24-HOUR TOUCH-UPS to Maximize Your List Price
How to Cut Down on Digital Distractions and Up Your Productivity
As a real estate professional, staying tethered to your phone and computer are likely par for the course. When your office is on-the-go and you’re fielding round-the-clock questions from clients, it’s only natural that you’ll be drawn to your phone for professional updates. From refreshing your inbox and engaging with clients on social media, to drafting email blasts and coordinating with colleagues by text message—
it can feel impossible to untangle yourself from the worldwide web.
As a professional, you may not be able to withdraw from the digital world completely, but there are a few techniques you can use to limit your extraneous digital distractions and streamline the time you spend online. After all, it’s entirely common to faithfully begin one task and then
get unexpectedly drawn down the digital rabbit hole. To save yourself time and virtual burnout, here are a few ways to unplug, recharge, and make the most of your time online and off.
Focus on one digital task at a time.
While multi-tasking may seem like a sound approach to productivity, this method usually results in surface-level progress across a few tasks, rather than reaching the finish line on any. Instead of opening multiple tabs and trying to do it all at once, hone in on one digital task at a time. Have emails to return? Allocate an hour to work exclusively on this to-do list item. Need to post a new blog entry? Pencil in a dedicated half hour. If you focus on one task a time and exclusively devote your energy and productivity to it for a set period, you’ll make a far bigger dent in your list of duties for the day.
Give yourself a curfew.
In the real estate business, the hours may seem never-ending, but if you don’t want to slow your productivity with fatigue, you’ve got to set some boundaries. Try setting up a digital curfew for yourself and put your phone away after a certain hour. Devote an hour or two before bedtime to time away from your computer and your phone—read a book, prep your lunch for the next day, or try a round of mindful meditation. Carve out space and time to disconnect from your technology and stick to the habit. By morning, you’ll be refreshed and ready to dive back in.
Mute social media notifications and create dedicated check-in times instead.
Instead of taking a reactionary approach to social media—waiting for the dings and pings that lure you back to your screen—try muting some of your social media alerts and instead dedicate three timed windows per day to check-in on your timelines and engagement. If you’re constantly interrupted at unexpected intervals when someone likes a post or leaves a comment, your whole workflow can be derailed. Instead, unchain yourself from the instant gratification of responding to every buzz and beep your phone emits. Systematize your professional social media life and you’ll stay organized and on task.
Keep your inbox organized.
While it may take some time and effort to create a sorting system for your email inbox, it can go a long way to limiting distractions and stress. Create folders and an organizational flow and every communication will have a place and a priority. That way, when you open up your inbox and have to go digging for old emails or exchanges with past clients, you won’t have to waste time sorting or feel overwhelmed by the clutter. If everything has its place, you’ll have an unobstructed, streamlined canvass to conduct business from.
Digital distractions don’t have to derail your day or sap your productivity. Email, internet, social media—all are tools to be commanded. With the right planning, understanding, and consistent execution, you’ll be able to wield the power of each without the downside of distraction.
MASTERING TALENT ACQUISITION IN REAL ESTATE
The ability to draw in and keep exceptional agents forms the backbone of any thriving brokerage. The art of follow-up stands at the forefront of transforming potential interests
into concrete assets for our teams. Below, we delve into the strategic nuances of follow-up, showcasing its role as a critical differentiator in securing the industry’s best.
• Fostering Memorable Connections:
• Fostering Memorable Connections:
The initial meeting lays the groundwork, but it’s the diligent follow-up that cements a solid relationship. A personalized email or call after the first interaction not only reiterates the benefits of joining your team but also highlights your brokerage’s dedication to building meaningful connections.
The initial meeting lays the groundwork, but it’s the diligent follow-up that cements a solid relationship. A personalized email or call after the first interaction not only reiterates the benefits of joining your team but also highlights your brokerage’s dedication to building meaningful connections.
• Showcasing Commitment to Agent Success:
• Showcasing Commitment to Agent Success:
Continuous engagement post-meeting signals to prospective agents that your firm is invested in their career trajectory. This level of dedication showcases a supportive environment where agents’ growth and success are paramount.
Continuous engagement post-meeting signals to prospective agents that your firm is invested in their career trajectory. This level of dedication showcases a supportive environment where agents’ growth and success are paramount.
• Clarifying Doubts and Building Confidence:
• Clarifying Doubts and Building Confidence:
Utilize follow-up interactions as a platform to address any hesitations or queries. Engaging in open dialogue ensures that expectations and values are aligned, paving the way for a mutually beneficial partnership.
• Ensuring Your Brokerage Stands Out:
• Ensuring Your Brokerage Stands Out:
In a landscape where elite agents are pursued by numerous firms, staying actively engaged through follow-up can keep your brokerage at the forefront of their minds. Highlighting your unique offerings and culture through consistent communication underscores why your firm is the ideal choice.
In a landscape where elite agents are pursued by numerous firms, staying actively engaged through follow-up can keep your brokerage at the forefront of their minds. Highlighting your unique offerings and culture through consistent communication underscores why your firm is the ideal choice.
• Highlighting Paths for Professional Development:
• Highlighting Paths for Professional Development:
Utilize follow-up interactions as a platform to address any hesitations or queries. Engaging in open dialogue ensures that expectations and values are aligned, paving the way for a mutually beneficial partnership.
Follow-up conversations are golden opportunities to outline the developmental prospects within your firm. Elaborating on mentorship programs, educational workshops, and career progression plans can tip the scales in your favor.
Follow-up conversations are golden opportunities to outline the developmental prospects within your firm. Elaborating on mentorship programs, educational workshops, and career progression plans can tip the scales in your favor.
• Elaborating on Brokerage Values and Culture:
Post-meeting, candidates often seek deeper insights into your brokerage’s ethos and community. Follow-up communications are perfect for sharing success stories and the supportive network that defines your brokerage, aiding them in making an informed decision.
• Respecting Communication Styles:
Recognizing and adapting to a candidate’s preferred method of communication tailors a more personalized and effective followup. This adaptability not only respects their preferences but also fosters a stronger rapport.
• Smooth Transition to Onboarding:
A strategic follow-up process seamlessly bridges candidates to the onboarding phase, setting a positive tone for their integration into your team. This smooth transition is crucial in cultivating a productive and harmonious work environment from the get-go.
In conclusion, the power of follow-up in recruiting real estate agents cannot be overstated. It is not merely a formality but a strategic and essential component of the recruitment journey. Brokers and agencies that prioritize effective and consistent follow-up demonstrate a commitment to their agents’ success and position themselves as attractive destinations for top-tier real estate talent. In a field where relationships are paramount, unlocking success often begins with the simple act of following up.
RUTUL PAREKH
Rutul Parekh began his journey in real estate not as an agent, but as an investor. Between 2005 and 2006, he started purchasing properties, quickly developing a passion for the industry that led him to pursue his real estate license. What began
as a personal interest soon turned into a full-fledged career helping others find homes that matched their needs, dreams, and budgets. Today, Rutul works as a solo broker in the northwest, north, and western suburbs of Chicago, where he brings over
a decade of experience and insight to every client he serves.
With a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management, Rutul’s deep understanding of business and the area he serves sets him apart. “What I like best about the
area I work in is how well I know it,” he explains. “From the school districts and major parks to local restaurants, Metra train stations, and shopping centers—this familiarity allows me to guide clients based on their lifestyle and priorities.” That localized knowledge makes him a valuable resource to both first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike. Rutul continues to
Top Agent Rutul Parekh works as a solo broker in the northwest, north, and western suburbs of Chicago, where he brings over a decade of experience and insight to every client he serves.
Over the years, Rutul has built his business on relationships. A majority of
his
transactions now come from past clients and referrals—testament to his focus on long-term service rather than one-off deals.
be a strong and steady presence in the region’s real estate market.
Over the years, Rutul has built his business on relationships. A majority of his transactions now come from past clients and referrals—testament to his focus on long-term service rather than one-off deals. “One satisfied client can lead to multiple referrals,” he says, “and I’ve seen that happen time and time again.” He makes a point to stay in touch with past clients through holiday cards and follow-up calls, always offering help well after the closing date. For Rutul, real estate isn’t just transactional—it’s about earning trust and becoming a lifelong resource.
While his referral network is the foundation of his success, Rutul also stays
visible in the marketplace through targeted advertising. He runs ads on Facebook and invests in specific ZIP codes through Zillow. Open houses are another effective strategy for him, providing a way to meet new clients in person and showcase both the home and his knowledge. These efforts, combined with his dedication to service, help Rutul close millions of dollars in sales every year.
Looking back, Rutul reflects on the path that brought him here. “If I could do it again, I would’ve gotten my license at 21,” he says. “When I first started, I was shy and
didn’t feel confident networking. It took me a while to get comfortable, but once I did, it made a big difference. I would’ve worked on building those social skills earlier.” Despite the initial hurdles, his persistence has clearly paid off.
In addition to his real estate work, Rutul has volunteered at several Hindu temples across the Chicago suburbs, contributing his time to the communities he serves. With a focus on honesty, dedication, and in-depth local knowledge, Rutul Parekh continues to be a trusted name in Chicago real estate.
Grab the
best business start-up
plan you can find and start the plan. Find someone to coach you to the plan.
What New Agents Expect
From my survey of hundreds of agents under three months in the business, I found that more than 1/2 of them expected a sale the first month of the business. What does that mean? When do they have to start looking for leads? That first week in the business! Yet, how many new agents start lead generating even in the first month? How long have you been in the business?
When did you start lead generating on purpose? Or, have you started? That’s why my book, Up and Running in 30 Days, now in its 6th edition, has you lead generating in week one. It’s your assurance plan you will get a sale fast and will stay in the business.
Expecting ‘Dumb Luck’ to Carry You to Success
Inevitably, there is a new agent who has an Aunt Martha in his back pocket. That is, Aunt Martha wants to buy a home, and has told nephew Tommy she’ll wait until he gets his license to purchase from him. Ca-ching. Dumb luck. Tommy concludes that’s how the business goes. You just wait for someone to find you and
sell them a home. We know that’s not the norm, though.
Unfortunately, Tommy’s going to wait a long time for that next transaction! The ‘dumb luck’ approach to the business results in low results. Since the ‘dumb luck’ agent isn’t doing a business start-up plan, we have no way of predicting results, because we can’t measure businessproducing activities. We can only measure other ‘dumb luck’ agent incomes. That’s way too late to actively coach–or to terminate with purpose.
Your Manager Could be a ‘Dumb Luck’ Manager–Pardon the Expression…
Dumb luck managers just look at results; sales and listings sold. So, they are not aware that agents may be failing for months. If new agents expect to make a sale in month one, how many months do you think it takes for them to get dis enheartened? 2-3? Not long. So, once new agents are mentally and emotionally out of the business, they will resist any help from managers. They’ve decided they can’t make it in the business. They’ll stay awhile, though, for ‘dumb luck’ transactions.
Are You Lead Generating on Purpose?
Are you working a specific, prioritized lead generating plan? Is it made up of prioritized lead generating activities? Does it have ratios of activities to results, so the new agent knows whether he is on track to his goals?
Here are my activity ratios from Up and Running that will result in 8-12 transactions the first year in the business:
• 20 contacts to get one buyer or seller lead
• 8 times of putting people in the car to sell someone a home
• 3 listing appointments to gain one marketable listing
https://carla-cross.com
• 80% of listings sell
• 80% of transactions close
What are the ratios in your office? Do you know? Do you know the work it takes to consistently generate the income you want to generate? Or, are you counting on ‘dumb luck’?
Best Advice to Create your Assurance Plan
Grab the best business start-up plan you can find and start the plan. Find someone to coach you to the plan. Analyze your numbers frequently. You’ll stay on track AND assure your success.
In the real estate business for over 3 decades, Carla Cross is an international speaker, trainer, and coach for real estate. She specializes in career development, business planning, leadership, and instructor development. She’s won numerous sales and leadership awards in each area, including being named as a National Realtor Educator of the Year. A popular international speaker, Carla has spoken on leadership and training topics for 16 years at national Realtor conventions.
Author of eight books on real estate sales, her wildly popular book, Up and Running in 30 Days, is used by hundreds of thousands of new agents internationally to start their careers right.
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24-Hour Touch-ups to Maximize Your List Price
Sometimes it takes a full-scale overhaul to prepare a house for market. Other times, only a series of small adjustments are required to make a listing’s true potential shine. Whether you’re gearing up for an open house, assessing a list price, or maximizing a property’s appearance prior to photography—the devil is in the details. However, touch-ups and refreshes don’t have to dominate your schedule or break the bank. For a few ideas of where
to begin, consider our handy check-list below for quick home projects that will fortify your bottom line.
Refresh grout for a sparkling clean look.
Perhaps the quickest and most cost-effective way to make bathrooms, kitchens, and other tiled areas shine is to refresh grout until it looks
good as new. Specialty grout stain removers and cleaners are inexpensive and sold at most home improvement stores. Plus, the project only takes a bit of elbow grease and an hour or two for a major makeover effect. Suddenly, dark, stained, and worn-down bathrooms gleam as if tile has just been placed.
Create mood lighting with soothing bulbs and fixtures.
A warm white light from specially chosen LED bulbs creates a welcoming environment when potential buyers come calling. If outdated fixtures are bringing down a home’s otherwise modern styling, consider more design-neutral replacements that won’t
detract from the property’s charms. These are inexpensive but highly noticeable and impactful upgrades that shift a home’s ambiance for the better.
Repaint doors for an updated and inviting entryway.
It may sound like a hassle, but repainting doorways with a fresh coat signals a wellkept property—and that’s before prospective buyers even pass through the threshold. You can also change out generic doorknobs and switch-plates to add an updated flare while on a budget. Color-of-the-year trend choices can turn heads, while neutral paint choices signal less hassle for future homeowners.
Make windows shine— both inside and out.
Cleanliness goes a long way in communicating a well-cared for home in which buyers can imagine themselves. Cleaning the inside and outside of windows not only refreshes a room, but it allows light to infuse the space while appealing to the move-in ready crowd.
Closet spaces are not an afterthought.
Every prospective buyer wants storage options, and you’ve surely led a home tour where guests inspect closets and pantries. Don’t let these hidden spaces go overlooked. Make sure they’re clean, cleared as much as possible, and you can even touch them up with fresh paint, a good
scrub, or with the addition of new shelves or styled bulbs.
Remove tough appliance stains with a bit of elbow grease.
If you’re packaging appliances with the sale of a property, you’ll want to make sure those big-ticket items are also in top shape to showcase their value. Stainless steel polish, electric cooktop polish, and stain removing pads for the kitchen sink can make your appliances look five years younger with nothing more than an hour or two’s labor.
Organize garage and basement areas to maximize storage and hint at bonus space.
It may take a labor of love, but organizing and decluttering these special storage spaces
can add significant value to a property. Instead of telling prospective buyers how much storage space there is—let these areas speak for themselves by giving them a neutral, airy bout of cleansing. That way, craft-lovers, car aficionados, and buyers with interest in renovating basement areas can witness the potential immediately.
Individually, these bit to-do list items might seem like extra work without the promise of
a major return. But combined? These small tasks go a long way in crafting a home’s image and projecting pure potential. After all, prospective buyers imagine their lives unfolding inside those walls. That’s why cobbling together these small-scale projects can have a big payoff in the end. Not only will a home present itself in a cohesive, attractively-packaged form, but it can also translate to higher interest and a significant pay-off—in more ways than one.