Starting a career in real estate is exciting, but the first 90 days are crucial for setting yourself up for long-term success. As a new real estate agent, your focus should be on building a strong foundation, developing essential skills, and establishing your brand. Here’s a breakdown of what you should prioritize in your first three months.
Month 1: Laying the Groundwork
Get Licensed and Understand the Legal Framework
Before you start working with clients, ensure you have completed all the necessary licensing requirements. Take the time to familiarize yourself with local and national real estate laws, contracts, and disclosure requirements. This will protect both you and your clients from potential legal pitfalls.
Choose the Right Brokerage
Selecting a brokerage that aligns with your career goals and offers support is essential. Look for a brokerage that provides training, mentorship, and marketing assistance to help you get started. Some brokerages offer commission splits, while others have desk fees—make sure you understand the financial structure before making your decision.
Develop a Business Plan
Set clear goals for your first year in real estate. Outline how you will generate leads, market yourself, and build relationships with clients. Having a roadmap will keep you focused and accountable. Include financial projections, marketing strategies, and performance metrics in your plan.
Build Your Brand and Online Presence
Your personal brand sets you apart from the competition. Create a professional online presence by setting up social media profiles, a personal website, and a LinkedIn page. Invest in professional headshots and start crafting content that highlights your knowledge and expertise. Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to connect with potential clients and showcase properties.
Start Networking
Introduce yourself to family, friends, and acquaintances as a new real estate agent. Join local networking events, attend industry conferences, and connect with experienced agents who can provide valuable insights. Consider joining real estate organizations such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) to access industry resources and networking opportunities.
Month 2: Developing Your Skills and Generating Leads
Master Your Market
Become an expert in your local real estate market by researching neighborhood trends, property values, and upcoming developments. Knowing your market inside and out will help you position yourself as a trusted advisor. Regularly review MLS (Multiple Listing Service) data to stay updated on recent sales and pricing trends.
Focus on Lead Generation
Generating leads is the lifeblood of your real estate career. Implement strategies such as door-knocking, cold calling, social media marketing, and attending open houses to build your pipeline. Develop an outreach strategy that includes email marketing, community involvement, and referral programs.
Learn Effective Communication and Negotiation
Real estate is a relationship-based business, and communication is key. Work on your ability to listen to clients’ needs, present properties effectively, and negotiate deals confidently. Read books on negotiation tactics, role-play scenarios with colleagues, and learn how to handle objections effectively.
Shadow Experienced Agents
Observing seasoned professionals can provide you with invaluable insights. Ask to accompany experienced agents to showings, client meetings, and closings to gain hands-on experience. Pay attention to how they handle objections, interact with clients, and navigate negotiations.
Start Hosting Open Houses
Open houses are a great way to meet potential clients and gain experience in sales presentations. Prepare well, engage with visitors, and collect contact information for follow-ups. Use sign-in sheets and follow up with attendees via email or phone calls to nurture leads.
Month 3: Building Momentum and Closing Deals
Refine Your Follow-Up Strategy
Consistently following up with leads is critical for converting prospects into clients. Use a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to track interactions and schedule follow-ups. Set reminders for check-ins and personalize your messages to keep leads engaged.
Establish a Daily Routine
Creating a structured schedule will help you stay productive. Dedicate time each day for prospecting, marketing, client meetings, and professional development. Mornings can be used for lead generation and outreach, while afternoons can focus on showings and meetings.
Leverage Technology
Use real estate apps, digital marketing tools, and automation software to streamline your workflow. Virtual tours, social media ads, and email campaigns can help you reach a wider audience. Consider using platforms like Canva for design, Zillow Premier Agent for lead generation, and DocuSign for digital contracts.
Close Your First Deal
By your third month, you should be aiming to close your first transaction. Stay proactive, follow up with leads, and ensure you are well-prepared for contract negotiations. Work closely with your mentor or brokerage to ensure a smooth transaction.
Evaluate Your Progress and Adjust
Review your performance at the end of your first 90 days. Identify what strategies worked well and where improvements can be made. Set new goals and refine your approach based on your experiences. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or clients to improve your service.
Additional Tips for Success
Continue Learning
Real estate is an ever-changing industry, so continuous learning is essential. Take advanced courses on investment properties, home staging, and digital marketing to enhance your skill set. Attend workshops and subscribe to real estate podcasts or newsletters.
Stay Motivated and Resilient
Real estate is a long game, and not every lead will turn into a sale immediately. Stay persistent, keep refining your strategies, and remain patient. It takes time to build a successful career, but consistency will pay off.
Surround Yourself with the Right People
Having a strong support system can make a big difference in your success. Join mastermind groups, seek mentorship, and collaborate with mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and real estate attorneys to expand your network.
Invest in Marketing
Effective marketing can set you apart in a crowded market. Utilize paid ads, email campaigns, and content marketing to generate leads. Consider branding materials such as business cards, postcards, and customized signs to reinforce your presence in the market.
