Becoming a real estate agent does not stop in assisting homeowners in selling their homes or in helping buyers finding the right place for them. More and more clients prefer to work with an agent who can give local real estate data expertise. This includes knowledge about the local community. As a result, an agent is challenged to be a local real estate expert.
This guide will show agents how to become local real estate experts in no time!
Answer like a local real estate expert:
Before diving into the guide, it's essential to know what clients ask agents. Be ready to answer these:
- What's new in the neighborhood?
- What types of homes are selling fast?
- What's the average selling and buying price?
- What developments are in demand?
- What is the current situation in the area?
Becoming a local real estate expert:
Own the place, live like a local
As a local agent, it is vital to learn everything about a neighborhood. Here is a friendly tip: Not all local information is found online. So, make sure to know all the unique selling points of an area.
For instance, keep an updated list of the following:
- Traffic rate and pattern
- Average weather
- Schools
- Grocery shops
- Restaurants with the best dining experience
- Places to relax
As a result, local agents can quickly and expertly market a property. A little information can go a long way!
Be present in local town meetings
Everything about local town meetings affects a real estate business. Hence, it will help local agents know about the current changes taking place. For instance, the discussions about schools, new businesses, constructions - and even potholes.
Expect that attending local town meetings is not the most exciting part. But, an agent's presence will show his/her commitment to the job. Furthermore, it will allow agents to connect their clients to the local government.
Keep up with the local kids' sports team
A sports team in a local community is a great place to advertise. Whether it's basketball, swimming, or baseball - there's a bunch of local sports program. Those programs will need an agent's help. Why? How?
Supporting a local kids' sports team by sponsoring them will make their supporters remember the agent. Agents can also treat the team over ice cream and donut celebration at a local restaurant.
While kids won't remember the act, the parents will definitely remember it. The goal here is to create the presence and image of the agent for the residents.
Study the demographics
A local real estate expert knows who completes a clientele. For instance, an agent has data about the population of senior citizens and millennials. This is so an agent knows whether the place is for families or young professionals.
Why is this even important? Remember that if an agent knows his audience - or clients - he can align his marketing styles.
Join or create Facebook groups
The secret to success in real estate is the influence an agent can give. Therefore, local agents must build their presence in the most accessible social media platform - Facebook.
However, never forget that joining or creating a Facebook group is not a marketing strategy. Instead, look at it as a tool for discussions and engagement. Local agents should use it for growing interests and bringing new ideas to life.
Be friendly, build contacts
Contacts are essential in becoming a local real estate expert. But, how can agents grow their connection?
Connect with local business owners:
Extend connections to contractors, inspectors, landscapers, or even plumbers. It will work once an agent recommends them to a home buyer or seller. In the same way, the local business owners will recommend the local agent to their clients.
Connect with key individuals:
Start by building networks for the local homeowners' associations. Connecting with them will help a local agent learn the unique points of the neighborhood. Furthermore, it will give agents an idea of what clients can expect from the people around the area.
Create community tour videos
Undoubtedly, the best way to showcase a community's strong points is through a video. Hence, it will allow agents to let their clients visualize their lives in the new neighborhood.
Similarly, the video can contain lists of local amenities or a simple presentation of visual-only clips of houses, schools, and parks.
Give back to the community
Win the hearts of the local community through the act of giving back. A local agent can stand out from the crowd when s/he will invest back in the community. For instance, hold a fundraising event, sign up as a volunteer, or host a donation drive. As a result, it will foster a happier and strong community.
The bottom line
Understanding the local community is the first step of being a local real estate expert. The ultimate guide a local agent can follow is his genuine intention to help and build a happy community.
Indeed, this guide will help local agents build their brand image and promote client trust. Always remember, the best way to be a local agent is to connect with the community.
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