Top 5 Ways to Use the Holidays to Get More Real Estate Deals

Call me a shameless opportunist, but I see more in the holidays than silver bells, sleigh rides, and mountains of presents. Don’t, however, call me a Grinch. I really do love the holidays; I simply think that it’s a time of year that can be as great for real estate business as it can be for toy stores.

In that spirit, I put together a list of 5 ways to use the holidays to get more real estate deals:

1. While your competitors are knocking back the eggnog, set yourself up for success in 2010. Because real estate volumes are lower around the holidays, it’s the perfect time to make your business plan for next year.

2. Get out and market. If you’re like most real estate professionals, sales are slower this time of year; take advantage of the lull to get out and market yourself. Start a newsletter to a farm list. Heck, get out and knock on doors.

3. Use the opportunity to get in touch with prospects, past clients, and your sphere of influence. A “happy holidays” card or phone call is an easy excuse to get back to top-of-mind with potential clients.

4. When it comes to gifts, think “outside the box.” The other day I read an article lambasting agents who send those mini-calendars with their name and contact information. Personally, I love them. Maybe it’s because I’m cheap and it saves me from actually having to purchase a calendar, but I really do keep them around all year. But if you can think of a more creative gift idea to help you stand out, even better.

5. Host a “client appreciation” holiday party. Everyone loves a free lunch (or dinner, or breakfast, or even just a free snack). It shows your loyal clients that you care, reminds them that you’d love their referrals, and gives you a chance to let them get to know you on a more person level (which is always good for business).

Onward and upward.

Molly Castelazo

Photo: Hong Kong dear Edward

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Article Author: Molly Castelazo

Molly has written 14 articles for us.
Visit Molly's Website: http://www.cmrealestatemarketing.com

Molly is the author of WIIFM: 5 Letters That Can Change Your Life (Or At Least Your Business) and How to Win: Marketing Strategies for Successful – and Aspiring – Real Estate Agents. She’s President of Castelazo Marketing Ltd., a full-service agency dedicated to helping real estate agents stand out from the crowd and has a blog.