Contributed by Joseph Chan

The year 2021 has come and gone, but as 2022 starts its march, real estate agents and negotiators need to keep in mind that times have changed for the property market. With the constant changes that are happening due to various factors from the economy to the pandemic, stakeholders in the real estate industry will need to be on their toes.

Challenges will always be present for stakeholders in the real estate industry. However, here are a few tips to keep abreast of things: 

1. Exclusive listing

An exclusive listing is when a property owner enters into a legal agreement with an agent to market the sale of a property within a specified time frame. This means that you will be the sole agent to sell that property without competition. This will also mean that you have to be committed and willing to invest in the sale of the property. 

2. A well-planned MAP 

Each time you meet owners, it is important to present your marketing action plan (MAP) to market the property. Show your background, achievements, marketing methods and testimonials in your presentation. The owners will understand your MAP clearer and be better convinced with a written presentation.

3. Virtual 360 tour 

As developers have already shifted to virtual 360 property tours, real estate negotiators should apply this method since many clients now prefer to view the property virtually. Virtual property tours allow us to filter the clients’ interests because they can walk through the virtual tours as if they are actually viewing the property. Hence, the virtual tour is useful to help them decide on getting which home. In addition, there are still many clients and owners who are not comfortable having physical property viewings. 

4. Usage of drones

Drone videos will give a dramatic view to your video recording, and at the same time, provide an aerial view of the property to give a bigger perspective of the surroundings. Drone viewings give real estate negotiators (RENs) a higher chance of getting leads and enquiries as few RENs are doing it.

5. YouTube 

The second largest search engine is YouTube and its viewing traffic can get you enquiries. These days, consumers will usually browse YouTube to check on reviews and the latest features before buying something. This applies to the real estate industry as well because property buyers will want to know the property reviews and facilities of the area.

6. Marketing template

Social media marketing is now a necessity, and having a good marketing template for your posters, flyers or advertisements will look more professional. A good marketing template will provide a good impression for your business and branding. There are now many excellent websites that provide ready-made templates to suit your desired image.

7. Google My Business 

Google My Business is a business profile on Google that allows you to gain customer engagement and client reviews. It is like having an online store on Google to display your property listing and events. The Google review is important to get your clients’ testimonials and increase your online presence. 

8. A helping hand

As RENs, we have to treat our work as a business. We all are entrepreneurs where we have to grow and invest to expand our business constantly. Having a personal assistant helps a lot so you can focus on sales and networking. A personal assistant can handle the administration parts like advertising, lead generation, social media and income tax filing. This will allow you to focus on the bigger things.

9. Website is your link

Having a fresh-looking website is essential as it gives a good impression on you. Your website should contain your profile, services provided, achievements and testimonials. Having a good website increases your credibility, and you would not need to introduce yourself in great detail when you meet your clients. It is all about building a solid online presence and branding.

Joseph Chan is the co-founder of real estate agency Kith and Kin Realty Sdn Bhd.

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