18 Ways to Secure Listings in Any Market

I get it; the real estate game can be challenging. One day you’re on top of the world with listings as far as the eye can see, and the next, you’re scratching your head, wondering where your next one will come from. We’ve all been there. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re hunting for the fastest ways to get more real estate listings, no matter the market.

Well, you’re in luck. This post is all about the 18 fastest ways to get more real estate listings in any market. Think of it as your go-to guide, a treasure map leading you to a world of listings. But before we dive into this treasure trove, let’s set the scene.

Imagine waking up to an inbox full of potential listings. Or better yet, imagine a world where you’re not constantly worrying about where your following listing will come from. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that’s the dream we’re going to help you achieve.

Whether you’re a seasoned realtor or a fresh face in the industry, these tips will revitalize your approach, opening doors to more real estate listings than you ever thought possible.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.

The Importance of Real Estate Listings

As real estate agents, our livelihood hinges on our ability to secure listings. They’re the bread and butter of our profession, the foundation of our real estate business. Yet, getting those listings can often feel like an uphill battle, especially in a competitive market.

But why are real estate listings so crucial? They’re essentially our inventory. As agents, we’re tasked with selling properties; to do that, we need properties to sell. Without listings, we’re like a store with empty shelves. It’s not an ideal scenario, right?

You may think, “I know what real estate listings are, but how do I get more of them?” That’s a great question, and I’m glad you asked. In the following sections, we’ll dive into the 18 fastest ways to get more real estate listings in any market, helping you fill your ‘store’ with an array of enticing properties.

So, without further ado, let’s get to it!

1. Leverage Your Network

Stepping into the world of real estate, the first lesson many new agents learn is the value of their network. It’s a crucial cornerstone in building a successful career. After all, real estate is a people-oriented business. Your connections can open both literally and figuratively doors to new opportunities in the real estate market.

Remember those past clients who were satisfied with your services? Well, they can be an invaluable resource. They will likely refer you to friends, family, and colleagues looking to buy or sell property. And remember your contacts, too. They might know someone who knows someone in need of a dedicated real estate agent.

Finally, always be open to making new connections. Whether at industry events, local gatherings, or even in the grocery store line, every interaction is a chance to expand your network. In essence, leveraging your network is all about making the most of your interpersonal relationships and transforming them into opportunities in the real estate market. So, don’t be shy – reach out, connect, and watch your listings grow.

2. Online Marketing

In today’s digital age, online marketing is a tool that most real estate agents need to pay attention to. It’s like a megaphone, amplifying your message to reach a broader audience in the real estate market. Strategic digital advertising can attract more potential clients and increase listings.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) plays a pivotal role in this. It’s crucial to optimize your real estate website and content for search engines. Doing so will enhance the likelihood of your brand appearing in search results, increasing business opportunities. Think of SEO as the lighthouse that guides new clients to your digital doorstep.

Remember, your past clients are also online. By maintaining a robust online presence, you remain in their purview. This visibility increases the likelihood of referrals and repeats business. So, dive into the digital world and harness the power of online marketing to secure more listings. It’s a game-changer.

3. Social Media Promotion

Each platform, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter, offers unique benefits. For instance, Instagram’s visual focus is perfect for showcasing property photos, while LinkedIn’s professional network can help you connect with other agents and potential clients. Therefore, understanding the nuances of each platform can significantly boost your reach in the real estate market.

Remember to engage with your audience regularly. Answer your audience’s questions, respond to comments, and appreciate their interactions. This engagement can foster a sense of community, making past clients more likely to recommend you to others, leading to more listings.

4. Digital Door Knocking

Digital door knocking is the modern twist on a classic tactic. As real estate professionals, we’re no strangers to the traditional method of door knocking – introducing ourselves to homeowners in the hopes of finding new listings. However, in our increasingly digital world, this approach has evolved.

Through platforms such as social media, email, and even LinkedIn, real estate agents can now ‘knock’ on digital doors. This tactic allows you to reach out directly to potential clients in the real estate market, showcasing your services and listings in their inboxes or social media feeds.

Remember, the key to successful digital door-knocking is personalization. Tailor your message to the recipient, showing them you’ve done your homework and you genuinely care. This personal touch could make all the difference, turning potential leads into solid listings. So, put on your virtual walking shoes and knock on those digital doors!

5. Direct Mail Campaigns

Direct mail campaigns seem old-school in the digital age but still pack a powerful punch. Many local real estate agents have generated more listings and secured a solid footing in their market through effective direct mail campaigns.

Here’s an interesting fact: did you know that direct mail gets an ROI of 112%? That’s the highest across all mediums.

If done correctly, direct mail campaigns can help you reach potential clients directly in their homes, reminding them that you’re their local real estate professional ready to help with their real estate needs. So, take into account the power of a well-crafted postcard or letter. It could be the key to securing more listings and growing your real estate business​.

6. Host Open Houses 

Hosting open houses is a time-tested strategy for attracting potential clients and securing listings. These events are a fantastic way to showcase current listings, engage with potential buyers, and make a memorable impression. It’s all about putting your best foot forward as a real estate agent and letting your professionalism shine.

But open houses aren’t just about selling the property at hand. They’re also networking events, allowing you to meet other real estate agents, potential clients, and neighbors who might be considering selling their homes. You never know; your extensive listing could be just a conversation away at an open house.

Finally, remember that hosting an open house is also about listening. Attendees will often share their needs and want in a property, providing valuable insights that can help you tailor your approach and secure listings in the future.

7. Probate Listings 

Probate listings can be a lesser-known avenue for real estate agents to secure listings. These properties are sold as part of an estate after the owner’s death. While it may be a sensitive area, it requires the expertise of real estate professionals to navigate.

Probate listings often come to the market under unique circumstances and may be less competitive than traditional listings. It can create opportunities for real estate agents who are knowledgeable and sensitive in handling such situations. It’s about offering a valuable service during a challenging time for the family involved.

Remember, dealing with probate listings requires particular tact and empathy, given the circumstances. If you approach these listings with care, respect, and professionalism, you can help families through a complex process while expanding your portfolio in the real estate market.

8. Expired Listings

Expired listings can be a gold mine for proactive real estate agents. These properties were once on the market but didn’t sell during the listing period. Homeowners are often still eager to sell, making these listings a ripe opportunity for the best real estate agents who know how to approach them.

Cold-calling owners can be an effective strategy. You’re offering them a second chance, a new perspective, and potentially better results. With your expertise as a real estate professional, you could be the answer they’ve been looking for.

Remember, it’s all about how you approach these potential clients. Show empathy, demonstrate your understanding of the market, and assure them that with your help, their property can be the next on your list of successful existing listings.

9. For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Listings

For Sale By Owner, or FSBO, listings present an excellent opportunity for real estate agents to demonstrate their value. Often, homeowners who initially try to sell their properties on their own soon realize that it’s no walk in the park. Home selling can be complex, from marketing and negotiations to managing contracts and paperwork, even for the savviest of sellers.

As a real estate agent, reaching out to the FSBO seller could be your chance to showcase how your expertise can make the process smoother and potentially more profitable for them. Just like with expired listings, it’s all about your approach. Be empathetic, highlight the benefits of working with a real estate professional, and offer your services.

Remember, even the best real estate agents had to start somewhere. So if you’re a new real estate agent, don’t be intimidated by FSBO listings. They could be your ticket to building your real estate team’s portfolio of successful existing listings.

10. Local Sponsorships and Community Events

Sponsoring local events and participating in community activities can do wonders for your visibility as a real estate agent. It’s a brilliant way to engage with your community, showcase your commitment to the area, and let people know you’re the go-to expert for their real estate needs.

Community members will likely remember that friendly face who helped sponsor their child’s school fair or the charity run they participated in. And when they’re ready to find their dream home or get the best deal on their property, who do you think they’ll call?

So, don’t hesitate to put your best foot forward in your community. As one of the area’s real estate agents or teams, you’ll make a positive impact while building a solid reputation and fostering potential leads.

11. Real Estate Seminars and Webinars

Hosting real estate seminars or webinars is a fantastic way to position yourself as an expert. It’s not just about imparting knowledge but also about building relationships with potential clients. You’re providing value and demonstrating your competence by sharing insights about the real estate market and the home-buying process.

Think about it: you’re not just a real estate agent but a trusted advisor who can guide them to their dream home or help them get the best deal on their property. It’s a perfect opportunity to showcase your skills and expertise to a broader audience.

So whether you’re part of a team or a solo agent, take the initiative. Organize a seminar or a webinar, share your knowledge, and watch as the pool of potential clients grows.

12. Partnership with Local Businesses

Partnering with local businesses can be a win-win for everyone involved, especially for a savvy real estate agent like you. Establishing these relationships can increase your visibility, reinforce your local expertise, and potentially lead to listings. It’s all about building a supportive community.

This strategy can also encourage repeat customers. Clients who see you supporting local businesses may appreciate your community involvement and choose to work with you again. So, pay attention to the power of local business partnerships in expanding your reach and enhancing your real estate business.

13. Farming a Specific Area

Farming a specific area is a tried and true strategy that many successful real estate agents use. The concept is simple but effective: you focus your marketing efforts on a particular neighborhood or area, establishing yourself as the go-to expert for real estate needs in that locale.

Concentrating your energy and resources, you can better understand the market trends, property values, and potential buyers or sellers in that area. This targeted approach can lead to new listings and repeat customers as residents recognize and trust your name.

So, consider adopting this strategy whether you’re a solo agent or a team member. Start sharing relevant content on your real estate website, host local events, and get involved in the community. Before you know it, you’ll be the first person people think of when looking to buy or sell in the area.

14. Consistent Follow-Ups

One of the secrets to securing additional listings, even in a low inventory market, is mastering the art of consistent follow-ups. It’s too easy for potential clients to fall through the cracks if you’re not regularly checking in and reminding them of your services.

As a part of a successful team or as an individual agent, it’s crucial to stay in mind with your contacts. It could be through a monthly newsletter, personalized emails, or a friendly check-in call. Remember, today’s casual contact could be tomorrow’s new listing!

Consistent follow-ups not only remind potential clients that you’re there for them, but they also build trust. It shows you’re a dedicated professional ready and eager to help them navigate the real estate market. Trust me; your persistence will pay off in the form of repeat customers and a steady stream of new listings.

15. Join Online Communities Like BiggerPockets.com

If you’re a new agent trying to gain a foothold in your local market, joining a platform like BiggerPockets.com can be a game-changer. It’s a community filled with real estate professionals and enthusiasts who share insights, advice, and opportunities.

Being part of such a network can give you access to a wealth of knowledge and aid you in staying updated on the latest market trends. So, don’t hesitate. Join BiggerPockets.com and immerse yourself in the vibrant community of real estate experts. The following extensive listing could be a discussion thread away!

16. Work with Investors

Teaming up with investors can be a profitable strategy for listing agents. Investors always search for lucrative properties and rely on agents with a deep market understanding.

You can attract investors and increase your listings by showcasing your expertise on social media platforms and demonstrating your ability to find properties that offer a good return on investment. Investors often buy multiple properties, meaning one successful collaboration could lead to numerous listings.

17. Google Business Profile

Maintaining a robust online presence is crucial for any business in today’s digital age, and real estate is no exception. A Google Business Profile can significantly enhance your visibility as a real estate agent.

This profile allows potential clients to find you easily when they search for real estate agents on Google. Just as you use social media platforms to reach out to your audience, a Google Business Profile can help you tap into a more comprehensive network of potential clients, boosting your opportunities for more listings.

18. Consider Listening To Podcasts or YouTube Channels About Real Estate

We all know learning is a lifelong journey, especially in the fast-paced world of real estate. To stay on top of the game and find new strategies for generating seller leads, consider tuning into podcasts or YouTube channels dedicated to real estate.

These platforms are rich in content, offering everything from market trends and investment tips to interviews with successful real estate professionals. Regularly absorbing the real estate content expands your knowledge and perhaps discovering your next big strategy for gaining additional listings. Remember, every bit of information can give you an edge regarding real estate.

Conclusion

As we navigate these diverse strategies, it becomes evident that the real estate market is a dynamic landscape that demands agility, creativity, and strategic thinking. Each method is vital in constructing a successful real estate business, from leveraging your network to digital door-knocking.

If digital door-knocking piqued your interest, you’re in for a treat. I’ve penned a comprehensive blog post about the importance of digital door-knocking and handpicked software to aid real estate agents. This post dives into the profound impact this approach can have on your business and how these tools can streamline your work. So, why not give it a read? It’s time to explore how the next door you knock on could lead to your most extensive listing.

Ready to revolutionize your real estate journey? Dive right in!