REAL ESTATE RESOURCES & MORE

Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

What Real Estate Agents Do and Why They Are Important

Understanding the role of a realtor, including their legal duties and responsibilities, is important for both buyers and sellers. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Acting as an intermediary between sellers and buyers of any property, a real estate agent is a job that entails a lot of dealings and negotiations. In recent years, a vast majority of homebuyers acquired their properties via a real estate agent. This goes to show the importance of an agent’s role in buying and selling homes and even commercial establishments.

Understanding the role of a realtor, including their legal duties and responsibilities, is important for both buyers and sellers. That is why in this feature, you are going to witness a day in the life of a realtor to get a glimpse of what exactly they do and how they are connected to a real estate agency.

Read on to get to know real estate agents and their roles in the real estate industry.

Real Estate Agents: Who They Are

A real estate agent is a professional dealer or organizer of real estate transactions between buyers and sellers. An agent who acts as a representative of a seller is referred to as a listing agent. On the other hand, the ones who represent buyers are called real estate agents. Do not be confused, though, as both listing agents and agents from the buyers’ side are both called real estate agents. However, there can only be one agent in a transaction.

The primary role of real estate agents is to assist their clients in the entire buying and selling process. Agents guide their clients with the complex steps, procedures, and legalities involved in acquiring and selling properties. Hence, agents are adept at providing legal assistance in the real estate realm.

In exchange for their service, agents are compensated by their clients on a commission basis. The commission of the agent is determined by a percentage of the total contract price of a property. This is also known as the realtor fee.

Real Estate Agents: What They Do

At a professional level, real estate agents always consider the best interest of their clients. They serve as liaison officers to negotiate with the other party. They guide their clients by answering their queries and addressing their concerns promptly. They assist their clients in providing a list of the necessary documents they need to prepare, including securing these documents.

Real estate agents are the ones that communicate with the other party. They provide all the pertinent details involved in the process, and they assist their clients until the transaction is completed and the deal is officially closed.

Real Estate Agents: Their Role in Closing Transactions

As mentioned previously, real estate agents assist their clients until the end of every transaction. They initiate and mediate in communications with the other party, and more often, they suggest a review of all the processes as they reach the closing date.

This role of the agent in the final stages of the transaction is crucial as it enables you to check for any irregularities that may have transpired since the initial phase of the transaction. Moreover, agents counter-check each document for any discrepancies and assure accuracy and veracity. They also ensure that all terms and conditions have been observed and complied with by both parties before exchanging property title and money. When mistakes occur, agents are the ones responsible for rectifying them before finalizing the transaction.

Conclusion

Real estate agents usually work alongside a real estate broker or agency in most states. Hence, all realtors are considered real estate agents, but not all agents or brokers are realtors. This is because realtors should be members of the National Association of Realtors and are considered experts in their field and adhere to the institution’s code of ethics.

Becoming a real estate agent is an excellent career choice for anyone who has the entrepreneurial instinct and good communication skills to drive their own results. Most real estate agents are working for brokers and agencies. If you’re setting your sights at one of the many real estate jobs in Davison, look no further than Smith Street homes. Just send your resume and a letter of interest to smithstreetadmin@smithsteethomes.com!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

The Different Careers in Real Estate You Can Explore

Real estate is a continuously booming industry where you can have a long and fruitful career. Here are some of the possibilities you can explore.

Real estate is a continuously booming industry where you can have a long and fruitful career. People who want a worthwhile job that could give them financial freedom, personal fulfillment, and a flexible schedule should consider this profession. This article will enumerate some of the real estate careers you can explore and what kind of work you should expect.

Residential Real Estate Agents and Brokers

If you want to assist people in buying and selling homes, a job as a residential real estate agent would be the right choice for you. This job involves showing buyers properties and helping them with other concerns, such as property valuation, finding the ideal mortgage, financing, and government programs. Overall, they can provide guidance and assist in purchasing the property for the right price and under the best terms.

These professionals gauge the clients' needs and financial abilities and continuously perform comparative market analysis to provide their clients with the most suitable options. The job necessitates special licenses and permits, depending on which state they plan to conduct their business and what kind of business they want to pursue.

Commercial Real Estate Agents and Brokers

This job is similar to the residential real estate agents, except that they focus on income-producing properties instead of homes. Their focus is to help clients find the wisest locations for their investments. Their job includes evaluating the property's income potential while educating their client about local zoning and tax laws.

The license needed for commercial transactions also depends on the state. Some require a specialized license for commercial transactions, while other states' real estate licenses already cover both residential and commercial transactions.

Property Manager

If selling is not your forte, you can always explore property management. This career is focused on ensuring that the property of owners is well-maintained and well-managed. There are also two categories under this department. You can choose to work for residential properties or commercial properties.

Residential properties include taking care of apartment buildings, condominiums, townhouses, vacation rentals, and the likes. On the other hand, commercial properties refer to office buildings, shopping centers, retail stores, and so on.

Management of these properties includes:

  • Keeping them in good condition at all times

  • Collecting rents of tenants

  • Listing vacant properties

  • Negotiating leases with tenants

Real Estate Appraiser

A real estate appraiser helps property buyers assess the value of a property. They estimate the worth of the land or the buildings on that land before it officially gets sold, mortgaged, taxed, developed, or insured. It is a job that is strong in demand and also gives people flexibility in their work schedule. If you have aptitude for Math and other technical aspects of real estate, this would be good work for you.

If you choose this career, you will most likely work in a bank or an appraising firm. You also need to secure a state license before you get to work.

Conclusion

These are only some of the careers you can explore within the industry, and you would find many more others. You can also consider working on urban planning, research, investment, land development, and construction—to name a few. As we have mentioned repeatedly, working in real estate is an excellent opportunity that will give you good pay, flexibility in schedule, and the chance to work with different kinds of people.

Want to jumpstart your real estate career but do not know how to start? If so, contact us at Smith Street Homes. We have real estate jobs waiting for you. If you are self-motivated, willing to learn, and eager to grow, we are looking for you. Send your resume and letter of interest to smithstreetadmin@smithsteethomes.com.

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Should You Consider a Career in Davison, MI Real Estate?

Are you wondering whether the job of a real estate managing broker is for you? Here are some factors to consider to help you decide.

If you’re looking to build a career in an industry with huge income possibilities, a real estate salesperson or broker should be among your top choices. There are many benefits to working in real estate, such as being your own boss, meeting new people, assisting individuals through one of life's most important milestones, and making your way towards a big paycheck. However, establishing a successful real estate profession in Davison requires more effort than many people know.

Functioning as a real estate managing broker is satisfying and financially lucrative, but it is not without its challenges. Understanding the specific nuances of property around a certain region requires a lot of time and effort, and you have to be highly disciplined to succeed.

Are you wondering whether the job of a real estate managing broker is for you? Here’s our brief guide:

What Are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Real Estate Managing Broker?

Real estate managing brokers help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Their days are divided between a number of tasks, ranging from paperwork and forms to house showings and client consultations. Oftentimes, they also create and distribute promotional materials, such as flyers and newsletters.

As a real estate managing broker, you must create marketing strategies for listings, do market research, and establish a client base. For several listings, legal papers must be appropriately coordinated. You are also expected to conduct and organize activities. You may also spend time creating listing presentations, collecting digital photos of properties, arranging homes to make them appear attractive, and building marketing assets

Moving forward, when you've already established your career, you may be able to employ an assistant to perform some or all of these administrative duties. Nevertheless, if you're just starting in the business, you'll most likely have to keep track of them yourself.

The work of a real estate managing broker in Davison, MI requires a real estate license. This means that before you consider work in this field, you have to decide if you’re willing to invest in yourself by going through the work of earning one!

How Do Real Estate Managing Brokers Find Leads?

Client acquisition is critical for success in any real estate job. After all, there would be no transactions and no commissions when there are no potential buyers. A real estate sphere of influence (SOI) approach, which focuses on producing leads via individuals you already know, is a popular method to develop connections and produce prospects.

Your typical day may consist of meeting and chatting with many people, giving out business cards, exchanging contact information, and storing away contact information to build up your SOI. Following your first encounter, you must follow up with calls and messages, emails, or even snail mail, so that the individuals may remember your name in the future. Since everyone buys, sells, or rents real estate at some time in their life, everyone you meet has the potential of becoming a customer.

What Characteristics Do Real Estate Managing Brokers Need to Have?

Some of the benefits of working in real estate could be why anybody chose to venture into the real estate profession. You can work your own hours and be your own boss. You also have the possibility of earning large commissions, which makes the job appealing. For those who love selling and meeting new people, selling real estate may be a fun way to spend any workweek.

However, bear in mind that making a livelihood as a real estate agent is hard work. To keep track of legal papers, meetings, and responsibilities that go into numerous listings, you must be organized. Because it is commission-based employment, you could go without a salary for long periods. You won't earn anything if you don't actively sell. A big paycheck compensates for hard work.

Final Thoughts

Any real estate job may be both lucrative and challenging. Nevertheless, there are many unique possibilities for anybody interested in working in the industry. You may opt to deal with residential homes or be more interested in commercial buildings. You can be an investor, a broker, an appraiser, or an agent. Furthermore, whatever path you choose, make sure you fulfill the employment responsibilities and prepare to work hard.

Are you interested in growing in the real estate industry? Grow with us at Smith Street homes and find some of the best real estate jobs in Davison! Contact us today to learn more.

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Tips That Successful Real Estate Agents Want You to Know

In this article, we’ll enumerate the secret tactics of some of our most successful agents to help those hoping to make a career out of real estate.

Some say that luck is an important factor in becoming a successful real estate agent, but it is likely a combination of strategy, the right mentality, focus, and preparedness.

People in this tricky industry might give you outdated advice, forgetting that you should evolve alongside the market. In this article, we will enumerate the secret tactics of some of our most successful real estate agents to help those hoping to make a career out of real estate. Here are some of the tricks you can start your career with:

1: Do Not Oversell

Indeed, the main job of a real estate agent is to make sales. However, there is a fine line between selling and being too pushy. You do not want clients to get overwhelmed with your enthusiasm. You want them to think of you first, should they decide to get a property.

Focus on honing your skills with people, problem-solving, writing, photography, and the like. Eventually, the selling will come naturally.

2: Remember That You Are an Entrepreneur

When in this field, you are not a salesperson; you are an entrepreneur. These are entirely different, and you need to understand their differences early on.

Everything you do while this business should benefit you and your business’s growth. As you go through the process, make sure you invest in good relationships and that your strategies are those you can use should you want to change your career in the future. With this mindset, you can apply your skills and knowledge to better use, such as improving your real estate business.

3: Start Drafting a Business Plan

As a business owner, you need to understand your business and its audience. What do you want to achieve in this journey? Who are the people you will talk to? What do they want and what do they need to hear from you?

Not going through this process can lead to many mistakes. Equipping yourself with this knowledge ahead can help you plan the right strategy or approach to target your audience and make the right moves.

Part of the planning process is determining your areas for improvement in both skills and tools. It also involves growing your prospect base. Take your time in this part before you dive into the industry and get swallowed by the competition.

Conclusion

The real secret is being present at the moment, learning what you can, and adjusting your strategies accordingly. Never make assumptions that are not based in reality; even then, plan for other contingencies. Work hard on building the right connections and finding the appropriate market while developing your skills and learning along the way.

Are you looking into joining a real estate team? If so, contact us at Smith Street Homes. We have real estate jobs waiting for you. Our team is in need of self-motivated agents who are willing to learn and eager to grow. Send your resume and letter of interest to smithstreetadmin@smithsteethomes.com.

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Real Estate Agent’s Guide to Choosing the Right Broker

As a real estate agent, it is necessary to find the right broker. There’s more to the decision than just the commission split. You need to consider other factors in your decision-making as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right real estate broker.

As a real estate agent, it is necessary to find the right broker. There’s more to the decision than just the commission split. You need to consider other factors in your decision-making as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right real estate broker.

Determine Your Income Needs

You need to assess what your income needs are when you’re comparing different brokers. After all, you’d want a brokerage that can support your financial needs.

Don’t just consider your personal expenses when determining your income needs. You also have to put into account your projected real estate business expenses. With this information, you’ll be able to make better brokerage comparisons.

Don’t Focus on the Commission Split

Many new real estate agents make the mistake of focusing solely on the agent-broker split. While this is a vital aspect of your decision-making, it shouldn’t be the primary basis.

You should also focus on the services you’ll be able to get from the brokers. These services might actually help you start and grow your real estate business. Weigh in the other aspects and make a pros and cons list. The end income result might actually be better despite your initial thoughts on the commission split.

Consider the Mentoring and Training Aspect

If you’re a new agent, you’ll definitely need more training in areas such as contracts and negotiations. But also consider what other training opportunities the real estate broker can give you. For example, getting more training in sales and marketing could be a plus and help you with your real estate business.

IMG_44641.jpg

You may also consider mentoring. However, this often has a cost, such as a per-transaction fee or a temporary lower split. So, it’s best to look into how mentoring is done in a particular brokerage to understand its financial aspect better.

Take Note of Additional Expenses

Many people forget to factor in the additional expenses when choosing a real estate broker. But it’s essential not to forget the incidental and office expenses because they can add up. For example, some real estate brokers charge their agents for copies and phone services. If you can, find out what additional expenses would come with the brokerages.

Compare Broker Lead Referrals

It’s essential to ask the brokers how you’ll be receiving leads and prospects. Ask about their projections for phone leads, floor time leads, and website leads. You can use these estimates in an income funnel approach to determine the income results. You might even find that a lower commission split in one brokerage is more advantageous than a higher one based on the prospect leads.

Final Thoughts

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a real estate broker for your real estate business. Despite what many new agents believe, there’s more to it than just the commission split. You have to factor in your income needs, the brokerage's services, the training and mentoring, the additional expenses, and the prospect leads. Research your options to make an informed decision that will best help your real estate business grow.

If you’re a real estate agent looking for work, Smith Street Homes is currently looking to expand our team. We are a Genesee County real estate company searching for self-motivated agents willing to learn and eager to grow. Join our real estate team now!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Starting a Successful Real Estate Career: What to Know

Even in the midst of a global pandemic, the real estate market continues to thrive. The demand for new homes remains high as people strive to adjust to a new normal. They try to find safer, more peaceful, and more beautiful places in which to live and work. Because of this, real estate is still a stable, fulfilling, and lucrative career path.

Even in the midst of a global pandemic, the real estate market continues to thrive. The demand for new homes remains high as people strive to adjust to a new normal. They try to find safer, more peaceful, and more beautiful places in which to live and work. Because of this, real estate is still a stable, fulfilling, and lucrative career path.

Being a successful real estate agent is a challenging but highly rewarding feat. You’ll be interacting with a wide variety of people and helping them make their dream homes a reality. However, building a successful career in real estate also entails certain skills and qualifications. To find out more about how to make a fruitful real estate career, here are some things you need to know:

The Requirements for a License in Real Estate

You can become a licensed real estate agent after around four to six months of fulfilling your licensing requirements. The requirements vary depending on the state, but most states share many similarities. That said, it’s best to check the laws in your state to clarify what you will need to acquire your real estate license.

Typically, you’ll have to undergo a real estate licensing course, a licensing examination, and license activation. Most states require at least a high school diploma or GED to qualify for a license, and many have age requirements as well. They may also require a criminal background check.

You must enroll at an accredited real estate school to take your licensing course. During the real course, you’ll be studying different real estate terminologies and learning essential skills that will help you in the realm of real estate. The number of class hours required before you’re qualified to take the licensing exam depends on the state. This can range from 75 to 135 hours.

How to Market Yourself

The real estate business is a competitive industry. As a beginner real estate agent, you should learn how to market yourself. To do so, you can advertise yourself by hiring a publicist, making calls, or building a reputable online presence.

Establishing an online presence is one of the most reliable ways to market yourself, especially because the world is steadily going digital. Many people search for homes, businesses, and real estate services online, and you’ll lose a significant market if you don’t make use of the internet to promote your services. By building an online presence and making social media accounts, you’ll be putting yourself on the map in the world of real estate.

To further set yourself up for success, it’s also important to establish a good reputation. Regularly answer real estate-related questions, voluntarily help people, and accept business calls as they come.

Working Alone vs. Working with a Team—Which Is Better?

Working solo as a real estate agent has its advantages, especially if you’re just planning to purchase and flip homes. As a beginner real estate agent, however, you’ll be gaining a lot of essential skills and knowledge if you work with a team of experienced realtors. You’ll have a solid support network and a solid foundation as you build the experience needed to fly high on your own.

Working with a real estate agency also allows you to compartmentalize tasks wherein you will only be assigned to handle a certain list of tasks instead of doing everything on your own. Your team’s shared knowledge will allow you to support each other, ensuring everyone in the team learns and grows.

Final Thoughts: Starting Your Fruitful Career in Real Estate

Real estate is undeniably one of the most fulfilling career choices one can make. It’s a competitive industry, and knowing the aspects that can help you build a successful real estate career is essential if you want to move up. Keep this information handy as you start your long and fulfilling journey in real estate.

Looking for real estate jobs in Lapeer County, MI? Join our real estate team at Smith Street Homes! We’re looking for highly motivated real estate agents to work, learn, and grow with our experienced team of professionals. Ready to jump-start your real estate career? Contact us today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Real Estate Basics New Agents Need to Know

If you are a new real estate agent or an aspiring one, here are some tips that you can follow to help you have a successful start from the very beginning of your career:

Many people want to be real estate agents. But did you know that many of those who do give this job a try never make it past two years? One of the reasons not that many people can hold on to their real estate jobs is that they overestimate the income that they are going to make and then underestimate the amount of effort (not to mention the expenses) they have to invest. Others, on the other hand, are stuck on their “old ways,” which are, unfortunately, no longer applicable in this “digital” world we live in today.

If you are a new real estate agent or an aspiring one, here are some tips that you can follow to help you have a successful start from the very beginning of your career:

You Should Not Only Focus on Selling

Sure, you are probably excited at the thought of making your first sale. But know that it’s not the only thing you should be focusing on. If you really want to set yourself apart from most other pushy real estate agents, work on other skills that are actually crucial to your career.

Some of those skills include people skills, organization skills, photography skills, and more. You need these skills for you to do your job well, and when you are able to do that, you wouldn’t have to take desperate measures to hard-sell.

Think Like a Business Owner

Many of the most successful real estate agents are actually independent contractors who are in control of their own growth. This is something that you might want to consider. It is good to be a part of a company but only if it’s a reputable one like Smith Street Homes that knows how to take care of their people and are invested in their success, too. And even when you are employed, you have to think like a business owner, so you’ll be able to move up the ladder fast.

Come Up with a Solid Plan

You need to develop a business plan if you are looking forward to long-term success. While it’s perfectly okay to be enthusiastic about a client straight away, don’t just focus on something short-term. It’s best if you have an understanding of the market you are working on and your potential clients

Figure out how you’re going to stand out from other agents – what you can offer that they can’t. When you have the right tools and are equipped with all the important skills to grow your business, you can create a concrete plan for what you want for your career’s future.

The “List to Last” Thing Doesn’t Have to Apply to You

You may have heard from other real estate agents or former ones that “if you don’t list, you won’t last.” This saying could put unnecessary pressure on you to sell, and instead of help you, it could even get in your way. If you work better as a buyer’s agent, then that’s perfectly fine. There are a lot of successful agents who are exclusively buyer’s agents. Sure, at one point, you might want to do both or choose to focus on selling, but never let the pressure of having to sell keep you from doing a great job as a buyer’s agent.

Conclusion

While it’s OK to listen to tips and advice from seasoned real estate agents who have been doing this for years, you should also remember that you are now working in an entirely different scenario. What may have worked for them may not work for you. You may have to forge your own way to make it big. Also, if you’re going to work for a real estate agency, make sure that it’s one with a solid reputation for encouraging and providing support for its agents.

Smith Street Homes is one of the best Genesee County real estate companies that can provide you with a great start and a really bright future in the field of real estate. Get in touch with us and see how you can join our team of expert real estate agents!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

3 Biggest Real Estate Myths—Debunked

If you’re considering a career in the real estate industry, ample preparation is necessary. This goes beyond just attending training and obtaining your license, however. You need to enter the scene with the right mindset, away from preconceived notions.

If you’re considering a career in the real estate industry, ample preparation is necessary. This goes beyond just attending training and obtaining your license, however. You need to enter the scene with the right mindset, away from preconceived notions. Your idea of the career will likely be a little skewed, particularly due to the mainstream portrayal of real estate agents.

It’s important to remember that the real estate world is a business landscape—one that honors the collaborative, determined, and passionate. It’s also important to remember that it’s not all about money. Here, you need to build connections with clients and put their needs above yours.

A little confusion may be setting right now, but we’re here to help you rid of the most prevalent real estate myths:

Myth #1: Aggression is necessary

Most mainstream contents depict real estate professionals as aggressive and cutthroat—willing to deal, like, and cheat to get ahead of everyone else. Narratives suggest that such an aggressive personality is the only key to success, but the true real estate agents know that this formula is bound to fail.

Traces of healthy competition is always necessary, as this helps the best of agents keep up with changing trends and gain access to industry insights. Genuine respect is necessary for the game, however, especially since the best real estate companies understand the value of collaboration and teamwork.

Myth #2: It’s all about closing sales and making money

The monetary compensation in the real estate industry is undeniable. True success as a real estate agent is all about building good relationships, however, particularly when it comes to their client pools. The best in the industry understand that committing to their client’s best interests is what helps them learn and be more.

That said, it’s not all about closing deals. You’re tasked to guide and advise accordingly, especially when it comes to purchasing properties. Anything that could potentially harm your client’s interests, for instance, must be taken to heart. Advising them against it not only ensures your reputation and credibility, but you also let them know that you care enough to point them towards the right direction—and not just be there for the commission.

Myth #3: Real estate is easy

You don’t need a university degree to become a real estate agent. It’s a career essentially open to anyone who wishes to pursue the role, especially since training is already provided from the ground up. You can take licensure exams once you’re ready. You can take even more exams and training if you wish to move up, making it an accessible career path.

Unfortunately, such accessibility doesn’t mean anyone can do it. Not everyone can become a real estate agent. It takes sheer drive and motivation to succeed, along with a profound love for the business. If you’re only interested in the money, you’ll quickly fall and crash completely. When it comes to success, the ultimate price of hard work must always be paid.

The Bottom Line

Although it may seem like the ultimate dream job (and it is!), joining the real estate world entails more than just the dream to succeed and early financial success. It takes dedication and hard work, which has already been obscured due to the countless myths and misconceptions surrounding the career. If you want to become a real estate agent, make sure you keep this guide in mind—you’ll need it!

For the best real estate jobs in Lapeer, Smith Street Homes has you covered. We’re currently building our dream real estate team, open to aspiring passionate professionals. Apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Why Real Estate Agents Fall in Love With Their Careers

The real estate world is an ever-changing landscape, making it a dynamic career for those who aspire to be a part of it. The benefits can also be rewarding, especially since the opportunities are limitless. Not only are you free from a desk job, but you’ll also have the chance to pursue growth and learning unlike any other.

The real estate world is an ever-changing landscape, making it a dynamic career for those who aspire to be a part of it. The benefits can also be rewarding, especially since the opportunities are limitless. Not only are you free from a desk job, but you’ll also have the chance to pursue growth and learning unlike any other.

People scramble to join the real estate ladder, eager to experience the countless reasons real estate agents wouldn’t trade their careers for anything. If you wish to pursue a career as a real estate agent soon, it’s important to first know the undeniable reasons you need to push through:

Reason #1: Enjoy continuous learning opportunities

The career opportunities in the industry are expansive, especially since trends come and go and practices shift and adapt according to the market. You’ll always be given ample space to adapt and learn from new situations, especially since buying behaviors constantly change. Becoming complacent is a no-no, which is why you’ll be immersed in countless growth opportunities, coming in the form of new marketing methods, innovative technologies, and other areas.

You’ll also be compelled to become creative and solutions-oriented, especially since specific buyers can come with extensive must-haves and property quirks—such as a grand ballroom, or a huge bathroom with a jacuzzi. You’ll have a healthy set of challenges and problems that need to be addressed, prompting you to grow beyond your comfort zone.

Reason #2: Meet and help new people

Purchasing a home or selling a property has always been deemed as a life milestone—one of the biggest transactions a person can make. It can be downright terrifying, especially since investments require ample time and preparation. As a real estate professional, you’re expected to stay by their side to ensure a smooth and steady process.

Your presence will become a source of reassurance, one that enables them to see the significance of their real estate choice. You’ll be dealing with countless clients coming from all walks of life, seeking your extensive experience and knowledge to help abate their anxieties. Simply put, your practice will be about helping and meeting new people—making your career different, engaging, and endlessly rewarding.

Reason #3: Enjoy the freedom

All career paths come with specific rules and regulations, especially when it comes to achieving growth. You’ll need to follow steps and processes, but when it comes to the real estate industry, you’ll be given undeniable autonomy. You’ll have total freedom over your work and schedule, thereby allowing you to enjoy a flexible lifestyle.

The Bottom Line

The real estate industry is a landscape filled with countless opportunities, which is open to everyone who wishes to build a career path in the area. It allows you a shot to enjoy continuous growth, meet new people, and enjoy freedom unlike any other. More importantly, you’ll enjoy a personal fulfillment that allows you to grow both professionally and financially. And for countless real estate professionals across the country, these are enough to stay committed to what they do.

For real estate hiring in Lapeer, Smith Street Homes has you covered. We offer you a chance to grow and learn with a real estate dream team, ensuring that you make a career that’s worth the effort. Apply with us today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

3 Signs You're Ready for the Real Estate World

Although a dream job for many, becoming a real estate agent takes some leg work. Here are three signs that will tell you you’re ready for this career.

If you’re looking to switch career paths or simply wish to engage in a side hustle for new skills and an income stream, you’ve probably considered investing in the real estate industry. Becoming a real estate agent can undeniably be rewarding, especially if you enjoy properties and engaging with countless people. The income can also be incredibly attractive, but it’s not always easy to navigate through.

Although a dream job for many, becoming a real estate agent takes some leg work. Contrary to popular belief, real estate agents need to constantly be on their A-game. Even then, money will be difficult to come by the first few years. You’ll need to work hard to build a client network, as well as invest in constantly honing your skills to keep up with demand,

A successful real estate career requires the right mindset, with heavy doses of realistic expectations. You also need to understand exactly what the career entails, as this helps you become better prepared for anything that comes your way.

More importantly, however, you need to be built for it—here are some telltale signs a real estate career is the right path for you:

Sign #1: You're committed to growth and learning

If you truly wish to pursue a career in the real estate world, you’ll need to remain determined and committed—especially to growth and learning. Keep in mind that long hours and hard work will always be part of the deal, especially since clients will constantly be messaging you and asking for meetings—even during the weekends.

The career goes beyond just the usual 9 to 5 role. The potential financial and lifestyle offer, however, will be rewarding. The key is to commit—to the hard work, the long hours, and the constant learning.

Sign #2: You’re highly flexible and adaptable

Apart from your commitment to growth and learning, you’ll also want to be flexible and adaptable. This is something that all successful real estate agents possess, especially since this will reflect on how you reach your clients. Keep in mind that you’ll be working with countless other people, coming from different walks of life.

You need to be able to anticipate their needs, which includes property demand, service expectations, and communication preferences. It’s also important to remember that the real estate industry is constantly changing—you’ll need to remain on top of your game to remain relevant.

Sign #3: You enjoy working with people

Apart from commitment and flexibility, you also need to be naturally inclined towards working with people. Having a strong set of people skills will help propel you forward in your career, as you’ll need to build positive networks that will help keep your base growing. It’s important to have top-notch communication skills, which allows you to effectively deliver messages, provide information, and above all, receive feedback.

Getting Down to the Real Estate Business

The real estate industry is an amazing career choice, and it’s one that necessitates commitment, growth, and talent. Although the signs may seem rather terrifying, you’ll need to put in the work to fully understand the business landscape. The career is rewarding in terms of financial stability and skill growth, but keep in mind that all the best things in life never come free. And with the real estate world, you need to be in it for the long run.

If you’re on the hunt for the best real estate jobs in Davison, Smith Street Homes has you covered. We are currently building our real estate dream team, and you may very well be just what we’re looking for—apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Building a Successful Real Estate Career

Becoming a strong and successful real estate agent means having the drive and dedication to succeed. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Becoming a real estate professional in the modern world is entirely plausible, but the story of becoming a successful one is another story. The road will be difficult, yes, especially given the nature of the industry. The real estate landscape is undeniably competitive, but learning how to properly reach success doesn’t have to be an impossible task.

If you’ve passed your licensure exams but still believe you’re yet to improve, you’re on the right track. Becoming a strong and successful real estate agent means having the drive and dedication to succeed, all to become one of the best in the industry.

You’ll need to keep up with the latest trends, ensuring that your business practices are always consistent and near perfect—regardless of the years you've served. How, you may ask? We’ve gathered these three tips for you:

Tip #1: Enlist the help of other agents

Help is always given to those who ask for it, and that extends to even the most successful people. Keep in mind that not all clients will be your cup of tea, or perhaps their budget simply won’t fit your expertise. Or perhaps your experience does not match their needs, but nothing should be a good enough reason to turn them away.

These clients are still prospects, so make sure to lead them to the way of other agents, who you can work with for better chances of success. They could perhaps help you deal with the difficult personalities, or perhaps support your knowledge on a niche market. Forging work relationships in the real estate industry does not only benefit you financially—you also build a reputation that simply cannot be replicated.

Tip #2: Learn better

Constantly educating yourself with new market knowledge is necessary to ensure sustainable growth. You’ll need to be on the lookout for new competitors, along with opportunities and market conditions that may affect your practices. Being well-read on home value can also help, especially if you wish to target a local market.

Having various people in your networks, such as accountants and lawyers, can also help further your practice. The real estate industry is multifaceted, and you need to be just as multi-layered to ensure success.

Tip #3: Invest in a strong online presence

In a highly digital world, you’ll want to be at the front pages of the internet. Anything less could make your practice forgettable, prompting prospects to seek out your competitors instead. You’ll want to invest in a website that ranks high in the search engine, along with sustainable digital marketing strategies that ensure ads always reach your intended audience. In the modern world, your online presence becomes the heart of your business.

Reaching Real Estate Success

Success never comes easy, especially in such a volatile industry. You’ll need to constantly chase growth and learning, which is the secret of the most successful real estate agents. They know how to embrace change and evolution, shying away from resting and idleness.

The best agents are on a continuous hunt for innovation, which includes enlisting the help of other formidable agents, committing to education, and of course, investing in the digital world. When it comes down to it, success comes to those who work for it.

For the best real estate jobs in Lapeer, Smith Street Homes is the place to call. If you wish to work with a professional team committed to growth, join us today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Here’s How to Deal with Tough Clients in Real Estate

Being a broker means you have to maintain professionalism. But if you’re dealing with a tough client you need to inject more friendliness to win their hearts. Guard yourself by not stepping out of your clients’ limits, but at the same time, a touch of friendliness can help you better communicate with clarity.

As a broker, you will deal with tough clients—it’s all part of the business. Indeed, this is a challenge, but to rise above it, you need to know some tips to help you deal with them. In this post, we will share with you some tips to help you turn a difficult client into an easy one:

Have the Perfect Balance

Being a broker means you have to maintain professionalism. But if you’re dealing with a tough client you need to inject more friendliness to win their hearts. Guard yourself by not stepping out of your clients’ limits, but at the same time, a touch of friendliness can help you better communicate with clarity.

Use Your Knowledge and Experience to Your Advantage

Your business is all about the knowledge and experience that you have. It’s essential to remember that you’re not only a mediator but an advisor at the same time.

As you guide difficult clients, always have facts ready to back your conversations. Talk about different aspects of the property, and you must be sure of what you’re saying. With that, your knowledge and experience will be put to the test; hence, use them as much as you can.

Be a Good Listener

A tough client appreciates patience; therefore, you need to take the time to sit with them, understand their needs and preferences, and suggest alternatives. Provide them with the best solutions by being a good listener. You can pick up on a lot of things by paying more attention; that way, you’ll be able to present them with great solutions that they will surely appreciate.

Provide Them with Alternatives

Prospective buyers won’t appreciate it if you only pitch the same properties over and over again. There’s a reason they’re not buying it, even after several meetings. So, you better have alternatives to convince them.

When you sense that the buyer isn’t interested in the property that you’re offering, suggest alternatives.

Give Them Tips

It’s natural for clients to hold back due to the expenditures they may have to deal with when they buy the property. Use this time to offer help. For example, you can suggest banks they can approach for the most affordable mortgage options, or you can make them understand applicable government schemes that will help save them more money.

Ask for Reviews

Always ask for feedback when you have closed the deal. If you have a website, ask a satisfied client to leave a review or recommendation. You can use these reviews and recommendations to convince a challenging client about the quality of service you provide.

Always Be Available

One of the things that can put off an already tough client is putting them off. If you want to win a tough client, you need to be available to them all the time. Your punctuality as a broker will mean a lot to a challenging client; so, be there on time and make sure you meet their deadlines.

Conclusion

Use these tips to help you win over tough clients. As a broker, you will have your share of difficult clients, which is all part of it. To get through this, you need to know how to handle them well.

Interested in working with a real estate agency in Genesee County, MI that values growth? Be part of the Smith Street Homes dream team. Contact us today to learn more!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

The Anatomy of a Successful Real Estate Agent

If you’re a real estate professional, or preparing to get your license to become one soon, you’re more than likely looking for ways to ensure you succeed in the career path. Answering the question is rather simple, but getting there can be quite challenging—you’ll need to treat your career like a business.

If you’re a real estate professional, or preparing to get your license to become one soon, you’re more than likely looking for ways to ensure you succeed in the career path. Answering the question is rather simple, but getting there can be quite challenging—you’ll need to treat your career like a business.

If you treat your role the same way you would a business, you’re likely to achieve success and longevity. Here, you’ll be investing in more than just your skills—you’ll also be able to hone your traits, thereby gaining you the steady stream of clients you need.

This is crucial in the real estate industry, especially since it’s constantly changing. You’re expected to always go the extra mile to stay ahead of the competition, be that staying on top of trends, better offers, and adopting traits that ensure your success.

The question now stands—where do you begin? To help you get started, we’ve curated this list detailing what a successful real estate agent looks like:

1 - You’ll have a winning personality

There’s no other way to place it nor shortcuts to avoid it—the real estate world is a people-centered career. For this reason, you’ll want to have a personality that pleases and charms clients, all of which help you build credibility and trustworthiness. By gaining their confidence, you effectively allow your career to flourish.

While it may take time and experience to completely muster, having a friendly personality can help you begin your journey on the right foot. People will want to work with you due to your approachable personality—especially not all agents can be pleasant to be around.

2 - A strong set of communication skills

Apart from a winning personality, you’ll also be spending a huge amount of time speaking with people. Expect to receive countless calls throughout the day, emails and chats to sift through, and even accommodating questions during fieldwork. Apart from clients, you’ll also need to engage with fellow agents and team members, all to build a strong network you can later benefit from.

You’ll naturally be able to hone your communication skills due to these tasks, but it’s better to know how to do it before diving in. To start, remember that your communication skills will only be as good as your listening skills. Make sure to allow your clients to talk first, and then respond by asking questions and engaging! At the end of the day, it’s all about making connections.

3 - A colorful social media profile

Apart from creating a winning personality and honing your communication skills, an overlooked part of every successful real estate agent is their ability to craft an outstanding social media presence. Having a strong online presence means you stay up to date with trends and technologies, which then further signals trust and credibility. Make sure you’re active in the following social media platforms:

  • Facebook

  • LinkedIn

  • Twitter

  • Instagram

Create stunning visuals, craft compelling content, and upload outstanding videos!

The Bottom Line

These are just a few of the most compelling qualities a real estate agent needs to have. Success, however, still necessitates time, effort, and dedication. If you truly wish to achieve the anatomy of a successful real estate agent, look within—you’re already on your way there! All you need to do is commit to learning and growth.

More often than not, such growth can only come by joining a company that cares. Smith Street Homes is currently offering real estate jobs in Lapeer, in the hopes of completing their dream team. Apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

3 Mistakes Rookie Real Estate Agents Usually Make

As a new real estate agent, however, there are aspects of the industry that you simply do not know just yet. It’s new territory, after all, and you’ll want to remain vigilant. More often than not, new professionals end up falling into pits of mistakes—effectively ruining their chances of growing.

The real estate industry is booming, which is why you’ve finally decided to switch career paths. After studying all the necessary courses and passing the pre-licensing exams, you’re now a full-fledged professional agent ready to begin your new path. Gaining the industry experience is necessary to build your reputation and blueprint for success, which likely entails your undeniable passion and grit.

As a new real estate agent, however, there are aspects of the industry that you simply do not know just yet. It’s new territory, after all, and you’ll want to remain vigilant. More often than not, new professionals end up falling into pits of mistakes—effectively ruining their chances of growing.

To help you fully prepare for what’s to come, we’ve created this quick and easy guide for you. Here are some of the most common rookie mistakes you need to avoid at all costs:

Mistake #1: Believing you can enjoy an overnight success

Even as a rookie, you’re more than capable of closing deals from day one. You’re also capable of achieving steady success, but keep in mind that circumstances differ. These success stories are likely new agents with good connections or have been working in the real estate industry for years indirectly. More often than not, however, it’s simply pure luck—there were at the right place at the right time.

The reality is that it might take you a few months before closing your first deal, even if you’re following the handbook well. Making the stream of income that you came for will also take a while, but never let this discourage you from reaching your dreams. Rather than see it as an obstacle, use it as a reminder of ensuring that your plans remain realistic.

Mistake #2: Failing to provide proper service

It may not seem like it in hindsight, but the real estate industry relies heavily on service. As an agent, remember that you serve buyers, sellers, and even other professionals. You’ll need to take on a business mindset, one that entails a strong focus, self-discipline, and the capacity to stay on top of your goals.

You must also have active listening skills, which is what your clients expect from you. Doing so allows you to effectively work with others, and anticipate their needs even without telling. Your service is what sets you apart from your competition—not just your aesthetically pleasing visuals and charisma.

Mistake #3: Investing in more than what is necessary

Starting out in real estate can be undeniably exciting, but you’re expected to shell out a little more money before enjoying an income stream. This may prompt you to purchase more than necessary, under the guise that you actually need them. You will need to plan accordingly, however, so make sure to set aside some budget for only the following items:

  • Office supplies, such as pens, paper, staplers, folders, and so on

  • Business cards and marketing materials

  • A mobile phone

  • Car and gasoline

The Bottom Line

Beginning a new career can be daunting yet exhilarating, and the same applies to the real estate world. Before you dive in headfirst into the industry, you need to be fully prepared—which should go beyond just your licenses and certifications. Make sure to keep this list of mistakes in mind and avoid them at all costs!

For real estate hiring in Davison, Smith Street Homes has you covered. We are currently building our dream real estate team—and you may very well be just who we’re looking for. Apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

5 Valuable Characteristics of a Reliable Real Estate Agent

Considering the complexity of the job, not everyone is cut out for this profession. But if you are serious about becoming a real estate agent in Davison, MI, you should keep on reading as Smith Street Homes shares some of the traits of real estate agents who make it in this industry:

The role of a real estate agent in the community is important. The tasks that they have to do to help a homebuyer find their dream house or a seller get the best deal for their property are not easy. In essence, they play the role of a salesperson, a guide, a negotiator, and so much more!

Considering the complexity of the job, not everyone is cut out for this profession. But if you are serious about becoming a real estate agent in Davison, MI, you should keep on reading as Smith Street Homes shares some of the traits of real estate agents who make it in this industry:

1. Knowledgeable

A real estate agent should have more than enough knowledge of the market and the areas where they offer their services. Additionally, they must also be on top of the latest trends and topics related to real estate because they need to be able to answer any questions that their clients might have.

All real estate agents start with zero information, and those who put in the work are the ones who gain the knowledge they need to be credible professionals in the field. So, if you want to be recognized as one of the best agents, make sure that you do your homework and gain as much knowledge as you can!

2. Well-Connected

When you are in this industry, you need to build a lot of connections. It’s not just with prospective buyers or sellers but also with other brokers, real estate agents, contractors, home inspectors, lenders, lawyers, and more. A realtor’s job will be so much easier if they have connections with other professionals who are also going to benefit from being on their contact list.

3. Organized

On any given day, a real estate agent would be taking multiple clients to showings. They have to update listings and understand what every client wants specifically. If you don’t have a system, it’s going to be impossible to do your job effectively. An agent has to be organized so that they can meet with clients on time, know which ones are interested in which houses, and close more deals!

4. Patient and Hardworking

You can’t expect to be a high-earning real estate agent unless you are patient enough to pursue leads and market properties in your listing. You also need to have a strategy because you can’t allow work hours to go by without you doing anything productive. Whether it’s following up on leads, helping buyers find the right lender, or doing open houses on a regular basis, successful agents make the most of their work hours and ensure that every minute that passes is a step towards closing a sale.

5. Creative and Resourceful

In an ideal world, buying or selling a home will always be smooth sailing. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. This is because there will always be hurdles to jump and obstacles to overcome. A real estate agent needs to be creative with the solutions they come up with and resourceful enough not to let any difficulty get in the way of a potential sale!

Conclusion

All the successful real estate agents in Genesee County, MI, possess the traits mentioned above. They are just some of the many positive characteristics that any aspiring agent should have if they want to thrive in the field of real estate. Aside from these, they also need to make sure that they belong to a real estate firm that upholds positive values and delivers exceptional services to their clients!

Smith Street Homes is a real estate agency in Genesee County, MI, looking for agents who have the qualities to become the top in this competitive field. Contact us today and learn how you can become one of our successful agents!




Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

3 Factors to Consider Before Pursuing a Real Estate Career

Are you thinking of pursuing a career in real estate? Before you decide, make sure to keep these three important considerations in mind.

Beginning a real estate career is an exciting journey. The stakes are high, but the rewards are always well worth it in the end. Many would agree that a real estate career path entails finding the right balance, which should encompass the notion of doing the right things at the perfect moment. This begins the moment you decide to pursue a license, and that plan of action must unfold as smoothly as possible.

You’ll be meeting clients to show countless properties, arranging showrooms, taking care of the paperwork, and at the same time, focusing on your growth and development. It’s an exciting lifestyle indeed, but remember that the stakes will remain high.

In an ever-changing landscape, you’ll need to set your expectations right off the bat. To help you begin your real estate journey right, here are the three most crucial factors you need to consider:

Factor #1: Your working hours

Being a real estate agent means saying farewell to a 9-to-5 job, as to keep in mind that you’ll be putting in the work—no matter the hours. There is no set time to do things, especially since showrooms can begin as early as 9 AM on a Sunday, and then end with paperwork around 10 PM.

Clients will also be contacting you in the evenings and on weekends, while the rest of your time will be spent driving around town checking out properties. When you’re not doing that, you’ll be facing even more paperwork. In this world, nothing is set in stone—making it an exhilarating career if you’re up for the challenge.

Factor #2: Client acquisition

IMG_44641.jpg

Your success as a real estate agent heavily depends on your pool of clientele. Without them, your efforts will have been for naught. It’s therefore vital to continuously focus on growing your client base, which can only happen by providing excellent customer service. You’ll want to garner only positive feedback, which can then ripple across the market.

From there, people will be walking through your doors, contacting your mobile phone, or flooding your emails. As a real estate agent, you need to show them you’re reliable, trustworthy, and overall pleasant to be working with. Your target market will forever serve as your career’s lifeline.

Factor #3: Licensing

Last but certainly not least, you’ll need to take your licensing pursuit seriously. Without this, a career in the real estate industry will be impossible. It’s best to take both a state and national real estate license course, which will prepare you for the examination. You can go for either a classroom setting or an online training program, but either way, your goal is to acquire the right knowledge.

Once you’ve passed the exams set by these courses, you can move on to take both the state and national licensing exams. Once you’ve completed them, you can now be officially called a real estate agent. In time, pursuing a brokerage can also be possible.

The Bottom Line: It’s Worth It

From all the factors gathered, it can seem like pursuing a real estate career can be difficult—and it is. All the best things in life are, which is why you need to create a solid plan of action to guide you through the process. Learning about these factors is a starting point!

If you’re on the hunt for real estate jobs in Lapeer, Smith Street Homes has you covered. We are a real estate company looking to expand our dream team, and you may very well have what we’re looking for. Apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Know the Differences Between an Agent and a Broker—A Guide

The real estate industry is a landscape filled with opportunities and trends, all of which come with varying degrees of requirements. You’ll need to be quick and adaptable to make it big, but that’s only a part of your worries.

The real estate industry is a landscape filled with opportunities and trends, all of which come with varying degrees of requirements. You’ll need to be quick and adaptable to make it big, but that’s only a part of your worries. The real estate world also comes with confusing job titles, making it difficult for newcomers to decipher which roads they ought to take.

You’ll be met with titles such as the realtor, broker, and of course, real estate agent. More often than not, however, the titles real estate agent and real estate broker are often used interchangeably. Although they share a common foundation (which is to represent buyers and sellers in transactions), they each have their own responsibilities.

Before you plunge into the world of real estate and all its rewarding glories, you must first understand the difference between an agent and a broker. Here’s a quick and easy guide to follow:

The Anatomy of a Real Estate Agent

In the simplest terms, a real estate agent is someone who possesses a professional license. This license allows them to help people purchase, sell, or even rent various real estate properties. To obtain this license, however, individuals are required to get pre-licensing training.

This will come with a required number of training hours, but the minimum depends on state jurisdiction. Real estate agents may either be asked to go for as little as 60 hours of pre-licensing or as far as 135 hours, all depending on their respective states.

Once the prelicensing training is completed, aspiring agents will then be asked to take a written exam. These are divided into portions, which encompass general real estate principles, federal real estate laws, and even state-specific laws.

After passing the exam, they’re now entitled to own a license, effectively allowing them to become full-fledged real estate agents.

The Anatomy of a Real Estate Broker

Although real estate agents go through stringent training, real estate brokers go above and beyond what is required. They’ll need to take up extra educational courses to earn the title of a broker, after which they’ll be asked to qualify with the help of a licensure exam.

The broker education program usually covers more specific topics, including taxes, insurance, contracts, and even ethics, all of which allow a professional to approach the industry at an in-depth level.

They’ll also be asked to dive deeper into real estate legislation, and how state and federal laws apply to property management, construction, investments, and of course, brokerage. Aspiring brokers will be asked to sit through an examination, and upon passing the exam, they will have obtained a broker license.

Heading Towards the Right Real Estate Career Path

Although the industry can be demanding, the rewards are always worth it. It’s the reason why countless professionals are continually drawn to the world of real estate, and if you’re looking to switch careers, this might be the sign. Understanding the key differences between the titles is crucial, as this allows you to understand how and when you can grow in your future real estate career path.

If you’re ready to start a career in real estate, allow Smith Street Homes to welcome you. We are currently offering real estate jobs in Davison, and if you’re up for the challenge, we’re ready to welcome you to the dream team. Apply today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Client-Building Tips For New Real Estate Agents

When it comes to repeat business, tricks and shortcuts do not exist. Keep in mind that your success will come from your clients, which is why your primary focus should be to build and maintain relationships. This should encompass introductions, sales, and even after closing deals.

The real estate industry may be thriving, but most real estate agents never make it past the two-year mark. This holds true even for the best out there, especially since most end up underestimating the amount of commitment and time success actually requires. Others, on the other hand, believe too much in old traditions, and they end up slowing down and crashing. Unfortunately, the world is ever-changing, and only the best move on to brighter things—especially in real estate.

When it comes to repeat business, tricks and shortcuts do not exist. Keep in mind that your success will come from your clients, which is why your primary focus should be to build and maintain relationships. This should encompass introductions, sales, and even after closing deals.

Being there every step of the way will make sure the client comes back, but it takes commitment and grit to perfect. Once you’ve mastered the art, however, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful real estate agent.

Thankfully, the journey doesn’t have to be exhausting. Here’s how to make things work:

Tip #1: Selling shouldn’t be your sole focus

Knowing good sales techniques is undeniably beneficial to real estate agents, but too much of anything is never good. Always opting for the hard sell can make you seem like a pushy salesperson, which isn’t a good image you want to build for yourself. As you pursue your real estate agent career, you’ll want to focus on other important skills, which can help be of value to your clients.

Photography and writing can be fruitful, for instance, as you’ll make sure that your listings online stand out. Developing your soft skills can also be ideal, particularly your people skills and problem-solving capabilities.

Tip #2: Regularly check in with your clients

When you’ve finally landed a project, bear in mind that your job isn’t over just yet. You’ll want to regularly check in with your clients, as well as stay consistent and organized. You’ll want to keep them updated throughout the project, which should include pain points and concerns that need to be addressed.

It always pays to be proactive, so make sure to drop by the project site whenever possible, and update your client after. This is particularly important once you’ve finished the project, as your client will think of one thing: you’re reliable. And with that image in mind, you’ll likely see their names pop up in your message notifications.

Tip #3: Learn and acknowledge your mistakes

No matter how good you are, mishaps are always inevitable. The real estate landscape is full of surprises, and one wrong move can be a domino effect. If you want to be a great real estate agent, however, you’ll want to learn how to stop problems from escalating further—and that can only be done if you know how to bounce back.

This means acknowledging the issues right off the bat, with apologies in tow. You’ll want to calmly explain what has happened, with a solutions pitch ready. The client will appreciate what you’re doing for them, but bear in mind that communication never suffices—you’ll want to show the action behind your words.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to reaching your success, creating solid client relationships is the key. This is the foundation of the world’s best real estate agents, acting as the fuel of their continued growth and achievement. You’ll need to be a communicator and one that doesn’t just focus on selling. Problem-solving skills matter, along with other skills that go beyond what’s expected.

For real estate hiring in Lapeer, join Smith Street Homes! We are a real estate company dedicated to helping clients realize their dream homes. Allow our talented team to help you grow and learn, so that you can find a place in the vast world of real estate. Join our team today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

What Real Estate Agents Can Do to Win Clients' Listings

Winning listings is how real estate agents get their bread and butter. However, meeting with clients and sharing information isn’t as smooth of a process as some might think. Many little things can go wrong the moment you step into the room, and it can bring a lot of pressure knowing the competition between fellow agents.

Winning listings is how real estate agents get their bread and butter. However, meeting with clients and sharing information isn’t as smooth of a process as some might think. Many little things can go wrong the moment you step into the room, and it can bring a lot of pressure knowing the competition between fellow agents.

However, there are a couple of things that you can do and prepare to help you stick out from all the other applicants. Aside from charisma, you can offer your amiable personality and enthusiastic efforts from the initial meeting.

Here’s a small list of things you can do to win a listing from a client:

Know People’s Presentation Preferences

You can bring up the same presentation to different clients, but that doesn’t maximize your chances of getting the listing. Some customers don’t want a plain discussion with papers of description and graphs. Others may find themselves unsatisfied by the visuals and photographs on a tablet as enough.

Expect to meet with an impulsive, picky client ahead of time and ready a backup plan to ensure your success. Ahead of the appointment, find different ways of presenting and be prepared to switch it up if a particular method isn’t working. Clients will take note of that preparedness and flexibility when making their decision.

Anticipate Questions and Practice

There will always be follow-up questions, no matter how clear or concise you think you were with your presentation at the listing appointment. It’s better to anticipate their inquiries and practice the answers early on. You get to think about how you want to articulate your response and tone when replying.

You can rehearse the lines with someone you’re comfortable with, like a partner or friend. Practicing with a fellow agent from your brokerage may also mean that they can think of possible questions you wouldn’t have foreseen.

Strive to Bring the Highest Quality

Another way to show your effort is the quality of the materials you bring. If you’re bringing pictures, try to commission a professional photographer to get some well-taken shots that will upscale your listing and wow clients.

Along with presenting excellent materials, you can also dress to impress. Pick an outfit that can match the caliber of your clients and listing. Smart casual attire can be a safe option if you’re just hoping to look neat.

Be Politely Transparent

When you’re finally at the listing appointment, it’s not advisable to hold back when discussing the property’s position in the real estate market. Be frank while being respectful about the strengths and weaknesses of the listing.

This practicality will showcase your knowledge and professionalism. You can’t go and please every client if the odds aren’t in their favor, but you can discuss how the listing can be improved and what steps they can’t take.

Conclusion

If things don’t work out, just think that this isn’t the only listing appointment you’re going to get. There are tons of other prospective clients you can appeal to and do business with. In the meantime, just polish those presentation skills.

Looking for real estate jobs in Lapeer? Smith Street Homes helps real estate professionals connect to different work opportunities and assist homebuyers to get the house of their dreams in Genesee County. Get in touch with us today!

Read More
Kelly Smith Kelly Smith

Succeeding As A Part-Time Real Estate Agent

The real estate world is a landscape of opportunities. To jumpstart your career as a part-time real estate agent, here‘s a quick and handy guide for you!

The real estate world is a landscape of opportunities, which is why many people are drawn to the title of a real estate agent. The job role is quite straightforward, with little to no setbacks. You look for the best homes, show prospective buyers around, making deals and offers, and then earn whopping amounts of commission on each sale. Although it may indeed sound like a dream job, all the best things in life come with work and grit.

Thankfully, there are ways to make it big in the business—even as a part-timer. It‘s one of the best ways to get started, especially since you‘re allowed to explore what works for you. You‘ll also take little financial risks, so long as you do it right.

To jumpstart your career as a part-time real estate agent, here‘s a quick and handy guide for you:

1 - Draw the line between your full-time job and your real estate dreams

The successful world of real estate is as it is because of the dedication and hard work it entails. Even as a part-time gig, expect to devote a huge chunk of your schedule to make things happen. With the full-time job to focus on, however, you must always proceed with caution and a strategy in mind.

Make sure to consider your time requirements, and inform your manager of the part-time opportunity you wish to take. From there, come up with a real estate schedule that never clashes with your full-time work. Hours spent on real estate gigs must be blocked accordingly—more importantly, make sure to remain patient. Success never happens overnight!

2 - Never underestimate the power of networks and mentors

Seeing as you‘ll be working as a part-time real estate agent, bear in mind that you‘ll be juggling responsibilities. Clients will be enquiring day and night, while your full-time job will take up most of your waking hours. When it comes to days with appointments that do not line up with your schedule, you‘ll want real estate allies to take over.

Enlisting the help of other agents will mean compensation for their time, however, but all these can quickly be arranged after closing deals and making sales. A mentor can also help further your real estate career, particularly because you‘ll have access to a vast network of both clients and knowledge.

3 - Join a real estate team you can trust

Working as a part-time real estate agent will be challenging—there‘s no other way to place it. Succeeding in such a career path will be easier with not just an ally, but a trustworthy team by your side. They‘ll be happy to help you meet clients, return phone calls, and even answer emails.

Apart from earning percentages out of your commissions, the right real estate team will be committed to helping you grow. In such a competitive market, having such a powerful team by your side could mean the difference between success and failure.

Work With The Best Real Estate Agency In Lapeer

Starting a career in real estate can be daunting, but entering as a part-time worker can make the odds work better in your favor. It‘s perhaps the smartest move you can make, as you‘ll be able to enjoy a flexible career. Remaining with your full-time job also serves as a financial cushion, one that further helps you develop your real estate career. In time, you‘ll have the means to pursue the industry full-time!

For real estate hiring in Lapeer, Smith Street Homes is the place to go. We offer you the chance to work with a dynamic team, one dedicated to helping you grow. Reach out to us today to learn more!




Read More