8 minute read
TAKE MY WORD
Take My Word for It: The Power of Testimonials & Making Word-of-Mouth Count
Ratings, reviews, and testimonials are among the most powerful tools an agent or real estate professional has at his or her disposal. Think of it this way: almost all of us go online to get a sense of dining options, film scores, and product reviews. When it comes to real estate pros, people what the same measure of comfort and advice from those who have already experienced your services. The bottom line is this: testimonials create a relatable emotional appeal to others, while giving potential clients some first-hand insight into your ability to deliver.
With all that in mind, consider the valuable rationale behind testimonials and word-ofmouth attention: how to harness it, and what it can do for you and your business.
If you aren’t displaying positive testimonials and reviews on your social media outlets and website, then you’re missing out on a key opportunity. Those exploring your pages are likely seeking real estate representation, and reviews and testimonials serve as a first-hand glimpse into who you are and what you can do. If you can, try to tie reviews and testimonials to specific names or social media handles, as you’ll be highlighting the interpersonal component at play. Think of it this way: potential clients are more likely to trust the experiences of past clients than to place blind faith in your pitch, which is crafted to create a sale. Most customers would rather look to the experience of fellow consumers before taking your word for it, sight unseen. Well-place testimonials and personal reviews can bridge the gap when it comes to your brand and the prospective client.
Testimonials and word-ofmouth buzz demonstrate your value compared to others
Good agents are a dime a dozen, but top agents stand apart from the pack for a variety of reasons. Chief among those reasons is the ability to differentiate themselves from the norm by highlighting their personalities, their track records, their values. Testimonials and wordof-mouth buzz don’t just focus on whether an experience was good or bad. It dives into the details of personality and consumer relationships. While the qualifications of many agents might be similar, you can stand out by showcasing stellar reviews and testimonials that shine upon your character and delivery. When pitched by two agents with similar experience and credentials, but only one has the testimonials featuring positive experiences and lasting relationships—wouldn’t you be more inclined to work with the agent who has a proven track record of success?
Do your homework and compile the testimonials that will drive your business
At the close of a transaction, consider providing a comment card with room for clients to write a few reflections, or create an e-mail ready online form that makes submitting feedback a breeze. You can also touch base via e-mail and ask politely for a review of their experience with you. Referred or repeat clients are excellent candidates for testimonials, as they will already know your business well, or will likely be happy to contribute their perspective. If asking for testimonials makes you cringe, you can always incentivize this process in minor ways. For example, you could offer a fun, cost-effective gift certificate in exchange for a testimonial.
Whichever way you gather testimonials that speak to your positive performance, there is no question that these documented first-hand experiences are priceless when it comes to drawing and retaining clients. If you want to inspire interest and build a living brand, there is no better method than by having clients vouch for your working style.
JOSHUA CHAVEZ
“I always wanted to get involved in real estate,” explains Josh Chavez. He decided to pursue it full-time in 2005, and hasn’t looked back since. He and his wife, Samantha, who have 20 combined years of experience have helped the Los Lunas, Belen, Valencia County, and Albuquerque, NM, areas with all their real estate needs. “I’ve had a passion for it since high school,” Josh says, as he bought his first home at 18 and has years of experience with new construction and inspections. Josh says, “I love real estate. I love everything about it.”
That passion has resulted in the continuous growth of his business, with an estimated 70 percent of Josh’s clients come from repeats and referrals. He treats his buyers/ sellers like family, only wanting what is best for them. With years of experience in real estate, both personally and professionally, he stands out as an agent in his community. His team also helps him shine, with his wife Samantha working as his transaction coordinator. Josh and Samantha make a great team; they give each other the strength and support they need to accomplish their goals. They always have had a similar mind-set when it comes to their personal life, relationships, and work ethic. Their strong partnership means that every client receives extra help and attention whenever they need it. When marketing listings, Josh says that “social media is an awesome tool,” but he does not limit himself to just this. He and Samantha frequently use their company website, online listing platforms, flyers, and YouTube videos, while also connecting with other local realtors to find the best buyer for the property. ensures follow-up through emails, phone calls, or reaches out through social media.
Within the community, Josh and Samantha support local charities and organizations and recently sponsored a golf team in support of the Children’s Cancer Fund of NM and plans to help in any way he can in the future. Josh and Samantha never forget what is truly important to them and will always put the Lord and their family first. Their two-year-old son and soon to be born daughter are Josh and Samantha’s whole world and true loves. In their free time they enjoy spending time outdoors, going camping, and relaxing with family and their dog.
“I love helping people out,” Josh says. Pursuing a job in real estate was a perfect career move for both himself and Samantha. “Buying a house is a big deal,” he explains. Josh appreciates each client that has let him be a part of the American dream of home ownership. He thoroughly enjoys guiding people through the process and making the entire experience less stressful. In the future, Josh plans to keep working in the business and would also like to add new team members. “We’re growing and learning,” Josh says, and as long as he keeps working in real estate, his clients will keep growing and learning from him as well.
After the transaction, clients don’t hesitate to spread the word about their work. One client shared in an online review, “Josh and Samantha listed and sold our home in less than 24 hours! The advertising they did for our home was outstanding. We are so thankful and blessed. I would recommend the both of them to anyone who wants a great, yet caring realtor for the needs of the seller/buyer.” Josh values every client he works with, so in order to keep in contact with them long after the transaction is over, Josh
Photo by Dragon Fly 360 Imaging
For more information about Josh Chavez, please call 505-363-2296, email realtorsjoshandsam@gmail.com, or visit www.joshchavez.com
Realty One of New Mexico | 505-883-9400
ANNE CLANCY
Anne Clancy had a very early start in real estate. She began at just the age of 20 working in apartment rentals with the knowledge that she wanted to eventually get into real estate full-time. After she got her license she transitioned into helping clients buy and sell homes. Anne currently works at RE/MAX and serves the Twin Cities Metro area and Western Wisconsin.
Having been in the real estate business for 20 years, Anne has developed a solid base of repeat and referral business. “I’m interested in building long lasting relationships, and I keep in touch with my clients long after the end of a transaction. They know I’m always there for them.” Anne makes an effort to educate her clients throughout the process so they’re well informed every step of the way. She also stays on top of real estate trends so that she can best serve them.
In order to stay in touch with clients, Anne uses social media and also communicates through texts and phone calls. “I really enjoy the relationship aspect of this job. There aren’t a lot of other businesses that get quite this personal. This is such a large purchase and you get to spend a lot of time together, so you get to know each other pretty well,” she says.
Anne is thorough in her approach to getting a listing ready for the market. She first does a home walk-through and provides her clients with a list of things they can potentially do to help their home sell for more money, while always being mindful of their budget. “We try to do it as cost effectively as possible,” she says. She also invests in professional photography and markets on her website, social media, as well as her YouTube channel.
Although real estate involves a lot of long hours and dedication, for Anne it’s also incredibly rewarding. “It may be a cliché, but I really enjoy helping people. This is a monumental moment for them, and helping them find the right home—a home they’re going to be happy in—is incredibly rewarding.” Anne ensures that throughout the process clients get her undivided attention. “I try to make them feel like they’re my only client as far as being there for them whenever they need me,” she says.
When she’s not working, Anne likes to get her adrenaline going with various daredevil activities. “I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie,” she says. She enjoys four-wheeling, boating, and horseback riding. And when she’s in the mood to relax, she prefers to travel to tropical destinations. Going forward Anne hopes to continue growing her real estate business and serving her clients while keeping the same amount of detailed care and attention she’s always provided them with. And as someone who’s always been heavily involved in flipping houses and investing in properties, she is looking to keep expanding her investment portfolio.
To learn more about Anne Clancy email anneclancy@homepros.net, visit www.anneclancy.professionals.net, or call (651) 592–3754
