Editorials

I can’t tell you how many times a mortgage broker or lender has called my office offering up lunch or coffee to discuss business.  My favorite tactic, that makes me laugh the hardest, is when I receive information and little “trinkets” like a plastic piggy bank in the mail.  I understand that you’re trying to jumpstart a relationship, but I’m going to let you in on a little secret; this doesn’t work, people!   

I’ve been a REALTOR® for just shy of a decade and I’ve sold hundreds of homes in my career.  Unfortunately, I just don’t have time to sit down and have lunch with someone I don’t trust (namely because I don’t know them).  I’m certainly not willing to hand over my book of business to a virtual stranger to benefit their bottom line.  This is my honest viewpoint and I apologize if it sounds harsh.  But, the truth is, I have solid partnerships with only a few key people.   All that aside though, a phone call like the following would definitely intrigue me…

“Hello this is Bob Broker from ABC Mortgage and I just wanted to double check if you’ve thought about blogging as a way to generate business?”

Now be prepared brokers, you may receive in response, a question to your question similar to this: “Excuse me, what’s a blog?”  Many REALTORS® aren’t super internet savvy nor do they waiver from the typical marketing tactics that they’ve been taught for years and years.  That’s ok, most are seeing times changing everyday.  If you can show them with a few basic steps, how to set up a free blog that you will assist them with; you may just get your foot in the door.  You will also increase the value of your new partnership, if you’re willing to contribute to their blog weekly.  This is a very simple step that will only take you about five to ten minutes each week.

 Keep in mind that many REALTORS®, new and seasoned, are intimidated by all the mortgage programs out there.  Guidelines and qualification criteria are changing daily. We don’t have time to keep up with it all and still successfully sell homes.  REALTORS® need you, and your wealth of information.  How often do you receive articles and information about the mortgage world?  I personally receive several emails a day with information.  Keep in mind, a blog article doesn’t always have to be original.  You can reference the link or article and add your own twist about your local market.  This is a win-win opportunity for you to look like a hero to your new partner while helping them increase their online presence.  Plus, the more often your name hits a blog, webpage or website, the better your chances are of capturing the attention of online home buyers and local folks looking to refinance.  It’s free advertising for both of you.  The weekly update is also an under-the-radar excuse for you to continue contact with your new REALTOR® partner.

I’m sure you’re asking yourself: “Where do I start and what free resources are available out there?”  You may also be thinking to yourself, I need my own blog!  And of course, you should have your own blog before you pick up the phone and offer something you’re not doing yourself.  You’ll be able to offer to cross promotion to all of your REALTOR® partners on your own blog.  The more exposure, the more business it will generate.  I’d suggest offering this to multiple agents in your area because not everyone will follow up and continue to blog.  I’ve tracked that my real estate blog www.ericamcclenny.com  is most effective if I’m blending local events, hot spots, restaurant reviews, market trends- national and local- along with education about real estate.  Keep it interesting, light and helpful and keep it consistent.  Content is key!  Give it time, business will come and the referrals will roll in.

FREE BLOG SOURCES:    
www.wordpress.com  and www.blogger.com

PAY SITE with SEO JUICE FOR REAL ESTATE: www.activerain.com

Erica McClenny is an active Realtor/Broker with eRealty based in Raleigh, NC.  She’s generated over $45 million in sales volume to date.  She prides her self on educating her home buyers and sellers versus selling homes.  Homes sell themselves; customer service is the memory and key to referrals.  Erica also travels to teach “Social Skills: Media Conversation Training” to show other professionals on how to grow business via today’s virtual networking. 

Erica may be reach by email at Erica@triangleliving.com or follow her on Twitter @ericamcclenny or Facebook www.facebook.com/raleighhomesforsale