5 Videos to Attract Buyers

by Debra Hughes

Video Idea No. 1: Moving to [Your City]? 7 Local Insights You Should Know

Now let’s transition to a few buyer attraction video ideas, and this first one will unquestionably establish you as the local expert. What would you tell someone who was moving to your town from out of the area?

I’m sure you could come up with 100 things, but whittle it down to 7 or 10 or whatever catchy number works for you, and then create a video.

You might want to mix in some local flavor like your favorite parks or restaurants along with tactical advice for their move such as what part of town they might prefer, current home price range, etc.

Video Idea No. 2: Buying an Investment Property in [Your City]: 7 Mistakes to Avoid

Working with investor clients is a great way to add diversity to your lead pillars, and making a video like this will surely attract them. Show off your local expertise and showcase your area to connect with locals and potentially attract out of town investors looking to buy in new markets.

Video Idea No. 3: Buying a Second Home in [Your City]: 6 Things You Need to Know

If you live and work in an area with lots of retirees and/or vacation homes, this is a perfect video to create. Walk people through the highlights of your area, what they can expect from the home-buying process, the taxes and local fees they might need to know about, local Airbnb regulations (in case they’re interested in renting the property when they’re not there), local recreation and more.

Video Idea No. 4: What $[Dollar Amount] Gets You in [Your Town]

This one has endless possibilities. You could create videos at all different price points featuring homes currently on the market or recently sold properties to give people an idea how far their money will go in your area. Better yet, create this video starting at the airport, showing them potential places they could stay when visiting town, and then walk them through various properties inside the MLS.

Because of market fluctuations, this video might have a shorter shelf life than some of my other suggestions, but it’s worth it because it’s uber-compelling to those who might be interested.

Once you create this video, I’d suggest you revisit it every six months or so to see if it’s still relevant. (If not, don’t take it down but DO create an updated version.)

Video Idea No. 5: Driving Tours of Every Community You Work

Now we’re getting into some more generic video ideas not necessarily targeting buyers or sellers, but they’ll still get you known throughout your community. This first one is an idea championed by L.A. Rockstar Christophe Choo, who created driving tours of all the West L.A. neighborhoods and all their distinctive differences, noteworthy properties and his insights.

Even if your communities aren’t as glamorous as the Beverly Hills-adjacent neighborhoods Christophe serves, this is a surefire way to establish yourself as a local expert. And the beauty of these videos is that they live online forever, meaning more and more people will find you through them as time goes by.

Simply mount your camera on your windshield, describe the community while driving through it, make any minor edits, and then post it on your website and YouTube for eternity. Then do the same thing for the subdivision next to that one. And so on and so on. Soon you’ll be the talk of the town and widely considered the local market expert.

New Agents • June 7, 2024

7 Hyper Local Videos to Make Today for Sellers!

by Debra Hughes

7 listing attraction videos.

Video Idea No. 1: Selling in [Your City]? Avoid this $25,000 Mistake!

What’s the most costly mistake homeowners tend to make when selling a house? Surely you can think of something compelling. Then make a video about it and tailor it to your market.

It doesn’t have to be long… Grab the viewer with an alarming stat or statement. Establish your local expertise. Explain the problem. Show the solution. Get in, get out… one video done!

Video Idea No. 2: How to Sell Your [Specific Property Type Here] Home for Top Dollar

Does your marketplace have properties that naturally differentiate themselves from other homes? Do you want to get more listings in those markets by positioning yourself as the expert? Then make these videos!

Maybe it’s waterfront homes. Maybe it’s gated community homes. Maybe it’s mountain homes. Maybe it’s golf course homes. Maybe it’s equestrian properties. Maybe it’s all of those and more!

Yes, you’ll need to invest some time researching what makes those properties different, but the vast majority of advice you provide can be suggestions that apply to selling a home anywhere.

By segmenting them out individually, you’ll establish yourself as an expert for those product types and those homeowners will feel you have a stronger understanding of their needs.

Video Idea No. 3: How to Prepare Your Home to Sell for Top Dollar

Simple… I’m sure you give people tips on how to prepare their home for sale during every listing presentation. Or at least once you take a listing and are preparing for showings. Right?Whether they’re major landscaping tips or quick and simple fixes, take that information and make a video from it!

Video Idea No. 4: Selling Your [Your City] Home for the Highest Price

What’s hot in your market today? What drives certain home sales higher than others?

Share the market trends and your tips in an informative video tailored to wherever you work.

Video Idea No. 5: Downsizing Your [Your City] Home – 15 Tips You Should Know

Are you starting to see a pattern here? Take any customer type – in this case, people looking to downsize – and create a video specifically for them that ties to your local market. Pretty simple, right?

Just imagine you’re sitting face to face with people who told you they’ve lived in their four-bedroom house for the past 22 years and they’re ready to sell it and find a condo or townhouse.

What advice would you give them? What questions would you ask? Put it on video and get that advice out into your market!

Video Idea No. 6: Selling in [Your City] & Leaving the State – A How-To Guide!

Again, pretty simple. What do people who are moving out of the area need to do differently than those who are moving within town?

Share your best tips in a video and – if you’re part of a powerful referral network like our coaching ecosystem – demonstrate how you can help them connect with a world-class agent in their new destination.

Video Idea No. 7: Do I Have to Sell My Home in [Your City] When I Move to [New Location]?

Some cities traditionally have migration patterns with others. If that’s the case in your market, make a video specifically advising those who might be considering that exact move.

For instance, I know I’m not the only one who’s recently left California for Virginia, and I would’ve loved to watch a video preparing me for that move. And it would definitely make a positive impression when choosing my listing agent who understands my goals and where I’m headed.

New Agents • June 6, 2024

Writing Your Real Estate Bio

by Debra Hughes

Crafting an effective real estate agent bio is essential for making a strong first impression on potential clients. Whether you’re an experienced agent or just starting out, here are some tips to help you create a compelling bio:

Understand Your Audience:
- Before writing your bio, research and identify your target market. Understand their preferences, needs, and expectations. Tailor your bio to resonate with them.
Craft Your Personal Brand:
- Your bio should reflect your unique personality and professional identity. Highlight what sets you apart from other agents. Are you a neighborhood expert? A luxury property specialist? A first-time homebuyer advocate? Define your niche.
Structure Your Bio:
- Keep it concise and organized. Use short paragraphs or bullet points. Here’s a suggested structure:
  - Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself (e.g., “Hi, I’m [Your Name], a passionate real estate agent in [City]”).
  - Experience: Mention your years in the industry and any relevant credentials.
  - Local Connection: Explain your ties to the community (born and raised, moved here, etc.).
  - Value Proposition: Describe the value you provide to clients (e.g., personalized service, market insights).
  - Contact Information: Include your phone number, email, and website.

Showcase Your Track Record:
- Highlight your achievements, awards, and successful transactions. Mention any impressive stats (e.g., number of homes sold, total sales volume). Be humble but confident.
Add a Personal Touch:
- Share a bit about your personal life. Do you have a family? Hobbies? Pets? Clients appreciate knowing the person behind the agent.
Utilize Templates for Inspiration:
- Don’t reinvent the wheel. Use real estate bio templates as a starting point. Customize them to fit your story and style.
Optimize Your Bio for Referrals:
- Encourage referrals by mentioning that you appreciate client recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful in real estate.

Remember, your real estate bio is like a mini sales pitch. Make it engaging, authentic, and client-focused. Now, let’s get you started on writing your impressive bio!

Social Media • June 5, 2024

Using Instagram Stories in Your Real Estate Business

by Debra Hughes

Instagram Stories can be a powerful tool for real estate agents to engage with their audience and complement their regular posts. Here are some effective strategies to make the most of Instagram Stories:

Behind-the-Scenes Insights:

Showcase your day-to-day life as a real estate agent. Share snippets of property visits, team meetings, or negotiations.
Authenticity resonates with followers, and behind-the-scenes content allows them to connect with you on a personal level.

Buying and Selling Tips:

Use Stories to offer valuable advice to potential buyers and sellers.
Share short video clips, photos, or text with tips on navigating the real estate process. For example, explain the importance of pre-approval or staging a home for sale.

Home Trends and Features:

Educate your audience by giving them an in-depth look at home features.
Use Stories to highlight floor plans, kitchen appliances, flooring options, and other aspects of homes without requiring viewers to leave their own homes.

Client Testimonials:

Humanize your business by sharing client testimonials through Stories.
Feature short video clips or written testimonials from satisfied clients. Let them share their positive experiences working with you.

Local Favorites and Community Events:

Highlight local businesses and community events in your area.
Showcase restaurants, boutiques, parks, and other neighborhood gems.
Tag local businesses to foster connections and reach more locals.

Market Updates and Insights:

Use Stories to share real-time market updates.

Create graphics or short videos with key statistics, trends, and insights about the real estate market.
Position yourself as an informed expert.

Virtual Tours and Property Sneak Peeks:

Take viewers on virtual home tours through Instagram Stories.
Share sneak peeks of upcoming listings or highlight unique features of properties.
Use polls or questions to engage viewers during the tour.

Interactive Content:

Use polls, quizzes, and questions in your Stories.
Ask your audience about their preferences (e.g., favorite home styles, neighborhoods, or amenities).
Engage with those who respond to build connections.

Remember, Instagram Stories provides a dynamic way to connect with your audience, so get creative and experiment with different formats!

Social Media • June 4, 2024

Best Hashtags for Real Estate

by Debra Hughes

Using relevant hashtags can significantly boost your visibility on social media platforms. Here are some popular real estate hashtags that realtors can use to enhance their online presence:

General Real Estate Hashtags:
- #realestate: A widely used hashtag for all things related to real estate.
- #realty: Another common hashtag that encompasses property listings, agents, and industry updates.
- #broker: Ideal for showcasing your role as a real estate broker or agent.
- #forsale: Use this when highlighting properties currently on the market.
- #newhome: Perfect for promoting newly listed homes or new construction.
- #househunting: Appeals to potential buyers actively searching for their dream home.
Listing-Specific Hashtags:
- #[location]realestate: Replace “[location]” with the specific area or neighborhood where the property is located (e.g., #SeattleRealEstate).
- #property: Use this to showcase any type of real estate, whether it’s residential, commercial, or land.
- #homesforsale: Specifically targets potential buyers looking for available homes.
- #homeowner: Relevant for content related to homeownership, maintenance, and tips.
- #newlisting: Highlight newly listed properties to attract attention.
- #openhouse: Promote upcoming open house events.
Branded Hashtags:
- Create your own branded hashtags to build your unique identity. For example, if your name is John Smith, you could use #JohnSmithHomes or #SmithRealEstate. Consistently use these hashtags across your posts to reinforce your brand.

Remember to keep your hashtags relevant, concise, and tailored to your target audience. Avoid overusing hashtags, as it can make your content appear spammy. On Instagram, limit yourself to 3-5 hashtags per post, and on Twitter, stick to a maximum of 2. Happy hashtagging!

Lead Generation • New Agents • May 31, 2024

Top 10 Agent Mistakes in Growing Their Business

by Debra Hughes

New and experienced real estate agents often encounter common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Lack of Prospecting: Failing to consistently prospect for new clients is a common mistake. Agents should actively seek leads through networking, referrals, and marketing efforts. Waiting for clients to come to you can slow down your progress.
Not Building a Strong Online Presence: In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial. New agents sometimes neglect creating a professional website, maintaining social media profiles, or optimizing their online listings. Invest time in building your brand online.
Skipping Professional Development: Real estate is a dynamic field, and staying updated is essential. New agents who don’t invest in continuous learning miss out on valuable insights, market trends, and legal changes. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and learn from experienced agents.
Neglecting Follow-Ups: Following up with leads and clients is vital. Many new agents lose potential business by not staying in touch. Set reminders, use CRM tools, and maintain regular communication with your clients.
Overpromising and Underdelivering: New agents may feel pressure to promise the moon to clients. However, setting unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment. Be honest about what you can deliver and focus on exceeding those expectations.
Ignoring the Importance of Networking: Building relationships with other agents, lenders, and industry professionals is crucial. Networking can lead to referrals, mentorship, and valuable connections. Attend local events and engage with your community.
Not Understanding Contracts and Legalities: Real estate transactions involve complex contracts and legal requirements. New agents who don’t thoroughly understand these documents can make costly mistakes. Invest time in learning contract details and seek legal advice when needed.
Underestimating Marketing Efforts: Simply getting your license isn’t enough. Marketing yourself effectively is essential. New agents who don’t invest in marketing miss out on potential clients. Use both traditional and digital marketing channels.
Focusing Solely on Commission: While earning commissions is important, new agents should also prioritize building long-term relationships. Repeat business and referrals come from satisfied clients. Don’t sacrifice client satisfaction for short-term gains.
Not Having a Business Plan: Treating real estate as a hobby rather than a business is a mistake. Create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections.

Remember, every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay open to feedback, adapt, and continuously improve your skills as a real estate agent!

New Agents • May 30, 2024

How Does a New Agent Get Started?

by Debra Hughes

Starting a real estate career can be both exciting and challenging. Here are 10 essential tips to help kick-start your journey as a new real estate agent:

Start Talking to Your Friends and Family Right Away: Let them know about your intent to become a real estate agent. Many people plan to buy a house years before they’re ready, so being top-of-mind when they need a buyer’s agent is crucial. Develop your network even before you get your license.
Find the Right Brokerage: Look beyond just the cheapest brokerage. Consider the culture, work-life balance, and long-term career development. Choose a brokerage with a good reputation, strong support for beginners, and agents who stay for the long haul. Your real estate class is just beginning. The process of being a real estate agent starts after you get your license, so look for education opportunities.
Treat Yourself Like a Business: Create a full business plan and budget. Decide whether you’ll work part-time or full-time, set working hours, determine your marketing venues, and establish your goals. Set up a separate bank account and create a monthly or quarterly profit and loss statement.
Develop Your Branding, Mission, and Marketing: Your personal brand matters. Create a website, social media accounts, and invest in paid lead generation. Foster relationships with other agents and automate processes where possible. Create one year marketing plan along with your business plan.
Automate as Much of Your Process as Possible: Efficiently manage your tasks, appointments, and client interactions. Automation tools can save you time and keep you organized. Email drip campaigns and regular contact with your database are key.
Create Scripts for Client Communication: Having well-prepared scripts for common scenarios will make your interactions smoother. Whether it’s handling objections or explaining the buying process, having a script can boost your confidence.
Continuously Invest in New Knowledge: Real estate is dynamic, so stay updated. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and learn from experienced agents. Knowledge is your competitive edge.
Connect with Individuals in Your Community: Attend local events, join community groups, and build relationships. Networking can lead to referrals and valuable connections.
Foster Relationships with Other Real Estate Agents: Collaborate with fellow agents. They can provide insights, share experiences, and refer clients. Building a supportive network is essential. Get involved with your local board, as well as your office.
Create a Vision for Your Career: Understand your long-term goals. Whether it’s building a team, specializing in luxury properties, or becoming a top producer, having a vision will guide your actions.

Remember, persistence, consistency and adaptability are key. Good luck on your real estate journey! If you have any specific questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask!

Social Media • May 29, 2024

5 Essential Videos For Every Real Estate Agent

by Debra Hughes

As a real estate agent, creating compelling videos can significantly enhance your marketing efforts and engage potential clients. Here are five essential types of videos that every real estate agent should consider making:

Introduction Video:
- Whether you’re a new agent or an established one, an introduction video is crucial. Use it to introduce yourself, showcase your personality, and explain the services you offer. Focus on how you can help homebuyers, emphasizing the value you provide.
Property Listings Video:
- Showcase your listings through property walkthrough videos. Highlight the key features, layout, and unique selling points of each property.
Client Testimonial Videos:
- Nothing builds credibility like satisfied clients sharing their positive experiences. Record short video testimonials from clients who have successfully bought or sold properties with your assistance.
Educational Videos:
- Create informative videos that educate your audience about real estate topics. Cover common questions, market trends, financing options, and home-buying tips.
House Tour Videos:
- Take viewers on a virtual tour of a property. Walk through the house, highlighting its best features, layout, and neighborhood amenities.

Remember, consistency is key. Regularly produce and share these videos across your social media platforms, website, and email newsletters. By doing so, you’ll establish your brand, connect with potential clients, and stand out in the competitive real estate market!

Social Media • May 29, 2024

Creating Engaging Content for Your Facebook Business Page

by Debra Hughes

When it comes to creating engaging content for Facebook business pages, there are several effective types you can consider. Let’s explore them:

User-Generated Content (UGC): Encourage your audience to create content related to your brand. UGC can be in the form of text, images, videos, or reviews. It not only saves you time but also strengthens your relationship with users.
Humorous Content: Funny posts, memes, and GIFs resonate well with audiences. Humor captures attention and provides entertainment, making it a great choice for engagement.
Current Events: Share relevant news or trending topics related to your industry. Being up-to-date shows that your brand is informed and engaged with the world around it.
Giveaways: Organize contests or giveaways. People love freebies, and this type of content encourages participation and interaction.
Inspirational Quotes and Images: Positive and motivational content appeals to emotions. Share quotes or images that align with your brand’s values.
Native Video: Videos perform exceptionally well on Facebook. Consider live videos, how-to videos, brand videos, and interactive content.

Remember to be consistent, add value, and engage with your audience actively. Mix and match these content types to keep your Facebook page dynamic and interesting!

Farming • Lead Generation • May 29, 2024

Ten Creative Ways to Farm Your Neighborhood Without Cold Calling

by Debra Hughes

Geographic Farming: This strategy involves focusing your prospecting efforts on a specific area or type of client. Instead of relying solely on traditional marketing like postcards and fliers, start with quality conversations. Engage with potential clients over the phone, at open houses, or even face-to-face by knocking on their doors. Building rapport directly sets you apart from other agents who rely solely on advertisements.
Seasonal Postcards: Rather than sending generic messages, tailor your real estate postcards to reference the start or close of a season. This personal touch can capture attention and make your communication more memorable.

Handwritten Notes: A simple handwritten note can go a long way. Consider sending personalized messages to potential clients, expressing your interest in helping them with their real estate needs.

Social Media Engagement: Use social media platforms to connect with your community. Share helpful real estate information, engage in conversations, and provide value to your audience. Consider creating a social media group or webpage specifically for your farming territory.

Celebrate Success: When a property in your farm area sells, celebrate it! Send out announcements for “Just Listed” and “Just Sold” properties. This not only showcases your success but also keeps you top-of-mind with potential clients.

Online Surveys: Design an online survey related to real estate or neighborhood preferences. Encourage your prospects to participate and use the insights to tailor your services and marketing efforts.

Become a Resource: Position yourself as the go-to online resource for your farming territory. Share local news, events, and valuable information related to the community. This establishes your expertise and builds trust with potential clients.

Networking Events: Attend local networking events, church meetings, farmers markets, and volunteer gatherings. These offer excellent opportunities to meet new people and expand your pipeline.

Referral Marketing: Leverage your existing network. Ask satisfied clients for referrals and consider collaborating with other professionals (such as mortgage brokers or home inspectors) who can refer clients to you.

Open House “Micro Farming”: When hosting open houses, focus on building relationships with attendees. Collect their contact information and follow up afterward. Even if they’re not interested in the specific property, they might be potential clients for other listings.

Remember, consistency is key. Choose a few strategies that resonate with you and commit to implementing them consistently. Over time, these efforts will help you establish yourself as a trusted real estate agent in your chosen area. Good luck!

7 Hyper Local Videos to Make Today for Sellers!

Writing Your Real Estate Bio

Top 10 Agent Mistakes in Growing Their Business

How Does a New Agent Get Started?

Ten Creative Ways to Farm Your Neighborhood Without Cold Calling

Home

Properties

About Me

Blog

Neighborhood News