Don’t forget that “sold” sign
Today’s working smarter tip is one that many agents today don’t always remember to do.
When your listing sells, put a rider on the sign that says, “under contract” or “taking backup offers.” Once the contingencies are removed, replace that sign with a big “Sold” sign. Sold signs are one of the best ways to attract other listings from the same neighborhood.
Capitalizing on Small Gaps in Your Schedule
Multi-tasking, that is trying to do two things simultaneously such as texting and driving, is a poor idea. Your brain can only process one activity at a time. Moreover, when you switch activities, it
usually takes 10-20 minutes to get back to 100 percent concentration.
However, there are at least two exceptions to this rule, especially when there is a gap in your schedule. First, listening to training or inspirational CDs while you are driving can be a great way to strengthen your skills. Another smart way to capitalize on gaps in your schedule is to do your social media posts or to write handwritten notes to clients during quiet times on open house or when you’re waiting for an appointment.
Remember, interruptions break your concentration and make you less efficient. Taking advantage of small gaps in your schedule wisely, however, can shorten your work week considerably.
Easy door-knocking strategy
Here’s a simple working smarter tip that can help you sell your listings. When you first list a property, knock on the doors of several of the neighbors. Explain that there will be Realtors visiting the property and ask if they could help you out by calling you if they see anything left open or anything else that seems suspicious.
It’s also a great time to ask whether they know someone who might like to move into the neighborhood. Follow up with a handwritten note to say thank you to each person who agrees to help you keep your seller’s house secure.
Start Your 2022 with a Laugh and a Plan
Every week the El Arroyo Restaurant, a long time watering hole and hangout for Mexican food in downtown Austin, posts funny sayings on their billboard. Here’s the one they posted to ring in 2022—Margaritas anyone? 
Given all the challenges we have endured in 2020 and 2021, it’s important to laugh whenever you can and to acknowledge what did go right.
2021 turned out to be one of the best years ever in terms of closed transactions, volume, and low interest rates. Inventory continues to be a challenge. With so many people continuing to work remotely, look for the “great reshuffling” trend to continue and for more inventory to become available.
To start your 2022 off with a bang, be sure to send your clients who closed a property in 2021 a copy of their closing documents as well as any tax information that may help them with filing their property taxes.
Second, it’s also a great time to send out an Annual Report—this is a combination of the closed sales for 2021 in your client’s area (include photos if you can), a copy of the NARRPR.com property reports (no charge for NAR members), and a good-looking color cover page featuring a local area landmark. Put it all together into a digital book and you’ll have your clients’ friends and families asking for a copy for their properties as well.
Have a great week and may your 2022 be filled with good health, happiness, and success!
The Ideal Client List
Today’s working smarter tip is well worth the time it takes to complete. If you want to attract the best possible clients, make an ideal client list that is at least two pages long.
On it, include the obvious items such as the ability to close a deal, honest, fun to work with, and appreciates your services.
The trick is to be even more specific. What type of lifestyle does your ideal client have? What is your ideal client’s preferred price range? To attract the best, be as specific as possible. Also, be sure to review your ideal client list often. You may be surprised by how many show up in your business.