YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK
Keep Focused and Stay Positive By: James Tassell, PLLC, Realtor®, Dwell Real Estate
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o, who has received numerous webinar invites, videos, and articles about what you should and shouldn’t be doing throughout this unprecedented time? I’m sure I’m not the only one that feels a little inundated at times. I completely agree that we need to continue to adapt to the effects of COVID-19 on our market and industry. Though, I do feel it is important that we do not get completely lost in making endless changes to our own business. Remember to focus on what has proven central to your business’s success in prior years and make adjustments where necessary.
TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES BUSINESS A large percentage of Realtors® would never have accommodated virtual showings, e-signings of contracts, connect with customers on a FaceTime or Skype call with their home inspector, or had remote closings before. These conveniences are all due to the advances and benefits that technology has offered us prior to COVID-19. This has allowed many of us to make a smoother transition into the contactless world of business. Therefore, we are continuing to serve our communities in a safe and efficient manner.
STAY FOCUSED AND POSITIVE A key element I have learned from many successful Realtors® is that real estate is about consistency and staying focused on your goals long term. I think this remains even more relevant at a time like this. We know we will overcome this, and even though certain aspects of the industry may change, people are still going to continue to want to live in our area for the endless benefits it provides. Be positive and confident in the fact that you are selling a slice of paradise that will likely be even more appealing and desirable to out of town buyers. The warmer climate, world-class beaches, great boating water, metropolitan quality arts and culture, and often lower living costs haven’t changed. I know we can all positively say we won’t take certain aspects of life for granted so quickly again. Meeting friends for happy hour, playing and watching sports, and traveling, just to name a few. Even though YPN made the tough decision to cancel this year’s Lip Sync Battle, know that we are
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focused and positive that this will only make next year’s event that much more special and successful! Remember, a smile is contagious even in these challenging times.
HOW IS OUR COMMITTEE ADJUSTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS STRATEGIES? “To help me with business, I’ve been buttoning up my CRM and reaching out to my past clients by phone and by mail. Not only has this helped me get reconnected with them and counsel them on today’s mortgage industry, but it has also helped them recommend my services to their friends and family,” Angela Vance, Gulfside Mortgage. “During this pandemic, I have increased my lead generation time. My team and I get on a muted Zoom meeting together to lead generate and make calls. This keeps us accountable in these uncharted waters,” Alexandria Twigg, Realtor®, Keller Williams on the Water. “Throughout these stay-at-home orders, I have focused on hitting lead generation/prospecting goals while also keeping my database updated on the local market and how COVID-19 has affected us through weekly updates. I’ve implemented an improved daily schedule that can be transferred to “normal” work life, and have started additional education offered through NAR, FR and RASM to better serve my customers in the future. But through all of this, I think the biggest thing for me has been keeping customers optimistic about the future, and being there to help them plan their eventual home sale or purchase regardless of when that may be,” Derek Patti, Realtor®, NextHome Excellence. “Quarantine has been a great opportunity to try out new marketing strategies as well as adapt to new showing techniques. It has been nice to see the community rally to support one another through this time. Having time to walk outside and just enjoy time with those around you has been such a blessing during all of this,” Hannah Veitkus, Realtor®, Wagner Realty. •
