selling

Your Holiday Party Survival Guide (for Real Estate Agents)

By Suzy Lins
October 21, 2025

With holiday parties just around the corner, you know it’s coming…the question every real estate agent gets asked: “So… how’s the market?”

Let’s make sure you’re ready with a confident, informed answer that positions you as the local expert – plus a few holiday party tips.

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Do Your Homework

Before you head to your next gathering, carve out some time to check your MLS for the latest market stats. Most MLS platforms let you pull reports by city or zip code showing New Listings, Pending Sales, Closed Sales, Days on Market, and Average and Median Sale Prices.

These reports help you spot trends and compare data year-over-year or year-to-date. If you’re going to a party in a specific neighborhood, reviewing the numbers for that area shows that you really know your stuff. (And honestly, this is great to keep up with all year long!)

Talk to Your Lender

Another question you’ll probably hear: “What are interest rates right now?”

When you check in with your lender, they’ll probably tell you, “It depends.” Rates vary based on credit score, loan amount, loan type, and debt-to-income ratio. Instead of quoting a rate, ask your lender for a good way to respond.

A great go-to answer:

“That really depends on a few personal factors — but I can have my lender reach out to you with the most accurate info.”

This keeps the conversation professional and opens the door for a potential lead.

Bring Business Cards (and a Digital Backup)

Before you head out, grab a few business cards, but remember a key piece of etiquette: wait to be asked before handing them out. It’s more natural that way and makes a better impression.

It’s also smart to have a digital business card ready on your phone. Apps and sites like Blinq, HiHello, or Online QR Generator let you create one quickly (and most have free versions). That way, you’re never without a way to share your contact info

Basic Party Etiquette

Good manners go a long way, both personally and professionally. Here are a few quick reminders:

  • RSVP promptly so the host can plan accordingly.
  • Arrive on time — generally within 15 minutes of the start time. Avoid showing up early!
  • Thank your host before you leave, and consider following up the next day with a quick text or, even better, a handwritten note.

These small gestures leave a lasting positive impression, which matters in a business built on relationships.

A little preparation and consideration can turn casual holiday conversations into meaningful connections. When someone at the party is later asked, “Do you know a good real estate agent?”, your name will be the first one that comes to mind.

Suzy Lins

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.

Fall Selling Season: What Homeowners Should Know

By Stephanie Goedl
August 21, 2025

The transition from summer to fall often signals a shift in the real estate market. With the school year beginning, many sellers put their plans on pause. For the determined or motivated seller, this can actually be an advantage. With fewer homes on the market, their property has a greater chance to shine. At the same time, many casual buyers step back during the fall months, which means those who are still searching are highly focused and ready to make a move.

Here are some practical ways homeowners can help their listings stand out during this time of year:

Curb Appeal Matters More Than Ever

  • Seasonal landscaping: Keep lawns neat, shrubs trimmed, and add simple pops of color with potted mums, marigolds, or pumpkins by the front entry.
  • Exterior refresh: Pressure wash walkways, clean gutters, and add a fresh welcome mat for a crisp, cared-for look.
  • Lighting: With shorter days, good exterior lighting is key. Update porch lights or add pathway lighting to make evening showings warm and inviting.

Inside Staging with a Seasonal Touch

  • Cozy accents: Layer in subtle seasonal touches like throw blankets, warm-toned pillows, or a bowl of fresh apples or a vase with fall foliage to bring in a seasonal vibe.
  • Declutter and neutralize: Keep holiday décor minimal. A few tasteful pieces can add warmth, but too much can distract buyers from the home itself.
  • Maximize natural light: Clean windows, pull back curtains, and add warm lighting to keep spaces bright and welcoming, even on overcast days.

Pro Tips for Agents to Share with Clients

  • Smart upgrades: Small investments such as a coat of neutral paint, a seasonal wreath, or professional staging services can make a big impact.
  • Price strategically: Homes priced realistically in the fall market are more likely to sell before the holiday season begins.
  • Highlight move-in readiness: Buyers motivated to close before year-end—sometimes for tax advantages—are drawn to homes that are clean, updated, and move-in ready.

Fall is often overlooked, but it can be a powerful selling season when approached strategically. With the proper staging, curb appeal, and pricing, a home can stand out and attract motivated buyers who are eager to find the right property before year’s end. If you’re considering selling, talk with a Century 21 Discovery agent for a tailored plan to make the most of this season’s opportunities.

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 714.626.2000 or Careers@C21Discovery.com.

10 Common Questions About Home Inspections (And Why They Matter)

By Stephanie Goedl
May 21, 2025

When buying a home, there’s a lot to think about—offers, appraisals, escrow, and inspections. For many buyers, the home inspection process can feel like just another box to check. But it’s one of the most important steps in protecting your investment and making sure you’re fully informed about the property you’re purchasing.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, here are 10 common questions about home inspections—and why they matter.

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1. What is a home inspection, and do I really need one?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s condition, typically done before finalizing a home purchase. Even if the house looks perfect, an inspection can reveal hidden issues that could cost thousands down the line, making it a wise investment for peace of mind.

2. What does a home inspection include?

Most inspections cover the home’s major systems and components, including the roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, foundation, attic, and appliances. After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any concerns, defects, or areas that might need attention.

3. What will it cost?

Costs can vary depending on the size, age, and location of the property, but most home inspections cost between $400 and $700. Although it may feel like an added expense, it’s a small price to pay for the valuable insights it provides.

4. Why can’t I do it myself?

Even if you’re handy, only a certified home inspector has the training, tools, and experience to identify structural, mechanical, and safety issues that may not be visible to the average buyer. Their objective report is crucial to making an informed decision.

5. Can a house fail a home inspection?

Not exactly. An inspection doesn’t result in a “pass” or “fail”—instead, it offers a snapshot of the home’s condition. It’s up to the buyer to decide how to move forward based on the findings.

6. How do I find a home inspector?

Your real estate agent can recommend trusted inspectors they’ve worked with. You can also search online or check professional organizations like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) or InterNACHI for qualified professionals.

7. When do I call a home inspector?

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll schedule a home inspection during your contingency or due diligence period. Time is usually limited, so acting quickly is best to keep things moving forward.

8. Do I have to be there?

You’re not required to attend the inspection, but it’s highly recommended. Walking through the property with the inspector lets you ask questions in real time and see any potential issues firsthand.

9. What if the report reveals problems?

Almost every home has a few issues—it’s completely normal. Depending on what’s found, you may be able to negotiate with the seller for repairs, credits, or a price reduction. Your agent will help guide you through those conversations.

10. If the house is in good condition, did I need an inspection?

Yes! A clean report offers peace of mind and can help you plan for future maintenance. It’s reassurance that you’re making a sound investment—and that’s always worth it.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection isn’t just another step in the home-buying process—it’s a powerful tool that helps protect you from unexpected surprises. With the right inspector and guidance from your real estate agent, you’ll be in a much better position to move forward with confidence. At Century 21 Discovery, our agents are here to help you every step of the way.

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.

Are You Ready for the Spring Selling Season?

By Joe Lins
March 21, 2025

Spring has traditionally been the time of year when the real estate market heats up. That was until COVID hit, and since then the last few springs have been anything but typical. Fortunately, 2025 looks to be a return to the traditional spring selling season, where more sellers are ready to put their homes on the market, and buyers are eager to make a move.

As a real estate agent, you need to be prepared to hit the ground running as the weather warms up. The spring market moves fast, and the agents who are best prepared will have a competitive edge. Here are some key steps to get you and your clients ready for a successful Spring Selling Season.

Reach Out to Sellers

Many homeowners have been hesitant to list their homes due to market uncertainties. Now is the time to reconnect with those sellers who have been on the fence.

  • Update Their Home Valuation – Provide an updated Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to reflect the latest market conditions. Show them how their home compares to recent sales and active listings.
  • Refresh the Net Sheet – Give sellers an updated estimate of their potential net proceeds. Knowing their bottom line can be a powerful motivator to move forward.
  • Help Them Prepare – Offer guidance on home preparation, from decluttering to deep cleaning. Connect them with trusted vendors such as painters, landscapers, stagers, and handyman services to maximize their home’s appeal.
  • Boost Curb Appeal – Remind sellers that first impressions matter. Encourage them to spruce up their landscaping, paint the front door, and make minor repairs to create a welcoming entryway.

Additionally, set realistic expectations regarding pricing, marketing strategies, and timeline. Some sellers may not be aware of the nuances in pricing a home, so it’s essential to educate them on current trends.

Get Your Buyers Pre-Approved

With more buyers entering the market, competition will increase. Ensuring your buyers are financially prepared will give them a stronger position when making offers.

  • Confirm Pre-Approval Status – Some buyers may have been pre-approved months ago, and their financial situation or interest rates may have changed. Encourage them to get an updated pre-approval with a reputable lender.
  • Educate on Financial Do’s and Don’ts – Remind buyers not to make any large purchases, change jobs, or take on new debt before closing on their home. These actions can affect their loan approval.
  • Clarify Their Home Criteria – Work with your buyers to identify their non-negotiables versus their wish list. This will help them move quickly when the right home comes along.
  • Set Up Listing Alerts – Ensure your buyers receive real-time notifications when homes that match their criteria hit the market. In a competitive season, speed is crucial.
  • Network with Other Agents – Let your colleagues know what your buyers are looking for. Off-market or coming-soon listings might be a great match.

Get Your Checklists Ready

Having a well-organized system will save you time and keep your transactions running smoothly.

  • Listing Checklist – Review your process for onboarding new listings. Ensure you have a step-by-step guide that includes pricing strategy discussions, marketing plans, and open house scheduling.
  • Buyer Checklist – Streamline your buyer onboarding process. Have a clear roadmap that outlines financial steps, home tours, offer strategies, and next steps after escrow opens.
  • Marketing Materials – Update your digital and print marketing materials, including social media graphics, email templates, and flyers, to reflect the spring market.
  • Vendor List – Keep a list of trusted vendors ready to share with clients, from inspectors to moving companies. Being a one-stop resource enhances your value as an agent.

Watch Your Business Bloom

The spring selling season moves quickly, and the most prepared agents will thrive. By proactively reaching out to sellers, ensuring buyers are financially ready, and fine-tuning your systems, you’ll set yourself up for a busy and successful season.

Are you ready to make this your best spring yet? Start today, and watch your business bloom!

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.

Who Are You Listening To?

By Joe Lins
September 21, 2024

In today’s world, real estate information is everywhere—national news channels, online blogs, podcasts, social media influencers, and even dinner table conversations. With so many sources of information, it can be easy to get overwhelmed or misled. But whether you’re a real estate agent, buyer, seller, or just someone interested in the housing market, one important question remains: Who are you listening to for your real estate advice?

Getting information from the wrong sources can not only confuse you but may also lead to poor decisions when buying or selling property. Understanding where to find accurate, trustworthy, and relevant information is the key to making smart real estate choices.

For Real Estate Agents: Local Expertise Over National Pundits

As a real estate agent, your expertise and reputation are built on the knowledge you provide to clients. One of the biggest missteps agents can make is relying too heavily on national news for market updates. While national outlets may offer an overview of trends, they don’t account for the unique intricacies of local markets. What happens in Florida or New York doesn’t necessarily reflect the conditions in Southern California—or anywhere else, for that matter.

Instead, agents should rely on trusted local sources like their broker, regional MLS (Multiple Listing Service), or local Realtor associations. These resources offer timely, precise data and trends that reflect the reality of your local market. Your broker can provide valuable insights about local laws, regulations, and market conditions that are essential for your clients. Having this localized knowledge will improve your credibility as an agent and also equip you to provide the most accurate information to your clients.

For Buyers and Sellers: Listen to Your Trusted Realtor

If you’re a buyer or seller, your choice of whom to listen to can significantly impact the success of your real estate transaction. Too often, buyers and sellers make the mistake of basing their expectations on what they hear from national news sources or even a family member who heard something on the news. However, California’s real estate market, for example, operates very differently from other parts of the country. News stories about falling prices or interest rates might apply in other states, but they might not tell the full story in your local area.

Buyers and sellers should always turn to a licensed, experienced real estate agent in their community. A trusted agent understands the local market dynamics—like housing inventory, price fluctuations, and buyer demand—better than any broad national report. They can also provide personalized advice based on your unique situation. If you’re buying, they’ll help you navigate competitive offers, while if you’re selling, they’ll guide you on pricing strategy and the best time to list.

Your agent’s insights will be tailored specifically to your market, making them far more valuable than the one-size-fits-all approach often presented by news outlets or online forums.

Why Local Expertise Matters

The key takeaway for both agents and consumers is that real estate is inherently local. Trends, property values, and even buyer behavior can vary widely from city to city, even from neighborhood to neighborhood. Listening to experts who understand your market is crucial for making informed decisions.

For real estate agents, staying connected to local data and continuing education through your brokerage or professional organizations will ensure you are giving your clients the best advice. For buyers and sellers, working with a local agent who has their finger on the pulse of your community can make the difference between a successful transaction and a missed opportunity.

So next time you’re scrolling through your news feed or hearing about national housing trends, pause and ask yourself: Who am I listening to?

By focusing on local expertise and working with trusted professionals in your community, you can avoid the pitfalls of misinformation and make smarter, more informed real estate decisions. Whether you’re an agent advising clients or a buyer/seller navigating the market, remember that local knowledge is everything in real estate.

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.

So Your Client Is an Entity

The Importance of the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure

By Amy Leonhardt
July 2, 2024

Person signing holding a pen and signing a document

Real estate transactions involving trusts require a nuanced understanding of legal procedures, one of which is the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure (RCSD). This document (used with entities such as LLCs, POAs, or partnerships, but most often with trusts) is important when a trust is involved in a real estate transaction because it confirms the authority of an individual to sign real estate documents legally on behalf of a trust. This validation of entity and signer makes the transaction legally binding for the entity, while relieving the individual signer from any legal obligation. If the seller or buyer is correctly identified in the C.A.R. form by entity name and signer name, the full and correct Trust name is provided on the signature page, and the “Entity Buyer” or “Entity Seller” box is checked, then the RCSD is not needed. However, it is often requested by escrow due to one or more of those requirements not being met. To ensure buyer, seller, agents, their brokers, and escrow are protected, your escrow officer may request the RCSD if there are any questions regarding the signer’s legal authority. 

To complete an RCSD, agents must ensure that the trust documentation is in order. This includes the original trust agreement and any amendments that may have occurred over the years. The most recent version of the Trust is needed in order to complete the RCSD and provide for review to the title company. These documents outline who has authority to act on behalf of the trust. Getting these items at the beginning of a transaction ensures not only that the RCSD will be completed fully and accurately but also that escrow documents will be prepared correctly and quickly, with accurate signature lines. The RCSD should be completed and submitted early in the transaction process. If there are any questions regarding the RCSD completion, check with legal professionals who specialize in trusts and estates. They can provide guidance on the RCSD and ensure all legal requirements are met.

By understanding and correctly utilizing the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure in your transactions involving trusts, you can provide exceptional service to your clients, ensuring that all legal aspects of the transaction are handled correctly and efficiently.

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

How to Be an Advocate for Your Buyer

By Joe Lins
May 21, 2024

Real estsate agent handing keys to a home buyer.
Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro

Your primary goal as a real estate agent is to help your clients find their dream home. At CENTURY 21 Discovery, we believe that being a strong advocate for your buyer is crucial in achieving this goal. Here are some essential tips on how to effectively represent and support your buyers throughout the home-buying process.

Understand Your Buyer’s Needs and Wants

The foundation of being a strong advocate is understanding exactly what your buyer is looking for. This involves:

  • Listening Actively: Pay close attention to their preferences regarding location, size, amenities, and budget.
  • Asking the Right Questions: Clarify any ambiguities and ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
  • Prioritizing Their Must-Haves: Identify the non-negotiables versus the nice-to-haves to streamline your search.

Educate Your Buyers

Knowledge is power, and an informed buyer is a confident one. Ensure your buyers understand the intricacies of the home-buying process by:

  • Explaining the Market: Provide insights into the current real estate market conditions and how they affect buying decisions.
  • Detailing the Process: Walk them through each step, from pre-approval for a mortgage to closing the deal.
  • Highlighting Potential Pitfalls: Make them aware of common issues that could arise and how to avoid them.

Provide Honest and Objective Advice

Your clients rely on you to guide them through one of the most significant purchases of their lives. Offer honest and objective advice by:

  • Evaluating Properties Critically: Point out both the strengths and weaknesses of properties they are interested in.
  • Comparing Comps: Use comparable sales to help them understand the value of a property.
  • Advising on Offers: Assist them in making competitive yet realistic offers based on market data.

Negotiate Skillfully on Their Behalf

Negotiation is where your advocacy truly shines. To secure the best possible deal for your buyers:

  • Be Prepared: Gather all necessary information and anticipate potential counterarguments.
  • Stay Calm and Professional: Maintain a composed and respectful demeanor during negotiations.
  • Aim for Win-Win: Strive for outcomes that satisfy both parties to ensure a smooth transaction process.

Stay Available and Responsive

Real estate transactions can move quickly, and your availability can make a significant difference. Show your commitment by:

  • Being Accessible: Ensure your clients can reach you easily via phone, email, or text.
  • Responding Promptly: Address their queries and concerns as quickly as possible.
  • Providing Regular Updates: Keep them informed about the progress of their transaction and any new developments.

Offer Continued Support After Closing

Your role as an advocate doesn’t end at closing. Continue to provide value by:

  • Helping with the Move-In Process: Offer resources for movers, cleaners, and other services.
  • Addressing Post-Sale Issues: Assist them with any problems that may arise after they’ve moved in.
  • Staying in Touch: Keep in contact to ensure their satisfaction and to foster long-term relationships.

Conclusion

Being an advocate for your buyer involves more than just finding the right property; it requires dedication, knowledge, and a genuine commitment to their best interests. At CENTURY 21 Discovery, we pride ourselves on our ability to support our clients through every step of their home-buying journey. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your buyers feel supported, informed, and confident in their decisions.

By becoming a true advocate for your buyers, you’ll not only help them achieve their dreams but also build a reputation as a trustworthy and dependable real estate agent. Happy house hunting!

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.

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.

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.