by Sonia Guardado | Mar 16, 2024 | Texas Residential Real Estate Council
In the dynamic world of real estate, the challenge of navigating market fluctuations is a constant for both new and seasoned agents. Comfortably settling into established routines and hesitating to venture beyond the confines of our comfort zones can hinder our ability to adapt to the ever-changing market dynamics. In a profession where success is intertwined with the ability to stay ahead, complacency is a luxury we cannot afford. The real estate landscape demands constant skill refinement, prompting the need for a proactive approach to professional growth rather than a reactive scramble to catch up.
The initial foray into the real estate market can be overwhelming for new agents. The learning curve is steep, and there’s a constant need to understand market trends, master negotiation skills, and build a network of clients. On the other hand, seasoned agents may find themselves set in their ways, relying on strategies that have worked in the past but may need to be more effective in the current market conditions. The key to success lies in a proactive approach to professional development. Instead of catching up with market changes, real estate agents should strive to stay ahead. This involves continuing education, staying informed about industry trends, and adopting new technologies and tools to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.
This month, Texas RRC offers two CE courses to help manage the challenges of ever-changing marketplaces and managing experiences during one of the most challenging situations: divorcing clients. On April 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join us virtually for “Five Steps to Success in Any Market,” where you will be surprised to learn it’s not just about lead generation. In the afternoon, from 1 to 5 p.m., we will offer “I Do Until We Must Part The Assets: Navigating Divorcing Customers,” where you will master the art of communicating with emotionally charged clients and ensure the journey ends with a smooth landing. Both courses offer 4 hours of CE and are $50 each. To register, visit https://crs.com/membership/local-rrc/texas. We look forward to seeing you there!
by Delaine McMurry | Mar 16, 2024 | Women's Council of REALTORS
We are thrilled to announce the 16th annual TREPAC Cake Auction event at the Austin Board of REALTORS®! The Women’s Council of REALTORS® has a rich history of supporting TREPAC, and this event is one of our highlights of the year. Not only do we get to share why you see us proudly wearing purple, but we also have an exciting lineup of activities planned. Join us for a fun-filled evening featuring cakes and gifts, as well as special appearances by Leslie Cantu and Ron Oliveira. Indulge in heavy appetizers and toast to a great cause at our champagne bar. All proceeds from the auction will go towards your TREPAC investment.
Our monthly business-building coffee meetups have been a huge success, and I want to express my gratitude for recognizing their value. Each gathering offers a fresh topic for discussion, along with occasional pop-by supplies. In January, we delved into business planning, followed by pop-bys & reels in February, and farming in March. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for updates on upcoming meetups.
In February, we hosted an event featuring Colin Newberry, who delivered valuable insights on LLCs, including series LLCs, and their suitability for your needs. The information shared was highly informative, sparking engaging discussions and allowing for in-depth Q&A sessions and networking opportunities. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making the event a success!
In March, we organized a members-only meet-up focused on establishing a referral network based on various niches. It was a fantastic opportunity to offer value to our members and facilitate the creation of potential business opportunities.
Be sure to watch out for our upcoming Mother’s Day event in May and our exciting Purse Bingo event in July. Both gatherings provide wonderful opportunities for client appreciation and networking.
If you are considering becoming a member, visit wcr.org to sign up. Additionally, we are currently seeking applicants for our 2025 board, so please don’t hesitate to contact me if you are interested in joining. We are eagerly anticipating your presence at our next event!
by Kim Dale | Mar 16, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
In the ever-changing world of real estate, where market trends shift rapidly and client demands evolve constantly, staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. We are at the helm of a new era; artificial intelligence is just now starting to show us what it is capable of. There are many ways that REALTORS® can incorporate AI into their business, and jumping on this trend when it is still new is one of the best ways to come out ahead.
AI-powered algorithms can analyze a vast number of datasets, helping to identify potential leads based on criteria such as demographics, online behavior, and previous interactions. Using AI for lead generation helps REALTORS® sort through leads to find high-value prospects.
REALTORS® pride themselves on the personal touch they bring to the home buying and selling process. The use of AI enables REALTORS® to deliver targeted and relevant marketing campaigns to current, future, and past clients. Algorithms can tailor marketing messages by analyzing client preferences, browsing history, and interactions. There are numerous avenues for
REALTORS® to get their message out there, including personalized email campaigns, targeted ads, and even customized property listings based on a buyer’s preferences, budget, and location.
The power behind AI tools can also analyze market trends, historical data, and other relevant factors to provide REALTORS® with valuable insights into future property values, market fluctuations, and investment opportunities. This helps agents make data-driven decisions, anticipate market trends, and provide strategic advice to their clients.
REALTORS® don’t work 9-5, they are on all day, every day, for their clients and their needs. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can help agents provide round-the-clock customer support and assistance. We can use AI to automate routine tasks such as answering queries, scheduling appointments, and providing property information. Whether it’s assisting clients with property searches or providing real-time updates on market trends, AI-powered assistants ensure that REALTORS® are always accessible to their clients.
The introduction of AI has been a game changer for REALTORS®. Learning to dive in and utilize what it has to offer will undoubtedly create new leaders in the industry, setting the pace and shaping the future of real estate for years to come.
by Kent Redding | Mar 15, 2024 | Austin Board of REALTORS
Spring Clean Your
Business with ABoR
Spring Clean Your
Business with ABoR
Spring Clean Your
Business with ABoR
Happy spring, Central Texas REALTORS®! Just as the selling season is heating up, so are the ways to plug in and boost your business with ABoR and Unlock MLS. I am excited to announce we’re launching a new member benefit or upgrade almost every month this year (sometimes twice in one month!) and are offering ways for you to share your voice, showcase your expertise, and celebrate your wins! Here’s what you need to know for the upcoming month.
What’s New
March 19 | Matrix Upgrade
Matrix is getting a modern new look that’s truly mobile-friendly, plus a simplified new search module that will streamline your processes. I have demo’d it in advance of the launch, and you are going to love it! Go to www.ABoR.com/Matrix to get specific details, watch video tutorials, and sign up for free Unlock MLS training on how to maximize these upgrades in your day-to-day processes.
April 23 | Cubicasa
If you’ve used Cubicasa before, you know that it’s a very convenient app for producing 2D and 3D floorplans in a flash. Starting April 23, all Unlock MLS subscribers will gain access to Cubicasa as part of their subscription! We’ll begin sharing details on our Cubicasa launch starting in early April, so stay tuned!
Now Available! Free Forewarn Benefit
Oh, and ICYMI, ABoR launched another free member benefit, Forewarn, in early March. This is one of the best prospect screening and background check solutions on the market for REALTORS®, and it’s super easy to download and learn how to use. Visit www.ABoR.com/Forewarn to claim your account and run your first report in minutes!
Ways to Engage
April 1–5 | ABoR Bylaws Vote
The Board of Directors has proposed four changes to our ABoR Bylaws related to the makeup and qualifications of Board Members in addition to the corporate structure of ABoR. These changes expand leadership opportunities for new leaders, ensure continuity of board leadership when/if the market changes, and ensure the highest ethical standards for our association.
The upcoming vote, which will take place April 1–5, is an important opportunity for you to shape the governance of your association. Your voice and your vote matter.
Learn more about the board-recommend changes, how they would impact our association, and how to vote at www.ABoR.com/Bylaws. Your voice and your vote matter! If you have any questions or concerns whatsoever, please contact me at president@abor.com.
April 16 | Market Shift Conversations Powered by ABoR Advocacy
Our Market Shift Conversations event is a collaboration with ABoR Advocacy and our in-house economic research arm. If you’re looking for fresh ways to demonstrate your expertise to clients or help them navigate housing affordability and accessibility challenges (which is, ahem, everyone), you’ll want to make time for this event!
Dr. Clare Losey, our housing economist, will present new research on the impact of lot size on the total cost of homeownership in Central Texas. Then, you’ll put that data into action with a Policy Teams-driven panel on proposed changes to the City of Austin’s Land Development Code, including 3-units by right and reducing the residential minimum lot size. Register to attend in person or virtually at www.ABoR.com/Events.
May 10 | ABoR Industry Awards Fire & Ice Gala at Kalahari Resort
Tickets are on sale now! Are you ready for the hottest night in real estate? If you’ve ever attended our annual Industry Awards Gala, you know you’re in for an unforgettable evening! The fun begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour featuring drinks, light bites, and entertainment that will really burn down the house. Dinner, along with the unveiling of the 2023 Industry Awards winners, will follow at 7 p.m. This is my favorite event of the year, and I personally cannot wait!
Plus, stick around after the award ceremony to hear the iconic Matchmaker Band play as we break the ice and dance the night away! Get your tickets before they’re gone at www.ABoR.com/Celebrate.
Friends, this is only a snapshot of some of the events, classes, and offerings happening in the next 30 days. There’s so much more that I don’t have room to share here. Visit www.ABoR.com to get the full scoop and ensure you’re subscribed to ABoR and Unlock MLS communications in the Member Portal so that you never miss an update!
