Author: Joe Lins

Why Choose A CENTURY 21 Discovery Agent?

By Joe Lins
May 2, 2024

It seems like everyone knows someone who knows someone who is a real estate agent. There’s a lot of us around! When choosing an agent there are many things to consider and I’m going to tell you why you should choose a CENTURY 21 Discovery agent. I think we have the best agents around. I may be a little biased but I’ll lay out the reasons why I believe they are.

Local Market Knowledge

Our CENTURY 21 Discovery agents have a clear understanding of what is going on in your local real estate market. A good agent can find out what’s going on in the market with a little research. A great agent knows exactly what is going on in the market on a daily basis. You want an agent who has their hand on the pulse of the market. We instill in our agents the importance of the knowing the communities they serve by constantly educating themselves on local market activity. Their knowledge will empower you as you price your home, review and accept offers or make an offer on that dream home.

International Reach

A CENTURY 21 Discovery agent has access through the Century 21 system to a network of agents across the country and across the world. Our listings are placed on a global site that allows the user to view the listing in their own language. If you’re moving out of the area, our agents can tap into that database of international agents, vet them, and find just the right one to meet your needs.

Industry Education

Forms and protocols in the real estate industry are constantly evolving and changing. CENTURY 21 Discovery is known in the local real estate world as the leader in training agents. This allows our agents to have the most current and up-to-date knowledge of the forms, rules and laws that must be adhered to in a real estate transaction. All this will help you avoid headaches and delays throughout the homebuying or selling process.

Leader In Marketing

Marketing a home for sale has become a bit more sophisticated than just putting a sign in the yard and an ad in the local paper. CENTURY 21 Discovery agents have access to a suite of tools that allow them to market the listings at a high level, in numerous ways, giving you peace of mind and the results you expect.

Community Involvement

A huge part of our company culture is giving back to the communities we serve. We encourage our agents to actively engage in community service and philanthropy to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of the community.  Their involvement allows them to establish themselves as the go-to resource for all things related to real estate in the community. Through this they gain a deeper understanding of local market trends, preferences, and developments. This insight is invaluable for effectively serving clients and providing them with relevant information about the area.

Who’s Your Realtor?

One final reason why you should choose a CENTURY 21 Discovery agent to guide you in the most important sale or purchase of your life is because they are REALTORS. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS. To become a REALTOR an agent must join the National Association of REALTORS and adhere to a strict code of ethics. So, the bar is set higher for an agent to be able to use the word “REALTOR” with their name. 

If you are interviewing agents for the sale or purchase of real estate, make sure to ask them about these things: local market knowledge, international reach, industry education, marketing tools they will use to sell your home, community involvement and if they are a REALTOR. If they can’t provide you with answers about all these areas of the business, give me a call. I have the perfect agent for you.

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.

Work Your SOI

By Joe Lins
April 21, 2024

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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.

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
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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.

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.

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.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A REAL ESTATE AGENT

By Joe Lins
August 7, 2023

When choosing a real estate agent, it’s essential to find someone who can effectively represent your interests and help you navigate the complexities of buying or selling property. Here are some key qualities and factors to consider when looking for a real estate agent:

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Experience and Expertise

Look for an agent with a proven track record of success in the real estate market. Experienced agents have likely encountered various situations and can handle challenges effectively. They should also be knowledgeable about the local market and real estate trends.

Licensing and Credentials

Ensure the agent is properly licensed and affiliated with a reputable real estate agency or brokerage. Additional certifications or credentials can also be a plus, as they demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development. Ask them if their brokerage provides additional training on industry changes and if they attend that training.

Reputation and References

Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A good agent should have positive feedback from satisfied customers who can vouch for their services.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in any real estate transaction. Your agent should be responsive, keep you updated regularly, and be able to explain complex terms or processes in a way that is easy to understand. Make sure they are able to communicate with you in the manner you prefer (e.g., text, email, phone call)

Market Knowledge

The agent should have a deep understanding of the local market conditions, property values, and neighborhood dynamics. They should be able to provide insights on the best time to buy or sell and guide you on pricing strategies.

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Negotiation Skills

A skilled negotiator can make a significant difference in the outcome of your real estate transaction. Look for an agent who can advocate for your interests, secure the best possible price, and navigate negotiations effectively.

Marketing Strategies

If you’re selling a property, inquire about the agent’s marketing plan. They should have a clear strategy to attract potential buyers and promote your property effectively, using both online and offline channels.

Integrity and Ethics

Choose an agent who operates with honesty and integrity. Your agent should prioritize your interests above their own. Keep in mind that not every agent is a REALTORâ. A REALTORâ is held to a strict code of ethics and can get fined or have their license restricted if they violate the code.

Compatibility and Rapport

You will likely be working closely with your real estate agent, so it’s essential to feel comfortable with them. Look for someone with whom you can communicate openly and who understands your needs and preferences. Many of our agents end up becoming close friends with their clients!

Availability and Accessibility

Real estate transactions can move quickly, so having an agent who is available and responsive is crucial. Make sure they can accommodate your schedule and be reachable when needed.

Photo of real estate agent on phone in front of a computer
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Tech-savviness

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in real estate. A tech-savvy agent is more likely to leverage online tools and platforms effectively, which can benefit you during the buying or selling process.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find a real estate agent who is the right fit for your needs and goals. Remember to interview multiple agents and ask relevant questions before making a final decision. Contact me and I can match you with a professional who fits these qualities and your goals.

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.

Secrets to Quality Customer Service

By Joe Lins
July 21, 2023

Quality customer service is crucial in the real estate industry to build trust, maintain positive relationships, and ensure repeat business and referrals. Here are some secrets to providing exceptional customer service in real estate:

Active listening

Understand your clients’ needs, preferences, and concerns by actively listening to them. Pay attention to their requirements and tailor your approach accordingly. When people feel heard they will make a connection with you.

Educate clients

Offer educational resources, guides, and checklists to help clients understand the buying or selling process better.

Responsiveness

Respond promptly to inquiries, calls, and emails. Being accessible and available to your clients demonstrates your commitment to their needs.

Regular communication

Keep your clients informed about the progress of their transaction, even if there are no significant updates. Regular communication reassures them that you’re actively working on their behalf. One of the biggest complaints in the industry about real estate agents is lack of communication. Don’t be that agent.

Knowledge and expertise

Stay informed about the real estate market, local trends, and regulations. Educate your clients about the process, helping them make well-informed decisions. In California, the regulations, forms and requirements are constantly changing. One of the things we pride ourself in at CENTURY 21 Discovery is the up-to-date training we provide our agents on the industry requirements.

Personalization

Treat each client as an individual, considering their unique requirements and preferences. Tailor your services to meet their specific needs. Keep in mind that every transaction is unique too.

Transparency

Be open and honest with your clients throughout the process. Transparency builds trust and credibility, which is vital in real estate.

Empathy and understanding

Buying or selling a home can be emotional. Show empathy and understanding towards your clients’ feelings and concerns. You live in the real estate world 24/7. Your client does not, so this is a whole new world for them. Be patient as you guide them through the process.

Flexibility and adaptability

Be flexible to accommodate your clients’ schedules and preferences. Real estate transactions can be unpredictable, and being adaptable helps in navigating unexpected situations. Have a conversation about this with your client at the very beginning to remind them that they need to be flexible too.

Anticipate needs

Proactively identify potential issues or challenges and address them before they become significant problems. This proactive approach shows your commitment to your clients’ best interests.

Professionalism

Present yourself professionally in appearance, behavior, and communication. Your professionalism reflects your dedication to providing excellent service.

Network of resources

Develop a network of reliable professionals (inspectors, lenders, contractors, etc.) to provide your clients with excellent referrals when needed.

Surveys and feedback

After a transaction, consider conducting surveys or seeking feedback from your clients. Constructive criticism can help you improve your services. At our company, we automatically send a survey to our clients at the close of every transaction. It’s a great way to see where improvement may be needed and it also allows them to give kudos to the agent.

After-sales service

Continue supporting your clients even after the transaction is complete. Offer assistance and remain available for any questions or concerns they may have. Put them on an email drip campaign to stay top-of-mind. It can be something as simple as sending them holiday greetings throughout the year.

Celebrate milestones

Celebrate significant milestones, such as closing the transaction, with your clients. This gesture shows appreciation for their business and builds a positive relationship.

Remember, quality customer service is not a one-time effort. It’s a continuous commitment to meeting and exceeding your clients’ expectations throughout their real estate journey. By focusing on these secrets, you can provide exceptional customer service and stand out in the competitive real estate market.

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 Habits You Should Start Now to Be Successful in Real Estate

By Joe Lins
June 15, 2023

To be successful in the real estate industry, it’s important to develop good habits that will set you up for long-term success. Here are five habits you should start now:

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  1. Continuous Learning

Real estate is a dynamic field that requires staying up to date with market trends, regulations, and best practices. Develop a habit of continuous learning by reading books, attending seminars, taking courses, and staying connected with industry professionals. This will help you make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition.

  1. Networking

Building a strong network is crucial in real estate. Make it a habit to network regularly by attending industry events, joining real estate associations, and connecting with other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to valuable partnerships, referrals, and new opportunities. Also, participating in community events is a great way to network and become known in the community as the real estate expert.

  1. Consistent Prospecting

Prospecting is the lifeblood of any real estate business. Develop a habit of consistent prospecting by setting aside dedicated time each day or week to identify and reach out to potential clients, investors, and partners. This can include cold calling, door knocking, online lead generation, or leveraging your network. Keep track of your prospecting and make notes to learn which one of your prospecting efforts produces the most results. Whether you use a notepad, an Excel spreadsheet or a CRM tool, keeping track will allow you to adjust and focus on what is working for your business. 

  1. Effective Time Management

Real estate professionals often juggle multiple tasks and deadlines. Cultivate good time management habits by prioritizing your activities, setting goals, and creating a daily or weekly schedule. Focus on high-value activities that directly contribute to your business growth and allocate time for prospecting, client meetings, property research, and administrative tasks. Use a calendar, paper or digital, to schedule these activities into your day.

  1. Excellent Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential in real estate. Develop strong communication habits by actively listening to your clients, responding promptly to inquiries, and conveying information clearly and professionally. Enhance your written and verbal communication skills through practice and seek feedback to improve further. If you need to improve your verbal communication skills, recruit a family member or fellow agent to role play various scenarios. For written communication, create templates to use for the various types of emails needed for your business. That way you won’t have to “reinvent the wheel” and can simply cut and paste the necessary information into the email each time. When creating these templates, do a spell check and run them through a program like Grammarly to identify any corrections needed. Another option would be to ask someone in the Marketing Department at your brokerage to proofread them.

Remember that success in real estate takes time and dedication. By adopting these habits, you’ll be well on your way to building a solid foundation for your career in the industry.

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.

Rainy Days and Real Estate

By Joe Lins
January 10, 2023

What’s a REALTOR to do on a rainy day in California? We don’t get much rain in Southern California, but when we do it pours! Days like that can make it hard to get into the office and go to work. And once you get there, what the heck do you do?

Whether you choose to go into the office or stay home on rainy days, don’t let the day pass without doing a few activities for your business. At the end of the day, you’ll be glad you did.

Photo of real estate agent working at their desk.

Here are my Top 10 Rainy Day Ideas for Realtors:

1. Make a minimum of 10 prospecting calls

Call your sphere of influence (SOI) to see how they’re doing. Ask how the rain is affecting them and their family.

2. Update your Client Relationship Management System (CRM)

Rainy days are a perfect day to update your client database. Add their birthdays, anniversaries, spouse’s name, pet’s names….. Make sure to add the anniversary date of their home purchase. Our Century 21 Discovery agents have a CRM tool through MoxiWorks and have the ability to send email through that system which allows them to see who is actually opening the email.

3. Write and mail a minimum of 10 notes

Sending a handwritten note to people in your database is a nice touch and a great way to stay top of mind.

4. Update your online profiles and bio

Make sure all your online and social media profiles and bios are up-to-date. Update your profile photo and any certifications or awards you have received. Have you claimed your Realtor.Com profile? Claim it and update your profile by adding your photo, contact information and any additional relevant information.

5. Set up an email campaign

If you use a CRM, it probably has the capability to set up an email drip-campaign for your database. (See No. 2) These are a great way to remind them that you are in real estate. Even on rainy days!

6. Review the active listings in the MLS for your city of choice

You want to stay on top of the market activity and the best way to do that is to review the listings in your market regularly. Educate yourself to have intelligent conversations about the market, because you know you’ll be asked.

7. Set appointments to show property

Are you working with Buyers? By reviewing the active MLS listings daily (see No. 6) you will know what’s new to the market and can schedule a tour for your Buyers.

8. Schedule an Open House

No listings? Ask an agent with a listing if you can hold an Open House for them. Once you have it scheduled in the MLS make sure you post it on social media. Also, invite the neighbors to your Open House. Maybe they know someone who would love to live in their neighborhood. Ask them!

9. Write a blog post

If writing is your thing, write a blog post. Don’t have a blog? Ask a real estate blogger if you can write a guest post on their blog.

10. Subscribe and listen to our podcast

For more tips and education about your real estate career, subscribe to our podcast “Discover Your Real Estate Career”. 

Implement some of these ideas to stay focused on your business on those rainy days when you’d rather stay in bed and watch Netflix.

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.