In this article, I’ll share 11 real estate prospecting scripts plus some actionable tips to help you craft letters that actually get results. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use prospecting letters to generate leads and grow your business.

1. Expired listing prospecting letter

Expired listings are a goldmine for leads since these homeowners already want to sell. Most often, the main reason a home doesn’t sell is pricing. Maybe they didn’t follow their agent’s advice, or their previous agent lacked the confidence to set the right price.

The key is to empathize with their situation and offer a fresh solution that shifts the focus from blame to getting their home sold.

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Dear {first name},

As a realtor of {#} years in the {your farm area} community, I was surprised that your home did not sell. It has {a unique feature of the home} and {a desirable feature of the home} that many {your farm area} buyers who call our office are looking for. In fact, I sold {local comp you sold} to a couple relocating from {city} recently for well above asking. They were in love with the neighborhood, and after my presentation, they also fell in love with the home.

So why did this home sell over asking while yours didn’t? Simple. Most buyers have a hard time imagining themselves living in any new home. Sometimes, we need to nudge them by showing them exactly what a home could look like once renovated.

This is actually a lot easier and more affordable than it sounds. Using state-of-the-art virtual staging tools, my team creates realistic renderings of what your home would look like renovated and decorated to house hunters’ tastes. When buyers see the renderings, their faces light up, and they see the potential in your home.

I would love 10 minutes to show you some of the creative virtual staging and renderings I’ve used to sell other homes in your neighborhood. Let me know if they might work to sell your house for over asking, too.

Text me at the number below to set up a time for a quick, no-pressure Zoom call. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results.

Sincerely,
{your name}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

2. FSBO letter

Homeowners opting to sell on their own usually just want to save money and might not realize all the work involved in marketing a home. Show them the real value you offer by sharing free, actionable advice — using one of our best FSBO scripts to guide the conversation and build trust.

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Dear {first name},

I wanted to congratulate you on your success so far in listing your home on your own. Marketing homes is complex, and I love how you {something they’re doing right with their listing, such as persuasive copy or nice pictures}. That’s something that some agents skimp on, so kudos for doing a great job with it.

That said, your {something they are doing poorly} can use some work, and I wanted to offer some quick and free advice on improving it.

First, you need to {actionable way to improve}, which you can do by {specific way to do it}. If you decide to take my advice, I would love to know how it works out.

Of course, as you may be discovering, selling a home is a lot of work, and the trial and error involved can mean a slower sale or even selling for a lower price. I can help you save time and money on that trial and error, and since I have {#} years of experience selling homes in {your farm area}, I’m confident that the price of my commission will be covered by the higher price I can get for your home.

If you’d like to discuss how I can sell your home faster and for a better price, please text me on my cell below.

Sincerely,
{your name}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

3. FRBO market research letter

Not all sellers are the same. You’ll eventually encounter rental property owners who want to maximize returns. When talking to them, be direct and tell them immediately that you can get them a better return on their investment than they are now.

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Dear {landlord’s name},

I just came across your rental listing at {address of FRBO} and wanted to let you know that you could easily double or triple your investment tomorrow by putting your property on the market.

Even in this market, my research shows that {type of property} homes like yours have increased more than {percentage} in the last five years. However, trends indicate a slowdown on the horizon due to new developments and regulations that may kill investment values.

If you have a few minutes for a coffee sometime this week, I’d love to show you my research in detail. You might be surprised at what your {type of property} is worth in today’s market. Or, if you prefer, text me at my cell phone number below, and I can send you a free PDF with my analysis.

Best regards,
{your name}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

4. Absentee owner letter

The struggle for property owners who don’t live in the area is real. It’s not uncommon for a homeowner to move before they can sell or inherit a property in another location where they don’t live.

These unexpected landlords practically have to hire someone to manage their rental on their behalf. But you can offer a solution to their long-distance rental woes.

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Dear {landlord’s name},

As you undoubtedly know, owning property that is far away from you can be challenging. Problems tend to become magnified by distance and often lead to anxiety and frustration.

Despite current market conditions, my brokerage is selling property briskly. I believe that we can sell your {type of home} in {your market community} at an attractive price.

In fact, we would be happy to prepare a comparative market analysis to show you what you might expect to receive from a sale in the present market without obligation to you. Text or call me at my cell phone below if you would like more information about what we can do for you.

Sincerely,
{your name}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

5. New agent introduction letter

When you’re just starting, there are plenty of ways to prospect, but heartfelt, handwritten real estate letters to potential sellers truly stand out compared to simple Facebook posts. It shows you put in the extra effort, and people appreciate that personal touch.

Check out real estate coach Sean Moudry’s sphere letter for an excellent example — hit your strengths and remind your network that you’re their insider in the industry.

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Dear {name},

If you’re anything like me, chances are you’re only reading this letter out of sheer curiosity. After all, why would someone go through the trouble of writing a letter in {year}? What could possibly be so important that Facebook, Instagram, email, texting, and LinkedIn just aren’t good enough?

Why did I go the extra mile here? Simple. Big changes lead to big opportunities. Let’s start with the changes: Last month, after {years} in {previous industry}, I proudly joined {your brokerage or team}, one of the most respected and talented {brokerages or teams} in {your farm area}.

Now for the opportunities. Here are some of the potential benefits of having a personal real estate insider in {your farm area} that you might not have thought of:

Integrity: I will answer any real estate questions you have with complete transparency and honesty.

Access: I can hunt down information on any property you’re curious about whenever you need it.

Accountability: Since we are personally connected, I have a financial and social obligation to work harder for you than any other agent in {your farm area}. But I don’t want you to hire me just because we are personally connected. I plan to earn your business.

If you have a few minutes this week, I would love to buy you a cup of coffee at {local coffee shop} to talk about the market and how I can help you achieve your real estate goals this quarter, this year, and for many years to come.

Sincerely,
{your name}
{your cell phone number}
{your website

6. Referral request

Real estate referrals are an agent’s honeypot and typically provide the largest pool of prospects they can tap into. When you reach out to your network, you connect with people who already know, like, and trust you, so you don’t have to spend time convincing them how awesome you are.

Reach out directly and ask them if they know anyone who might need your services. It’s also a great way to remind them you’re their friendly neighborhood real estate pro.

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Hi {name},

I hope this letter finds you well. Can you believe how fast time is flying by? It feels like just yesterday we {shared memory or event, like closing on their home}.

I’ve been up to some exciting things in the real estate world, helping people find their dream homes and make wise real estate investments. It got me thinking — who do I know who might be looking to make a move or invest in property? And, of course, you came to mind.

I’m not asking you to pack up and move (unless you secretly want to), but if you happen to know anyone — friends, family, co-workers, or even your neighbor — who’s thinking about buying or selling real estate, I’d be super grateful for the heads up.

Word of mouth is powerful in this business, and I know that if you recommend someone, they must be amazing. If there’s anyone you think could benefit from my real estate prowess, just drop me a line. A simple “Hey, my friend might be interested — I’ll connect you guys!” would be pure gold.

And, of course, if you ever want to chat about real estate, life, or anything in between, my door (or phone) is always open. Catching up would be fantastic. I’ll buy the coffee!

Thanks for being awesome, {friend’s name}. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Warm regards,
{your name}
{your cell number}
{your website}

7. Local business prospecting letter

Entrepreneurs and businesses can become great allies in your community. Show entrepreneurs that you’re a valuable asset by aligning your services with their business objectives.

Engage with genuine curiosity about their businesses and a willingness to provide meaningful support. Focus on building long-term symbiotic relationships rather than seeking transactional opportunities.

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Hey {business owner’s name},

I just wanted to let you know that my team and I are thoroughly impressed with how your company has grown and become such an essential fixture in {your community}. Building a brand that people actually care about isn’t easy, and {your farm area} wouldn’t be as fun without {their business name}.

That’s why I’m reaching out today. My brand has been working on creating engaging experiences for prospective homeowners at open houses. I am averaging {approximate number of attendees} people per open house.

All of them are interested in buying a home in {your farm}, and a warm welcome with your {their product or service} would be an excellent way to introduce them to the community. Adding your services would be an excellent way to welcome our open house guests and allow you to show off your {product they sell}.

What day this week works for a quick call — or better yet, a meeting over coffee at {local coffee house}?

Best regards,
{your name}
{your title}
{your cell phone number}
{your social media and website links}

8. Divorce prospecting letter

Divorce transactions will register high on the emotional scale and require a patient, empathetic approach — traits that newer agents might still be developing. If you’re an experienced agent ready for a challenge, here’s a letter to help you connect with divorce leads and guide them through the process gracefully.

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Dear {name},

Buying or selling a home in {your local market} is hard. Add in the stress and confusion of a divorce, and it becomes 10 times harder. Hire a real estate agent who has never worked with clients who are getting divorced before, and it becomes 20 times harder. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be.

Throughout {#} years working as an agent in {your farm area}, I have helped many clients smoothly navigate buying and selling homes after a divorce. Many of them have said that after their families, friends, and attorneys, they valued my help most. I’ve included {#} testimonials from former clients at the end of this letter.

My {#} years of experience can help de-stress buying or selling after a divorce. Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to help close real estate transactions after a divorce with as little stress as possible:

• Experience matters: New agents are often so hungry to close a deal that they fail to guide you through the process smoothly. They usually end up adding stress when they should be helping to reduce it. With {#} years in real estate, I have the experience you need.
• Integrity matters: Since you likely need to buy or sell quickly, many agents rush you through the process, again, adding stress when they should be helping to reduce it.
• Skills and empathy matter: While many agents just offer empathy, I offer something far more valuable: the marketing, sales, and negotiation skills to de-stress your transaction as much as humanly possible.

If you want to discuss your options for buying and selling real estate or just need some quick advice, you can text me 24/7 at {your cell phone number}.

Sincerely,
{your name and title}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}
{testimonials from former divorce clients}

9. Probate prospecting letter

Like divorce transactions, probate listings come with so much stress and red tape that we generally don’t recommend them for new agents. While it’s true that probate listings tend to sell quickly, dealing with grieving families and lawyers takes patience and a few years of experience.

If you’ve done your homework and feel ready to take on the challenge, here is a letter offering empathy and showing off your agent skills.

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Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. {last name},

I am writing to you to offer my condolences for your recent loss. I did not know {decedent’s name} personally, but having been through this myself, I know how surreal and stressful it can be to navigate the labyrinth of lawyers, paperwork, and red tape accompanying the grieving process.

I know it’s a small consolation, but I would like to help you alleviate some or all of that stress so you can focus on remembering {decedent’s name}. I have been an active Realtor in {your farm area} for {# } years. As you can see from the testimonials attached to this letter, I have extensive experience selling homes quickly, and without the stress of hard-sell negotiating with deal-hungry investors or endless open houses that most Realtors use to find clients for themselves rather than to sell your home.

My promise to you is that I will never waste your time and will always act in your best interests. If you would like to discuss the next steps, please don’t hesitate to send me a text or call me on my cell below.

Sincerely,
{your name and title}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}
{testimonials from former probate clients}

10. Preforeclosure prospecting letter

Preforeclosure letters are not easy to write. But in a challenging situation, your letter and services just might help someone out of a tricky financial crisis when they most need it.

The key to converting these leads is empathizing with their situation and remaining optimistic and realistic. Here is a prospecting script you can use:

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Dear {first name},

I know you’re probably tired of getting letters in the mail about your home, but I am writing to offer you something most are not: hope. I won’t insult you and pretend this situation is easy, or that I have the perfect solution to save your home. Instead, I am offering two simple things: empathy and options.

Empathy: I know this might not sound sincere from someone you don’t know yet, but I have helped many people in your situation get through this process with the least amount of stress possible. I will be your advocate, both legally and as a person with sensitivity and experience.

Options: There are many ways to get through this process quickly and with the least amount of pain. A short sale, which will allow you to avoid foreclosure and rebuild your credit faster, is an option that many of my former clients chose as the best solution. I have extensive experience with the short-sale process and can be a staunch advocate for your best interests. But I’m happy to walk you through other choices if you’re interested.

If you have five minutes and an open mind, please call or text me at my cell number below to chat. It might not seem like it now, but this, too, shall pass. Hopefully, I can make it easier for you.

Sincerely,
{your name and title}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

11. Open house follow-up prospecting letter

Obviously, you want to circle prospect before an open house. But if you want to make a more personal connection with your open house guests, a quick letter — or better yet, a handwritten card — will have an excellent return on investment.

Just remember to keep it light, short, and friendly. Here is an example of a real estate letter you can use for inspiration:

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Dear {first name},

I just wanted to send you a quick note to personally thank you for coming to my open house at {open house address}. It is always a pleasure to meet new people in {your farm area}. I am passionate about serving {your farm area} and I genuinely believe that even small connections at events like my open house build stronger communities. Chocolate chip cookies certainly help!

If you ever need advice about this crazy real estate market or just want to grab a coffee sometime, please don’t hesitate to call or text me at my cell number below.

Best wishes,
{your name and title}
{your cell phone number}
{your website}

7 tips for nailing your real estate prospecting letters

Copywriting is about persuasion and choosing the right words to inspire action. Remember, a well-written letter can turn prospects into clients, while a weak one gets tossed without a second thought. To help you craft your real estate letters, I’ve compiled this list of best practices designed to improve your response rate.

Tip 1: Personalize every letter

Use the recipient’s name and adopt a friendly tone. Make your greeting feel warm, like you’re writing a letter to a friend. A personalized opening helps your message feel genuine, not as if you’re mass mailing.

Tip 2: Grab attention

Try using an attention-grabbing lede in your opening paragraph. The goal is to draw your readers in quickly before they toss your letter out with the recycling. When you use a strong hook to get your reader’s attention early in your writing, you’re more likely to draw them into your story and keep them interested.

Tip 3: Build a connection

Once your reader is hooked and interested in what you have to say, it’s time to make a meaningful connection. Do that by pointing out a challenge your reader is most likely facing and empathizing with their situation. Let them know you understand where they are and how they feel.

Tip 4: Give your unique value proposition

Now that you’ve made a meaningful connection with your prospect, it’s time to set yourself apart from your competitors. Share what you do that makes you a better choice than any other agent. What do you provide to your clients that other agents don’t?

Tip 5: Provide the solution

You’ve introduced yourself, made a meaningful connection, showed empathy for their current situation, and shared what sets you apart from the competition. Now, it’s time to present the solution to the prospect’s problem. If you’re wondering what the solution is, it’s hiring you. 

Tip 6: Include a call to action

Now that you’ve convinced them that you are the solution to their real estate needs, tell them what you want them to do next. This doesn’t have to be sleazy or pushy. Make it simple. Just give them some direction on how to get in touch with you so they can hire you.

Tip 7: Finish like a champ

Be sure to thank them for reading your letter and considering you for their real estate needs. It’s courteous, and you want to end on a positive note. Also, don’t forget to include all your contact information under your signature. Include your website too, so they can learn more about you and read your real estate testimonials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are real estate prospecting letters?

How do I write a real estate prospecting letter?

What is the golden letter in real estate?

Your take

Whether you’re reaching out to sellers, buyers, or investors, a well-written letter can spark conversations and open doors to new opportunities. I hope you’ve picked something up from our real estate sample letters. Do you have unique real estate prospecting letters that convert well for you? Let us know about it in the comments!

The post 11 Best Real Estate Prospecting Letter Templates for 2025 appeared first on The Close.

Keep in mind that not all people celebrate Christmas. Take any of these ideas and apply them to other winter holidays, such as Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year, or other popular holidays in your area.

1. Create a Holiday Lights Display Guide

Compile a list of your area’s best holiday light spectacles to create a handy tour guide for residents. This Christmas marketing idea is helpful and unique while showing off your neighborhood knowledge. Post the guide to your social media accounts, offering it as a free download to grow your email list.

2. Host a Holiday Tour of Homes

This tactic is a charming way to showcase properties. Hold an open-house tour of three to four homes decked out in Christmas decorations and twinkling lights, and consider offering warm drinks, like mulled wine or hot cocoa, and iced cookies to create a welcoming atmosphere. 

Use your real estate Christmas marketing to promote the event on your Instagram posts, Facebook, or other social media platforms. This event will highlight your listings and demonstrate your commitment to bringing the holiday spirit to your real estate business.

3. Organize a Christmas Bazaar With Local Vendors

A Christmas market is an excellent holiday marketing idea for real estate agents who want to create a buzzworthy event. Invite local artisans, small businesses, and food vendors, and include a table for yourself to greet guests and distribute business cards, professional brochures, or copies of a personally branded magazine. 

Ask your referral partners to cosponsor the event and give them a table as well; adding sponsorships assists in covering costs and strengthens your network. Such an event will emphasize your connection to the community and help generate leads as you brighten the holidays.

4. Participate in a Christmas Parade

If your town has an annual holiday parade, make sure you participate! Invest in a banner emblazoned with your brand to walk behind (once you have it, you’ll have lots of opportunities to use it), or dress your agents in branded shirts, jackets, or Santa hats and have them bring their families. You might even want to go all out and sponsor a float to make a big impression. 

While marching to the beat, hand out branded Christmas cards, small gifts, or candy wrapped with a seasonal message. Among the many holiday real estate marketing ideas, this one rings all the right bells with elements that include fun, family, and community involvement.

5. Snap Photos With Santa

Speaking of Santa, rather than letting your clients spend over $30 and wait an hour or more at the mall for a photo with the big guy, why not treat them to a free and easy experience? Hire a Santa for several hours, get the requisite big red chair, and cover the cost of decorations, printed photos, and refreshments, and you’ll have their enduring gratitude.

To further extend the reach of your Christmas holiday real estate marketing, consider opening the event to the wider community later in the day. Promote it on Facebook, directing people to sign up for a $10 time slot. (The form captures contact information to add to your database.) If your budget allows, that fee could become a donation to a local children’s charity or another worthy cause for even more impact.

6. Send Recipe Postcards

A Christmas real estate marketing tactic that’s both thoughtful and practical is sending postcards that feature simple, festive recipes. Not only will such a card bring the spirit of the season into their kitchens, but it will also be more likely to avoid the recycling bin thanks to its value. Check out design platforms like Zazzle for ready-to-send recipe postcards, or create your own through Canva to share your wintertime favorite.

7. Use Holiday Door Hangers

Festive door hangers are among the easiest and most cost-effective holiday real estate marketing ideas for promoting brand awareness before the spring market. They’re easy to purchase directly from vendors like those you’ll find on Etsy or design your own using Canva’s customizable templates. And you’ll save money on mailings, expending only sweat equity as you stroll through neighborhoods to drop them off. 

Include your contact information on each one, and utilize an assortment of Christmas real estate slogans, such as “season’s greetings from your neighborhood real estate expert” or “wishing you a holiday full of joy and a new home for the New Year!”

8. Share Useful Seasonal Suggestions

Share helpful information like ideas for interior decorating, instructions for keeping pets safe from holiday hazards, checklists for key home-winterizing tasks, advice for sticking to a holiday budget, and various other seasonal tips. With how hectic this time of year can be, your recipients will be glad to receive something that helps them streamline their to-do lists while you reinforce your value.

9. Mail Holiday Greeting Cards

Even today, a handwritten note remains one of the most powerful ways to make someone feel truly special. Add specific details to each recipient to personalize your message further, help strengthen your relationship with them, and remind them that you’re not just their real estate agent but someone who values their trust and connection.

10. Host a Cookie Exchange

Invite clients, friends, and referral partners to bring a batch of their favorite homemade cookies to share. Add some holiday music and a bowl of Christmas punch, and you’ll create a lively yet relaxed event where you can catch up, connect, and perhaps even casually chat about real estate.

11. Gift a Turkey, Ham, or Dessert

For a meaningful and unforgettable Christmas marketing idea, consider offering a turkey, ham, or pie to each client you’ve worked with this year. With grocery prices higher than ever, it’s a caring, personal gift that provides the centerpiece for a family meal (literally earning you a place at the table!).

Create a sheet with a place for your newest clients to make their selections and pick a time slot when they can stop by your office to pick it up. Include festive cards with Christmas real estate slogans like “home for the holidays” or “may your home be filled with holiday cheer and warmth,”. This thoughtful touchpoint will help keep you top of mind well into the new year.

12. Host a Holiday Housewarming Party

Did you recently help clients buy a home? Offer to organize and play host at a holiday housewarming party for them and their neighbors. This event introduces them to the neighborhood and you to potential leads in the area.

13. Throw a Holiday Party

My brother, Stephen, owns and leads the top real estate agency in Lynchburg, Virginia. He hosts a blowout holiday party every year with hundreds of people in attendance. The goodwill, reviews, referrals, and new clients he gets make it all worth the cost, but yours can be a much smaller, intimate gathering at your home or a rented space. Bring together clients, friends, referral partners, and neighbors for a holiday party featuring good food and drink and a festive environment, and you can encourage authentic conversations that lead to lasting connections.

14. Support a Toy Drive

Whether alone, with your team, or with local businesses, radio stations, or community podcasts, you can promote a toy drive in your area to create moments of pure, profound joy for children in need. Use social media, postcards, and door hangers to invite your farm area, clients, and neighbors to contribute. This real estate Christmas marketing idea can foster goodwill, build community connections, and generate plenty of new conversations for the new year. 

15. Sponsor a Family for Christmas

Partner with a local charity, church, or community organization to sponsor a needy family, encouraging donations through social media, your website, and postcards sent to your farm. Consider creating a special landing page to list needed items, provide updates, and capture lead information. (Check out Canva’s single-use landing page templates.) This campaign will show your commitment to your community and position your business as caring and charitable.

16. Host a Charity Fundraiser

A charity fundraiser gives you a reason to engage with clients and connect with new prospects, all while supporting a meaningful cause in your community. Among all your referral partners, and perhaps even clients, there’s bound to be a group who would gladly donate products or services. Host a silent or traditional auction fundraiser to sell these donations, then give the proceeds to charity. Some entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar can round out the event.

17. Serve a Christmas Meal for Charity

Work with a local restaurant or community center to present a holiday meal with a prix fixe menu or a suggested donation, pledging the proceeds to a charity in the area. You could also enhance the impact by requesting attendees bring a nonperishable good to help stock a local food bank or a gently used clothing item for distribution to those in need. This holiday marketing idea for real estate agents creates opportunities to connect with the community and demonstrates your commitment to giving back.

FAQs

What is the slowest month of the year for real estate?

What should a Realtor® write on a Christmas card?

Is it better to sell before or after Christmas?

Bringing It All Together

The holiday season is an ideal time to implement creative real estate holiday marketing ideas that connect you to your community and clients. Whether you’re organizing a holiday home tour, sending Christmas cards, or hosting a charity fundraiser, these tactics offer endless opportunities to spread joy and strengthen your network. Embrace the magic of the holidays, connect authentically, and set the stage for a successful 2025.

If you have a favorite Christmas real estate marketing idea, we’d love to hear it. Add yours to the comments below, and brighten the holidays!

The post 17 Christmas Real Estate Marketing Ideas for Your Community appeared first on The Close.

Why Is a Halloween Marketing Strategy Important? 

Fall welcomes change, and that includes change within your business! Use this time to amp up your marketing strategies and fill your pipeline after the hustle and bustle of summer. People are finally settling back into their routines, gearing up for the holidays, and getting ready for the end of the year. Here are some reasons why it’s important to focus on your marketing strategy:

• Client nurturing: It’s important to stay in touch with clients throughout the year; however, involving them in holiday marketing shows you want to connect with them in non-real-estate-related ways and are not just after winning their business.
• Community involvement: Showing your business is a part of the community, not just working in it, will help strengthen your brand image.
• Pipeline preparation: Getting in front of existing and prospective clients could help position you to get a head start on some deals for the following year.
• Brand awareness: Fun campaigns and events are a way to show off your creative side while familiarizing people with what you do and where you work.

10 Fun Real Estate Halloween Marketing Ideas

Open houses are a great way to get some face time with homebuyers and showcase your marketing skills to homesellers. That’s why choosing an open house theme, whether holiday-related or offering specific food and beverage options, is a great way to stand out from the competition. Let’s take a look at some fun ideas for a Halloween open house theme. 

1. Host a Haunted Open House

Hosting open houses is a great way to attract potential buyers who will fall in love with your listing. But the trick is getting people to show up. Aside from proper planning to ensure the word gets out, planning a themed open house is a way to capture attention and spark interest. A haunted open house has the potential to get people in the door who may have opted out otherwise.

• What to do: With the seller’s permission, decorate the inside and outside of the house with Halloween decorations. Strategically place spooky stuff around the house to lead people from one room to another. If there’s something awesome about the house, consider decorating around it to make it stand out even more.

2. Organize a Pumpkin Carving Contest

A lot of people carve pumpkins around Halloween, so this is a great way to get people involved and connect with past and potential clients. If you’re feeling extra generous, in addition to hosting the contest, pre-purchase pumpkins and entice people to sign up to receive a pumpkin to carve. This will help you score some potential leads.

• What to do: Promote your pumpkin carving contest through email marketing, direct mail, and social media. Give instructions on how to submit their entry. In the instructions, ask people to tag you on social media to get even more exposure since their followers will see you tagged in the post.

3. Give Out Branded Candies or Halloween Bags

The holiday season is a great opportunity to plan pop-bys, especially if you have trouble coming up with ideas. Candy is a central theme during Halloween, so it’s extra easy to zone in on a gift. Pick up some of your favorite treats or get branded trick-or-treat bags to give to your clients.

• What to do: Choose between branded stickers to put on candy or little gift bags, or opt for custom trick-or-treat bags that kids can use as they run around the neighborhood. Either option will help to get your name in front of more people and keep you top-of-mind.

4. Sponsor or Host a Trunk-or-Treat Event

Trunk-or-treat events have become a Halloween staple. Hosting or sponsoring one of these events shows support for the community and is a fun way to bring people together to mingle and enjoy candy and costumes. Tape your business cards to the back of the candy you are handing out as a way to market yourself and your real estate services. 

• What to do: If you’re not sponsoring the event but instead organizing your own, consider partnering with a local business, church, or school. This way, you can utilize their parking lot and gain access to their network of people. Gathering your business partners, such as local lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, and title companies, will also help fill the spots and educate people about the individuals involved in a real estate transaction. 

5. Host a ‘Spooky’ Homebuyer Seminar

Homebuyer seminars are a popular and effective way of getting new business. At this time of year, get creative by incorporating Halloween-themed treats and beverages, and decorate the space a little to give it the real holiday feel. Create your event flyers by using a design platform like Canva that has holiday templates to help enhance your marketing. 

This idea works just as well for sellers if you tweak the content—but keep the Halloween marketing slogans! You can even turn this into a fireside chat about investing in a chill, marshmallow-laden conversational setting.

• What to do: Give yourself enough time to get everything ready and spread the word about the event so that people actually show up. Create a presentation that won’t spook your buyers, and prepare handouts the attendees can take with them. Put together a Halloween basket with some tricks and treats to raffle off at the end of the event.

6. Throw a Harvest Party for Past Clients

If you want to go all-out, host a harvest party for your past clients. Showing your appreciation with a fun event is a tried-and-true way to nurture your client relationships. Let’s explore some ways to bring everyone together and make the most of the season.

• Host a bonfire: Roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and tell spooky stories while you enjoy the company of your clients and their families around a fall fire pit. 
• Offer hayrides: If the venue allows, offer hayrides while attendees sip apple cider. 
• Make costumes: There’s a special kind of magic in creating a unique and original costume for Halloween. So, gather some supplies from your local craft or thrift store and let everyone get creative with their own designs.

• What to do: Curate your list of clients with enough time for them to save the date so you will have a head count. Once you know how many people to expect, ask some of your favorite vendors to sponsor the event to raise funds and provide supplies. Don’t forget to take lots of pics the day of the event and share them on social media.

7. Put Together a Costume Donation Drive

Make sure to start this option early so that you have enough time to gather donations and deliver them in time for Halloween. Talk to schools in your community to find out what specific needs students might have, and ask if they would like to partner with you for the costume drive. People will notice when you show up for others in the community, and it will start to solidify your brand image.

• What to do: Ask family and friends in your community to bring new, unworn, or lightly used costumes to your office. Offer a drawing for them to enter while they’re there. Have the drawing after Halloween and announce the winner on social media. In fact, do a live video to draw the name.

8. Hire a Food Truck for Your Neighborhood on Halloween Night

Be the good witch of the evening by hiring a food or beverage truck and providing drinks and light bites to anyone who wants them. Hot cocoa, apple cider, and coffee are easy and usually a big hit. Make sure to hand out your information to everyone who comes to the truck for a respite. You can also put a big sign in your yard announcing your treats. (No tricks here!)

• What to do: Set up the food truck in front of your house and put your open house signs on the corner of the street with a note taped to it directing people your way. Like other marketing options, consider partnering with one of your favorite vendors to split the cost. Showing that you have a team of trusted professionals by your side helps give people a little insight into how you operate your business.

9. Organize a Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are a lighthearted way to socialize. Approach this idea in one of two ways: keep it exclusive to your clients, or open it up to the community to try and generate leads. Team up with local businesses to support the community and get them involved in the fun. It’s a cool way to promote each other. If you don’t have the resources to host your own event, reach out to your local park district to see if they are planning one that you can sponsor.

• What to do: If you’re hosting your own scavenger hunt, determine what you will be hiding and the locations where you will be hiding them. Create or purchase the scavenger hunt cards so you can give them out on the day of the event. Have a meeting point before the event at a local coffee shop or your real estate office, if it’s nearby.

10. Create a Ghoulish Social Media Campaign

When planning your holiday marketing calendar, have a little ghastly fun and let your creativity guide you. Share haunted house stories or Halloween safety tips on TikTok or Instagram. You don’t have to do all the work yourself; there are pre-made Halloween real estate posts available on sites like AgentCrate. You’ll scream with delight at all the options available!

• What to do: Plan a campaign for the month of October including a mix of fun, spooky, and educational content. Schedule posts on various platforms, allowing you to take a “set it and forget it” marketing approach. Just don’t forget to engage with your audience after the posts go live.

FAQs

How do you market a Halloween event?

What is the busiest month for real estate?

What is the slowest season for real estate?

How do you increase sales at Halloween?

Bringing It All Together

These are just a few of the many Halloween realtor marketing ideas you can use this year and beyond. Halloween is a ghoulishly good time for extra marketing that incorporates mischief and mayhem.

What kind of fun Halloween marketing ideas have you tried in the past or are you planning to try this year? I would love to hear about them in the comments below.

The post Top 10 Spine-chilling Real Estate Halloween Marketing Ideas appeared first on The Close.

What Is a Pop-by Gift?

Real estate pop-by gifts are small gestures of appreciation that help you stay connected with your clients. When you “pop by,” you’re not just dropping off a gift. You’re nurturing your client relationships in a meaningful way. These thoughtful gestures help you stay top of mind, build trust, and pave the way for even more leads and return business.

Pop-by Ideas for Real Estate 

With these realtor pop by ideas, create a routine to see your clients face-to-face throughout the year regularly. Your goal should be to keep the gifts simple but memorable and, most importantly, have fun with them!

1. Tea & Honey: ‘Clients Like You Are Tea-rific!’

• When to give: Fall, Winter
• Cost: Around $5 to $15 per pack of tea and honey (+ $.50 per printed tag)
• Purchase: Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack + Honey Sticks from Amazon

Tea has a way of making people feel all warm and cozy inside. That’s why it makes for the perfect real estate pop-by gift during fall and winter. There are so many delicious flavors to choose from, including limited-edition holiday options. If your clients are tea connoisseurs, consider going for a high-end tea. And don’t forget the honey—go for a local brand if you can.

Once you’ve chosen the perfect tea, search online for a customizable tag to add your own branding and message. Pop the tea bag and a honey stick in a gift bag, tie it up with your custom tag, and voila—you’ve got a thoughtful and heartwarming gift. 

2. S’mores Kit: ‘I’m Never Too Busy for S’More of Your Referrals’

• When to give: Summer, Fall
• Cost: Around $18 for kit of 18 (+ $10 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: S’mores Kit—Makes 18 S’mores from Amazon and S’mores Pop by Tag from Etsy

Who doesn’t love the nostalgic feeling of sharing s’mores? Giving your clients a s’mores kit and a cute card will help them think of you as someone sweet. The best part about these kits is that you can keep it simple or fancy it up by including gourmet chocolate and handcrafted marshmallows. This pop-by gift is the perfect go-to option for visiting multiple clients since you can easily make many s’mores kits at once.

3. Heart-shaped Cookies or Chocolates: ‘You Are the Heart of My Business!’

• When to give: Winter, Valentine’s Day
• Cost: Around $3 per cookie (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Heart-shaped cookies from Wicked Good Cookies and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Roses are red, violets are blue, holidays are the perfect excuse to do realtor pop-bys for you. Choose festive heart-shaped cookies for Valentine’s Day and spread the love to your clients and sphere. Even better, order custom cookies with your branding on them! 

4. Bag of Goldfish Crackers: ‘Fishing for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: $9 per box of 20 packs (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Goldfish crackers from Walmart and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Don’t be afraid to couple your pop-by with an “ask” on occasion. Make custom stickers with the phrase “fishing for your referrals,” along with your information, and place them on any fish-themed snack. Switch between sweet and savory by picking up Goldfish crackers and Swedish Fish. This sweet and salty gift idea is a light-hearted way to ask for referrals while showing your clients that you appreciate them.

Pro Tip: While you’re in the spirit of asking for things, consider asking your client for a testimonial that you can use to promote your business. Sometimes, a testimonial will be just what you need to lead to your next client.

5. Packet of Seeds: ‘Thank You for Helping My Business Grow’

• When to give: Spring
• Cost: Around $6 per variety pack (+ $45 for 25 custom seed envelopes)
• Purchase: Seed variety packets from Walmart and Pop by Envelope from Etsy

One of my favorite spring pop by ideas for realtors is a packet of seeds. It’s the gift that keeps on giving! Whether it’s plants, veggies for their garden, or beautiful flowers, your clients will surely think of you as they watch them grow. Get a variety of seeds and order personalized packets to put them in, creating your very own blossoming business cards.

6. Bag of Popcorn: ‘Popping by to Offer an Update on the Current Market’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $6 per box of 12 (+ $.50 per unit for tags)
• Purchase: Popcorn from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When it comes to simple yet delightful gifts, nothing beats a bag of popcorn. Whether it’s microwave popcorn or individual-sized bags, it doesn’t get easier than this. Order custom tags or stickers to attach to the popcorn featuring your personal note and contact information. Keep these tags on hand, and you’ll always be ready to brighten a client’s day with a friendly visit. This gift really puts the perfect POP into your real estate pop by gifts. 

7. Sparklers or Flags: ‘You Add So Much Sparkle to My Business’

• When to give: Summer
• Cost: Around $9 per 6 packs of sparklers (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Sparklers from Walmart and Pop by Tag from Etsy

If you’re looking for sizzling summer pop-by ideas for realtors, this could be the one for you. Buy some sparklers, pop-its, or American flags to create a fun and memorable celebration for your clients. These goodies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. If sparklers aren’t an option, anything with an American flag theme will do the trick. 

8. Small Pumpkin & Carving Kit: ‘I’m Always Ready to Carve Out Time for You’

• When to give: Fall
• Cost: Around $7 per kit (+ cost of pumpkin)
• Purchase: Pumpkin carving kit from Amazon (+ pumpkin from your local nursery)

If you’re stumped for gift ideas, stick with festive and fun. Whether you align your pop-by with an upcoming holiday or choose something seasonal, coordinating your visits with a purpose makes it easier. After all, it’s not about finding the perfect gift; it’s about sharing a warm gesture and building a solid connection. In the fall, pick up some small pumpkins and carving kits, then head on over to your clients’ homes to share the joy of the season.

Pro Tip: Include a note encouraging your clients to tag you in a social media post with pictures of their carved pumpkins to enter a drawing to win a gift card!

9. Bottle of Wine: ‘I Have Nothing to Wine About With Clients Like You’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $8 or more per bottle (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Wine from Walmart (or local liquor store) and Pop by Card from Etsy

Offering a bottle of wine is said to be a gesture of appreciation. While this might initially seem extravagant, it doesn’t have to be. Reserve this option for your loyal clients or those who have referred business to you. There are so many different price ranges from which to choose, allowing you to select the perfect bottle.

Pro Tip: Be mindful when gifting alcohol, as not everyone drinks. If you’re unsure whether or not your client would appreciate this option, choose one of our other gifts to stay on the safe side. 

10. Free Cup of Coffee: ‘Thanks a Whole Latte for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $5 to $10 per gift card ($15 for ten pre-printed cards)
• Purchase: Coffee gift card from Starbucks (or your local coffee shop) and Pop by Card from Etsy

Not all real estate pop by ideas have to include beverages, but we can’t leave out coffee. It’s hard to go wrong with a gift card to a local coffee shop, and it would work perfectly for people who have just moved into a new neighborhood. With this option, you’ll get the added bonus of supporting a local business.

Pro Tip: While it may not be the same as an in-person visit, you can still brighten your client’s day by sending them a virtual cup of coffee (in the form of a gift card) via text or email. This virtual gift is a beautiful way to express gratitude if you’re pressed for time and can’t make it for a face-to-face thank you.

11. Pumpkin Pie or Fall-themed Treats: ‘Grateful for Your Referrals’

• When to give: Fall
• Cost: Around $15 to $20 per pie ($15 for 10 pre-printed cards)
• Purchase: Pecan pie from Wood Pecan Company (or your local bakery) and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Showing your clients gratitude is what pop by gifts are all about. So, lining up some of these visits with Thanksgiving is a no-brainer. Pick up some pies and tie a thank-you note to the pie with a bow, and you’ll be all set! Make sure to time your deliveries close to the holiday so your clients can share the joy with their loved ones. You might even land a referral when their friends and family ask where they got the tasty treat. 

12. Easter Candy: ‘Your Referrals Are Eggstra Special’

• When to give: Spring, Easter
• Cost: Around $2 per candy (+ $7 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Reese’s Easter Egg from Walmart and Pop by Sticker from Chevelly Designs

You can’t go wrong with a simple and easy gift idea that your clients might really look forward to every year! Get your hands on some limited edition Reese’s Easter egg-inspired chocolates (you know the ones!) that only come around once a year, and add a personalized sticker to the wrapper. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you could even put a few in a cute gift bag and throw in some other festive candy.

Whenever you give food as a pop-by gift, be mindful of allergens. When in doubt, avoiding common food allergens like nuts, soy, dairy, and wheat is a good idea.

13. Flashlights: ‘Don’t Be in the Dark About the Real Estate Market!’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $38 per pack of 30 (+ $5 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Mini Flashlights from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

The beauty of real estate pop by gifts is that they’re designed to be small tokens of appreciation that keep you on your clients’ minds. Flashlights may seem ordinary, but they’re a great way to remind your clients that you’ve got their back. They represent your ability to guide them every step of the way. Just attach a card with a friendly note and your contact information, and you’re all set!

14. Lotto Tickets: ‘Lucky to Have You & Your Referrals’

• When to give: St. Patrick’s Day or Anytime
• Cost: Around $2 to $10 per ticket (+ $20 for a set of ten cards)
• Purchase: Lotto tickets from your local store and Pop by Card from Etsy

Let your clients know how lucky you feel to have their support, and spread that good luck by giving them a lottery ticket. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or any time of year, show your appreciation with this fun pop-by gift idea. Get a set of custom cards that can hold your business card and the lotto ticket. Easily grab these whenever you want to stop by and see your clients.

15. Sunblock: ‘Don’t Let Your Friends Get Burned in This Market’

• When to give: Summer
• Cost: Around $38 per box of 24 (+ $7 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Box of travel size sunblock from Amazon or your local dollar store and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Catchy real estate marketing helps set you apart from other agents and gives you a chance to show a bit of your personality. For example, in the summer, give out sunblock with a tagline like, “Don’t let your friends get burned in this market.” It’s simple yet memorable; every time your clients use the sunblock, they’ll think of you. Opt for travel-size bottles and buy in bulk to cut your costs.

16. Cooking Seasoning: ‘From Your Seasoned Real Estate Professional’ 

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $3 per bottle (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Cooking seasoning from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Don’t be afraid to brag about yourself a little! If you’re looking for a pop by gift to remind your clients of all your hard-earned experience, hand out cooking seasoning. Not only is it a practical and long-lasting gift, but it’s a subtle way to show that you really know your stuff when it comes to real estate. Purchase various seasonings and stick a custom label on them, dubbing yourself a “seasoned agent.” 

17. First Aid Kit: ‘Let Me Be Your First Aid for All Your Real Estate Needs’

• When to give: Anytime; or in September for First Aid Day
• Cost: Around $2 per kit (+ $8 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: First aid kit from Amazon (or your local dollar store) and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When all else fails, check out the “national days” that take place throughout the year for some gift inspiration. September is all about safety and national preparedness, but on the 2nd of the month, it’s also “first aid day.” This season is perfect for connecting with your clients, raising awareness, and giving out mini first aid kits.

Pro Tip: Team up with a home security company to amp up your promotional efforts and show your clients that you genuinely care about their safety and well-being. If possible, add an exclusive discount code for a home security system to the back of your card to give them a little extra something.

18. Donuts: ‘Sprinkling Joy & Gratitude for Being a Sweet Part of My Business!’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $2 per donut (+ $6 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Donuts from your local bakery or donut shop and Pop by Tag from Etsy

When you’re creating your marketing plan and scheduling your realtor pop by ideas, you don’t always have to think outside the box. In fact, some ideas are best inside the box. Take donuts, for example! Whether it’s a single donut or a whole dozen, pair them with a card to express your joy and gratitude that your clients have chosen you as their real estate resource. This option also allows you to support a local bakery and build connections in the community.

19. Shout Wipes: ‘Give Me a Shout for All Your Real Estate Needs’

• When to give: Anytime
• Cost: Around $3 per pack of 4 (+ $6 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: On-the-go Shout Wipe from Amazon and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Want your clients to give you a shout? Gift them some Shout wipes, letting them know you’re available whenever they’re ready to buy or sell. Yes, your pop-bys can be this quick and easy! Plus, you might get a thank-you call the next time your client encounters a coffee stain emergency.

20. Hand Sanitizer: ‘If I Can Give You a Hand, Please Call’

• When to give: Winter or Anytime
• Cost: Around $9 per pack of 5 (+ $4 one-time fee for digital download)
• Purchase: Hand sanitizer from Bath & Body Works and Pop by Tag from Etsy

Gifting hand sanitizer is a great way to remind your clients that you’re here to support them with all their real estate needs. It’s a simple and thoughtful gesture they can use often, helping keep you top-of-mind. Purchase hand sanitizer in bulk to grab and go for spontaneous visits. Don’t forget to tie a short note around the bottle to make it more personal. 

How to Send a Pop-by Gift 

When putting together your real estate pop by ideas, don’t forget to think about the best way to deliver them to your clients. While traditional pop-bys involve visiting your clients in person, alternative methods exist. Whether you operate in a city with numerous buildings and gated communities or simply want to respect your client’s privacy, physically visiting each client’s home may not always be an option. 

• Stop by your client’s house: The first option for giving a pop by gift is to actually visit your clients in person. This most personal approach will lead to a stronger connection and bond with your clients.  
• Use a delivery service: If you’d still like a personalized delivery, you can hire a delivery service to bring the gifts to your client’s house for you. This service is not the same as showing up and conversing, but it could be an option if you have a fragile gift that you want hand-delivered when you can’t make it. 
• Put a gift in the mail: If you find it challenging to get to your clients’ houses or work in a location where it’s impossible, schedule your gifts to be delivered via mail. This approach will require you to choose gifts that are easy to mail, but it can still be done. 
• Send a digital gift: The quickest and easiest way to get a gift to your client is to send a digital gift. There are various gift card options that you can send and other online gifting services that allow your clients to select a gift of their choosing.  

As a general rule of thumb, giving your clients a heads-up before you stop by their house is always a good idea. Unexpected visits might not have the effect you’re hoping for. Once your clients get into the swing of these visits as part of your business, they may even start to look forward to them. 

How to Choose the Right Gift

When sorting through realtor pop-by ideas and making a plan for the year, consider the following steps to choose what gifts you’ll send, when you’ll send them, and how much you’ll spend. Planning out your pop-bys is as important as planning any other business task. 

• Decide on your budget
• Categorize your clients
• Decide what holidays you will gift for
• Choose the seasonal gifts you want to send
• Align gifts with market conditions
• Order cards or tags for each gift
• Decide on your delivery method
• Set the pace and timeframe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do pop-bys work for realtors?

How do you make yourself stand out in real estate?

How can I impress a real estate client?

Bringing It All Together

Staying in touch with your people doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. Use these pop by ideas for real estate marketing or to come up with your unique gift-giving concepts. Make connecting with your clients an enjoyable experience; remember, the bond you create is what really counts.

Are there fun or affordable gifts you swear by? Know a great source for nice-looking pop-by gifts? Let us know in the comments.

The post 20 Clever Real Estate Pop-by Ideas to Get More Referrals appeared first on The Close.

I’m talking logos, social media graphics, free stock photos, templates—the whole nine yards. I’m even diving into when to call in the pros and hire a designer. Oh, and did I mention the free Real Estate Branding Guide I’m throwing in? Yep, I’m giving you everything you need to create a brand that’s so good clients won’t be able to resist. So, let’s do this!

Why Graphic Design Matters for Real Estate

Your brand is way more than just a logo or website. It’s the whole package—everything that shapes how people perceive you and your business. The great news is that you have the power to guide their perception by creating a unique combination of messaging and visuals that’s all your own.

Whether we like it or not, potential clients form opinions about a property and the agent representing it based on the visual appeal of their real estate marketing materials. As a real estate agent in a transitioning market, standing out from the competition is critical. But, with the right branding strategy, you can showcase your personality, expertise, and what sets you apart. You can connect with your target audience and build trust before they meet you.

Branding is a powerful tool for your success, so take the time to develop a brand that truly represents you and your business. Watch as it helps you attract your ideal clients and close more deals. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Benefits of Graphic Design for Real Estate Agents

Whether you’re using DIY tools or paying a pro, your real estate business will benefit from high-quality graphic design. Don’t underestimate the power of branding. Spend time defining your style, colors, and the statement you want to make in the world. Great graphic design will create the following:

• Increased brand recognition and memorability
• Enhanced credibility and professionalism
• Improved communication of key information
• Higher engagement rates on marketing materials
• Competitive advantage in the market

As your brand becomes more visible, both online and offline, your business will attract more clients, and you’ll close more deals. So, don’t skimp on the design details of your brand right up front. Invest in high-quality real estate graphic design to gain the most benefit from your marketing strategy. 

First, Establish Your Brand Identity

Without delving into branding, you can’t get too far into real estate graphic design. Now that you clearly understand why graphic design matters and its benefits, it’s time to start building your personal real estate brand identity. 

Establishing the look and feel of your brand is a critical step in creating effective real estate marketing materials. Spend some time on each of these elements to develop a brand identity that aligns with your personality and professional goals.

• MVV: Your mission, vision, and values (MVV) are the core identity behind your brand and all marketing materials you produce. They will help guide you through most graphic design choices you make. 

• Branding: Consistent branding is crucial for real estate agents. This includes using a specific color palette, font family, and logo across all marketing materials to create a recognizable and professional brand identity.
• Color psychology: Colors can evoke up to 90% of an initial impression. You should understand the basics of color psychology and use colors that create the desired mood and attract your target audience.

• Logo: Your real estate logo is the face of your brand and should be memorable, unique, and reflective of your brand’s values.
• Typography: Choosing the right fonts can significantly impact the readability and overall appeal of your designs. Choose legible and professional fonts that align with your brand’s personality.

Once you have established your brand’s color palette, typography, and logo usage, maintain consistency across all marketing materials, including business cards, property flyers, social media posts, and other marketing collateral. This will create a cohesive and recognizable brand identity.

Need a little more in-depth guidance on setting up your unique brand identity? Worry not! We’ve got you covered. You can download our Real Estate Branding Guide and go deeper into all the details of developing a brand that represents you and resonates with your audience. Check it out!

DOWNLOAD YOUR REAL ESTATE BRANDING GUIDE

DIY Design Tips for Real Estate Agents

You may not be a pro real estate graphic designer. Still, you can certainly learn a few design tips to help create stunning images for consistent social media posts, email marketing, real estate infographics, postcards and flyers, and more to keep your brand identity consistent no matter what you need to create.

Tip 1: Use White Space Effectively

White space, or negative space, is the empty space between all your design elements. It’s like the secret sauce to making your designs look clean, organized, and easy on the eyes. Don’t be afraid to give your elements some breathing room.

Tip 2: Create Visual Hierarchies

This is just a fancy way of saying you should arrange your design elements in order of importance. Use size, color, and placement to first guide your viewer’s eye to the most critical information. Make those headlines and key details pop by using larger or bolder fonts to draw attention to them. Use subheadings, bullet points, or numbered lists to break up text and make it more scannable.

Tip 3: Use Contrasting Colors

Using contrasting colors can make important elements stand out, like a neon sign. Use a color wheel to find complementary colors for maximum impact, choosing colors from the opposite side of the wheel. Just make sure your text is still legible—you don’t want people squinting while trying to read your graphics. But caution: use contrast sparingly. The last thing you want is to overwhelm the design and your reader. Focus on highlighting the most important elements.

Tip 4: Align Elements Consistently

Alignment is key to creating a polished, professional look. Use a grid system to keep everything in line. Make sure related elements, like text and images, are aligned to create a cohesive look. Consistent alignment makes your designs look polished and easier to read.

Tip 5: Embrace Simplicity

When in doubt, keep it simple. Stick to a limited color palette and font family for a put-together vibe. Avoid going overboard with decorative elements or busy backgrounds that can distract from your main message. Focus on delivering key information with clarity. Never sacrifice your message for a pretty design.

Tip 6: Use High-quality Images

There’s no excuse for not using high-quality images in your real estate graphic designs. Use professional, well-lit photos that show off a property’s best features. Make sure your images are sized and optimized for their intended use, whether digital or print. If you’re using stock photos, choose ones that look authentic and relate to your message.

Tip 7: Be Unique

It’s great to get inspo from other successful agents and see what design elements really catch your eye. But here’s the thing—don’t just copy and paste. Get inspired, but then create something that’s uniquely you. Put your own spin on it and let your personality shine through. That’s what will really make you stand out from the competition.

DIY Design Tools for Real Estate Agents

Ready to get started designing your stunning real estate graphics? I’ve pulled together a list of some of the coolest DIY marketing design tools to get you started.

Real Estate Graphic Design Templates 

Since you’re most likely not a professional designer, one of the easiest and fastest ways to create your gorg graphic designs is to use templates. Most of the platforms created for DIY design come with a plethora of templates, including some easy-to-customize social media templates you can peruse and customize to fit your brand. Check out some amazing templates I’ve seen in the wild below.

Templates from Coffee & Contracts

Modern market update template (Source: Coffee & Contracts)

Testimonial template (Source: Coffee & Contracts)

Templates library for social media, postcard, and marketing (Source: Coffee & Contracts)

Templates from Canva

Reel template (Source: Canva)

Just listed template (Source: Canva)

Educational post template (Source: Canva)

Stylish, customizable real estate templates for all your needs (Source: Canva)

Templates from Agent Crate

Template dashboard with several posts (Source: Agent Crate)

Engagement post template (Source: Agent Crate)

Educational post template (Source: Agent Crate)

Just sold template (Source: Agent Crate)

Agent Crate produces new monthly content and templates to customize your brand. (Source: Agent Crate)

Inspo: Examples of Real Estate Graphic Design That Slays

Here are some gorg examples of well-designed real estate marketing materials to inspire and guide you in creating your own designs.

Example 1: SERHANT.

If you’re looking for inspo for your branding, look no further than the man who has created one of the most recognizable brands in real estate—Ryan Serhant. This logo is one of my personal favorites for a myriad of reasons. It’s clean. Simple. And confidently stated. It’s simply his name in all caps and blocky letters, but the period at the end makes all the difference. Serhant. Period. See what I mean?

Example 2: The Agency

I know a lot of people on the internet talk about The Agency, including some of us here at The Close. But I can’t help but love how clever this real estate logo is—a bent paperclip in the shape of an “A” and the simple title underneath. It’s so simple, it’s brilliant. The white sans serif font on a bright red field stands out and screams sophistication. It’s a great example of less is more.

Example 3: Compass

Compass has done an amazing job with its branding, standing out as a leader in sophistication and class. Its branding conveys luxury without being bougie and techy without being boring. The simple black-and-white colors are fresh, modern, and stylish, with sans-serif all-caps lettering spaced out just enough to be open and inviting. With Compass, you’re going places. 

Example 4: Aaron Kirman Partners

I love the overt masculinity of this logo—it says power, sophistication, and boldness—definitely traits shared by its namesake. The simple, black-and-white design fits hand-in-hand with the use of negative space on the website. It also fits nicely with the tagline “The Evolution of Luxury.” This logo means business, just like its namesake and the brokerage itself. If you’re looking for powerful real estate graphic design inspiration, this one ranks up there.

How & Where to Hire a Real Estate Graphic Designer

Traditionally, when a business needs graphic design work done, they hire an advertising or creative agency. Sure, that’s one way to get premium real estate graphic design for your business, but you can also hire a freelance designer, which can be more economical. A freelance designer generally works on a per-project or hourly basis. 

Start small with freelancers once you’ve had a chance to check out their portfolio. Hire them to complete a few small projects to make sure they’re a good fit. Have them complete a few different types of projects—for example, a social media graphic, a listing brochure, a real estate flyer, and a postcard. Doing so will help you get a feel for how well the designer takes direction, how often they meet deadlines, and how easy they are to work with. One project isn’t enough to assess someone’s talents. Plus, you will also want to determine if they understand you and your unique brand.

Here are a few places to look for freelance graphic design for realtors, broken down by average cost and design quality. Keep in mind that prices vary based on the freelancer and task. Instead of hunting for one freelance designer, you can also run a contest on sites like 99designs, where you can pitch your project, and multiple designers will create designs. You can then choose the best option for your needs.

Freelancer Website	Pricing	Design Quality
Upwork	$–$$$$	Entry-level to mid-tier
Toptal	$$–$$$$	Mid-tier to expert
Dribble	$$–$$$$	Mid-tier to expert
Behance	$$–$$$$	Mid-tier to expert
Working Not Working	$$$–$$$$	Expert
99Designs	$–$$$$	Beginner to expert
Fiverr	$–$$$$	Beginner to expert

Bringing It All Together

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this ultimate guide to real estate graphic design. From understanding the importance of visual branding to mastering design basics, you’re now equipped with the knowledge and tools to create marketing materials that will make you stand out from the competition. But remember, this is just the beginning of your design journey. Keep exploring, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Now, I want to hear from you! What’s your favorite design tip from this guide? Have you created any killer marketing materials using these techniques? Share your thoughts, experiences, and even your designs in the comments below. Let’s keep this conversation going!

The post Real Estate Graphic Design: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Close.

All real estate professionals think they’re natural-born salespeople, but the cold, hard truth is that most real estate pros struggle with copywriting. That’s why I am giving you 12 real estate copywriting rules that professional writers swear by today. As a professional writer, I can tell you from experience that these rules are a game-changer for writing persuasive copy.

As a bonus, I include a free PDF of descriptive words for selling homes.

1. Transform Features Into Benefits

The easiest way to get someone to act is to appeal to their emotional needs or desires. Studies show that most people use emotional arguments to persuade others without realizing it. 

The only problem is that your listings don’t come with ready-made emotional arguments to persuade a buyer to attend your open house. Instead, you get a list of features. Your job as a real estate copywriter is to turn those features into benefits that will appeal to your readers on an emotional level. Here’s how to do it:

Determine each feature’s benefits that appeal to emotional needs or desires. For example, let’s say one feature of your newest listing is that it’s close to major highways. Here are a few benefits that appeal to emotion:

• Spend less time commuting
• Never be late to work or school again
• Enjoy more time with family and friends
• Easy access to amenities like supermarkets, gyms, and restaurants

Now, go through your list of benefits and pick the one you think will have the biggest emotional impact on your reader. Do this for all the best features of your listing, and you’ll have a good rough outline for your listing description. You can follow this same template to help readers see the benefits of your brand, sign up for your email newsletter, or any other call to action you might feature in your real estate copywriting.

2. Start With a Pain Point, Then Offer Your Solution

If you’ve ever tried to convince a friend or loved one of something, you know that just stating your side of the story isn’t enough. If you want to persuade them, they must know that you understand their side of the story too. 

This is why most good copywriters start by acknowledging a pain point for their readers before presenting their solution. Good copy should get your readers to nod along as they read. Once you’ve built that bond, you come in with your pitch. 

For example, let’s say you’re writing copy for a landing page to get people to sign up for your email newsletter about off-market listings. Here’s how your real estate copy might sound if you focus on your solution without acknowledging your readers’ pain point first:

Subscribe to my off-market listing newsletter today to get a free list of the best listings in Springfield before they hit Zillow. If you sign up now, you’ll get…

Here’s how your copy sounds when you first acknowledge their pain point.

These days, the Springfield market is moving so fast that some homes have multiple offers before they even hit Zillow. If you want to get a jump-start on the best homes for sale, you need to act quickly. My off-market listings newsletter offers buyers access to the best Springfield listings before they hit Zillow. If you sign up now, you’ll get…

Notice the difference?

3. Use Conversational Language

The secret to getting your reader to take action is to build trust with your message. The fastest way to do that is to write in a conversational style. That means writing in first person, using “I” and “you” in your copy. 

Conversational style is like having a chat over a cup of coffee. After all, you wouldn’t use a lot of big, flowery words if you were talking to a friend about a product you love. You would simply say—in common everyday words—how much you love it, what it does for you, and that your friend should get it. 

When you use common language in a conversational style, your readers will feel more like you’re talking directly to them. And that makes them feel like they know you. People buy from and do business with those they know, like, and trust.

4. Tell a Good Story

I spent a lot of time in bookstores picking up books with eye-catching titles and covers, reading the first paragraph, and putting them back on the table. If I got through the first paragraph and were interested, I would continue reading the next paragraph. If the book’s first page kept me reading, that was a sign to buy the book. The same is true for your copy. 

See what I did there? I just told you a short story to keep you reading and engaged. When you start your copy with a story that draws in the reader, you’re more likely to keep their attention throughout the rest of your message. It doesn’t have to be a novel—just a few sentences are enough to share a quick story that gives your message additional impact.

5. Write Without Fear, Edit Without Mercy

How you start is way less important than where you finish. This is why all good copywriters write without fear and edit without mercy. Here’s how to do it: 

Take your list of benefits from my first tip, and just start writing. No judgment, no editing. Just write. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling—you can fix that later. Just focus on your goal. Once you have something down on paper, start editing. Does your copy appeal to your reader’s emotions? Does it address a pain point and offer a solution? If it doesn’t, edit until it does. 

If you lack emotional punch, grab a thesaurus and find more evocative words to get your point across. Is that garden “nice” or a “lush oasis”? If you want a cheat sheet of descriptive real estate words that appeal to emotion, check out my guide to descriptive real estate words here:

6. Write at Least 3 Versions of Your Headline or Subject Line

If you’re writing with a title, you should always write at least three versions and pick the best of the bunch. Here’s why: If your title doesn’t draw them in, they will never read the rest of your copy. 

If you have a hard time coming up with three different versions of your headline, try some of these common headline formulas:

FOMO Headlines (Fear of Missing Out)

• {#} Homes Just Sold for ${#} Over Ask in {your farm area}!
• Here Are {#} Market Indicators That Show Prices Will Explode in {your farm area}
• Owner Says to Sell Yesterday!

Ask a Scary Question Headlines

• Are We Heading for a Recession? 
• Are You Ready to Sell Before Interest Rates Rise? 
• When Will the Housing Bubble Pop in {your farm area}?

Expert Advice Headlines

• When {#} Economists Think Interest Rates are Going WAY Up
• {#} Home Stagers Reveal the Best Affordable Couches 
• A Lawyer Answers Your Most Common Real Estate Questions

Curiosity-building Headlines

• Experts Say Painting Your Home This Color Will Help It Sell Faster & for More $$$
• Zillow Research Says This Month Is the Best Time to Sell
• The {#} Home Renovations With the Best ROI

7. ‘Stick’ With One Simple Idea

This one can be tricky for a lot of agents. You must focus on one simple idea to create a message that sticks with your readers. The way to do this is to figure out who your audience is and what they are most interested in knowing. Craft a special message for them and provide one solution for their big problem. Your audience won’t remember if you try to share five ideas in one message. But focusing on one thing will stick with your readers long after they’ve finished reading your copy.

Let’s say your target audience is first-time homebuyers. When looking at the features and benefits for your listing mentioned in tip one above, which would make the biggest impact for your target audience? Would they be more likely to have young children and be interested in nearby schools? Would they like nightlife and access to gyms, restaurants, and bars? Figure out which will most likely apply to most of your readers and focus on that message. 

Zeroing in on one message instead of trying to be everything to everyone will make your promise “sticky,” which means your people will remember you over the noisy competition.

8. Turn Complex Ideas Into Analogies

We often assume our readers know more than they do. As real estate agents, we’re in the thick of a lot of complexity and use jargon when chatting with other agents in our sphere. But our prospects and clients most likely don’t hear the language of our industry very often. 

The best professionals can take a complex situation and break it down into a one-sentence metaphor. For example: Shopping for houses before you get pre-approval from your lender is like getting married before your first date. 

When you can simplify terms in a way your clients can visualize and understand, it will put you in a position to reach your audience in a way others can’t.

9. Write in Simple Language With No Fluff

If you want people to read what you have to say, your copy needs to go down like ice cream. That means simple words, short sentences, and getting to the point as quickly as possible. Anyone can make a great fact-based argument in 20 pages, but great copywriters can do it in 20 words. The best writers can do it in six.

10. Read Your Copy Out Loud

After you edit your copy, the next step is to edit for style. This is where even great writers stumble. Editing for style is hard. Like, really hard. You can spend hours editing your copy and end up with something worse than what you started. 

Luckily, there is a trick that professional copywriters use to make editing for style easier: Read your copy out loud. Is it easy to read, or did you stumble with some words or sentences? If it’s hard for you to read out loud, chances are it’s even harder for your reader to hear in their head as they read. So read your copy aloud and tweak it until it goes down like ice cream.

11. Use Testimonials as Social Proof 

Think about the last time you bought something on Amazon. Did you check the customer reviews before clicking the “Buy Now” button? We all like the reassurance that we’re making a smart decision, whether buying a new pair of shoes, selecting a good restaurant for dinner, or choosing the right real estate agent to work with. Social proof is how it’s done.

If you’ve spent time collecting testimonials and reviews from your past clients, use them in your real estate copywriting to help your future clients get over the hump. The more social proof they have, the easier it will be to decide to choose you as their agent. 

If you’re creating an email to potential sellers, include firsthand accounts of how great a job you did from your past listings. If you’re writing up a social media campaign to attract homebuyers, share some emotional testimonials from the buyers you walked through to the closing table for the first time. These personal stories from your past clients will make you look like a miracle worker, and you won’t even have to humble brag about yourself.

12. A/B Test Whenever You Can

One of the coolest things about writing copy in 2024 is that you have access to tools that would have cost tens of thousands of dollars 15 years ago. One of the most useful is testing different versions of your copy on a real live audience to see how they respond. 

In the digital marketing world, this is called A/B testing, and it’s the closest you can get to a scientific study of how good your copy is. Remember the three headlines or subject lines I had you write in tip four? Now’s your chance to see which one actually makes your reader take action. 

If you want to A/B test your emails or email subject lines, use a customer relationship manager (CRM) or email marketing platform that offers this feature, like Mailchimp or Wise Agent. If you want to A/B test copy for your landing pages, use a platform like Real Geeks or Unbounce.

Over to You

Copywriting for real estate is a skill that anyone can learn, but it takes practice. Take these tips and implement them in your marketing as a starting point. And continue to educate yourself on these techniques in copywriting for real estate. 

Have you used these tips and noticed a change in your marketing return on investment (ROI)? Did I miss any real estate copywriting strategies in this list? Let me know in the comments below.

The post 12 Real Estate Copywriting Rules Professional Writers Swear by appeared first on The Close.

There are so many great real estate door hanger ideas out there you can use to reach prospects and stay top of mind in your market. I scoured the internet to find creative real estate door hangers to inspire you. Some examples are Canva templates you can customize, and some are predesigned you simply order as is. But they’re all fabulous!

21 Fun Real Estate Door Hanger Ideas to Inspire You

1. Join Our Open House

These adorable hangers will surely stir up some visitors for your open house marketing. Hang these on all the neighbors’ doors, and you’re sure to impress. If you’ve never shopped Zazzle for your printables, you need to get over there and check them out!

2. Homeseller Checklist

I love the use of both sides of this Canva template door hanger. And a seller checklist is always appreciated. Stand out in your neighborhood with these elegant marketing powerhouses.

3. Also Your Neighbor

These adorable hangers, in the shape of a house, can be customized in your chosen color. I love how they have a spot for your business card too.

4. Just Sold Your Neighbor’s House

These elegant door hangers will announce your expertise. Just sold door hangers are a great way to let your neighbors or your farm know that you know the neighborhood.

5. I’m Not Just an Agent

What can I say? I’m a sucker for house-shaped door hangers. And these are simply adorable! They’re the perfect way to introduce yourself to your neighbors, don’t you think?

6. Just Listed

Look how adorable these door hangers are. This is a Canva template that you can customize to fit your style, but who wouldn’t love it as it is? I’m obviously a big fan of utilizing both sides of the door hanger, and this one does a great job.

7. You’re Invited

There are so many creative designers out there creating amazing things for real estate agents. Here is another beautiful Canva template that you can customize with your picture, colors, and more. Use these templates for your next open house.

8. I’m Your Neighbor

I love how the word “neighbor” stands out on this particular hanger. This one gets 5-star reviews from agents who have ordered them and used them in their neighborhoods. Adorable.

9. What Does a House Wear?

This one made me giggle, and I’m sure it will make your prospects giggle too. Who doesn’t love a good dad joke? Grab some of these to use any time you need to add a little boost to your marketing efforts.

10. Hey Neighbor

Here are some more printed door hangers to canvas your neighborhood that will make you stand out from other agents. Pair this with a magnetic business card and you’ll be present in your neighborhood for months. When they need a cup of sugar, they’ll know where to go.

11. I Have Buyers

Ready to stir up some listings? Check out these house-shaped door hangers announcing you have interested buyers! They’re simple, eye-catching, and direct. If any homeowners have thought about moving, your message will certainly stand out.

12. Should You Keep Renting?

Ready to start converting renters into buyers? These smart door hangers are perfect for hitting up an apartment complex. You could even organize a first-time homebuyer seminar and add an invitation to these two-sided customizable templates.

13. Ready to Move?

These gorgeous templates are fully customizable and simply stunning. I personally love the jewel-toned inspo from these examples. What a great way to hit your farming area and your neighborhood to drum up some business. You’ll look like the rock star agent you are.

14. The Holidays in Your Dream Home

The holiday season is upon us. Why not snag some of these adorable door hangers and canvas your neighborhood and farm areas? They’re colorful, playful, and get to the point. These will certainly plant the seeds and help you reap the harvest in the coming months.

15. What Is Your Home Worth?

The thing I love about these door hangers is the QR code. You can easily create a QR code for your listing inside Canva while customizing this template. Imagine tracking the response rate to these door hangers. After all, when you remove obstacles—like having to pick up the phone and call you—your prospects are more likely to engage with your content. 

16. Fall in Love

Ah, fall! The cooler weather, the pumpkin spice, and the natural slowdown of the real estate season make autumn the perfect time to fill your pipeline with new prospects. It’s a great time to canvas your neighborhood with a gentle reminder that a new home is always a good idea. I love how this door hanger breaks down reasons to sell your home in the fall.

17. Buying or Selling Your Home?

These smart door hangers get right to the point with style. Use these door hangers to expand your farm area to neighborhoods you don’t actually live in. Ready to grow your listings? This is a classy door hanger to do just that.

18. Home for the Holidays

What can I say? I’m in love with the adorable, house-shaped cardstock door hangers from MarketDwellings. And these holiday ones are just too precious. I love the colorful font, the fun wintery scene, and the message on the back. Order these and have them delivered to your home before December so you have plenty of time to spread the holiday cheer.

19. Fireside Chat

Can these be any cuter? There’s no place like home for the holidays, indeed. These door hangers look like Christmas cards, and your neighbors are sure to fall in love with them. You can choose your color cardstock, so if red isn’t your brand, choose ice blue, green, white, or your own favorite hue.

20. Happy Holidays

These door hangers are a simple and elegant addition to your real estate marketing. And that’s what makes them awesome. The object is to stand out and be seen in your market over and over again. The more your prospects see your face, the more likely they are to remember you when the time comes to hire a real estate agent. These Canva templates are easy to customize so you can create stunning hangers that represent your personality.

21. Dear Renting, Let’s Break Up

And lastly, check out these wonderful door hangers from MarketDwellings targeting renters. You’re sure to make a lasting impression with these fun yet educational points to help renters become buyers. Who could throw these away?  

Your Take on Real Estate Door Hanger Ideas

Door hangers are a tried-and-true method for reaching your neighbors and farm for a small investment with a high return. You can stay in front of the people you want to work with, and all it takes is a bit of sweat. 

Etsy and Canva have made creating amazing door hangers, among other marketing materials, super easy and fun. And now Canva even offers printing services so you can order directly from inside the site. So, you don’t have any excuses for not doing some canvasing with some of these amazing door hangers. 

And for new agents just starting out, canvassing neighborhoods you prefer to work in, including your own neighborhood, is the perfect way to announce to the world that you’re open for business.

The post 21 Fun Real Estate Door Hanger Ideas to Inspire You appeared first on The Close.

When I knew I needed to make a change, I had no idea which brokerage I would choose, when the right time would be, or where to start. And would people still want to work with me? That’s why I wrote this step-by-step checklist to take away the stress—so that you can focus on the excitement and growth ahead of you! Plus, I want you to feel confident that you can make the switch without losing clients. If I did it, so can you!

But let’s be honest: Getting out of our comfort zones isn’t easy. Still, nothing great comes easy, right? Let’s jump in make sure you’re prepared to make the transition to a new brokerage as smooth and efficient as possible. 

1. Make a Pros & Cons List

Remember, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. If you are thinking about switching brokerages just to get more clients, then my advice would be to sit down with your team leader or broker and have an open conversation with them about your wants, needs, concerns, and goals. If you like the people you work with, and they can support you in achieving your goals, then it may not be time to make a change. 

But if there’s something that you know is absolutely not aligning, and you’d truly be a better Realtor and better serve your clients elsewhere, then I’d say it’s time to make the switch.

I’d like to challenge you to think deeply about why you want to make a switch. Do you want to go from being a solo agent to joining a team, or vice versa? Do you need more support, more advanced technology tools, more marketing opportunities, or more commission? Would you like to place yourself in a different location or niche area? Are your goals and direction not aligned with your brokerage or team anymore? I do believe that if you’re not growing together, then you’re growing apart.

If you find yourself having a lot of back and forth thoughts about your decision, I find it’s best to write it all down. Make a list of all the pros about working with your current brokerage, and then make a list of all the cons. Also, write down your goals for 2024! Do the targets set by your current brokerage align with your goals?

 You can find more insight on knowing when it’s time to make a switch in the article below.

2. Meet With Potential New Brokerages

Keep an open mind at this point. You need to start having these conversations before you decide whether you are making a switch. Connecting with other companies may make you realize you want to stay with your current brokerage.

In Person or Phone Calls?

Have as many in-person meetings as possible. This is a big decision, and in person is the best way to get to know what someone is like and how they run their business. If you can’t meet the actual broker in person, then try a Zoom meeting or phone call. Email is the least desirable option, but may be necessary at some larger companies. 

Meet the Other Realtors

Speaking with other agents in the brokerage is important. Get as much inside information and honest feedback about what it’s like to work there as you can. Ask how long they’ve worked there and about their pros and cons in terms of the brokerage. Also, meet with the team leads in the brokerage—even if you are not joining a team—as well as any other employees they may have (transaction coordinators, office managers, and coaches).

3. Meet With Your Current Brokerage

If you’ve found a new company with more pros than cons, it’s time to share your decision with your current brokerage face to face. I know this can be nerve-wracking, but take a deep breath, and feel confident about your decision. I promise they will respect you for speaking with them in person. 

Don’t Burn Bridges

When giving notice, be honest and open. Thank them for the prior opportunity to work with them. My team lead ended up telling me that I was always welcome to come back if I wasn’t happy with my decision, and so I still have a good relationship with those team members. 

While you do want to be honest about why you’re moving on, there’s no need to burn any bridges. You never know when you could come across an opportunity to work with them in the future. What if they have a home listed that your client is interested in? You’d want to be on good terms, right? 

Deals Currently Under Contract

During this time, you will also discuss details of deals you may currently have under contract or listings that haven’t sold yet. Your contract with your brokerage or team should include details on how these situations will be handled. They differ from brokerage to brokerage, but it’s best to talk them through during this discussion to make sure that everyone is on the same page. Here are some important questions to ask:

• Will my current listings stay with the brokerage, or will I take them with me? If they stay with the current brokerage, you may just be able to continue selling as normal and keep your regular split upon closing. If you were to take it with you, you may need to give a referral fee to your current brokerage. 
• What kind of referral fee will I pay my team lead or broker if a lead from their database calls me to take care of them? It may be tempting to keep this quiet, but if a client from your old database calls you, tell your old broker or team lead right away! 
• How will my sphere-of-influence contacts be handled? Be sure that your personal contacts will be exported and sent over to you in some format that will allow you to take these clients with you. Also, confirm that they will be deleted from any previous drip campaigns or brokerage marketing emails.

Again, these terms all differ from brokerage to brokerage. And you all may decide that another plan outside of those terms will work best for a particular situation. From my personal experience switching brokerages, the deal that I had under contract just stayed and closed with my old brokerage, and they mailed me the commission check as normal. Honestly, the most important part for me was that my clients didn’t feel any shift or lack of care during my transition. 

4. Make It Official

Congratulations on completing (what I think is) the hard part—now onto the paperwork! Here’s a checklist of the little things you’ll need to take care of at this stage:

5. Switching Out the Swag

You will need to give any items you may still have back to your old brokerage, and yes, this includes the lockboxes you forgot you had in the trunk of your car. Don’t forget open house signs, for sale signs, swag, postcards, etc. 

The exciting part is ordering new items! You’ll need new sign riders and swag. If your brokerage doesn’t provide lockboxes, then go ahead and purchase one to prepare for that new listing you’ll be getting soon. Again, this will vary from brokerage to brokerage. Some may provide these items, and some may not. 

6. Schedule New Headshots

There’s something about taking your new headshots that really makes it all feel real! If your brokerage doesn’t have a photographer that they already use, then I recommend asking someone who knows you and can bring out your confidence. Make sure to wear a color, style, and fit of clothing that is going to make you feel your absolute best. Or choose a color from your new brokerage brand colors. If you’re not sure what to wear, then you can hire a personal stylist to help!

7. New Email Signature & Business Cards 

Once you have your new photos, you can order new business cards! If you don’t want your photo on your cards, then you can go ahead and order them back in step five. You can also use your new headshot to set up your new email signature and social media profiles.

8. Finally, Let’s Get Social!

Now for the most fun part of your big transition. You can go ahead and make that social media announcement that you have joined a new brokerage! Of course, you can post stories throughout your entire journey, building excitement in real time and sharing behind-the-scenes footage. But below I’ll give tips on making official announcements over multiple social media platforms.

If you want to use my version as a jumping off point for writing your own, here’s a template you can copy, paste, and edit in Insta:

copy to clipboard

I am ecstatic to join {new brokerage name} and continue my growth as a Realtor!

So grateful for the people that have helped me get here and extremely thankful for the people that are providing new opportunities.

Consistent growth personally and professionally is what it’s all about! This is what allows me to provide clients with the absolute best experience possible.

I’m here and ready to help you with all things REAL ESTATE. Don’t hesitate to reach out!

The Close Recommends

If you’re not sure how to make a big splash with your announcement, check out Coffee & Contracts. They have templates for all kinds of common situations in real estate, including telling your sphere about your big move.

Check Out Coffee & Contracts

9. Set Up Your New CRM

Typically, brokerages already have a customer relationship management (CRM) platform for you to use, but if for some reason they don’t—or you want to use a different one—there are a ton of good options available out there!

As soon as you’re logged in, start building your new CRM! Import your existing list and add in as many family members, friends, business partners, or anyone else you can think of that you had put off adding in to your old CRM. This is a very important step to building your foundation at your new brokerage without losing clients or prospects. 

10. Email Announcement 

Use your excitement to get others excited about their real estate goals! Now that you’ve got your sphere in your CRM, it’s time to send out an email announcement about your big move.

I’d recommend a short introductory video, with a written-out email below it, and a link to your new website. Try to keep the video portion under one minute. Your CRM program should have a form of email blast marketing template, but if it doesn’t, then you should use a program outside of your CRM that is video-friendly!

11. Get to Know Your New Tribe

Time to get to know your new fellow Realtors, if you don’t already! Join your new brokerage text message groups, Facebook groups, team meetings, and happy hours as soon as possible. This is your new tribe, and it will make for a smoother transition for you if you feel connected!

12. More Social Media Announcements

Keep the excitement going! Create another social media post announcement and make it a fun reel or video this time. Below is a boomerang reel I posted on Instagram when I received my new brokerage sign riders. I shot it in my new office (to the song “If You Need Me, Call Me”). This could also be a video of you showing off your new business cards. Get creative!

13. Go Make It Happen, Captain

Now that you’ve completed all the steps and you’re settled into your new brokerage, it’s time to get to work! I believe that you’ll be able to help even more people in the new year than you did the last. If you make a shift the right way and for the right reasons, you’ll soon see that you didn’t lose any clients from making the switch, and you’ve actually gained even more.

14. Pop the Champagne

Oh, yeah: Don’t forget to pop the champagne and celebrate your accomplishments. Congratulations, you did it!

It’s important that you don’t underplay this moment in your mind. What you just accomplished is hard! I realize what it takes, and empathize with you on the pain points of making the change. It can feel as if you’re having to start all over again in a way. But let me remind you that you aren’t. All of your experience that has gotten you to this point will remain as your foundation.

It can also be a daunting thought to have to make the time to switch all of your marketing, complete the paperwork, and so on. But I hope this article challenged you to change your perspective and think about it as an investment of your time in order to create a larger return on investment than you are currently seeing. 

When I made the switch, I struggled with the idea of potentially losing my clients and the connections I had built. But after making the switch to a new brokerage a year ago, I have found that people actually never associated me with the brokerage I was with—they simply want to work with me because they like who I am as a person and they trust me.

I’ll leave you with two of my favorite quotes for inspiration as you start your journey ahead.

• “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.” – Fred DeVito
• “If it’s both terrifying and amazing, then you should definitely pursue it.” – Erada

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