Running Your Business Like a Business

Running Your Business Like a Business

RECBL - Real Estate News

The following information is provided by the Center for REALTOR(R) Development (CRD), with assistance from Lauren Hampton and the Podfly editorial team.

Running your business-like a business-is crucial for getting maximum value out of it, and your efforts. As REALTORS(R), it is crucial to plan and be wise, and to think of yourself as a business owner at all times.

Episode eight of the CRD Podcast is the first of two episodes that explore different aspects of business planning for real estate professionals. Part one is a one-on-one by host Monica Neubauer and an industry expert.

Part two, which will release later this month of December, will be a panel discussion, so you can hear some different opinions on the same topic from peers.

Neubauers guest for episode eight is Mark Given. Given has been teaching real estate courses nationally since 2004. He has been president of and served on numerous committees for REALTOR(R) Associations at the national, state and local levels. In addition to his speaking, teaching, and volunteering careers, Given is a prolific author. Given has a book series about his trust-based business philosophy, and has also co-written four other books. His weekly blog, "Marks Minute," is read by thousands-you can sign up to get on the list on his website. Before launching his real estate career, Given spent 20 years as CEO of a multi-state retail sales and rental company.

Given and Neubauer talk about a number of things that should become part of your business plan: finding a mentor, how to foster a good broker relationship, and the cost of training (or not getting trained) in several areas, as well as niche positions in the market and keeping up with your past clients. They also discuss aspects of building a team and being proactive in your business. Below are some of the highlights and key ideas from the discussion.

Find the right brokerage for you. One of the first things a new agent has to do is find a brokerage firm. You need to find a good fit with your broker, so they can help nurture you and gain momentum. Look for a brokerage firm that has potential mentors, a good educational program, and a culture that connects with who you are. Looking for mentors both within and outside the company is important in getting honest answers to some important questions. Learning to ask good questions is a huge part of the real estate industry.

Budget for periods of uneven cash flow. Understanding the money aspect of real estate is important in showing a profit and actually making money in your business. You likely won’t be closing on any deals right away, and you have to budget for the periods of time that you don’t have any revenue. Some expenses include gas, marketing, MLS and association fees, and other additional business fees. Taking a class that talks about the cost of running your business is a great idea for new agents-you don’t want surprises that might cause stress that would prevent you from performing at your highest level. You also don’t want to get ahead of yourself; don’t spend your earnings before you make them!

Don’t skimp on training. Training should be part of your business plan, as well-and not only for new agents. There is always new information to be learned. It is very beneficial to do more training besides what is required for your continuing education. This can help grow your own confidence, and make your business more successful.

Find your special niche. Most agents run their real estate business as generalists. There are plenty of agents who succeed running their business this way, but Given has found that agents that take the time to specialize in a given niche often become the "go-to" person for that niche. If you’re going to run your business like a business, it’s in becoming really good at some part of a business that you become recognized as the best person for that part.

"Pick a niche and get really good at it and all of a sudden your business can really explode," explains Given.

Develop systems to help your business run more smoothly. It is crucial for people running a real estate business to have better systems. Some of these systems include contact management systems or systems that track your business profit. Your management systems are only as good as the information you put in them. You need to have some systems in place to make sure you’re doing things in a timely manner, and following up with your clients. There are many companies that already have these systems in place-take advantage of them! Start your day by making a plan for what you need to get done that day.

There is quite a bit more helpful information covered in episode eight, and we invite you to check out this particular episode, as well as the seven that came before it, at www.CRDpodcast.com, or wherever you sign up to listen and subscribe to your favorite podcasts. Our goal with the podcast is to support and broadcast great conversations (in a free and easily-accessible format) between and for real estate professionals who want to always keep learning and continuously elevate their practitioner skills.

The Center for REALTOR(R) Development podcast is sponsored and supported by NARs Center for REALTOR(R) Development, an online learning platform designed specifically for REALTORS(R).

For more information, please visit the online learning portal from NARs Center for REALTOR(R) Development (CRD)and the Learning Library. Here, real estate professionals can sign up for online professional development courses,industry designations, certifications, CE credits, Code of Ethics programs and more. NAR's CRD also offers monthly specials and important education updates. New users will need to register for an account.

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3 Tips to Work Less and Make More

3 Tips to Work Less and Make More

RECBL - Real Estate News

You have probably heard the phrase, "Work smarter, not harder," plenty of times. Why? Because it just makes sense. Looking at your past sales volume, have you sold a $70,000 house and then turned around to sell a $300,000 house? I know I have. Obviously, the $300,000 house is a much greater benefit to your pocketbook. Raising your average sales price can be a great advantage to real estate professionals.

While many real estate professionals focus on overall volume, wouldn’t fewer sales at a higher commission rate still reap you the same (or greater) financial benefit? Wouldn’t having more time to spend with friends and family be nice? Let’s discuss how to work less and make more.

Here are three recommended ways to start increasing your average sales price:

1. Socialize with those in higher-priced areas.
2. Connect with local businesses and focus on business owners.
3. Focus on clients you’ve sold higher-dollar homes to, and maintain those relationships.

Get Social:
First, we’re real estate professionals...so get socializing. Join a golf club or get involved in some social clubs where those around you are in a high-income bracket. Enjoying dinner and other events a country club may put on would be a great way to get involved and network. Sponsor a hole at golf outings, attend Sunday brunch and visit the pool on the weekends with your kids. You’d be surprised how quickly your kids can make friends, opening the door wide for you to introduce yourself to other parents.

Create Business Connections:
Secondly, network with local business owners in networking groups by joining professional associations, attending local Chamber of Commerce meetings or Toastmasters Club International meetings. This is a great way to meet fellow business owners and managers in the area who may not only utilize your services, but can become a great referral partner for you, as well.

Client focus:
Lastly, focus on the clients you’ve sold higher-dollar homes to in the past, in addition to those in your sphere of influence. If you take care of your past clients and stay in touch with them frequently, you should be able to expect referrals because you’re at the top of their mind. Whether it be newsletters, handwritten notes, meeting for lunch or getting together for a couples date night, it’s important to stay in touch with past clients through several touches each and every year.

Now that you have three areas to focus on to get that average sales price increased, it’s time to put them into action. Set a measurable and attainable goal for the year. Track how many business cards you pass along at networking events and where your leads are coming from. And, most importantly, have fun.

Brooke Sines is a Workman Success Systems Coach and full-time REALTOR(R) who has been in the business of working with people all of her life. After working for several years as an entertainment agent, she wanted a profession that would allow her to be home more to enjoy the day-to-day with her family. It was her love of people and real estate that led her into a career as a full time REALTOR(R), where in her first year she was awarded the Rising Star award for sales and excellence. Contact her at Brooke@WorkmanSuccessSystems.com.

For more information, please visit www.workmansuccesssystems.com.



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How to Win in Business and Life

How to Win in Business and Life

RECBL - Real Estate News

Our society is captivated by winners-the people who’ve achieved success and the American Dream and make the process look effortless. In America, were guaranteed the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; however, many people feel the American Dream is impossible to reach today.

As an emigrant who came to America from Ireland with less than $100 and went on to build wealth and a successful company, I think the American Dream is alive and well.

With hard work, persistence, and a commitment to learning, success and the American Dream can be within reach.

Here are seven tips that encourage success:

1. Focus on your goals. When challenges arise, think about the impact that reaching your goals will have on your life. This will help you face and overcome any challenges. If you’ve only recently started setting goals, be sure to write them down...and be specific.

2. Have a positive attitude. People prefer to work with positive people, and your clients are no different. A positive attitude helps build relationships, leading to repeat business and referrals. One of the best ways to develop a positive attitude is to fill your mind with positive stories, music, books, etc.

3. Master the fundamentals. The fundamentals are timeless strategies to use regardless of the state of the market. Instead of relying on gimmicks, focus on the basics-the productive activities that have a proven record of creating results (e.g., phone calls, personal notes, monthly marketing materials and small gifts to your top-referring clients). Do at least two hours of lead generation each day, making it one of your top priorities for the day.

4. Be consistent. Consistency builds habits, and to be consistent, it’s important to have a system. Systems allow you to provide excellent service to your clients and stay connected with them long after the transaction has closed. Do the necessary tasks-daily lead-generating activities and asking for referrals-and the results will come.

5. Find a mentor. Successful people are always looking to improve. Seek a mentor who’s further along the path you’re on and ask for advice and assistance. Having a mentor will ensure you stay on the path to success.

6. Do what it takes. One of the common traits found in the stories of successful emigrants is a willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed. Tap into this trait by practicing longer and more often in order to build your skills, and seek out solutions to the challenges you face.

7. Never give up. It’s impossible to achieve anything if you quit when a challenge arises. Determination is crucial when it comes to achieving success.

The American Dream is alive and well, and by practicing the tips above, you can get on the path to achieve success in both your business and personal life. My belief in the American Dream is so strong that I wrote a best-selling book about it: "The Emigrant Edge: How to Make It Big in America," which is in stores and online.

Brian Buffini was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, and immigrated to San Diego in 1986, where he became the classic American rags to riches story. After becoming one of the nation’s top REALTORS(R), he founded Buffini & Company, an organization dedicated to sharing his powerful lead-generation systems with others. Based in Carlsbad, Calif., Buffini & Company has trained over 3 million business professionals in 37 countries and currently coaches more than 25,000 business people across North America. Today, Brians a New York Times best-selling author and reaches over 1 million listeners a year through his popular "Brian Buffini Show" podcast.

For more information, please pick up a copy of Buffinis latest book "The Emigrant Edge," or visit www.buffiniandcompany.com.

For more information, please visit www.nar.realtor.

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Guaranteed increase in quality traffic and sales with 15 underused resources

Guaranteed increase in quality traffic and sales with 15 underused resources

If you are serious about your business, then this information will be a game changer for you. Most online marketers focus on two very important goals: to attract more traffic and convert more leads. More traffic translates to more visibility and profitability. But let’s face it, finding quality traffic sources for your niche and your site can be very annoying. More than likely, you have realized that high but random traffic won’t add much value to your site or its content.

Therefore, the focus should be on generating the appropriate industry niche traffic, consisting of prospects who can significantly contribute to the growth of your business. Now this is where it gets challenging. Attracting the appropriate traffic is the first step in the process of generating qualified leads, so it’s extremely important to do it right.

Even though SEO and social media are the two primary conventional sources (companies are realizing that they have only just scratched the surface of generating web traffic) they’re probably the most mainstream technique that marketers use.

Now it’s time to get started with increasing quality traffic and sales to your website…1…2…3…GO!

1. Content Syndication
If you don’t already know, your blog should be published regularly with valuable niche appropriate content. Sometimes you view you blog and say, “This is great! It’s well-written and informative.” But, the response probably wasn’t what you expected. There are still millions of readers who may not even know your blog exists. Now you’re stuck wondering how to reach out to all of them with your content. Well, there’s a way to do it. It’s called Content syndication.

Content syndication is the process of republishing your blogs and articles on third–party websites, as full articles, thumbnails, or links. By submitting your articles to the article directories, top websites, and blogs within your market, you’ll drive an enormous amount of traffic to your site. Republishing let‘s you leverage the same content multiple times.

A lot of sites are open to content syndication.

Content Syndication

2. Guest blogging
Guest blogging is another way to get lots of exposure (traffic) back to your site. Popular methodologies such as guest blogging have been a valuable resource for professional bloggers for years. You write posts to be published on someone else’s blog, or get another blogger to write a post to publish on yours. It’s also one of the best ways to reach out to a completely new audience, because at the end of the post there will be a link that leads back to your website. One of the major benefits of getting links via Guest blogging is they are of high quality and they will help you rank higher and increase your domain authority.

It’s a great way to establish yourself within your market and to develop relationships with other bloggers and experts in your field. As always, in the end, it all comes down to value. Showcase your best content or, publish the most valuable guest posts. Even a couple of high-quality guest posts submitted to leading blogs and websites can help generate a lifetime of consistent traffic.

While looking for the best guest blogging opportunities, your main goal should be to find sites that are relevant to your niche or industry. Google is one of the best places to find suitable guest posting opportunities.

Conduct a keyword search to help narrow your search results. Here are some suggestions:

● Using quotes, search popular phrases such as “Write for us,” “Guest blog submission,” ” Call for guest bloggers,” or “Guest post by”

● Add keywords from your industry, such as “real estate news” and “housing”, or “baseball” and “guest post guidelines”, “guest blogging websites.”

Guest Blogging

3. Trackbacks

A trackback is an automated process that links two or more relevant blog entries together. It is a way to notify another blogger that you have linked to one of their articles. When one blogger writes and publishes an article that is relevant to an article on another blog, the blog system can leave a trackback on the other blog’s article. It usually appears in the comments section with a link, so your link will immediately show up in the comments section of that blog, which can lead to lots of traffic.

Think of trackbacks as the equivalent of acknowledgements and references at the end of an academic paper or chapter in a text book. Bloggers love it when you link to them, and out of gratitude they’ll often link back to you, which can send even more traffic to your site.

Here is how it normally works.

1. Mary Blog writes an article on cheese
2. Joe Blogger writes about Mary Blogs new post saying it is really cool
3. Joes blog sends a trackback to Mary’s blog
4. Mary’s blog receives the trackback and Mary sees the trackback in her comments moderation

In most cases this is all automatic, you just link to a post and it is all handled for you, in others you have to send trackbacks manually.

How to send a trackback

Usually, you’ll have to manually enter a trackback URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) into the blog entry you’re creating. You can find this at the end of most blog posts. Add the trackback URI from the other blog post to the Send Trackbacks format in your blog post before you publish it.

This is Part 1 of 5 of “15 underused resources guaranteed to increase quality traffic and sales.”

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TOP 10 APPS FOR 2017 TO POWER UP YOUR REAL ESTATE BUSINESS

Top 10 Apps For 2017 To Power Up Your Real Estate Business

It’s that time of the year-a time to take inventory, and reflect on what has worked this past year, a time to look into new tools, solutions, and apps which will facilitate your business in the coming year. What better way to start 2017 than with the best apps recommended by other successful agents and brokers? Apps make life easy: they help us connect with others to share projects and ideas; they can save time, effort, and resources to make our lives easier and more efficient. In addition to our previous breakdown of real estate tools, here are some of the best apps available for real estate, recommended by top pros in the real estate industry.

A Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words
Real estate professionals rely on images to draw the attention of prospects, and being able to create pictures and images on-the-go is a must for 2017. Check out these apps that make it easy to create professional images and videos right from your phone, computer, or tablet.

PicPlayPost - Don't be dependent on buyers clicking through each individual image of your listing to get 

hooked! Incorporate photos, video, and audio into one incredible collage to highlight more of your listing features at a glance with this app.
Recommended by Marguerite Giguere
WordSwag - Add descriptions to listing photos or share inspiring stats, quotes, etc., as an image overlay to make your messages more relatable, digestible, and memorable.
Recommended by Debra Trappen
Haiku Deck - Haiku Deck offers access to thousands of templates and millions of free images to complement your branding, making it easy to create a professional looking presentation.
Recommended by Chris Smith
iMovie - Create, edit, share, and view videos on your iPad, iPhone, or Apple computer with this easy to use, all-in-one video app. Recommended byMarguerite Giguere

​There’s No "I" in Team
Teamwork is essential to running a successful real estate business, but hectic schedules make it hard to get everyone in the same place at the same time to coordinate. These apps make it easy to connect with your team on the go.
Evernote - Take, share, and access your ideas from anywhere with Evernote. This note-taking app makes note-taking easier by allowing you to make lists, take notes, and snap photos in a single app.
Recommended by Ashton Gustafson

Slack - You don't have to wonder who's taking care of what when you have open lines of communication with your team. Keep everyone on the same page with this user-friendly group messaging app.
Recommended by Michael Maher
GroupMe - GroupMe is a group messaging app which makes it easy to connect with your team on any device by creating a private chatroom for you and your team. Recommended by Wendy Papasan

Never Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today
It seems like there are never enough hours in the day to do everything that needs to get done, and though they can’t create time, these apps can free up some time to help you achieve your productivity goals.​​

Charlie App - This app makes building rapport simpler by researching your contacts and sending you information about their interests, common connections, company, news, and more.
Recommended by Chris Smith
Don't Break the Chain! - Build good habits by tracking your daily commitment to your most important goal. 
Recommended by Wendy Papasan
Waze - Use Waze to navigate busy city streets and avoid traffic jams, accidents, and other road hazards to reach your destination fast, safe, and on time. Recommended by Debra Trappen
Homes.com is also offering a new app to instantly connect area agents with exclusive buyer leads who are looking at homes within five miles of the agents current location. TalkNow is currently being beta-tested in select markets. Find out more about getting the TalkNow app in your area.

Once you've downloaded your apps, check out the new 2017 Social Media and Business Planning checklists to expand your audience and stay up-to-date with fresh, innovative ideas. For even more ways to optimize your business, contact us at 888-510-8795 or by email at productinfo@homes.com.

For more information, please visit connect.homes.com.

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