North Carolina Agent Takes His Business Virtual with Allison James

 Print Article

By John Voket

RISMEDIA, Nov. 3, 2008-”In today’s market, you can’t just sit and wait for business,” says Terry Tyson, a real estate professional in Raleigh, N.C. Tyson also knows that you can’t just rely on the same old approach in the business anymore, either. To that end, Tyson has recently made the move to Allison James Estates and Homes, an online-only brokerage that offers 100% commission and a business model that is reflective of the home buying and selling public-Internet savvy. Here, an interview with Tyson on how Allison James’ approach helps him succeed in today’s challenging market.

RISMedia: How long have you been in the real estate profession?
Terry Tyson: I’ve been licensed since 1998.

How long have you been with Allison James?
Just a few months.

What is your territory coverage area and how is your market doing?
I service the Raleigh area in North Carolina. This region is currently experiencing some of the same economic pains as most of the country, but I guess you could say we’ve been very fortunate. During the boom years, we plodded along. Now that the market has turned, we’re not doing as badly as many other markets. The greater Raleigh, NC area today is definitely is a buyer’s market.

What attracted you to an online-only company?
The days of brick and mortar companies have paved the way for this niche, and it is catching hold of agents who want to keep more of their commissions instead of giving it back to companies that are providing less of what an agent needs in today’s market.

What are the benefits to you and to your clients from working with Allison James?
The client enjoys more time and attention. People are already on-line, finding houses, driving by the homes, looking at neighborhoods, many times before they ever contact an agent. Once they do, they want action. For the agent, being with Allison James means no more going to meetings simply to show and sell their own listings. No more wasted time at the office, period. Time is money, and Allison James offers agents and clients much more time, and keeping 100% of your commission is a no brainer.

How does working online contribute to your success?
The internet is the future of real estate -it’s already been proven. And companies that recognize that, and are there for the clients when they are ready to buy or sell a home will be successful. I believe Allison James is such a company.

How do you manage office expenses and meetings with clients?
For me, it’s easy. I have an office I can meet with clients in my home, if necessary. But most people want to fax, e-mail, meet at the home they are purchasing, or even meet at a restaurant. They appreciate that you will meet with them where it’s convenient for them.

Is this approach to real estate for everyone?
No, definitely not. Some have done business so long the old way that they cannot change, they cannot adapt. As a result, their share of the market is getting smaller and smaller.

What are you doing differently to win the business today?
In today’s market, you can’t just sit and wait for business. You have to be more knowledgeable about your market, aware of the changing market conditions, know your demographics, and listen more to your client’s needs than ever before. Given the fact that I know have more time to spend doing it, I am concentrating on providing better service, greater market knowledge, offering guidance my clients can trust, honesty, attention to detail – and did I mention you have to sometimes stop talking and listen?

Contact Terry Tyson at (919) 570-5210 or 119 W. Main Street, PO Box 245 Youngsville, NC 27596.

To learn more about Allison James Estates & Homes, visit http://www.allisonjamesinc.com/.

RISMedia welcomes your questions and comments. Send your e-mail to: realestatemagazinefeedback@rismedia.com.