.png)
Networking in real estate is essential to succeed in your career as an agent. Part of your job is meeting people and making the right connections. These people might very well help you find leads and potential clients. For some, the thought of networking can be daunting. For others, they may not be maximizing their network’s full potential. If this sounds like you, check out these best practices when networking in real estate.
7 Tips For Networking in Real Estate
1. Attend Industry Conferences and Networking Events
Staying connected to your industry helps you acquire new ideas about the market. It can also inform you of innovations and tech that can be used in the industry. That’s why it’s beneficial to participate in events where you can engage with industry professionals. Plus, it helps to look for conferences or events that your target market is most likely to attend.
For example, if you want to target young families, take part in events like toy fairs. On the other hand, if you’re more geared toward commercial real estate, business and franchise expos are a must, where participants are often looking for an office space.
Beyond attending, you can share your conference learnings on your social channels. Write an article or blog about your thoughts on the topics. Engage with influencers from different areas.
Ultimately, effective networking in real estate allows you to establish your presence within your circle, be a consistent voice, and become that go-to industry expert.
2. Build Your Online Presence
When networking in real estate, maximizing your online presence can help build your credibility. And because there are many options you can utilize — professional websites, blogs, social media posts — it helps open up a lot of opportunities.
You can use digital platforms to:
- Connect and interact with leads, clients, and other professionals.
- Contribute to local social media groups.
- Educate people on real estate trends and topics.
- Post relevant and valuable content.
- Promote your listings and properties.
- Share news, photos, and videos of your community.
When using online channels, make sure all your contact details are accurate and up-to-date. Also, start with one or two platforms that your clients use and you’re comfortable using. Go where your audience is.
3. Use Your Hobbies and Interests
If you have particular interests, such as sports, gardening, or even pets, consider how you can enjoy these things with other people.
For example, if you’re a big sports and fitness enthusiast, most communities will have recreation leagues that you can join in. From sports viewings and yoga classes to pet daycare and farmers markets, you can use these meet-ups to grow your network.
A word of caution when using this networking in real estate strategy: Always be genuine about your approach. Avoid hard selling or self-promoting as you’ll lose the opportunity to establish the right connections.
4. Join the Local Chamber of Commerce
As one of the biggest networking groups, your local Chamber of Commerce can help you proactively promote your business and provide platforms for you to thrive in your community.
They have various membership tiers, so do your research before you sign up. This will help you explore the best option that will serve your needs as you network in real estate.
Generally, your membership allows you to:
- Attend weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly professional meet-ups.
- Have speaking and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
- Join sub-groups.
- Participate in community events.
- Strengthen your credibility and influence in the industry.
While strict attendance is not required, it’s best practice to attend most of the events, especially in your first year. This will help you create a solid presence in your community. Plus, it will expose you to new ideas for your business and expand your network successfully.
5. Connect with Your Personal Network
Word-of-mouth information is valuable when networking in real estate. That’s why it’s beneficial to utilize your personal network — family members, friends, schoolmates — to expand your network.
If they or anyone they know are on the hunt for a property, ask them to refer or introduce you to be the real estate agent of choice. Politely ask them to give you reviews and testimonials as well.
Similarly, as one of the perks of joining a real estate team, your colleagues can help you find leads and land clients. You get the opportunity to network and meet more clients as leads start being handed to you.
6. Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the best ways to network in real estate. It allows you to engage with people in your area, market yourself, and help the community — all at the same time.
As always, this should be done in a genuine manner. Volunteer for a cause you actually care and feel passionate about. If you’re able to, consider starting your own charity, which will allow you to gather and meet more like-minded people.
You can also share blog posts or photos of your volunteering experience on your business’s social accounts or website. Doing this is a great way to show that you also give back to your community, which can help for added brand awareness.
7. Build a Solid Team
As a real estate agent, you won’t always know everything about the industry at the top of your head. You need to work and collaborate with different individuals and firms to help clients find the right property. As such, it’s best to have a team with members who are competent, trustworthy, and work well as a team.
Identify, meet, and select vendors that you’re confident in to refer to your clients, and vice versa. This team might include architects, contractors, developers, inspectors, lawyers, lenders, and other real estate professionals who are experts in their own fields.
Keep in mind that your team is a reflection of you and your work ethic. So, finding individuals who are capable and reliable is integral to your success in the industry.
Effective networking in real estate is important if you want to succeed as a real estate agent. Couple that with your strong passion for the industry and the right qualities, and you’re well on your way to make a name for yourself in the real estate world.
If you liked this blog, you might be interested in learning how to be a real estate agent in Vegas.
