Reaching success often means planning, planning, planning. In the following interview, Pat Kelly of Realty ONE Group in Gilbert, Ariz., talks time management, tech, and more.
Pat Kelly
Vice President of Operations
Realty ONE Group
Gilbert, Ariz.
Region served: Arizona, Nevada, California
Years in real estate: 18
Number of offices: 24
Number of agents: 7,372 and growing every day
Best time management tip: Start the day early. By doing this, more work can get done without distractions.
Top tip for new agents: Focus on your strengths. Delegate or pay someone to do the things you’re not passionate about.
Favorite real estate app: CurbCall. It’s a new app that’s just been launched in Las Vegas that’ll allow the consumer to connect with an agent who is in close proximity to the house they want to see. More than ever before, the consumer is demanding a quick response, and an agent who is available now, not later.
What are some of the current trends you see in your market right now?
We’re seeing more of a traditional market, with sales contingent on the buyer selling their home in order to purchase another. We’re also seeing a greater amount of people who have equity in their home, affording them the opportunity to consider making a move.
What are some of the most difficult challenges buyers face today?
Buyers have to be realistic with their expectations. When they see the perfect home that’s priced right, they must be prepared to take action, as they’re probably not the only one who is aware that this home has hit the market. My best advice for a buyer is to get pre-approved with a reputable lender prior to looking at homes.
How are your agents successfully reaching out to today’s buyers?
There isn’t one answer, but rather, there are many strategies that work. Whether it’s traditional marketing, social media, keeping up with your sphere of influence or online lead generation, agents have success when they follow a clear action plan.
When it comes to recruiting, what strategies have you found to be most effective?
Although it’s technically not recruiting, our agents are the best source of introducing new agents to the company. We have found that by valuing and taking care of our agents, they in turn share how happy they are with other agents, and make the introduction.
What sets your company apart from the competition?
The list is too long to share here, but in a nutshell, it’s pretty simple. Realty ONE Group is a full-service, agent-centric company with beautifully equipped offices, offering our agents incredible tools, resources and systems, all with very low fees and a 100 percent commission plan. At Realty ONE Group, you can have your cake and eat it, too!
How does your company stay flexible and current?
We never settle, and never get comfortable with our success. At Realty ONE Group, everyone in the organization has a voice. In fact, some of the best ideas have come from those working in the field, rather than the corporate office. The office admin, managers and agents see the real estate industry up close every day, and the feedback they provide is crucial to positioning ourselves as a cutting-edge company.
For more information, visit http://www.realtyonegroup.com/.