Work Your SOI

By Joe Lins
April 21, 2024

Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro

Are you working your SOI? A strong sphere of influence is invaluable for a real estate agent’s business, providing a steady flow of referrals, repeat business and credibility. This contributes to and agent’s long-term success and growth. In our office meetings and training we talk a lot about reaching out to your Sphere of Influence. Many times, an agent will have a hard time wrapping their head around who is actually in their sphere of influence and how they should be reaching out to them. In this blog post we will give you some ideas of who to consider as your SOI and how to connect with them.

Who Is In Your SOI?

  • Members of your family
  • Members of your spouse’s family
  • Members of your extended family
  • Your best friend and their family
  • Your spouse’s best friend and their family
  • Your children’s friends parents
  • Your doctor, dentist, optometrist, veterinarian, pharmacist
  • Your hairstylist, barber, estetician, manicurist
  • Your CPA, attorney, insurance broker, financial planner, banker
  • Your neighbors
  • Your grocer, florist, jeweler
  • Your gardener, plumber, electrician, roofer
  • Your painter, window washer, appliance repair person
  • Your tailor, travel agent, pet groomer, pet sitter
  • Your children’s teachers, principals, coaches
  • Your Pastor, Priest, Minister, Rabbi
  • Your fellow members of organizations you belong to (Rotary, Elks, Chamber of Commerce, etc.)

The list goes on. I suggest sitting down with a notepad and going through the contacts on your phone to make a list of people you know, interact with or do business with. You already have their contact information so it will be easy to add them to your database.

Connect With Your SOI

Here are some ways you can connect with your sphere of influence:

Regular Communication

Keep in touch with your sphere of influence through regular communication channels such as phone calls, emails, newsletters, or even social media updates. Keep track of these communications in your CRM. At CENTURY 21 Discovery we have a CRM that syncs with your email contacts and can automatically add them to your database. This allows the agent to save time by avoiding duplicate effort of having to add them to the CRM. 

Personalized Messages

Tailor your messages to each individual in your sphere of influence to make them feel valued and appreciated. By keeping notes in your CRM about prior conversations, it allows you to pull up that information and refer to or comment about it in your next interaction. Personal touches like this can go a long way in building stronger relationships.

Social Media Engagement

Engage with your sphere of influence on social media platforms by commenting on their posts, sharing relevant content, and participating in discussions related to real estate or their interests.

Organize Events

Host events such as client appreciation parties, homebuyer seminars, or networking mixers to bring your sphere of influence together and strengthen connections in person.

Attend Events

Attending events will make you known in the community. A good place to start is your local Chamber of Commerce. They have networking events throughout the year. These are good opportunities to get to know other business people in the area. 

Provide Valuable Resources

Share helpful resources such as market updates, home maintenance tips, or local community information to demonstrate your expertise and provide value to your sphere of influence. You want to become their go-to resource for all things home and community.

Referral Programs

Implement referral programs to incentivize your sphere of influence to refer friends, family, or colleagues who may be in need of real estate services.

Personal Meetings

Schedule face-to-face meetings with individuals in your sphere of influence to catch up, discuss their real estate needs or goals, and offer your assistance. Meeting for lunch, coffee or a glass of wine will give the encounter a nice touch.

Send Personalized Gifts

Surprise your sphere of influence with thoughtful and personalized gifts or cards on special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries to show appreciation and strengthen your relationship. Again, using your CRM to keep track of their special dates makes this process much easier.

Volunteer in the Community

Get involved in community events or charitable activities that are important to you. Your sphere of influence will see your commitment to giving back and you may also meet new people you can add to your sphere. 

Follow-Up and Follow-Through

Always follow up with your sphere of influence after any interaction, whether it’s a phone call, meeting, or event attendance. Additionally, ensure you follow through on any promises or commitments you make to maintain trust and credibility.

By implementing these strategies, real estate agents can foster deeper connections with their sphere of influence, leading to increased referrals, repeat business, and long-term success.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

Avoiding Delays in Escrow

By Amy Leonhardt
April 2, 2024

For Sale sign with "In Escrow" sign attached
Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro

Navigating the escrow process efficiently is crucial to ensure a smooth and timely transaction for your client. Delays in escrow can be frustrating for all parties involved and can potentially derail an otherwise-simple sale. To minimize the possibility of delays, keep the following strategies top-of-mind:

Thorough Preparation: 

Before escrow begins, ensure all necessary documents are in order. This includes Preliminary Title Reports, list of transaction details, property inspections, any entity documentation if applicable, and disclosures. Providing escrow with contact information for your client means the earnest money deposit can be sent in quickly and escrow packages can be sent out seamlessly. Anticipating what is needed and having it ready can save valuable time in the transaction.

Effective Communication: 

Keep open lines of communication with all parties, including buyers, sellers, lenders, and escrow officers. Regular updates can prevent misunderstandings and provide opportunities to address any potential issues promptly before they become major headaches. A timeline that outlines key dates, such as inspection periods and loan approval deadlines, can help keep everyone on the same page. If there are any questions during the escrow process, reach out to your escrow officer for clarification or correction.

Understanding Financing: 

Delays often occur due to financing issues. Buyer’s agents should familiarize themselves with the client’s financial situation and the specifics of their loan process. Encourage buyers to get pre-approved by a reliable lender and to understand their loan timeline.

Proactive Problem-Solving: 

Issues such as repairs following an inspection can cause delays. By proactively addressing these issues and quickly providing any addendums to escrow, the transaction moves seamlessly on to the next stage.

Expert Assistance: 

Of course, things don’t always go as planned, and when complex issues arise, don’t hesitate to seek help from experienced professionals like a title officer, tax advisor, or legal expert when needed. Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating complex situations. 

With everyone working toward the same goal–a timely closing and happy clients–keeping these simple strategies in mind will ensure a positive outcome. 

About the author: Amy Leonhardt is an escrow assistant for Equity Escrow Group, Ltd. in Fullerton, California. For more information on the services provided by Equity Escrow Group please contact them at 714.626.2095 or visit their website www.equityescrowgroup.com

Who’s On Your Team?

Essential Allies for Real Estate Agents

By Stephanie Goedl
March 21, 2024

Contractor repairing a kitchen cabinet door handle

In the fast-paced world of real estate, success often hinges on the strength of your team. As a real estate agent, you’re not just a solo player; you’re the conductor of a symphony, coordinating the efforts of various professionals to orchestrate seamless transactions for your clients. In this blog post, we’ll explore the vital importance of having the right resources and vendors on your team, the backbone of your business, and the trusted partners you can refer to your clients with confidence.

Staging Professionals

Presentation is key when it comes to selling a home. Staging professionals have the expertise to showcase a property in its best light, maximizing its appeal to potential buyers. By partnering with a staging company, you can help your clients achieve faster sales and higher offers.

Photographers and Videographers

In today’s digital age, high-quality photography and videography are essential for marketing properties effectively. Professional images and videos can help capture the essence of a home and attract more attention from potential buyers. Partnering with talented photographers and videographers can elevate your marketing efforts and set your listings apart from the competition.

Escrow Company

Escrow companies are the unsung heroes of any real estate transaction. They serve as neutral custodians of the documents and funds while ensuring that all the conditions of the sale have been met before property and funds exchange hands. Choosing a reputable company with a track record of efficiency and accuracy is crucial for smooth closings and satisfied clients.

Title Company

A title company ensures that the property title is clear of any encumbrances allowing the new owner to take possession of the property with a clear title. They will perform an extensive search of relevant public records to determine if anyone other than the seller has an interest in the property. Once they have established that the title is clear they will issue a title insurance policy at the close of escrow. A reputable title insurance company is essential to a successful transaction.

Lenders

A knowledgeable and responsive lender can be a real estate agent’s best ally. Whether it’s helping clients secure pre-approval letters or navigating the complexities of financing options, having a trusted lender on your team can streamline the buying process and instill confidence in your clients.

Contractors and Service Providers

From painters to electricians, plumbers to landscapers and termite companies, having a roster of reliable contractors and service providers is essential for addressing the inevitable needs that arise during the buying or selling process. Whether it’s preparing a property for listing or addressing inspection issues, having a network of skilled professionals you can call upon can save time, money, and headaches for both you and your clients.

Home Inspectors

A thorough home inspection is a non-negotiable step in any real estate transaction. Recommending a reputable home inspector to your clients not only demonstrates your commitment to their best interests but also helps ensure that potential issues are identified early in the process, avoiding surprises down the road.

Building a successful real estate business requires more than just sales skills; it requires a solid team of professionals who you can rely on and refer to your clients with confidence. By surrounding yourself with trusted partners, from escrow companies to contractors, you can provide exceptional service and ensure smooth transactions for your clients every step of the way. So, ask yourself: who is on your team? And make sure you have the best players in place to help you win in today’s competitive market.

Stephanie Goedl

About the author: Stephanie Goedl is Chief Operating Officer and Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services we provide contact us at 714.626.2069 or Careers@C21Discovery.com.

The Power of the Sphere

Why a Real Estate Agent’s Sphere of Influence is Vital to Success

By Joe Lins
March 2, 2024

Group of young professionals in business attire talking
Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro

In the dynamic world of real estate, success hinges not only on market knowledge and negotiation skills but also on something more intangible: relationships. At the heart of every thriving real estate business lies a robust sphere of influence—a network of connections that extends beyond transactions and transcends mere professionalism. In this article, we delve into why a real estate agent’s sphere of influence is not just important but indispensable to their long-term success.

Building Trust and Credibility

In an industry where major life decisions are at stake, trust is paramount. A sphere of influence comprises friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances who already have a level of trust and rapport with the agent. Leveraging this existing trust facilitates smoother transactions and instills confidence in potential clients. Recommendations from within one’s sphere carry significant weight, often leading to quicker conversions and higher client satisfaction.

Access to Referrals and Repeat Business

A well-nurtured sphere of influence is a renewable resource of referrals and repeat business. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer their agent to friends and family in need of real estate services. Additionally, past clients who had positive experiences are inclined to engage the same agent for future transactions, contributing to a steady stream of business opportunities. Each successful interaction within the sphere reinforces the agent’s reputation and strengthens their network, creating a virtuous cycle of growth.

Enhanced Market Reach

Beyond direct referrals, a robust sphere of influence expands an agent’s market reach exponentially. By tapping into the networks of their sphere members, agents gain access to new demographics, geographic areas, and niches. This broadens their client base and diversifies their business, making them more resilient to market fluctuations and economic downturns. Furthermore, active engagement within the sphere fosters a sense of community and reciprocity, leading to collaborative efforts and collective support.

Cultivating Long-Term Relationships

At its core, real estate is a people-centric industry. Successful agents understand the value of cultivating meaningful, long-term relationships within their sphere of influence. Beyond mere transactions, these relationships evolve into partnerships built on mutual respect, integrity, and shared goals. By prioritizing the human aspect of business, agents not only enhance their professional reputation but also enrich their personal lives, creating a legacy that transcends sales figures and commission checks.

In conclusion, a real estate agent’s sphere of influence is not just a network—it’s a lifeline, a source of strength, and a catalyst for growth. By investing time, effort, and empathy into nurturing their sphere, agents lay the foundation for sustained success and enduring fulfillment in an ever-evolving industry. As the adage goes, “Your network is your net worth”—and in real estate, this rings truer than ever before.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

Moving The Ball Forward

By Lauren Dunn
February 21, 2024

Photo courtesy of Canva Pro

Working in real estate, agents often times find they’ll wear many hats over the course of a day. Sometimes we’ll be negotiators or managing a small hiccup that’s popped up in a transaction, while other times we’ll be acting as pseudo-therapists when clients are suddenly uneasy, or we’ll don our administrative assistant caps while filing forms.

Recently, I found myself wearing the “voice of reason” hat with a client-turned-friend who needed some education and guidance – both regarding our local area market, as well as what real estate can mean years from now.

We, like our clients, are always juggling many balls and have quite a bit going on in our lives. The main difference between us and them, however, is that buying and selling real estate – something that’s typically the largest transaction in an individual’s life – is something we’re fortunate to do every day and see all sides of. To many others, however, real estate is often laced with trepidation and uncertainty. The number of forms is dizzying, while the mountain of terms and definitions is exhausting; yet this is the time when we agents have an opportunity to do our finest work.

When I think of moving the ball forward, I imagine an NFL game where extra yardage is picked up here and there – sometimes 20 yards at a time, other times maybe just half or one yard. Roughly translated to our world, this means simply taking the next step. More doing, less talking, and focusing on taking any forward motion. 

As a huge believer in the power of real estate and its ability to transform lives, here are ways we can help move the ball forward if the current market has our clients experiencing nervousness and not keeping those goalposts in sight:

Help clients avoid the ostrich syndrome

So many folks want to buy real estate and think they have an idea of what they’re able to purchase, but many never make the call to really confirm a budget or to be thoroughly pre-approved. Ensuring that a connection is made with a reputable, trusted lender is an absolute must before embarking on any of the other house-hunting tasks. For our seller clients who may want to right-size, helping them accurately understand the equity in their home, identifying a property that’s a better fit and then seeing whether they can make the move solely with the equity or in tandem with getting a loan can bring them back to reality and be the very thing that spurs them into action. Bottom line: start talking numbers in a very real sense.    

Encourage clients not to believe everything they hear

We’re fortunate to live in a market that happens to be consistently sought after. The negativity that can often be found in other parts of the county may not paint a picture of what’s happening here in Southern California, so it’s important to control the narrative and get people listening to your local market expertise – not a broad-strokes script saturated with sweeping-generalizations that’s broadcast from the East Coast. Being an expert in our area is a fantastic way to bring clients back from The Dark Side.

Nudge clients to complete smaller tasks which builds trust that naturally leads to bigger tasks

After making that crucial introduction to a lender, connect with your clients and really listen to their hopes and dreams for their first, next, or investment property. Don’t simply ask questions – listen to what they’re saying, and read between the lines if necessary. Preview properties for them, show them how attainable their goals are, and ultimately get them comfortable with looking at properties with you. Continue to paint the picture and show, show, show. You may show 50 or 100 houses before they make an offer or get one accepted, but each one gets you closer to that end goal of your client closing escrow. 

Remind clients to “start where they’re at”

One of the things my brokers often say to agents is to “start where you’re at.” Don’t look at another agent’s production and think you need to be there, too – begin where you’re planted. Same thing goes for clients! A first-time homebuyer may not want to live in a certain city, but if that’s the price point that gets them into the real estate game, it is your duty to highlight the value that investment can hold in a few years’ time, 10 years’ time, and so on. Forecast some equity and show them what they could leverage to buy a second property. Remind them that rarely is one person in one property for the rest of their life, and that getting into a property that’s attainable in the here and now will make the dream home reachable someday. 

When you begin to hear rumblings within your sphere of influence from people who might be curious about real estate, make sure they know you’re a great resource for the facts, for encouragement, and for getting them to their goal. Paint the picture, show them what’s possible, and always move the ball forward. The power of real estate is, in a word, real. 

About the author: Lauren Dunn is a full-time professional Realtor with CENTURY 21 Discovery in Orange County, CA. She is proud to bring her goal-oriented approach and client service skills from a nearly 20-year career in advertising, sports marketing, and media to the world of real estate. You may reach her at LaurenDunn@C21Discovery or by calling 714.519.4669. 

Understanding Frequently Used Terminology in Your Transactions

By Amy Leonhardt
February 2, 2024

New real estate agents may find themselves confronted with terms and acronyms that are unfamiliar. Understanding these terms is crucial for success. Here is a brief guide to some of the most-used terms and acronyms used in real estate and escrow to help newer agents: 

Real estate agent showing paperwork to clients
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.com

APN

APN (Assessor’s Parcel Number) is a unique number assigned to a parcel of real estate. It is used to identify property for legal and tax purposes. It is included in the legal description, and will be referenced on the Grant Deed and the preliminary title report.

CMA

CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) helps determine a property’s market value by comparing it to similar properties in the area, and it is an important tool for pricing strategies.

Closing Costs

Closing Costs are the expenses, beyond the property price, that both buyers and sellers incur to complete the transaction in escrow. Some examples of these costs include title insurance, processing fees, appraisal fees, messenger fees, and taxes. Note that buyer and seller closing costs are not equal, so keep in mind that if “Both” is checked on the RPA, closing costs will be split 50/50, instead of each paying their own fees, and buyers typically have more closing costs.

COE

COE (close of escrow) is the date when buyer and seller complete the sale, and ownership officially transfers to the new owner.  This date is determined by what is agreed upon in the contract. Funds have been transferred, principals have fulfilled their contractual obligations, documents have been recorded, and the transaction is complete. 

EMD

EMD (Earnest Money Deposit) is the buyer’s deposit to escrow that shows the seller the offer was made in good faith. The agreed-on contract will determine the amount of the EMD, the form it can come in (check or wire), and the deadline for depositing into escrow. Once escrow is opened, the escrow company will contact the buyers to provide them with wire instructions. Due to increasingly rampant wire fraud, always have your buyer confirm wire instructions directly with a known verified number for your escrow company, and never take instructions via email or from an unsolicited call. This will help protect your client’s funds.

EOI

EOI (Evidence of Insurance) is a document confirming the details of an insurance policy, and will be required by a buyer’s lender. It is typically requested by escrow on behalf of the buyer, and the insurance company provides the proof of insurance.

FHA

FHA (Federal Housing Administration) is a federal agency that insures mortgages with low down-payments. These loans typically have more stringent requirements than conventional loans, and the process may take a bit longer than a conventional loan, though they are a great option for buyers with limited down-payment funds.

NHD

NHD (Natural Hazard Disclosure) Report is a statutory document that discloses potential risks such as earthquakes or floods on a particular piece of property. Buyer and seller will sign to indicate they have received and reviewed the report.

Familiarizing yourself with these terms and dedicating yourself to continuous learning and training will benefit your career in this ever-changing real estate market.

About the author: Amy Leonhardt is an escrow assistant for Equity Escrow Group, Ltd. in Fullerton, California. For more information on the services provided by Equity Escrow Group please contact them at 714.626.2095 or visit their website www.equityescrowgroup.com

Questions To Ask at the Listing Appointment

By Joe Lins
January 21, 2024

Selling a home is a big decision that involves various factors. For some sellers, this may be the first time they’ve sold a home. As the professional, you will need to ask questions and guide them through this often emotional and stressful process. When meeting with a potential seller make sure to ask them these questions before they decide to put their home on the market:

Real estate agent talking to clients at her desk

Why do you want to move?

Ask them what is triggering the move. Are they downsizing, upsizing, relocating for work? Understanding their “Why” will help in your communications with them.

How much equity do you have in your home?

You will need to ask your Seller some questions that may be considered a bit personal. To find out how much equity they have in their home you need to prepare a net sheet for them. To do this, you will need to ask if they have a mortgage or any other liens on the home. 

Are you prepared to get your home ready to sell?

An important part of selling a home is getting it ready to be put on the market. You as well as the seller want the home to look it’s best to potential buyers in order to get top dollar. A simple question asking if they are prepared to make updates to the home to get it ready to sell is an important part of the listing appointment. If necessary, ask if they will be able to make any home improvements or repairs needed. Remember to ask about home staging and if they want the home staged, as well as how much they are willing to pay for that service. It’s a good idea to have tiered levels of home staging pricing to meet every budget and situation. 

Are there any Legal or Regulatory considerations?

Ask them if there are any legal obligations or disclosures that will need to addressed when selling the  home. Make sure to ask if they have all the necessary paperwork and documents in order. You may need to refer them to their attorney or accountant for some of the information.

What is your timeline?

You will need to know their timeline for selling and moving out. This will dictate how flexible they are with closing dates and potential contingencies. Also, make sure to ask if they have made plans for their new housing situation after the sale. Offer to assist them in finding a new place if they are not already working with another agent.

Having these questions ready to go in a Word or Google Doc to print out, will make your job easier as you go off to a listing appointment. Taking the time to ask these questions at the beginning will set the stage for a smooth transaction and more successful home-selling experience for everyone.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

5 Ways To Up Your Marketing Game In 2024

By Suzy Lins
January 2, 2024

Photo courtesy of Canva Pro

To enhance your marketing game as a real estate agent you can employ various strategies to attract clients and stand out in a competitive market. Here are five things you should consider:

  1. Create a Strong Online Presence:
    • You should have a professional and user-friendly website showcasing your listings, services, and expertise. It should be optimized for search engines to improve visibility. Through Century 21, our agents are provided websites that they can customize to their location as well as their own style.
    • Utilize social media platforms to share property updates, market trends, and engage with your audience. Consistent and compelling online content can help establish your brand and attract potential clients.
  2. Utilize High-Quality Visuals:
    • Invest in high-quality professional photography, virtual tours, and videos for your property listings. Visuals play a crucial role in capturing the attention of potential buyers. Clear, visually appealing content not only attracts more views but also helps in creating a positive impression of your listings and services. The photos an agent uses are a representation of their own “brand”. Poor quality photos do not enhance that brand in the consumer’s mind. Plus, your competitors may use that against you when they are competing with you for a listing.
  3. Implement Targeted Advertising:
    • Use targeted advertising to reach specific demographics and potential homebuyers. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer robust advertising tools that allow you to customize your audience based on factors such as location, age, interests, and more. This targeted approach can lead to more effective and cost-efficient marketing campaigns. Make sure to include funds for advertising as you establish your budget for the year.
  4. Build and Leverage Client Testimonials:
    • Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients can be powerful marketing tools. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on your website, social media pages, or other relevant platforms. You can also use testimonials in your marketing materials to build trust and credibility with potential clients. At CENTURY 21 Discovery we use a system called RealSatisfied that automatically sends a survey to the client at the close of escrow. Once the survey is completed, the agent is notified and then has the option to share the testimonial to their social media sites all with the click of a mouse.
  5. Offer Valuable Content and Resources:
    • Position yourself as an expert in your field by providing valuable content and resources to your audience. This can include blog posts, articles, or video content covering topics like home-buying tips, market trends, and neighborhood highlights. By offering useful information, you not only showcase your expertise but also attract and retain an engaged audience.

Remember, consistency is key in marketing. Regularly update your online platforms, engage with your audience, and adapt your strategies based on the evolving needs of your target market. Keep an eye on emerging trends in real estate marketing to stay ahead of the competition.

About the author: Suzy Lins is the Communications Director for CENTURY 21 Discovery and a Business Etiquette Consultant. For more information about CENTURY 21 Discovery you may call (714) 626-2000.

The Benefits of ChatGPT to a REALTOR

By Joe Lins
December 15, 2023

Agent typing on a laptop
Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro

We had a lively discussion in a recent training session at CENTURY 21 Discovery regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI). I decided to jump right in and opened a ChatGPT account. I asked the following question and within ten short seconds this was the answer. 

MY QUESTION TO CHATGPT WAS: What is the benefit of ChatGPT to a REALTOR?

Below is the unedited answer and make sure you read the last two sentences!

ChatGPT can offer several advantages to real estate professionals:

  1. Efficient Communication: Realtors can use ChatGPT to draft emails, messages, or responses more quickly. This can save time and help maintain effective communication with clients, prospects, and other stakeholders.
  2. Content Creation: ChatGPT can assist in creating content for marketing materials, property listings, and blog posts. It can generate compelling descriptions and narratives to showcase properties in a more engaging way.
  3. Lead Generation: By using ChatGPT to engage with website visitors or leads, Realtors can provide instant responses to inquiries. This can improve customer experience and increase the likelihood of converting leads into clients.
  4. Market Research: Realtors can use ChatGPT to gather information about specific neighborhoods, market trends, or property values. This can aid in conducting quick research and staying informed about the latest developments in the real estate market.
  5. Client Support: ChatGPT can be employed as a virtual assistant to handle routine queries, freeing up Realtors’ time to focus on more complex tasks. It can provide information about property details, availability, and scheduling appointments.
  6. Language Translation: If dealing with clients from different linguistic backgrounds, ChatGPT can assist in translating messages, making communication smoother and more inclusive.
  7. Task Automation: While not a direct feature of ChatGPT, integrating it with other tools or platforms can potentially automate certain tasks, improving overall efficiency.

It’s important to note that while ChatGPT can be a valuable tool, it’s not a replacement for human expertise, especially in complex negotiations or situations that require a deep understanding of local real estate laws and regulations. Realtors should use ChatGPT as a supportive tool to enhance their workflow and communication rather than relying solely on it.

The last two sentences are the most important. ChatGPT is just another tool in the REALTOR toolbox. Strap on your toolbelt and give it a try!

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

The Modern Real Estate Office

By Joe Lins
August 21, 2023

Real estate agents have always had the flexibility to work remotely. They spend a big chunk of their day out of the office meeting clients, showing property, meeting with home stagers, home inspectors and well, you get the idea.

Then COVID hit and forced pretty much everyone to work remotely. As we have come out of the pandemic and workers are starting to trickle back into the office, many still remain at home. And they’re good with that. Especially after the investment in a home office they made during the pandemic. Everything from new office furniture to upgrading their home internet has made working from home more attractive. 

Because of this, offices, specifically real estate offices, are adjusting and creating spaces that are conducive to how agents work today. Still, agents need a space where they can pop in, plug in their laptop to do some work, meet clients or attend a training. Gone are the days where everybody had a private office and did most of their work at a desk. The modern real estate agent is mobile, collaborative, and able to conduct business from anywhere. 

We’re excited because we are moving to a new office space that is perfect for this modern agent. 

Photo of 1440 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, CA

Our new office building located at 1440 N. Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California.


Our new space will have an open concept that will include a large conference room, collaboration spaces, two huddle rooms, several workstations and a few private offices as well as a media room for video and podcast recording.

Me and my daughter and business partner, Stephanie Goedl, standing in the empty office space before the build-out of our new office.

The on-site amenities will include a stocked fridge with drinks and snacks as well as the ability to print, copy or scan documents as needed. The front reception will have a staff member to greet the agent and their clients. Plus, it’s close to retail amenities with Starbucks, Ralphs grocery store and restaurants within walking distance.

Our new office suite is located in one of the landmark “Fullerton Towers” buildings. The location is a central North Orange County hub with easy access and plenty of parking.

We will continue to hold our shredding and e-waste recycling events for the community at our new location. Internally, we will continue to have our famous potluck parties and celebrations. Check out our social media to see what I mean! We recognize that agents are also social creatures and they crave interaction and collaboration that only happens when they come into the office.

Our goal with this new space is to have a place for our remote workers to call home when they need it and a place that reflects how today’s agents work. If you’d like to be invited to our Ribbon Cutting and Open House to see the space in person, send me an email at info@c21discovery.com.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.