Real estate agents need to have a big network of people in order to generate the contracts that will keep them in business. Generating real estate leads can be tricky, and it is important to hone techniques and prioritize the methods that work well. Here are some tips on making the most of your time when generating new real estate leads.

Research Area Trends

Do your research and do it regularly. Find out which houses or properties are selling well. See if you can figure out what made the difference in a property that got multiple competitive bids and sold in one day on the market. Also, take a look at the properties that linger and see if you can figure out what went wrong with them. Know the market. What is selling well right now might be different from what was selling well a year or two ago. Learn about what is coming up for the neighborhood. The construction of a new bypass or the opening of a new big-box store could make an impact on real estate sales.

Know Your Customer Database

Understanding the customer journey gives you a unique perspective that shows you their wants and concerns and can build a connection that will help you stand out in the crowd. Word-of-mouth recommendations are how most people find their real estate agents and making sure that your customers have a good experience is easier with the right software. By keeping track of the services you provide to your customers, how often they interact with you and their transaction history, you can build a solid reputation for yourself. People will see you as trustworthy and authoritative in your field of expertise.

Postcard or Ad Campaigns

Postcard or ad campaigns could also help you generate more real estate leads. Use a strong visual cue. For example, the photo of the front of a house in the neighborhood that you just sold for a great price. If you sold the house quickly, including how quickly you sold it. Also, include the sales price and listing price to show that you priced it well and got a good result. Back up your message of years of experience, area of specialty and your ability to tell prospective buyers, sellers or other interested parties about the advantages and benefits of buying or selling in this neighborhood now. Use a strong call to action and make it easy for readers to find your contact information. But don't just stick to physical campaigns. Targeted digital ad campaigns are a great way to get in front of people who are actively looking for an agent.

Offer Incentives

Offer incentives to your past or current clients if they bring you a referral who successfully completes a transaction with you. Carefully time your requests for referrals. It's best to make your request at the time that your customers are the most satisfied with your service to them. Make it easy for your customers to refer their friends, coworkers or family members to you. Make sure that you're providing an incentive that people want. Some good examples include a gift card to a local grocery store, free house cleaning or lawn care services, or a gift certificate to a locally owned and operated restaurant.

Reach Out on Social Media

Social media can also be used to generate more real estate leads. Make a Pinterest board for real estate services. Get on Google+, Reddit, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. On social media, you can create engaging posts and share success stories from happy customers. Using a click-to-text system can help motivate people to take action on your ads. You can also optimize your calls to action in order to connect with potential clients. Post helpful articles, informative tidbits, and some information about what makes your real estate firm unique.

Get Out in the Community

Get out in the community and meet people. When a person attends a community event and sees you, they will remember you. Handing out business cards or brochures listing services is a great way to leave guests with a tangible reminder. Consider giveaways, such as tee shirts or tote bags with your business name. You could even host a community event, such as a school supply drive or free shredding services to get people to remember you. People will associate your business with good memories.

Each of these tips is designed to help you reach different segments of the same market. The more people hear your name, see your face and notice your business logo, the more you will be retained in their memories and recalled when they are in need of your services. Maintaining a positive reputation and making routine connections with everyone in your community will help you get quality leads without having to spend a lot of money on costly advertising campaigns. Keep track of what works and what doesn't so that you can maximize your investment of time and resources for lead generation.

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