ILLINOIS 4-5-21

ILLINOIS EDITION

PLAYING THE REAL ESTATE Small Yard?

Is Finding a

NICHE MARKET Right for You?

Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces

6 WAYS TO GET YOUR CLIENT TO TRUST YOU

FEATURED AGENT

AMANDA McMILLAN COVER STORY

RICK O’CONNOR

ILLINOIS EDITION Tia Duderstadt is proud to congratulate

RICK O’CONNOR AMANDA MCMILLAN Anyone who’s ever bought or sold a home 9 someknows what a confusing, chaotic, and times scary experience it can be. Factors that determine a successful deal seem to fluctuate daily, but for those living in Chicago, Amanda McMillan is a proven partner that can guide them through any kind of market.

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deal done, they will trust you forev honor that I’ll never take lightly.”

Amanda and her team, Chicago H consistently rank among the best ness, year after year. This intima top-producing agents continually adapt to the market, allowing the A top producing veteran of the Chicago real even in challenging times like estate market, Amanda has been through it pandemic. “We’re very data-driv all and is the kind of professional who instills sultative. We share everything the confidence in everyone meets.

RICKshe O'CONNOR AMANDA McMILLAN us with our clients and discuss t with them. It’s a team approach an “We aren’t doing brain surgery, but we are we’re able to provide a comprehen advising people during a very emotional time of their lives. navigate by and accomplish their end goal.” team andfeatured I are committed being the trusted advisors onMybeing for tothe State of Illinois our clients can rely on for what is often the largest financial When asked about the future of Chicago Ho in Top Agent Magazine! decision they will ever make.”

Amanda is as confident in her own path as sh CONTENTS clients. “I’ve no desire to be the top agent, or ® As a third-generation Realtor , Amanda was exposed to the city, but I want us to be the best,” states Aman “AllMILLENNIALS of us are excellent ARE at what we do and ap at an earlyAage.

“Growing up, my family urged meWHY 4)industry IS FINDING NICHE MARKET 18) new challenge with unsurpassed to do anything but real estate.”

Amanda laughs.

“After that, RIGHT FOR YOU? NOW THE HOTTEST SEGMENTknowledge, de empathy.MARKET Our clients have chosen us as I had to do it, just to prove I could do it better. But I’m OFnotTHEand BUYERS resource and they deserve the best we have to a gregarious personality or an extrovert, so to differenti6)ateSMALL YARD? BIG STATEMENT: myself I made a commitment know the market, the Tia Duderstadt | AccounttoExecutive HOW TOand MAKE OUT WAYS SAYthe challenges o For someone goingTO through inventory, marketTHE trendsMOST better than anyone else.”22) CREATIVE Home Warranty of America |The Orange Company OF MICRO OUTDOOR SPACES THANKselling YOUa home, having that kind of partner is c 847-271-7968 | Tia.D@hwahomewarranty.com and a powerful market advantage.

Her focus on market dynamics was tested shortly after she began homewarranty.com her career. Two weeks after Amanda entered the6 WAYS TO GET YOUR 26) market, 9/11 shook America to its core, followed by aCLIENT marTO TRUST YOU ket, driven by predatory lending practices and the housing crisis left in its wake. “I was talking people out of buying or selling property right and left. Those experiences confirmed that310-734-1440 our job is to be |aFax steady hand and trusted advisor for Phone 310-734-1440 people during traumatic times.” www.

mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com

Even through these Amanda remained No portion of this issue may bechallenging reproduced inperiods, any manner whatsoever without prior consent of the publisher.

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by Feature GA, plan Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of vigilant andis published counseled clients Publications on the best for their published materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions future. “It’s never been about the money for me. I’m bless- expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. ed to have found this level of success, but at the end of the Published in the U.S. day, I always work to position myself as the partner I would want to rely on.”

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The result is an army of raving fans and repeat clients that generates nearly 98% of Amanda’s business. “If you’re com-

To learn more about Amanda Mc Top Agent Magazine please call 773-391-5050, her office at 773-537-1300, or e

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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Is Finding A Niche Market Right for You?

A lot of Realtors® take the ‘jack of all trades’ approach to their businesses, and some are extremely successful with doing it all and doing it well. But taking that approach can also make it hard to stand out if there are a lot of agents in your area taking the same approach.

If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the rest, finding a niche market might be the way to go. Although it might sound limiting at first, with the right branding and marketing, your specialty and expertise may help you lock up a market after you become well known for being the ‘go to’ Realtor® in a certain demographic. Having a niche helps you target your marketing, making it more effective, until eventually people are seeking you out as you build your reputation as the foremost expert in your particular niche.

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Despite the benefits of taking on a specialty, it’s still something that only a small percentage of Realtors® do, which means you have a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor in your area by being ahead of what is sure to be a looming real estate trend.

You want to claim your stake on the niche that best fits not only your passions, but something that fills a void in your market.

If this all sounds good to you, the next step is finding your niche! Here are a few things you need to consider:

There are two approaches to having a specialty, one that is truly your all-consuming passion or a sort of revolving niche, one that changes with the market Top Agent Magazine

In addition to creating a thriving business, finding a niche may even unlock a hidden passion. Does your area have a large historic home inventory? Are you passionate about helping first time home buyers realize their dreams?

Having a personal connection to what you specialize in is always a great way to start out. If you’re passionate about something, you’re almost guaranteed to have the work ethic it takes to have success in a niche market. Once you hone in on a niche, make sure the market data backs up your focus.

Another approach is changing with the market. If you’re truly an expert in a few areas of the business, it might be good to have sort of a revolving niche. In a down market you might specialize in short sales and foreclosures.

When things pick up, you may take your innovative approaches and start applying them to luxury homes.

Whether you take the consistent niche approach or the flexible one, it’s really all about figuring out what best suits you and your market.

Fill a void in your market Maybe you don’t have an instant passion for one particular niche. In that case, there are several areas you can consider. A lot of it will start with really researching and analyzing your market and having a good eye for what future trends will be. Is there a certain demographic that is surging in your area? Cater your business to serve them. Maybe you are fluent in Spanish and your area is seeing a rise in a Latino population, who are emigrating from other countries. Or perhaps, you live in an area that has a larger retirement population. There Top Agent Magazine

are numerous demographics that truly need expert real estate advice. Be the one to fill it.

You can also focus on a particular neighborhood or gated community. Helping people navigate the ins and outs of a particular HOA can be a lifesaver.

Are you already serving a niche?

Of course, sometimes you may already have a niche and are unaware of it. Maybe you are already dealing with a lot of first-time homebuyers. Look over your sales records and see what might already be there, then make it official.

Figure out why you’re drawn to that area and then nail down the reasons you’ve excelled with that niche and use it to create a marketing plan and branding.

Find ways to really sell your expertise Once you figure out your niche, get the training, designations, and certifications that will enhance your expertise. Another way to let it be known that you are the ‘go to’ Realtor® in your particular niche is to become a resource online. Create a website with informative blogs and marketing information. Make a mark on social media where you can link back to your site, so potential clients can actually interact with you.

There is a lot to consider when you’re thinking of going the niche market way with your business, but if you consider everything carefully and focus in on something you can be passionate about, the rewards could be a major win for you and for your clients.

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Small Yard? Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces When house-hunters compile their lists of musthave home items, a dreamy backyard space is often near the top. After all, who doesn’t want an outdoor oasis of their very own? From summer barbecues to open space for your dog to frolic— everyone has their own aspirations when it comes to creating the perfect backyard paradise. But as homebuyers seek properties deeper within city limits, and Millennials opt for properties with 6

urban amenities and access, home-connected outdoor spaces are becoming a bit smaller in stature.

Of course, size isn’t everything when it comes to outdoor space. Even balconies, rear patios, and ultra-tiny yards can provide homebuyers with the outdoor reprieve they crave—even on a smaller scale. For a few ideas that can help you envision all the possibilities of a micro outdoor space, read on for inspiration.

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Think vertically.

When space is at a premium, think up instead of out. In other words, make the most of small spaces by capitalizing on your backyard, balcony, or patio’s overhead height. Mood-setting string lights, hanging pocket or wall gardens, floating shelves, and modern overhead hangings can create a sense of privacy and luxury without cluttering the square footage on the ground.

Soothing sounds set the mood.

Upgrade the look of structural components.

Not in love with your patio pavers? Don’t have the sweetest view off your balcony? Whatever your small backyard living space gripe may be, there’s always a solution if you go back to the basics. Consider the structural components of your outdoor space that you aren’t in love with and there’s likely an affordable, eye-pleasing solution. For instance, plenty of home goods Top Agent Magazine

retailers make a variety of punchy or luxe outdoor rugs that can disguise stained or lackluster outdoor flooring. Power-washing is another great solution for old grime and dirt that’s an eyesore. Don’t have a great view? Planting ivy on bare walls, installing adjustable mood lighting, or hanging planters can create a more inviting ambiance.

While there may not be room for a swimming pool or pond in a micro yard or balcony, you can still bring the calming presence of water to your outdoor oasis. Fountains run the gamut in sizing and price, making this amenity an easy acquisition. What’s more, a running fountain not only adds a soothing sound to your space, but it also helps drown out noise from the street or the neighbors—making your space entirely your own and stress-free.

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Don’t compromise on your culinary dreams.

If you love to entertain in outdoor spaces or relish the chance to man the grill—small outdoor spaces don’t have to trip you up. Grill options (both propane and charcoal) come in a range of sizes, many of which can be outfitted securely to balcony posts or be tucked away and out of sight when out of use. Consider nesting tables or those with a removable leaf to adjust your seating and dining options depending on company.

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Another trick? A small, oscillating fan can keep air flow moving in a small space during grill season—and can be easily affixed to walls or posts, as well.

Don’t let yourself or clients be discouraged by spaces with more limited square footage in outdoor areas. Furniture and design trends have already begun shifting toward providing better small-space options, and at the end of the day, a backyard space is all about providing an area for relaxation. With a few well-placed, strategic choices, you can still have it all.

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RICK O’CONNOR Top Agent Magazine

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RICK O’CONNOR With his focus on client care and his trademark exuberance, Top Agent Rick O’Connor has built a loyal client base who rave about his service.

Rick O’Connor fell in love with real estate thirty-eight years ago, and since then his passion for the industry and for helping his clients has only grown. “I’ve always wanted to run my own business,” Rick says. “I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset. Real estate has been such a blessing to me and my family as well as my clients.”

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Now a Managing Broker and Owner of Realty Executives Cornerstone, Rick leads a team of dedicated professionals. With two offices, one in Crystal Lake and the other in Algonquin, Rick and his team are wellpoised to serve clients all across McHenry County, Lake County, Kane County, Cook County, as well as the southern regions of Top Agent Magazine

Wisconsin, where Rick is also licensed.

Along with his brokerage, Rick also owns and manages a title company (One World Title Inc.) and a property management company (ROC Property Management Inc.) that manages residential and commercial rental properties and residential and commercial associations as Rick also has his Community Association Management license.

With his focus on client care and his trademark exuberance, Rick has built a loyal client base who rave about his service. At 70%, his repeat and referral rate is a testament to his professionalism and his personable approach. “I have a joyful spirit,” Rick says.

“My clients enjoy working with me. I have

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high levels of integrity and honesty and I always put my clients’ interests first and foremost.” Not only can Rick offer guidance as a Broker, but his decades of experience in the field have given him the opportunity to build relationships and rapport with other professionals such as attorneys, lenders or mortgage brokers, home inspectors and contractors. If you’re coming into a transaction needing guidance in any of those fields, Rick is poised to be able to make recommendations to limit any “what ifs” that may come up through the process.

Along with his outstanding client service, what sets Rick apart is his experience.

“Being a study of the industry and with

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all my years in the business,” Rick says, “I have a knowledge of the market that benefits my clients. They feel confident knowing how much time, knowledge and experience I have in this industry.” Beyond Rick himself, he has a full team of professionals, each with special dedication to one aspect or another of the transaction. The team, known as The Rick O’Connor Group, includes a dedicated Buyers’ Agent as well as four Administrative Assistants; each specializing in one aspect or another of the real estate process.

diligent touch with past clients. “The relationships are what I love the most,” Rick says. “Many clients have become friends, to the point where I work with their children and grandchildren. One of the biggest mistakes I made when I first got started was thinking that doing a good job for my clients was enough. People need to know that you care and that they matter, that they’re not just a number or a sale. Just like with any relationship, if you don’t grow together, you grow apart.”

Rick understands that relationships are at the heart of his business, and he keeps in

With a dedicated marketing department, Rick and his team pull out all the stops to

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showcase their clients’ homes to attract competitive offers. “We’re one of the few brokerages who do interactive and virtual tours on almost all of our listings, no matter the price range,” Rick says. “I want to set all of my clients’ homes apart and make it easy to view my clients’ homes.” This past year, Rick and his team completed around $40 million in sales across 140+ transactions.

As dedicated to giving back as he is to helping his clients, Rick is a committed philanthropist and volunteer. He is engaged in Christian pastoral work, volunteering with the local jail ministry, and is very involved with his church. With most transactions, Rick and his team offer to make a monetary

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donation on behalf of their clients. “This past year, we supported such organizations as the Wounded Warriors, the veterans and local food pantries,” Rick says. “I live by the motto that it’s more important to give than to receive especially to those who cannot give back. That is so important, especially now with so many people struggling.”

In his free time, Rick is an outdoorsman, and he enjoys hunting and gardening. He lives on a wooded farm, and he and his wife grow and eat their own vegetables. Rick has three children; Casey, Darbi, and Brogan, each of whom spent their formative years in the community and have since gone on to pursue their passions at various colleges

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across the country. Rick’s wife, Vicki, has been a pharmacist in the area for many years and assists Rick with both the real estate and property management aspects of his businesses. Beyond all of those endeavors, Rick also owns several of his own rental properties- both residential and

commercial- that help keep him busy, too.

Looking to the future, Rick has no plans to slow down. “People keep asking me when I’m going to retire,” Rick says. “I haven’t even thought about it, because I love others and what I do.”

To find out more about Rick O’Connor, call 815-477-3000 Ex. 104 or 815-790-7200, email Rick@RickOConnorGroup.com or visit RickOConnorGroup.com 14

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Dean A. Zizzo is proud to congratulate

RICK O’CONNOR

on being featured for the State of Illinois in Top Agent Magazine!

Dean A. Zizzo | Zizzo Insurance Agency, LTD. 847-705-0112 | Dean@zizzoinsurance.com zizzoinsurance.com www.

7115 Virginia Road, Suite 109, Crystal Lake, IL 600142

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Andy Wachowski is proud to congratulate

Rick O’connor

on being featured for the state of Illinois in Top Agent Magazine!

Andy Wachowski Aspen General Contractors, Inc. Office: 708-579-0600 Fax: 708-354-5008 aspen@aspengen.com 1030 S. LaGrange Rd, Suite 12 LaGrange, IL 60525

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Tia Duderstadt is proud to congratulate

RICK O’CONNOR

on being featured for the State of Illinois in Top Agent Magazine!

Tia Duderstadt | Account Executive Home Warranty of America |The Orange Company 847-271-7968 | Tia.D@hwahomewarranty.com homewarranty.com www.

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Why Millennials Are Now the Hottest Segment of the Buyers Market

and How You Can Attract Them to Your Home There are many factors when it comes to knowing how to sell your home to the Millennial generation. Millennials are becoming an important part of the buyer market, and to fail to cater to their needs will cut you off from a large and important segment. But, why have Millennials all of a sudden become interested in buying houses when they were perfectly content to rent for the rest of their lives?

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A number of factors contribute to what has recently made Millennials the hottest segment of the Buyers market. One factor is the improved job outlook for Millennials. Millennials took a serious blow during the recession.

Unemployment in this group soared to 14 percent, compared to the 9.6 percent for the population as a whole. But, in recent years that number has been decreasing, with unemployment for Millennials being 9.3 percent this past year.

Rising rents are also contributing to making Millennials more interested in purchasing homes now. Rents have risen so much that buying a home now just makes more sense. Half of all renters spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. Millennials are becoming increasingly stressed over the constantly increasing financial obligation to something that isn’t even theirs to own.

The near-historic low mortgage rates are luring Millennials towards purchasing a home with their promise of affordability. When compared with the skyrocketing rental rates, buying a house looks even more enticing.

Another factor helping Millennials get over the hump of purchasing a house is the lower down payment requirements. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now offering new loan programs that require as little as a 3 percent down payment. This may just be the last push the Millennials needed to turn toward buying a home rather than rent.

So, now that we’ve established that Millennials are finally joining the Buyers market, the next thing that it is important to understand is what exactly Millennials are looking for in a home. What kind of floorplans do they prefer? What locations are they interested in? Here are some of the essentials that Millennials are looking for in a home: • Updated Kitchens and Baths: Almost everyone wants to buy a

home with new kitchen and bath fixtures, but this is especially true for Millennials Buyers. Millennials are going to spend most of their savings on the down payment and furnishings, leaving little room to update the Kitchen and Bath, which are also the most expensive parts of a home to

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update. Millennials who are on a budget simply won’t have the money to sink into those areas. An updated Kitchen and Bath is sure to bring in a younger crowd.

• Big Kitchen with Open Floor Plan: For Millennials, the kitchen has

become the room where they hangout in addition to the family room. This is why having an open space that can transition easily from the kitchen to the TV room is high on the list of things Millennials are looking for in a home. Along a similar vein, Millennials are attracted to an open floor plan rather than one that compartmentalizes the home. This has to do with how Millennials entertain. Millennials want their guests to flow through the rooms and mingle together, rather than be sectioned off in different rooms.

• Home Office: More than 13 million Americans now work from home,

and if you look at the trend, that number is only going to increase as the time goes on. With technology steadily increasing, more Millennials than ever have the flexibility to work from home. But, the home office isn’t just for someone working from home full time. Having a separate space dedicated to work helps people concentrate and focus on work while they are at home. They can separate themselves from the activities going on around the house and have a quiet space where they can set up their workday, plan a presentation, hold a meeting on Skype, or even pay bills.

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• Less Maintenance: Many Millennials work different schedules that

don’t conform to the 9 to 5 workday, as well as full social calendars. This doesn’t leave them much time to clean a big house. Lawn services and low-maintenance front yards are particularly appealing, as they take less responsibility to still keep the curb appeal high.

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Millennials have been educated on

keeping the Earth clean from the time they were born. They want to do their part to help the environment and appreciate the long-term cost savings that come with it. Energy-efficient appliances and greener ways to heat and cool the home might end up being the tipping point that makes them choose one house over another.

• Hardwood Floors: Millennials don’t have the time or patience to clean

dirty carpets, especially those that own pets. Hardwood and laminate flooring is easy to mop up if there’s been a mess. The more time they can conserve, the better.

• Good Location: Millennial buyers are looking for homes that are in

proximity to public transportation and have a good walking score. Young Millennial buyers without children are more likely to want a location closer to the action of the city, while Millennials with children would prefer more residential areas.

• Technology: Technology rules the Millennial’s life. They do work on

their computers through an Internet connection and solely use cellphones for communication. They are going to ask about how strong the cell service is and about the Internet service provider. While these amenities are out of the seller’s hands, Millennials are still going to ask these questions, and you will need to know how to answer them.

Knowing what Millennials are looking for in a home will ultimately help you make the necessary changes that will attract these buyers to your home.

Since they are the a serious segment of the market now, updating your home to fit their needs will lead to more buyers and better offers. So, get with the times and embrace the Millennial buyer.

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Creative Ways to Say Thank You

Most top real estate agents find ways to welcome their clients to their new home. A common theme is a bottle of wine and some wine glasses for that first post-threshold toast, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up that empty living space until the furniture arrives.

But are you truly being as creative as you can with your appreciation? Here are some innovative gift ideas that will truly keep you front of mind with your valued customers and assure their gratitude and repeat business, not to mention a slew of referrals.

1. How about a streaming video device, like a Roku

or Amazon Fire Stick? There’s a good chance your clients will not have their cable service up and running for a few days, and this is an excellent way for them to enjoy their television before they get that connection going. Bundle it up in a basket with some DVD’s for the kids, and don’t forget all necessary cables.

2. Matching bathrobes and Bath kits: Fleece or ter-

rycloth bathrobes and a basket filled with highend his and her body scrubs, bubble bath and other luxurious pampering items can make the first night in a new home feel like a check-in at a fabulous resort and make the memory of that first night one to cherish. Again, don’t forget the kids!

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3. Arrange a catered meal from a local vendor. As-

certain in advance dietary preferences and restrictions, and have a wonderful, healthy meal delivered on move-in night. To complete the magic, provide brand new plates, silverware and glassware to serve it all on.

4. For homes with swimming pools or Jacuzzis, a

stack of fluffy pool towels is always appreciated and will be used by family and friends for years to come. Additionally, acrylic stemware for celebrating safely can be provided alongside them.

5. If it’s winter time and the home has a fireplace, make sure there’s plenty of wood to burn. Some fireplace accessories and a log holder will certainly make your clients appreciate you on every chilly night to come.

So when it comes to gifting your buyers, the trick is to be creative. A bottle of wine lasts one night, and the flowers wilt in a few days. Try coming up with something a little more creative that will remain with your clients in their day-to-day lives and remind them of you consistently. The little bit extra you spend to show your gratitude can reap huge dividends when it comes time for your client to purchase a second home or refer a friend.

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AMANDA MCMILLAN Anyone who’s ever bought or sold a home knows what a confusing, chaotic, and sometimes scary experience it can be. Factors that determine a successful deal seem to fluctuate daily, but for those living in Chicago, Amanda McMillan is a proven partner that can guide them through any kind of market.

A top producing veteran of the Chicago real estate market, Amanda has been through it all and is the kind of professional who instills confidence in everyone she meets.

“We aren’t doing brain surgery, but we are advising people during a very emotional time of their lives.

My team and I are committed to being the trusted advisors our clients can rely on for what is often the largest financial decision they will ever make.”

As a third-generation Realtor®, Amanda was exposed to the industry at an early age. “Growing up, my family urged me to do anything but real estate.” Amanda laughs. “After that, I had to do it, just to prove I could do it better. But I’m not a gregarious personality or an extrovert, so to differentiate myself I made a commitment to know the market, the inventory, and market trends better than anyone else.”

Her focus on market dynamics was tested shortly after she began her career. Two weeks after Amanda entered the market, 9/11 shook America to its core, followed by a market, driven by predatory lending practices and the housing crisis left in its wake. “I was talking people out of buying or selling property right and left. Those experiences confirmed that our job is to be a steady hand and trusted advisor for people during traumatic times.”

deal done, they will trust you forever. That’s an honor that I’ll never take lightly.”

Amanda and her team, Chicago Home Partner, consistently rank among the best in the business, year after year. This intimate group of top-producing agents continually study and adapt to the market, allowing them to thrive even in challenging times like the Covid pandemic. “We’re very data-driven and consultative. We share everything the data shows us with our clients and discuss their options with them. It’s a team approach and in the end, we’re able to provide a comprehensive plan to navigate by and accomplish their end goal.”

When asked about the future of Chicago Home Partner, Amanda is as confident in her own path as she is with her clients. “I’ve no desire to be the top agent, or team, in the city, but I want us to be the best,” states Amanda seriously.

“All of us are excellent at what we do and approach each new challenge with unsurpassed knowledge, determination, and empathy. Our clients have chosen us as their trusted resource and they deserve the best we have to offer.”

For someone going through the challenges of buying or selling a home, having that kind of partner is comforting— and a powerful market advantage.

Even through these challenging periods, Amanda remained vigilant and counseled clients on the best plan for their future. “It’s never been about the money for me. I’m blessed to have found this level of success, but at the end of the day, I always work to position myself as the partner I would want to rely on.”

The result is an army of raving fans and repeat clients that generates nearly 98% of Amanda’s business. “If you’re committed to doing the research needed to maximize the value of a deal, and put client’s best interests ahead of just getting that Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Amanda McMillan, please call 773-391-5050, her office at 773-537-1300, or email Amanda@ChicagoHomePartner.com 23

Laughs!

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6 Ways to Get Your Client to Trust You The word “REALTOR®” can leave a sour taste in some people’s mouths. Many of today’s home buyers and sellers grew up during the 2009 recession. They are wary of anything 26

or anyone who comes off as too salesy, and they want to work with individuals who they can trust.

But how do you prove to someone you’ve likely never met that you can be trusted?

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1

Put Testimonials or Case Studies on Your Website

When something goes wrong, own up to your mistakes. Don’t hide bad news from your clients. Be upfront and responsive.

Testimonials and case studies are social proof that you have both the experience and the skills to do the job your clients are hiring you for. People often leave testimonials when they are either incredibly disappointed or extremely happy with the service they were provided, so they’re a good indication to prospective clients of the treatment they’ll receive.

Case studies, which you can post on your blog or website, have much of the same effect, but even more than testimonials, case studies demonstrate your real estate and finance expertise because they explain how you achieved a specific set of results.

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Be Responsive and Accessible

Can your clients reach you easily? That doesn’t mean you need to be available 24/7, but you should respond to your clients within a few hours of receiving their message. When agents don’t respond to their clients’ calls or emails for days on end or fail to provide them with a direct line of contact, their clients’ experience can quickly become frustrating.

Agents are busy but so are their clients. If you constantly show up late to or reschedule meetings, your clients won’t feel like their time is respected or their business is valued. Make sure you set a realistic schedule for yourself rather than spreading yourself too thin.

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Be Honest and Transparent

Sometimes you don’t have the answer to a client’s question. Be honest about your strengths, weaknesses, and the limits of your knowledge. A good response might be, “I don’t know, but I can find out.” Be transparent with your clients, and they’ll respect you for it.

You should always act in their best interest.

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Go the Extra Mile

If you do the bare minimum, that’s what your clients will remember. Their experience won’t be memorable, and they won’t gush about you in online testimonials or in real life to people they know who could use your services. It’s that simple.

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Put Yourself in Your Client’s Shoes

Clients understand that you need to earn money, but that doesn’t mean they want to feel like they’re just a dollar sign to you. Be empathetic to your client’s concerns, even if you’ve heard it all before. Your clients should know that you are there for them.

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Be Consistent

Being responsive, friendly, and knowledgeable shouldn’t be an act. If you “turn on” your personality for clients and then suddenly become a different person when they leave the room, it’s likely that the cracks in your mask will eventually become apparent.

But “faking it till you make it” is so common it’s become a cliché. When we are starting out, we don’t always have the systems or resources in place to create a smooth client journey, from onboarding to closing, so instead we constantly try to reinvent the wheel. Give yourself time to pause, slow down, and reevaluate your workflow. Creating systems creates

consistency, and those systems can and should be constantly updated.

Developing trust between you and your clients will take time, but doing these things can give you a running start.

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