Published on: 10 December 2020
Last Updated on: 11 September 2024
Being a real estate agent is already a tough job. With so many agents in the market, competition is fierce. Agents must do their best to win market share.However, in today’s market, traditional direct marketing strategies are less effective. Hard-earned cash is spent on Facebook and Google ads, yielding little return. The ROI of direct marketing strategies is increasingly unsatisfactory.This decline doesn’t appear to be a one-time issue. A meaningful trend seems to be emerging: the audience is overwhelmed with too many marketing messages.They’ve started ignoring repetitive, uninspiring ads. It’s frustrating, especially for new agents lacking the advantages of word-of-mouth and referrals. Yet, repeating old strategies won’t fix the problem.To turn this around, agents should think from the audience’s perspective.
The Root of the Problem: Bad Content
Real estate, like any business, is flooded with repetitive marketing messages. Most agents claim to be the best but offer the same content. A quick glance at social media and Google ads reveals most ads focus on agents themselves. Few consider what clients truly need.In 1996, Bill Gates said, "Content is king." He saw the internet’s potential early on, predicting content would be its foundation. Today, content indeed reigns. Audiences are tired of ads offering nothing new. Content is the key to standing out. But creating content isn’t enough creating great content is what matters.What is great content? Simply put, it’s what your audience is searching for. It addresses their needs and concerns. Real estate can be complex for homebuyers and sellers. They have questions and want expert guidance. Agents who address these concerns become the trusted go-to experts.
Videos, Videos, Videos
We can’t stress this enough. Watching videos is easier than ever thanks to faster internet speeds.Millions of videos are shared daily across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. YouTube, the largest video platform, makes watching content effortlessly.But creating videos is harder than watching them. The valuable content mentioned earlier is best delivered in video form. Is a bad video better than none? Absolutely not. In real estate, reputation and brand image are delicate. Poor-quality videos can do more harm than good.
roomvu market update videos
Since video production is challenging, many agents avoid it altogether. But this means missing out on significant benefits. With a little research, agents can find tips for creating their own videos or ideas for content. Hiring a professional real estate video creator is another option. Though it may seem like an extra expense, the ROI is worth every penny.
roomvu neighborhood bio videos
Social Media, Automated
Social media is one of the best channels for generating real estate leads. Features like Instagram Live help agents connect with larger audiences. If you have the time, skill, and patience to manage several social media accounts, then go for it. But most agents, with their busy schedules, struggle to do so.Success on social media requires consistency and engaging in valuable content. Many agents shy away from it due to a lack of time, skills, or content. Yet, they can still reap the benefits by using automation tools. Platforms like Roomvu offer social media automation services, including content creation and scheduling.Roomvu’s service does all the heavy lifting, even providing a free content calendar. Agents simply connect their accounts, choose the right content from Roomvu’s content factory, and let the automation handle the rest.
roomvu social media calendar
Get Creative with Your Marketing Content
Marketing in real estate doesn’t have to be boring or repetitive. Instead of focusing on your achievements and credentials, dive into content that matters to your audience.Share tips for first-time homebuyers, discuss market trends or answer common questions people have.Clients aren’t looking for just another agent—they’re looking for a guide they can trust.Agents who focus on educational content become resources clients naturally turn to.When you regularly offer valuable insights, clients see you as more than a salesperson—they see you as a trusted advisor.A key tip here is to mix up your content style. Don't just rely on blogs or posts; experiment with infographics, podcasts, and especially videos.
Build Relationships, Not Just Sales Pitches
Social media is a fantastic tool for connecting with potential clients. But it's not about blasting listings or boasting about recent sales. It's about engagement as well!Whenever you get time, reply to comments, answer questions in DMs, and participate in discussions. After all, the goal is to build relationships, not just push sales.Automation tools can help keep your content consistent, but don’t let them make your approach robotic.Take time to interact personally whenever possible. Even if it’s just a quick response to a comment, it shows you’re approachable and genuine. People want to work with agents who care, not those who just see them as numbers.
The Power of Consistency and Patience
Real estate success rarely happens overnight. Building a brand, growing a following, and gaining trust takes time.Consistency is everything. Keep posting, keep sharing values, and keep interacting with your audience. Don’t get discouraged if the results aren’t immediate. The key is to stay persistent.Creating great content regularly might feel overwhelming, but it’s worth the effort. The agents who succeed are the ones who stick with it, even when it feels like no one’s paying attention.
Final Words
Agents can’t afford to stick to outdated methods. Traditional direct marketing strategies are failing because they lack value.People no longer click on ads that only make empty claims. The problem isn’t advertising itself—it’s the lack of valuable content.Agents should adopt a fresh approach to marketing. Focus on being a helpful expert who shares useful information.Address your audience’s needs and concerns with insightful, valuable content, preferably in video form. This strategy requires patience and consistency, as building a community takes time.Success in real estate’s competitive market comes from putting customers first. Understand their needs and concerns rather than just promoting yourself as the best agent.Read Also:
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Deciding to buy a home warranty plan is a smart move for homeowners. However, with so many providers and options out there, picking the best one might feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are many things a homeowner can research to ensure they select a policy that will serve them well.
Home warranties are different than insurance. Home warranty plans are supplemental contracts that cover common household repairs. Policyholders have monthly or annual premiums and pay a discounted rate for qualified service calls. Here's what potential buyers need to ask when looking at homeowners' warranty policies.
What Does The Plan Cover?
Not all home warranties are the same. One plan might cover household appliances, but another might include systems. Air conditioning coverage isn't always included or might only be offered as an add-on. The same goes for refrigerators. Systems include electrical, plumbing, and water heaters, but once again, not all policies cover every system. Optional coverage options could include sump pumps or septic tanks.
Before signing on the dotted line, double-check what the preferred plan covers. Take inventory of all appliances, and compare the list to several policy options. For example, a built-in microwave might fall under optional coverage. Selecting the right amount of coverage now will save money down the road.
How Much Is The Premium?
Sticking to a budget when shopping for a home warranty is important. The cost depends on a number of factors. High-coverage plans with additional add-ons will be more expensive than a standard policy. That's why asking about the price before picking a plan is essential.
The premium is how much the policyholder pays for the plan. Some companies charge a lump sum annually, while others divide the premium into monthly payments. It's also wise to inquire about any deductibles required when making a claim.
How Long Is The Waiting Period?
Most home warranty providers have a mandatory waiting period before paying benefits. The most common is a 30-day period. Further, a coverage gap between policy renewals might trigger another waiting period. Before signing the contract, find out when benefits will be in place.
What Are Current And Past Customers Saying?
The goal of a home warranty agent is to sell a policy. Of course, they will sing the highest praises about their company to lure in new customers. However, are they telling the complete truth? Instead of believing an agent, find out what other customers have to say.
Customer reviews are the best way to get an honest, blunt opinion about a home warranty provider. Read all the reviews, including the good and the bad. What compliments does this provider receive the most? What are their weaknesses? Online home warranty reviews help homeowners make a more informed decision.
What's In The Fine Print?
Home warranty plans are long and often hard to read. However, buyers need to read every word, including the fine print. Look for any exclusions, such as pre-existing wear, cosmetic damage, or manufacturer warranties. The right plan will be upfront and easy to understand.
Get A Quote And Repeat
Home warranties save homeowners a bundle on appliance and system repairs. However, picking the right one takes time, research, and effort. Ask all the questions mentioned above when comparing plans, request a quote, and repeat the process with another provider. Doing so will ensure the warranty you ultimately select serves you well into the future.
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There are many reasons to want to value a house.
A new addition to the family may need additional rooms, a work promotion in another location, or even just time for a change may require the home to be sold.
Another reason to value a property is to identify a person’s current financial position. This may be necessary for those starting a business or needing additional finance.
How do people learn the value of their houses? Here are three ways.
Top 4 Ways Of Learning The Value Of Your House
1. Online Valuation Tools
One of the easiest ways to get a valuation is to use one of the many online valuation tools available. They use public data to price your home.
These tools use the automated valuation model (AVM). The valuations are based on data retrieved from public records like deeds of ownership, property transfers, and tax assessments. A mathematical formula is also applied, taking data from recent sales in the area.
The challenge with relying on AVMs is that they’ll value every property, regardless of the available data, possibly giving an inaccurate value.
To effectively use an AVM, do it from a real estate site that also includes a ‘confidence score.’ This value means a professional has checked the result from the AVM and given a score based on how close it is to market value. Any AVM plus a confidence score over 90% can be considered.
2. Comps
One of the most common ways to get a current value for a house is to check out recent sales in the same area.
Take a look around the neighborhood at comparable homes. These are known in the industry as ‘comps.’ When made public, the results of these sales can be an easy predictor of the values in the area.
An ‘apple for apples’ approach needs to be applied here. If the house next door is a little more run-down but has an additional bedroom, that value isn’t a good comparison. If one down the road, with an equal number of rooms, was renovated around the same time, that’s a closer valuation.
The way to get the best valuation for your home is to find four comps — two at the higher price range and two at the lower. Go for something that’s somewhere in the middle.
Remember that values change quickly; any sale over three months ago may not match the current market.
3. Professionally Appraised
The most expensive but arguably the most accurate way to value a home is to get it professionally appraised. These people have seen hundreds to thousands of comparable properties and can give you a correct value.
A 2018 survey revealed that ¼ of US homeowners valued their properties this way.
Lenders will require an appraisal before approving a mortgage; however, they’ll want it done by their own appraisers.
Appraisers may even suggest changes that can be made to increase the property value.
A professionally presented pre-purchase appraisal by a reputable appraiser makes it easier for the potential buyer to decide. This is one task that they don’t have to do.
Appraisers are independent contractors. They get paid per appraisal; they don’t earn commission and therefore offer unbiased opinions.
4. House Valuation Made Easy
Using an AVM is the most convenient way for a person to value their home; however, it’s possibly the least accurate.
Spending the time to compare recent sales on comparable properties in the area is a closer way to get a more accurate price. Choosing a value mid-range of these is the best way.
Unbiased professional appraisers will provide the most accurate value, but at a cost.
Whether using an AVM, checking out local comps, or hiring a professional, there is one surefire way to know the value of a house.
The value is whatever someone else is willing to pay for it!
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Finding and selecting quality tenants is crucial for property managers. The success of your investment relies heavily on who you have living in your units. Proper tenant screening and selection help minimize risks and maximize returns.
In this article, we’ll explore key elements of the tenant selection process. We’ll go over how to screen applicants, spot red flags, check references, evaluate credit, and choose ideal tenants. Let’s get started!
Overview Of Tenant Screening Goals
Thorough tenant screening serves several important goals:
Identify responsible tenants who pay rent on time
Avoid problem tenants who could disturb others or damage property
Verify applicants are who they claim to be
Evaluate the ability to afford rent based on income and debts
Check backgrounds for any reasons of concern
Select tenants who will follow rules and fulfill lease terms
Screening is your chance to assess applicants’ qualifications and compatibility before approving them. Use it to gain a 360-degree view informing your leasing decision.
The Role Of Property Management Companies In Los Angeles Real Estate
Finding and retaining good tenants is crucial for property owners and managers everywhere, but tactics can vary by location. For instance, property management companies in Los Angeles have insight into tenant preferences and screening practices effective for the area. Factors like rental price averages, employment demographics, and housing regulations specific to LA impact local tenant selection approaches there versus other cities. While core principles remain constant, optimizing your tenant vetting process may involve fine-tuning your metro area.
Components Of The Tenant Screening Process
Comprehensive screening includes several key steps:
Detailed Rental Application
Have applicants complete a comprehensive rental application covering things like:
Full legal name and contact details
Social Security Number for credit/background checks
Current and past home addresses
Employer name, income, position, time employed
Personal/professional references with contact info
Bank account details for payment processing
Vehicle information like make, model, year
Emergency contact person details
Any relevant remarks about qualifications, special requests, etc.
Thorough applications provide a foundation of info to verify and evaluate applicants.
Identity Verification
Check IDs like driver’s licenses to confirm applicants are who they claim to be. Comparing names, photos, and addresses helps avoid fraud.
Income Verification
Verify income levels match what’s stated on the application. Request recent paystubs, tax returns, and bank statements as evidence. Income should adequately cover rent and other costs.
Employment Verification
Speak with the stated employer's HR department to confirm the position, dates employed, and salary. Beware if details seem shaky.
Rental History Checks
Contact previous landlords to check payment history, lease violations, damages, complaints, evictions, etc. Look for consistent on-time payments. Beware of frequent moves, evictions, or unpaid rent.
Credit Checks
Run a thorough credit check to verify your credit score, current debts, and any negative marks. Watch for unmanageable debts, court judgments, and bankruptcies.
Background Screening
Perform criminal and eviction record screening through approved channels to uncover any serious offenses or causes for concern.
Personal Reference Checks
Contact 1-2 references provided to assess the applicant’s reliability and character from people who know them.
Pet Screening
If applicants have pets, request veterinary records to confirm they are licensed and vaccinated. Also, verify breeds allowed per property rules.
Be sure to follow fair housing laws throughout the screening process and avoid discrimination. Focus objectively on qualifications and ability to meet lease terms.
Consulting Tenancy Databases
Various rental industry databases help identify past tenancy issues reported by other landlords and property managers:
Eviction Records
Damage/Complaint Reports
Rent Payment History
Lease Violations
Prior Evictions/Collections
While costly, these databases provide an added layer of rental background insight from an impartial nationwide source. They can reveal serious red flags not evident elsewhere.
Balancing Tenant Screening Elements
Each screening component provides important pieces of the full picture. But avoid putting too much weight on any single factor. For instance, a low credit score doesn’t necessarily mean the person won’t pay rent reliably if other factors check out. And someone with an old petty misdemeanor isn’t necessarily high-risk if they have great landlord references.
Consider the full scope - credit, background, income, rental history, interview impressions and references for a balanced decision. Don't let one element override others without due consideration.
Strategies For Choosing The Best Tenant
Picking the ideal tenant involves balancing several factors. The ability to afford rent is of course essential. Tenants need a stable income adequate to cover the rent plus other costs. However, also consider their income growth potential, not just current earnings.
Look at their track record too. Do they have a solid history of paying on time, maintaining units well, following rules, and keeping good relationships with past landlords and neighbors? Consistency in meeting obligations predicts future behavior.
Also assess their responsible character based on the full application, background checks, interview, and references. Do they seem conscientious, honest, and reasonable? Shared values matter for a good fit.
While an imperfect credit score does not preclude someone, evaluate if they are actively managing income and debts responsibly regardless of past issues.
Furthermore, consider lifestyle compatibility with the property and community. Will their habits mesh well? Similar priorities and standards make for an easier relationship.
Avoid fixating on any single factor when choosing tenants. Seek those who balance financial ability, compatibility and character. This leads to positive partnerships that serve both parties' needs. Taking a big-picture view helps identify tenants who will be assets to your property and business.
Setting New Tenants Up For Success
Once selected, help tenants start strong by:
Providing a detailed move-in checklist covering rules, contacts, procedures
Clearly explaining policies before signing the lease to set expectations
Assisting with utilities connections and community amenities access
Offering a tenant portal or app for easy maintenance requests
Following up after move-in to ensure satisfaction
Proactive support fosters longer and happier tenancies benefitting all parties. Ongoing communication, responsiveness and periodic check-ins help too.
Dealing With Rejection Decisions Carefully
Rejecting applicants can be uncomfortable. But follows key principles:
Be objective - based solely on qualifications, not personal factors
Stick to facts - explain specifically how criteria were unmet
Follow Fair Housing laws - no discrimination based on protected classes
Maintain privacy - don’t discuss decisions publicly
Respond promptly - let them know quickly so they can make other plans
Rejection is just part of the screening process. Handling it properly avoids fair housing violations while preserving your business reputation.
FAQs
What Are The Standard Tenant Screening Fees?
Typical screening fees range from $30-$75 per applicant to cover criminal/eviction checks, credit reports, reference checks and processing time. Some landlords charge slightly more for deeper screening.
When Should I Require A Security Deposit?
Requesting a security deposit equal to 1+ month's rent is common at lease signing to cover any damages and provide financial security. Make sure deposits comply with state laws.
What Screening Practices Could Expose Me To Fair Housing Violations?
Avoid discrimination based on protected characteristics like race, gender, religion, disabilities, national origin, or family status. Focus objectively on qualifications alone.
If A Tenant Stops Paying Rent Suddenly, What Are My Options?
You can issue pay or quit notices as a formal demand for payment. If they fail to pay after proper legal notice, you may proceed with formal eviction filings to reclaim possession.
Key Takeaways
Tenant selection has a huge impact on your investment's success. Screen diligently by:
Reviewing detailed rental applications
Running background checks
Verifying incomes and employment
Checking references thoroughly
Interviewing thoughtfully
Consulting industry databases
Balancing all factors objectively
This identifies responsible tenants who pay reliably, follow rules, and maintain properties well. Avoiding just a few problem tenancies through careful selection preserves your income and asset values in the long run. Finding ideal tenants is crucial, but takes diligence. A consistent screening process protects your investment and leads to longer, more positive tenancies for all. Invest time upfront to avoid major headaches later on. Your perfect tenant match is out there!
The solid screening takes time but adds tremendous value. Your ideal tenant match is out there!
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Success on social media requires consistency and engaging in valuable content. Many agents shy away from it due to a lack of time, skills, or content.
Yet, they can still reap the benefits by using automation tools. Platforms like Roomvu offer social media automation services, including content creation and scheduling.
Roomvu’s service does all the heavy lifting, even providing a free content calendar. Agents simply connect their accounts, choose the right content from Roomvu’s content factory, and let the automation handle the rest.
