Everyone is hacking these days—and no, not coughing up a lung. People are constantly finding smarter, more efficient ways to get things done through technology and streamlined systems. For busy real estate agents helping clients buy and sell homes, Agent Hacks can be game-changers, saving time while delivering more value to clients. From using automated tools for scheduling and communication to leveraging data analytics for pricing strategies and market insights, these hacks allow agents to work smarter, not harder. However, it’s important to remember that hacks are not a replacement for thorough research, market expertise, and diligence. Instead, they are value-boosting tools that can elevate you from being a good agent to a truly great one, helping you stand out in today’s competitive real estate market.
Helpful Apps
You are there for your clients, always ready to assist—even though you might set your phone to ‘do-not-disturb’ during the wee hours to catch some much-needed sleep. However, you’re still available 24/7. To reduce the constant calls and emails, empower your buyers with tools that help them take control of their home search. Have them download apps like Zillow and Homesnap onto their smartphones. These apps allow buyers to explore neighborhoods, view listings, and get a better sense of where they want to live.
What’s great is that while driving through areas, buyers can snap pictures of homes they like, and Homesnap will provide instant details about the property and the surrounding area. This way, they can casually explore and gather information at their own pace. Once they’ve identified potential homes, you can then reconvene to discuss next steps, such as setting up showings or refining their preferences. These Agent Hacks streamline the process, saving time for both you and your clients while keeping them actively involved in their home search.
Expand Your Realtor Network
Knowing other agents from competitive brokerages is smart. This hack helps you get on the list for pocket listings. If you have active buyers, you want to give them every advantage to get the home of their dreams without extended bidding wars. Agents who have a strong network of other agents often send out listings for motivated buyers that haven’t hit the MLS yet.
This is a huge advantage for your buyers, who reduce the number of eyes on the house. Plus, the buyers realize the seller is motivated, thus potentially likely to negotiate more freely. Work with other agents to find the opportunities before they hit the market. The bigger network that an agent has, the more chances he has of finding a jewel property before other buyers ever see it. Giving yourself the advantage and letting other real estate agents know you are interested in pocket listings puts you in the driver’s seat.
Require Pre-approval
It’s exciting to gain a new client, but the last thing you want is to spend countless hours working with someone who can’t afford the home they want. When onboarding new clients, develop a thorough intake package that not only captures their home desires but also requires information from a lender for pre-approval.
This approach allows you to have the important conversation up front, rather than later when they’re disappointed they can’t afford their dream home. Take the time to explain what the lender has pre-approved them for and what that will realistically buy in Effingham County and Savannah. Discuss options like move-in-ready homes versus fixer-uppers, and clarify how the condition of the home can impact the loan. Some fixer-uppers may require more work than they’re worth or may not meet appraisal requirements, which most buyers don’t realize. These *Agent Hacks*—such as a streamlined client onboarding process—can save you significant time and frustration, preventing wasted efforts and ensuring you focus only on homes that fit your clients’ needs and budget.
Are you ready to buy an Effingham County and Savannah house? Send me a message or give me a call today to learn more about how I can help you! (912) 695-6932
