divorcing couples requires a gentle approach that takes into account how emotional this process will be for them. These leads demand a higher level of sensitivity in handling every issue, even down to simple phone calls.

I’ve personally worked with couples in high-stress divorce situations, and even the smallest detail can derail an entire transaction if one party reacts poorly. Often, it’s not about you as the agent but rather the message you’re conveying from the other spouse.

Let’s take a look at what makes these transactions different and how to handle common issues.

Issue	Reason	Action
Heightened sensitivity	Clients in the midst of a divorce are dealing with significant life changes and stress, which can affect their decision-making process.	Approach these clients with empathy, patience, and a deep understanding of their unique circumstances.
Dual decision-making	Both parties may have differing opinions and priorities regarding the sale of their home, leading to conflicts and delays.	Effective communication and mediation skills are essential to help both parties reach a consensus and proceed with the transaction.
Urgency and time constraints	Divorce proceedings often come with specific timelines and court-mandated deadlines	Be prepared to act quickly and efficiently to meet time constraints while providing quality service.
Complex negotiations	Additional considerations may include splitting proceeds, addressing outstanding debts, and ensuring a fair division of assets.	Be ready to handle these complexities and work with legal professionals to ensure a smooth transaction.
Emotional support	Clients going through a divorce are likely experiencing a wide range of emotions, from sadness and anger to relief and hope for a new beginning.	Demonstrate empathy and prepare yourself to handle emotional outbursts or indecisiveness. Provide reassurance, listen to concerns, and offer guidance throughout the process.
Legal complexities	Divorce transactions typically involve coordination with legal professionals such as divorce attorneys and mediators, as court orders or divorce settlements may dictate specific terms for the sale of the property.	Understand the legal implications of divorce on property sales, including how to handle joint ownership, court orders, and settlements.
Privacy and confidentiality	Clients may be concerned about personal information exposure or their situation being discussed publicly.	Handle all communications and documentation with the utmost discretion to maintain clients’ trust.
Financial considerations	Divorce can have significant financial impacts for both parties, such as outstanding mortgages, debts, and tax implications.	Provide accurate information and guidance on these matters to help clients make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.

Tips for Working with Divorce Leads

When working with clients going through a divorce, here are some practical tips to make the process smoother and more supportive:

Tip 1: Build Trust Through Empathy: Show genuine care and understanding for their situation to build trust from the start.
Tip 2: Know the Legal Landscape: Familiarize yourself with divorce-related real estate laws and work closely with legal professionals to navigate complexities.
Tip 3: Keep Communication Clear: Facilitate open and transparent communication between all parties involved to avoid misunderstandings.
Tip 4: Be Proactive and Meet Deadlines: Stay on top of timelines set by court orders or agreements to demonstrate reliability and professionalism.
Tip 5: Team Up With Experts: Collaborate with divorce attorneys, mediators, and financial advisors to provide comprehensive support throughout the process.
Tip 6: Maintain Neutrality: Stay impartial and focus on facilitating a fair transaction without taking sides in any disputes.

In addition to tips for handling divorce leads for realtors, we should also take a look at the pros and cons of being involved in these types of transactions.

Pros	Cons
Has highly motivated sellers	Can be emotionally draining
Repeat business potential	Has higher legal complexity
Build more listings	Has difficulty with privacy and confidentiality
Collaborate with other professionals	Has increased risk for delays

Borrowed Wisdom on Divorce Leads

While I’ve got a lot of advice and tips here, gathering as many strategies as possible from experienced experts is beneficial. It will give you an arsenal of strategies to try when working with divorce leads.

Check out the The Reverse Selling Podcast—Unlock Endless Listings With The Divorce Real Estate Niche—on finding your unique niche to start thinking about whether or not this divorce lead is right for you.

The Reverse Selling Podcast—Unlock Endless Listings With The Divorce Real Estate Niche (Source: YouTube)

How to Get Divorce Leads for Realtors (+ Tools)

There are many ways to find divorce real estate listing leads. The last thing you want is to upset someone going through a tough divorce. It’s all about building trust and showing empathy. It’s key to use a mix of networking, online marketing, and social media strategies that fit the unique needs of clients dealing with divorce.

Build a Referral Network

Connect with divorce attorneys, therapists, and mediators who often work with clients in divorce situations. Building relationships with these professionals can lead to valuable referrals. Also, try connecting with relocation professionals, specifically military relocation professionals. They see many different types of divorce situations, and their job is to connect people with agents like you. Don’t be afraid to attend local events, join organizations, and keep in touch with everyone you meet regularly.

Join the SOLD.com network for agents. (Source: SOLD.com)

Platforms like SOLD.com allow agents to join their referral networks to connect with potential leads to list or purchase properties. Click the button below to check it out for yourself.

Visit SOLD.com

Use Online Marketing

Online marketing is crucial for reaching divorce leads. Start by optimizing your website with keywords related to divorce real estate. Consider running targeted ads on platforms like Google Ads or social media, where potential clients search for information about real estate and divorce. Creating blogs or videos that address common divorce-related concerns can also attract organic traffic and establish your expertise.

Lead generation intake form (Source: Market Leader)

Market Leader offers direct leads or social media boosts with a paid subscription. Start building your online presence today.

Visit Market Leader

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms provide powerful tools to connect with potential clients going through a divorce. Develop a strategy with regular updates and engaging content. Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share tips, client stories, and information about your services. Engage in discussions in local groups or forums where people seek advice on real estate and divorce. Divorce affects anyone, from renters to the luxury market, so remember to mix it up and stay active in as many groups as possible.

Social media calendar on mobile (Source: Agent Crate)

Agent Crate helps you stay engaged on social media by providing branded content that can be automated to optimize your business.

Visit Agent Crate

Final Thoughts

If you decide you want to try to tackle divorce leads, make sure you do it with an empathetic and proactive approach. It’s all about understanding the complexities involved—both emotional and legal—to offer top-notch service and build strong client trust. By networking with professionals in related fields and using modern marketing tactics, we can guide clients through what may be their most difficult real estate journey. Remember, each deal is a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. So, approach these challenges with compassion and positivity, helping others when they need it most.

Do you work with divorce real estate leads or have any coaching wisdom on how to find divorce real estate leads? Share some of your best advice or experiences in the comments.

The post Divorce Leads for Realtors: The Complete Guide appeared first on The Close.

Predictive Analytics in Real Estate: Best Practices & Software for Agents

Shannon Sharpe — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:16:01 +0000

Imagine knowing exactly which homeowners in your area will sell their property in the next 12 months. It used to take a mind reader (or a lot of luck) to get that kind of inside intel on your local real estate market, but now it’s achievable with big data and the right predictive analytics company.

You need to embrace this technology and use it to help more clients (and help your pockets grow, too)! I will break down what predictive analytics in real estate are, how you can use them, their benefits, and which real estate analytics software you can use to boost your business. Here we go!

What Is Predictive Analytics in Real Estate?

Predictive analysis is a technique that uses data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning to identify the likelihood of future outcomes based on historical data. It involves analyzing current and past information to predict future events.

In real estate, predictive analysis can help agents forecast market trends, identify potential buyers and sellers, set competitive prices, and make strategic business decisions. These real estate analytics companies pull together millions (if not billions) of data points from multiple sources to give you important insights.

Common data sources include the following:

Property
Demographics
Behavioral trends
Event data (user-generated activity data from products, software, or websites)

Why Predictive Analytics Matters in Real Estate

If you’re a MARVEL fan, you may remember in Captain America: The Winter Soldier the scene where Jasper Sitwell gets kicked off the roof by Black Widow for information about Zola’s algorithm. Ok, we won’t be kicking anyone off any rooftops, but Zola’s algorithm is a great example of predictive analysis. It provided data on who to target, when to target them, and how to take them down.

The same concept is applied to PA in real estate. Imagine if you had a list of homeowners in your farm area who were identified via predictive analytics as highly likely to sell their homes in the next 12 to 18 months. Think of the time, energy, and money you could save by marketing specifically to those homeowners. You can make it work for you in your real estate business with a company that knows how to harness it.

Find your territory with Offrs (Source: Offrs)

Ok, let me give you some actual data to consider. One of our top picks, Offrs, provides 30 guaranteed leads in a chosen ZIP code every month, and those leads come with an astounding 72% prediction accuracy rate. Assuming that prediction rate, you’d have about 20 solid leads each month. The average listing commission is over $12,000. So, if you convert half of your leads, that’s $120,000. As Offrs says: It’s not magic; it’s math.

Visit Offrs

Benefits of Using Predictive Analytics for Real Estate

Real estate predictive analytics is changing the game, giving agents and brokers powerful tools to understand market trends and customer behaviors. With tons of data and smart algorithms, this tech helps you make better decisions, market more effectively, and stay ahead of the competition.

Using predictive analytics in real estate offers several key benefits:

Accurate market predictions: Helps agents predict market trends, including which properties are likely to sell and when.
Targeted marketing: Allows more accurate marketing efforts by identifying potential buyers and sellers, leading to better conversion rates.
Improved pricing strategies: Assists in setting competitive sales prices based on data-driven insights rather than gut feelings.
Enhanced customer insights: Provides a better understanding of customer preferences and behaviors, allowing you to personalize your services.
Competitive advantage: Gives agents an edge over competitors who may not use predictive analytics.
Increased sales: Ultimately leads to higher sales and revenue through more effective and targeted business strategies.

How Agents Can Use Predictive Analytics

Now that you know what PA is, why it’s important, and what the benefits are, it’s time to put predictive analysis to work for your business. While residential real estate analytics isn’t fully on par with the commercial side yet, we’re getting closer to seeing every agent, team, and broker using AI or data analytics tools in 2024.

Here are a few ways you can start to incorporate PA into your business practices:

Identify potential sellers
Competitively price the properties
Optimize lead generation
Improve client relationships
Predict future market trends

The Best Predictive Analytics Companies in 2024

Wondering which companies are at the forefront of predictive analytics in real estate? These companies are transforming how agents predict market trends and make informed decisions. If you’re considering integrating predictive analytics into your real estate strategy, here are some top recommendations for real estate data analytics companies that are reshaping how agents predict market trends, identify potential clients, and optimize their business strategies.

Take a look at some of the top players in the game.

Company	Best For	Starting Monthly Prices	Read Our Review
Smartzip	Seller leads	$299	Smartzip Review
Offrs	Seller leads + marketing	$300	Offrs Review
Catalyze AI	Leads related to inherited property	$360	No review yet
Top Producer	All-in-one lead generation and CRM solution	$399	Top Producer Review

1. Smartzip: Best for Sellers Leads


Pros It has easy-to-use CRM and dashboard. Smart Targeting product allows automated print marketing. It is easily applicable to an existing real estate farming strategy.	Starting Monthly Prices The company’s prices are based on the size of the geographic area you’re targeting. Prices start at $299 per month with a 12-month contract.
Cons Pricey—most Smartzip users spend at least $1,000 per month (or more). Leads are nonexclusive. It can take a long time to nurture and convert leads.

By combing through consumer data (from places like credit card companies), market data (from places like your MLS), and demographic data, Smartzip predicts which homeowners in your targeted region are most likely to sell. Realtors who sign up with Smartzip immediately get access to the Smartzip CRM, populated with “Smart Data” for their areas.

Essentially, this is a list of all the property owners in your targeted area, ranked by how likely they are to sell their home in the next year and a half. Armed with this information, you can focus your outreach on only the most likely sellers, saving you time and money on marketing efforts and making your lead conversations more meaningful and fruitful.

Smartzip: Is It Right for You?

If you’re already investing heavily in real estate farming and seller lead nurturing, Smartzip is an excellent real estate predictive analytics tool for you. Since leads from Smartzip tend to take a little longer to nurture than traditional listing leads, you will need a solid keep-in-touch strategy. If you’ve got a good lead nurturing game in place, Smartzip is absolutely worth considering.

Visit Smartzip

2. Offrs


Pros It is the same great Smart Data that sister company Smartzip is built on. Roof provides an entire inside sales and marketing team with no upfront costs. Unique ad tools help connect your analog and digital marketing.	Starting Monthly Prices It offers 30 guaranteed leads from one ZIP code for $299 monthly. This includes predictive sellers, an ad budget, a customized territory builder, and a lead capture page. If you want a larger target area, spring for the premium plan, which is five ZIP codes for $599 monthly. Offrs does not require a contract.
Cons Leads are nonexclusive. Leads take longer to convert than organic or referral leads. The Offrs Smart Data CRM isn’t as user-friendly as the Smartzip version.

While Offrs is owned by the same company as Smartzip, the actual product is very different. Both are built on the same Smart Data platform, but Offrs customers also have access to sophisticated and automated marketing and nurturing tools.

Plus, the Offrs Roof referral system is an added bonus. For a 25% referral fee, Offrs’ call center and email marketing team will initiate at least 30 touches in the first 90 days, starting immediately when a lead comes through. This makes the nurturing process even less of a lift, especially since about 67% of clients go with the first agent they speak with.

Offrs: Is It Right for You?

If you need automated marketing services, this is a platform you should absolutely consider. If you don’t need the more specialized lead types or automated marketing features, you’re probably better off going with Smartzip, with its upgraded CRM and user interface.

Visit Offrs

3. Catalyze AI


Pros It has high accuracy percentage. It offers exclusive, local leads. It has an easy-to-use, intuitive dashboard.	Starting Monthly Prices The two-tier pricing at Catalyze AI is relatively unique. The first tier is for properties valued over $1 million dollars, which is $450 per month. For $360 per month, you get leads on properties valued under $1 million. There are no contracts, so agents can subscribe month to month.
Cons Costs will add up if you subscribe every month over a year. It relies on excellent interpersonal and follow-up skills. Large radius may not work well for agents in urban areas.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of properties are inherited. Catalyze AI helps sort through all of the data points (over 400 million of them) to narrow these properties down to excellent leads. It is so excellent that it boasts that four out of 10 predicted leads sell within 12 months. Catalyze AI estimates this market represents $77 billion in property value each year.

I like that Catalyze AI offers leads within a 20-mile radius of your search area and that you can pay based on the value of the property: one monthly rate for properties valued above $1 million and one for below. And finally, and perhaps most importantly, these leads are exclusive, which makes them pretty darn valuable.

Catalyze AI: Is It Right for You?

Inherited property leads are fairly niche, and it takes someone with strong interpersonal skills to convert them, especially if the new property owner is recently bereft. It will also take patience and strong follow-up. That being said, this is a really strong market, and the leads are local, not outrageously expensive, highly probable to convert, and exclusive. Because it’s month-to-month, it’s definitely worth checking out Catalyze AI; it’s a company in the PA space that we’re excited to watch.

Visit Catalyze AI

4. Top Producer


Pros It offers full end-to-end solution with top-notch lead gen, integrated marketing, and CRM. CRM helps prioritize PA leads and follow-up. It has excellent customer service.	Starting Monthly Prices Top Producer’s Pro + Framing package includes the CRM plus AI-powered farming and marketing starting at $399 per month. Pro + Leads includes the CRM plus social media leads starting at $429 per month. The baseline Top Producer product—called Pro—starts $129 per user, per month. The Top Producer Pro Teams package is $299 per user, per month. A Top Producer website is an additional $35 per user, per month.
Cons You can’t subscribe to just the PA solution. It lacks 24/7 customer support. It is not an option for agents who already have a CRM they like.

Pros

It offers full end-to-end solution with top-notch lead gen, integrated marketing, and CRM.
CRM helps prioritize PA leads and follow-up.
It has excellent customer service.

Starting Monthly Prices

Top Producer’s Pro + Framing package includes the CRM plus AI-powered farming and marketing starting at $399 per month.
Pro + Leads includes the CRM plus social media leads starting at $429 per month.
The baseline Top Producer product—called Pro—starts $129 per user, per month.
The Top Producer Pro Teams package is $299 per user, per month.
A Top Producer website is an additional $35 per user, per month.

Cons

You can’t subscribe to just the PA solution.
It lacks 24/7 customer support.
It is not an option for agents who already have a CRM they like.

While Top Producer’s predictive analytics product, called Smart Targeting, isn’t far from what other PA companies are doing (in fact, its data is supplied by the same company as Offrs and Smartzip), it is unique to have the analytics as part of a larger lead generation and tracking ecosystem. There are some real advantages to having everything working together in the same place. If you’re using Top Producer, one of our favorite CRMs in the industry, to prioritize, track, nurture, and convert leads fed to your funnel by predictive analytics, you’re cooking with gas, as they say.

Top Producer’s biggest value is in its CRM, which allows a busy agent to rely on automatic follow-up with leads. It’s not cheap—in fact, it’s hard to tell exactly what Smart Targeting costs as it’s an add-on to the base price—but it is an exciting development in the industry. Synergy between all of your sales and marketing is a beautiful thing.

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

Top Producer: Is It Right for You?

If you already have a CRM that you love, Top Producer isn’t for you. You’re better off subscribing to Offrs or Smartzip and integrating it into your existing CRM. It’s only if you’re already using Top Producer or you want to make a CRM change that you should consider jumping in with two feet. Real magic can happen when all of your systems are not only talking to each other and working together, but also taking advantage of cutting-edge technology that can skyrocket your business.

Visit Top Producer

Are you a lender or homeowner interested in hearing about other great predictive analytics tools that are easy on the wallet? Check out our review of Homebot to kick off your search.

Methodology: How I Chose the Best Predictive Analytics Companies

Our methodology at The Close ensures that our team of professionals, writers, and editors thoroughly analyzes each platform. We meticulously evaluate the features, usability, integration capabilities, performance, and affordability of the AI tools available for real estate.

Even though our team has decades of combined real estate experience, navigating through the wild, complex, and sometimes confounding world of data analytics wasn’t easy. To make sure we were using objective measures, in addition to our educated opinions, we looked at these five key criteria to select our picks for the top companies:

Affordability and value for money: Cost was an important consideration. We looked for tools that provided a good balance of features and return on investment.
Feature set and functionality: We evaluated the range of features each tool offers and focused on how impactful these features are to real estate operations.
Usability and customer ratings: We looked for tools with intuitive interfaces, straightforward navigation, and comprehensive support resources. We want to ensure it can be easily integrated into an agent’s workflow.
Integration capabilities: Because so many tools are needed in the real estate industry, we want to ensure that an agent’s technology stack can communicate with other tools necessary for business.
Effectiveness and performance: We considered the effectiveness of each tool to make sure that it increased productivity and would achieve the desired outcomes that it promised.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What are the challenges of using predictive analysis in real estate?

Using predictive analysis in real estate can be tricky. Data quality and availability often need to be more consistent, making it hard to get accurate predictions. Market conditions can be volatile, influenced by economic factors and unexpected events like natural disasters. Models can sometimes be overly complex or too closely tied to past data, reducing future accuracy.

The tech side of things also presents hurdles, from needing complex equations to finding the right algorithms. On top of that, human factors like expertise and bias can impact results. Let’s also not forget any legal and ethical considerations like privacy, which must be considered. Real estate agents are also resistant to change. Combine that with the higher cost of obtaining these analytics, and it can be a difficult sell to a broader audience.

What problem is being addressed by applying predictive analytics to real estate?

Applying predictive analytics to real estate helps take the uncertainty out of marketing. It is aimed at providing more accurate property valuations, predicting market trends, and spotting investment opportunities. This helps everyone involved—buyers, sellers, investors, and real estate pros—make smarter decisions, cut down on marketing risks, and boost profits.

How do predictive analytics impact the real estate industry?

Predictive analytics have a big impact on the real estate industry by making it more efficient and data-driven. They help with pricing properties more accurately, spotting market trends early, and finding the best investment opportunities. This means buyers, sellers, and investors can make smarter choices and cut down on risks. For real estate agents, predictive analytics make things run smoother, improve marketing, and boost overall efficiency. Basically, they take a lot of the guesswork out, leading to better results for everyone in the market.

Bringing It All Together

Data analytics, and predictive analytics specifically, is an exciting, cutting-edge field that has the potential to completely shake up our industry. I believe that agents, teams, and brokers will see a serious ROI with the right data analytics tool. I hope this guide has helped narrow down the options and decide what might be the right company (or companies) for your business.

Are there any predictive analytics companies serving the real estate world that we missed? Who should we include the next time around? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Predictive Analytics in Real Estate: Best Practices & Software for Agents appeared first on The Close.

The 6 Best Virtual Staging Software 2024 & Virtual Staging Guide

Shannon Sharpe — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:47:13 +0000

Ever seen a property listing with no furniture or really bad furniture? Since you’re a real estate professional, it may be easy for you to visualize the potential in those properties, but for most buyers, that is very difficult. Enter virtual staging: the perfect way to make a space beautiful and appealing when listing photos. I gathered the best virtual staging software based on pricing, design quality, and features so you can create stunning and realistic spaces. Also, I’ve included a guide of tips and tricks to help you along the way. Let’s get started!

Styldod: Best for quick turn-around times
Tantify: Best for high-end, realistic staging
BoxBrownie: Best for a variety of virtual services
PadStyler: Best for customization and furniture selection
Stuccco: Best for do-it-yourself (DIY) and ease of use
Apply Design: Best for on-the-spot revisions

The Close’s Picks for Best Virtual Staging Software

Type of Software	Best For	Price Per Image	Learn More Below
Styldod	Quick turn-around times	$16	Styldod ↓
Tantify	High-end, realistic staging	$69	Tantify ↓
BoxBrownie	Various virtual services	$24	BoxBrownie ↓
PadStyler	Customization and furniture selection	$29	PadStyler ↓
Stuccco	DIY and ease of use	$15	Stuccco ↓
Apply Design	On-the-spot revisions	$10.50	Apply Design ↓

Styldod: Best for Quick Turnaround Times

Pros

Price savings for more than 8 images
Unlimited free revisions
Turnaround time: 24-48 hours
Customer satisfaction guarantee
Various design options

Cons

Limited customizations
Inconsistent quality
Basic furniture options
Slower customer support
Less realistic

The Close Score

4.9

Pricing:

5.0

General Features:

2.6

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

1.5

Customer Rating:

4.6

Expert Score:

4.6

out
of

Why I Chose Styldod

Talk about home improvement! With Styldod’s super-fast turnaround time (24 to 48 hours), agents will be listing properties in no time and attracting buyers right away. Plus, with prices starting at just $16 per image, it’s budget-friendly without skimping on quality. Customers love that Styldod offers a bunch of design options and super realistic renderings, making listings look their best. Not to mention, you get unlimited revisions if you want to make any changes.

Before and after using glam design template (Source: Styledod)

Additional Features

AI object removal: This is great for agents who want to remove an object or two from an existing photo without virtually staging an entire room.
Real estate video maker: Agents can create a free listing video in minutes with premade templates.

Check out Styldod

Tantify: Best for High-end, Realistic Staging

Pros

Free consultations
Turnaround time: as little as 8 hours
Staging of complex properties
30-day money-back guarantee
High-quality images

Cons

Higher pricing
Limited services
Complex ordering process
Targeted at the luxury market
Less flexibility for last-minute changes

The Close Score

4.5

Pricing:

3.0

General Features:

3.7

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

4.0

Customer Rating:

3.2

Expert Score:

4.6

out
of

Why I Chose Tantify

Tantify is all about turning boring property photos into stylish, inviting spaces with its virtual staging magic. It provides high-end virtual staging that results in super-realistic, high-quality images that catch the eye of potential buyers.

It has the best image quality and interior design taste that we know of among staging service providers. While it doesn’t offer virtual house staging software for real estate agents, it consistently puts out photorealistic virtual staging images with stunning interior design.

High-end staging (Source: Tantify)

Additional Features

Realistic renderings: The bottom line—these photos look real. This may be the most expensive option, but it also produces the best results for luxury agents.
Quick redesign and virtual renovation: Remove unwanted furniture to upgrade a space without virtually staging the entire room. If you have a commercial space or a property that needs an overhaul, consider purchasing the renovation option for complex listings.

Check out Tantify

BoxBrownie: Best for Variety of Virtual Services

Pros

Realistic staging at an affordable price
Turnaround time: 48 hours
Unlimited revisions at no cost
Multiple furniture style choices
Easy online ordering

Cons

Higher cost for premium services
Quality can be inconsistent
Larger orders can take longer
Overwhelming amount of service options
Multiple revisions are often needed

The Close Score

4.5

Pricing:

3.0

General Features:

2.9

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

5.0

Customer Rating:

4.6

Expert Score:

4.1

out
of

Why I Chose BoxBrownie

BoxBrownie does it all by offering virtual staging, photo editing, floor plan, 360° virtual tours and more. It’s actually my go-to for real estate photo edits, and so far it has not let me down. Sure, some of the premium options cost more, but the results are worth it. I love having everything I need in one place, no matter what project I’m working on. And its customer service?—Chef’s kiss!

Before and after virtual floor plans (Source: BoxBrownie)

Additional Features

Floor plans: Turn the typical, hard-to-read floor plan into a work of art with BoxBrownie’s virtually staged floor plans. I love seeing these on listings!
Professional copywriting: Now that you have these beautiful photos, you have to write a listing description. If you feel stuck, BoxBrownie has copywriting options for you.

Check out BoxBrownie

PadStyler: Best for Customization & Furniture Selection

Pros

Rush delivery available
Exterior virtual staging
Unlimited design revisions
Price match promise
Free virtual tour included

Cons

On the higher end of pricing
No specified turnaround times
Less user-friendly platform
Limited additional services
Inconsistent customer service experiences

The Close Score

4.2

Pricing:

2.5

General Features:

2.6

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

4.0

Customer Rating:

4.7

Expert Score:

4.3

out
of

Why I Chose PadStyler

I went with PadStyler because it lets me play interior designer without breaking the bank. Sure, it’s got a bit of a learning curve with all the customization options, but once you get the hang of it, you can really make each room pop. I love how I can pick from a huge library of furniture and decor to match any style I need. Plus, the detailed options mean I can get everything just right for each property. It’s like having a virtual decorating party right at my fingertips!

Exterior virtual staging (Source: PadStyler)

Additional Features

3D walkthrough: Perfect for new construction properties, you can show potential buyers what the house can look like once it is finished.
Schedule an actual photoshoot: If you’re in Austin, Texas—you’re in luck. Not only does PadStyler have virtual staging options, but it also has professional photographers available in your area.

Check out PadStyler

Stuccco: Best for DIY & Ease of Use

Pros

Add or remove furniture and decor
Turnaround time: 24 hours
Discount on additional features with subscription
Library of style types to choose from
Unlimited revisions

Cons

Subscription required to unlock additional features
Limited additional services available
Pricing structure is more complicated than most
Some visuals appear to be lower quality
Requires high quality photos for best results

The Close Score

4.1

Pricing:

2.5

General Features:

2.6

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

4.0

Customer Rating:

4.3

Expert Score:

4.3

out
of

Why I Chose Stuccco

Stucco gets the job done with its no-hassle virtual staging. It may not offer all the bells and whistles like some other providers, but you don’t have to be a design guru to get results you’ll love. If you’re looking for DIY virtual staging, this program is easy to use and perfect for an agent on a tight budget. While the pricing structure can seem overwhelming, it does allow you to only pay for what you need.

Virtually staged office space (Source: Stuccco)

Additional Features

Listing pages with stats: Listing pages allow you to manage who sees this page and its contents. When you share it, you’ll be able to track the buyer traffic, leads, and conversion rate.
Lead capture: Upgrade your plan so homebuyers can share their contact info on your property Listing Pages, making it easy to capture buyer leads and follow up with them.

Check out Stuccco

Apply Design: Best for On-the-Spot Revisions

Pros

No design experience required
Turnaround time: 15 minutes
Item removal included
On-the-spot revisions in one click
First image is free

Cons

Limited service offerings
Less customizable than other designers
Takes time to learn the program
Geared towards quick results vs quality
DIYers will need an eye for design, at least

The Close Score

4.1

Pricing:

3.8

General Features:

1.6

Ease of Use:

4.5

Customer Service:

3.0

Customer Rating:

4.1

Expert Score:

3.6

out
of

Why I Chose Apply Design

Apply Design is an easy-to-use app that allows anyone to quickly stage their listings. Apply Design is one of the only virtual staging apps on the market that still allows agents to do their own virtual staging. It’s also very easy to use and includes a large number of tasteful, high-quality renderings of furniture, art, lighting, rugs, plants, and other home furnishings.

One-click item removal (Source: Apply Design)

Additional Features

AI decluttering: Remove the existing furniture or other clutter automatically by simply checking a box.
On-the-spot revisions: Make quick changes with Apply Design’s drag-and-drop editor. Customize any real estate photo in a snap.

Check out Apply Design

The Ultimate Virtual Staging Guide

So, you want to know how to do virtual staging? At the end of the day, picking a virtual staging software is just as important as knowing the best virtual staging tricks. That’s why I added this virtual staging guide to give you easy steps, insider tips, and cool examples to help you become a virtual staging pro. Whether you’re just starting out or already a staging whiz, this guide will help you rock any virtual staging tool and make your properties look amazing.

As an added bonus, you can download our top 10 staging tips for free:

What Is Virtual Staging?

Virtual staging is like magic for your property photos. Instead of lugging heavy furniture around, you use fancy tech to digitally spruce up empty rooms. It’s like giving your place a stylish makeover without breaking a sweat (or your back!). Virtual staging spruces up listings, making them look lived-in and super inviting to potential buyers. It’s the secret weapon for selling homes faster and making them look totally Instagram-worthy!

Scandinavian decor virtual staging by Apply Design on Instagram (Source: Instagram)

When to Use Virtual Staging

When should you use virtual staging products when selling a home? Anytime is perfect for showcasing the potential of a space without the hassle and cost of physically staging it. Plus, you can target different buyer demographics by styling rooms to suit various tastes—turning that spare room into a cozy office or a kids’ playroom with just a few clicks.

Let’s take a look at some of the best reasons to use virtual staging:

Empty spaces: Transform vacant rooms into furnished, inviting spaces.
Outdated decor: Update the look of a home with modern furnishings and decor.
Cost-effective makeover: Stage a property without the expense of traditional staging.
Targeted marketing: Customize staging to appeal to specific buyer demographics or lifestyles.
Quick sales: Attract more interest and potentially sell properties faster with visually appealing listings, especially if a property is lacking; uh-hum—appeal.
Creative flexibility: Experiment with different layouts and designs to showcase a property’s full potential.

Differences Between Traditional vs Virtual Staging

Many agents ask, Is virtual staging really as effective as traditional staging? Virtual staging can be a highly effective alternative to traditional home staging, offering cost savings, flexibility, and the ability to reach a wider audience with appealing pics. However, the effectiveness ultimately depends on the specific property, target market, and the quality of the virtual staging itself.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each type of staging to help you determine which method is right for your listing. First up, traditional staging:

Traditional Staging
Pros	Cons
Physically experience the space	Can be expensive
Perceived value by the buyer	Time-consuming physical labor
Immediate impact	Limited flexibility in actual spaces

Now, let’s take a look at the upside and downside of virtual staging:

Virtual Staging
Pros	Cons
Cost-effective option	Dependent on quality of original photos
Quick turnaround times	Tech skills needed to use software
Creative flexibility	Potentially misleading to buyers

Whichever way you decide to stage a home, be sure to chat with your sellers about how they feel about any disruptions or how easy it’ll be for them to use.

Decide Your Budget & Pick a Great Virtual Staging Software

When you’re choosing the best virtual home staging software, start by figuring out your budget. Software costs can vary a lot, so it’s important to find one that fits your wallet. Check out what each software offers by returning to the above section—things like lots of furniture choices, realistic-looking designs, and how easy it is to use. Then make sure your budget aligns and get to work!

Do’s & Don’ts of Virtual Staging

So, now that you know what you’re going to do, let’s talk about some best practices for virtually staging a property. Choose furniture setups that enhance the space without making it look cramped. Make sure the virtual staging shows off natural light and highlights what makes your property special. Skip the overly fancy or too-personal decorations that could distract potential buyers or renters.

Keeping it simple and inviting will help you create digital presentations that catch eyes and make a great impression. It’s the little things that we can sometimes overlook, like curb appeal.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to get you started.

Do’s	Don’ts
Keep it neutral	Overdo it
Declutter	Leave personal items
Highlight key property features	Forget about the exterior
Consider the flow	Overlook the lighting

Show Off Your Masterpiece

You’re done, you did it! Now, gather those beautiful masterpieces and get to marketing your listing. The house won’t sell itself, but your newly staged photos just might.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What programs do virtual stagers use?

Virtual stagers have a blast using all sorts of cool software! From BoxBrownie’s do-it-all magic to PadStyler and Stuccco’s creative playgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Apply Design even makes it super easy to enhance listings right from your favorite real estate platforms. These programs let real estate agents, homeowners, and stagers turn dull spaces into must-see homes that catch buyers’ eyes and imagination.

Can I do virtual staging myself?

Yes! A few of the virtual staging programs for real estate offer DIY software. You don’t need to be a tech guru to use them, but you will need a sense of design to make sure the rooms look visually appealing.

How do realtors do virtual staging?

Realtors use virtual staging software to create digitally furnished homes to appeal to potential homebuyers. Start by taking high-quality photos of the rooms you want to stage, then upload them into virtual staging platforms like BoxBrownie or Stuccco. You can choose from various style types, furniture, and decor to bring boring and empty spaces to life. Once the photos are finished, realtors use them in their marketing materials to entice buyers to see a property’s potential.

How much does a visual stager cost?

That’s a tough one. Prices vary widely based on the number of photos being created, how much staging is necessary, and the complexity of the project. On average, the cost of virtual staging can range from $25 to $75 per image, with costs going much higher for higher-quality, luxury, or complex projects. If you don’t like an image, a revision may be necessary—so be sure to check if your provider includes changes in the cost.

Methodology: How I Chose the Best Virtual Staging Software

Our methodology at The Close ensures that our team of professionals, writers, and editors thoroughly analyzes each software. We meticulously evaluate the affordability, features, usability, customer support, and reviews of the virtual staging software available for real estate to determine our expert score.

We picked the best and most reliable virtual staging software to help real estate agents boost their business and sell their listings. Our thorough selection process ensures that our top picks make it easier for agents to streamline their work, impress clients, and hit their business goals.

Detailed criteria included the following to determine the best real estate virtual staging software:

Affordability: Cost was an important consideration. We looked for tools that provide a good balance of features and affordability.
Features: We evaluated the range of features each tool offers and focused on how impactful this feature is to real estate operations.
Usability and support: We looked for tools with intuitive interfaces, straightforward navigation, and comprehensive support resources such as tutorials, FAQs, and customer service.
Customer ratings: We looked at what actual customers were saying about the product to ensure our research was unbiased.
Expert score: After we take all of the factors into consideration, we compile all the scores to determine our expert score.

Your Take

When virtually staging a home, think of yourself as a digital decorator with endless possibilities at your fingertips. Play around with different styles and setups to see what clicks best, but make sure you know your audience. Keep your visuals clean and focused on the property’s best features to really make your listings pop.

Have great virtual staging software you swear by or a tip for our readers? Let us know in the comments.

The post The 6 Best Virtual Staging Software 2024 & Virtual Staging Guide appeared first on The Close.

8 Real Estate Photography Tips for Stunning Listing Photos

Shannon Sharpe — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 15:54:26 +0000

First impressions mean everything when you’re listing a home. The pictures you use will be your first chance to make your potential buyers stop scrolling through Zillow and pick up the phone to call you. Knowing how to photograph real estate makes all the difference by using high-quality photos. Pictures can make a property shine, catching the eye and sparking interest immediately.

Get ready to dive into some fun and practical tips for real estate photography that are sure to make your listing photos truly stunning and stand out from the crowd!

Tip 1: Schedule Your Shoot for Optimal Lighting

Use natural daylight. (Source: Shutterstock)

Believe it or not, scheduling your photoshoot for the right time of day can make a huge difference in the quality of your photos. The golden hours of early morning or dusk are perfect for dramatic hero shots of the home’s exterior. Many photo editors fake dusk shots; why not capture them for real? For taking real estate photos of the interior of the home, aim to shoot during the golden hours, early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and flattering. The natural light will surely add warmth to any room—as long as there is a window!

Try not to schedule your shoot for midday when the sun is harsh, as it can cast strong shadows and wash out important details. You will want to capture rooms when they’re filled with light, so pay close attention to the sun’s direction. Keep in mind the weather as well. Clear, sunny days typically produce the best results. By carefully choosing the right timing, you can ensure your listing photos are bright and welcoming and truly showcase the property’s charm and curb appeal.

If you’re having trouble finding the right light and need finishing touches put on your pictures, consider hiring a freelance photo editor on Fiverr. Remember, the goal is to put a professional touch on the final product to enhance a photo, not to cover blemishes. That’s a big no-no.

Visit Fiverr

Tip 2: Clean, Depersonalize & Declutter

After your shoot is scheduled, it’s time to put your best foot forward and work with your homeowner to depersonalize and declutter the listing. Homeowners can be very emotional over removing their personal items, so make sure you sell the reasoning—the new owner has to be able to imagine that they live there. Also, make sure to tell them that a neutral home with only a few decorative elements is the key to great listing pictures.

Here’s a quick checklist you can use to take the sting out of asking them to clean windows and put away toys so that you can take pictures.

General

Clean all windows and mirrors

Remove screens from windows

Make sure all lightbulbs work

Living Room

Remove all family photos from walls, shelves, or tables

Hide remote controls

Store toys, video games, or other electronic equipment

Hide visible electrical cords or wires

Remove non-decorative items from coffee and end tables

Kitchen

Remove visible garbage cans

Declutter kitchen countertops

Put all food away

Wash dirty dishes

Remove refrigerator magnets

Take down wall calendars

Bathrooms

Declutter bathroom sinks and shelves

Put away laundry and laundry baskets

Bedrooms

Make all beds

Put all clothing and shoes in closets

Dining Room

Remove all mail, papers, or other work from table

Front & Backyard

Skim and vacuum pool (if any)

Sweep walkways and patios

Rake leaves (if applicable)

Remove debris from flower beds

Trim lawn

Move cars from driveway

Finished Garages or Basements

Straighten items on shelves

Remove unused appliances

Straighten or remove boxes

You can copy and paste the checklist above if you want to edit it, or just download our spiffier version as a PDF below and add your personal branding using Acrobat Pro.

Tip 3: Set the Scene with Effective Staging

Before and after virtual staging (Source: Apply Design)

Now that your listing is clean and decluttered, you have a fresh canvas to showcase the property’s best features. Even if a home is already furnished, things will need to be changed to make it look better on camera. If the home is empty and you have the budget, consider hiring a professional to stage it.

If you want to know how to take real estate photography to the next level or simply on a lower budget, consider virtual staging or creating a virtual tour. Just remember to label your virtually staged images before uploading them to your MLS to avoid violating your MLS guidelines. Check out Apply Design for an easy, affordable way to stage your listing virtually. It only takes 15 minutes to get realistic results. The pictures are stunning, but if you don’t like what you see, they will do revisions for you in no time. Try it today for free!

Visit Apply Design

You can learn more tips about staging a home here: 17 Clever Home Staging Tips From Top Agents (+ DIY Shopping Guide)

Tip 4: Plan Your Photo Shoot Using a Shot List

It’s time to plan the order of the rooms and the details you will photograph. This is called a shot list. It might seem like overkill at first, but planning out your shoot will make it much easier to sort through your pictures when you get back to the office. In most cases, you’ll want to shoot in the same order your pictures will be on your MLS.

The only caveat here is that you won’t be able to capture a trendy dusk picture of the front of the house if you show up before the golden hour. This is why we recommend shooting the home’s exterior twice: once when you first arrive and once at the end of your shoot.

Here’s an example of a shot list:

Exterior of the Home: Full Sunlight

The front of the home: One head-on and one from each angle

The backyard: One shot of the view of the yard from the home, one shot of the view of the home from the yard, detail shots of the yard

Interior of the Home

Capture three angles as well as details and vignettes of each of the following:

Living room
Kitchen
Primary bedroom
Primary bathroom
Guest bedrooms
Guest bathrooms
Home office
Finished basement

Exterior of the Home: Dusk

The front of the home: One head-on, one each from right angle and left angle

Pro tip: Remember to turn on the interior lights when you shoot your dusk shot in front of the home for that warm, cozy glow!

Exterior lighting at dusk (Source: The Agency)

Tip 5: Invest in the Right Photography Tools

To get the right shots for your listing, having the right equipment is key.

A high-quality camera captures sharp, detailed images to showcase a property’s features and appeal to future buyers.
Tripods provide stability for clear photos, especially in low-light conditions, ensuring your images look professional and polished.
External flashes and lighting equipment enhance lighting in dim areas, especially those with little to no natural light.

Now, if you’re going to ask me which camera to use—I can’t make that decision for you—but I can give you some of the best recommendations we’ve found. Whether you’re looking for the best cell phone camera or the best handheld, here are some of my best recommendations.

That said, here are some basic recommendations for cameras that should work for most real estate photography applications.

Best Phone Cameras	iPhone 15 Pro Max ($1099+ on Amazon) Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra ($1049+ on Amazon) Google Pixel 8 Pro ($999+ on Mazon)
Best Budget DSLR Camera	Canon EOS Rebel SL3 ($649 on Amazon)
Best High-end DSLR Camera	Nikon D850 ($2,100+ on Amazon)
Best Budget Mirrorless Camera	Sony Alpha A6100 ($848 on Amazon)
Best High-end Mirrorless Camera	Sony Alpha A7 III ($1,998 on Amazon)

Tip 6: Master the Art of Photography Techniques

The reason you take listing photos is to draw in potential buyers to purchase the home. There are many techniques that can breathe life into dull spaces. Nine times out of ten, it’s not the tool, it’s the person using it. The main techniques a photographer needs to use are as follows:

Rule of thirds for balanced shots
Wide-angle lenses to capture more of the room
Angles and perspectives that make spaces look larger

Take the rule of thirds, for example. There is a formula that professional photographers use to compose their pictures that was discovered in 300 BCE. Don’t believe me? Take a look at the photograph below.

Notice how the bowl of fruit on the countertop, the light fixture, and the open cabinet doors all line up at the intersections of the blue grid? Notice how the picture is broken up vertically into three sections that roughly match the three horizontal sections of the grid? That’s no accident. It’s a composition technique that most professional photographers use to take pictures for real estate that just look right, known as the rule of thirds.

Now let’s look at the same picture composed without using the rule of thirds. All the same elements are there, but it just looks … off.

Tip 7: Use Photo Editing Software

Editing software helps you polish your photos and make them look their best. There are several options out there, most of which will allow you to adjust lighting, correct colors, and remove any elements that take away from a professional finish. Some graphic design and editing software, such as Adobe Lightroom, cost a bit more yet have extensive features that also come with a steep learning curve. More inexpensive editing software, such as Canva, tends to be easier to use and requires no tech skills to pick it up.

Be sure to do your research and choose the tools that can add just the right flair to your listing photos. Here are a few editing software types to consider adding to your toolkit.

HDR software: This is great for combining multiple exposures, capturing a full range of light and detail.
Virtual tour software: Create virtual tours, offering potential buyers an interactive experience.
Mobile editing apps: This is handy for quick edits on the go and perfect for enhancing photos directly from your smartphone.
Drones and videography software: Get stunning aerial shots, giving a unique perspective on properties and their surroundings.

If you’re new to photo editing, check out Canva. It’s beginner-friendly, has free and paid features, and can be used for more than just editing. Use your listing photos to create branded marketing content that’s sure to get that listing sold!

Visit Canva

Tip 8: Decide Whether to Hire or Do-it-Yourself (DIY)

I recommend hiring a professional photographer whenever your budget allows. Hiring a pro lets you skip the learning curve and get consistent results for every listing. While your mistakes might not be immediately noticeable to you at first, when your seller compares your DIY photos to the professional pictures in other listings on Zillow, yours will almost always fall short. It’s a few hundred dollars well spent, in my opinion.

If you think you’ve got what it takes and know how to take real estate photos, just be sure your results can measure up so you don’t end up with bad real estate photos. You know you’ve been on MLS making fun of agents and asking yourself, “What were they thinking!” Don’t end up like them.

Before you make a decision, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each method.

Hire a Professional
Pros	Cons
High-quality images	Can be expensive
Professional equipment and expertise	Must coordinate schedules
Saves you time	Less control of the process

Do-it-yourself
Pros	Cons
Full creative control	Can be time consuming
Cost-effective	Equipment can expensive
Opportunity to improve skills	Risk of lower-quality photos

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The homeowner has an adorable dog. Should I include her in a few pictures?

No. Even if your homeowner client has an incredibly photogenic pet, avoid the temptation to take pictures with them in the shot. Sure, pet owners may love it, but what about all the other buyers who check out your listing? Some people see a cute dog or cat and immediately think of allergies and bad smells. That snuggly picture of your homeowner’s Dalmatian by the fire just might alienate a significant percentage of your buyers.

Is real estate photography easy?

Yes and no. It can take years to truly master the composition, framing, and interplay between light, aperture, and shutter speed that are required for truly stunning real estate photography. That said, anyone who puts in the time and effort to learn the basics can end up with pictures they would be proud to post on their MLS. Scheduling your shoot at the right time, always shooting with a tripod, and composing pictures using the rule of thirds are great first steps on the road to professional-quality real estate photography.

When should I order photos for a listing?

Right away. If you plan on using a professional photographer, you will want to coordinate with them as soon as possible. Scheduling conflicts happen, and you may end up not being able to use your favorite photographer if you wait. Many companies allow you to book an appointment online, while you may have to personally call individual photographers. Side note: If you use an admin or transaction coordinator, make sure they have a list of your preferred photographers.

Bringing It All Together

Learning how to take real estate photography is a blend of preparation, technique, and the right tools. Whether you hire a professional or take the DIY route, focusing on composition, lighting, and editing will make your listings shine bright like a diamond.

Have any killer DIY realty photography tips we missed? Let us know in the comments.

The post 8 Real Estate Photography Tips for Stunning Listing Photos appeared first on The Close.