There’s a well-known saying that goes like this: Expect the best but prepare for the worst. More than just cautionary advice, it reminds us that success is built on careful preparation and planning. It looks like there could be stormy weather ahead, so now is not the time to forget your raincoat. As we head into 2023, the road looks uncertain, at best. It’s anyone’s guess what the stock market or the housing market will do and you have no control over those things. But what is in your control is how you plan your year for your future success, despite the roadblocks. Do these things now for your future success:
DIGITAL PROSPECTING
Forget cold calling. Use your smartphone instead, and send a text message to people you know and to past customers and contacts. Nothing fancy, just a quick check-in to ask how they’re doing. You will find that people are very responsive to this. Some are thinking of moving or know people who are. Do these things to build personal human relationships, and if there’s a real estate deal to be done, they will most likely mention it.
EXPIRED LISTINGS
The usual approach is to cold call the seller in question. Instead of doing what everyone else is doing, use a modern twist on this approach by delivering informational value, like a report that outlines what sellers should do if their home doesn’t sell. Go one step further and print this report and deliver it to the seller. Include an offer to consult with them to give them alternatives and strategies based on their interest. When you provide something of real value, people will respond. And don’t forget to suggest a seller’s home warranty as an added incentive during your listing presentation. This will be one more thing to separate you from the competition.
NEIGHBORHOOD POP-BYS
Again, focus on offering something of value. What are people needing in January? If they plan to move, they will be thinking about getting rid of old stuff, shredding documents, getting repairs done, landscaping, and deep cleaning the home, among other things. They will probably need home service professionals to do these things. Let folks know you have a list of these professionals and that you can vouch for them. Ask homeowners for the best email or phone number so you can send more detailed info.
OPEN HOUSE MARKETING
Hosting an Open House is one of the best ways to interact with buyers, as well as prospective sellers in the neighborhood. Make sure you have good branded sign coverage in the area promoting the open house as a way to promote yourself as a listing expert in the area.
Do the following for your Open House signage:
- Include your company name, your name, and a logo
- Put signs 3 to 4 miles out from the property at all major points (if allowed in your jurisdiction). At every half mile, add a new directional sign setup.
- Put signs out the day before, if possible, to maximize exposure.
- Post a minimum of 10 signs per Open House.
Leverage your open house even more:
- Offer reports and information to visitors in exchange for an email address or phone number.
- Promote your Open House on social media (Facebook & Instagram are a must)
- Use short videos of the listing when promoting on social media.
- Take a look at more open house tips
January of a new year is the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a robust and successful spring selling season. Do these things now for your future success, and don’t waste a moment. Remember, the secret to getting ahead is getting started.