by Delaine McMurry | Feb 16, 2024 | Women's Council of REALTORS
The market has been changing, and so are we! It feels like the activity in the Austin market is getting busier as spring approaches. Our February was full of activities from our organization, including events at the Texas Realtors conference, learning all about LLC’s and making better reels, and meeting up to make popby’s.
With everything February had to offer, we are kicking off March with a members only virtual networking event. As the market is picking up and people are reaching out, this is prime time for us to build relationships between the different networks and provide referral business based on the different niches.
If you haven’t joined us yet, this is such a great opportunity! It is still early in the year, and this year is built around supporting our members and helping you achieve the success you are dreaming of. We would love to hear from you! If you don’t know who we are or what we are about, drop me a line and let’s chat.
by Tawanna Verock | Feb 16, 2024 | Editor's Choice
Communication is a key factor for success across all aspects of life and is especially important in the professional setting. Both new and experienced professionals must develop certain business communication skills to achieve their goals. Effective communication involves clearly and unambiguously conveying messages to others, as well as accurately receiving the information being shared, with minimal distortion. This requires effort from both the sender and receiver of messages. However, communication can easily become muddled, with messages misstated by the sender or misunderstood by the recipient, potentially resulting in significant confusion and missed opportunities if unaddressed.
Real estate is a people-focused industry, and communication style has a large impact on professionals’ success. Real estate agents help clients buy and sell homes, so their attitude and communication abilities can make that experience memorable or forgettable. Research shows that 97 percent of employees believe inadequate business language skills can cause misunderstandings. Additionally, 83 percent of employees report poor communication has negatively impacted sales, profitability, and operational efficiency in their organizations. Communication is central to real estate transactions. While crucial for any deal’s success, from standard resales to short sales, achieving effective communication often faces major obstacles. Fundamentally, a real estate transaction involves negotiation between a buyer and seller who must communicate clearly to complete the deal.
Key Communication Skills for Real Estate Professionals
The following nine essential communication skills should be developed by all real estate professionals to foster the necessary mindset for achievement:
• Active listening: the ability to incorporate different perspectives into communications by listening attentively. Listening demonstrates valuing opinions beyond one’s own and openness to new ideas, building trust, and viewing partners as equals to find mutually agreeable solutions.
• Writing proficiency: brief yet informative written exchanges help audiences focus on pivotal points. Follow-through closes communication loops and shows proactive, goal-oriented activity.
• Clear verbal exchanges: concisely and precisely sharing ideas, thoughts, opinions, and updates verbally. Attention spans average only 8.25 seconds, necessitating succinctness.
• Strong interpersonal skills: building trust and relationships with stakeholders through empathy, finding common ground, and connecting beyond just business exchanges.
• Effective teamwork: communicating respectfully with others having varying views and skills, setting aside differences to collectively achieve goals worth more than any individual effort.
• Compelling presentations: engagingly, motivationally, and impactfully sharing evidence supporting ideas/arguments using examples and storytelling to influence desired outcomes.
• Persuasive selling abilities: influencing stakeholders to pursue ideas, decisions, actions, products, or services beyond sales alone, such as gaining support for projects or offerings.
• Skilled negotiation: reaching mutually agreeable solutions by understanding opposing motivations and maintaining positive relationships for future interactions.
Developing Strong Networking Skills
Successful networking involves displaying business value and encouraging others to enter your professional network. To network effectively, you must cultivate an interesting professional brand that motivates others to consider potential partnerships. A robust network also serves as a resource, providing contacts to rely upon for assistance, information, or services when needed.
Improving Communication Skills for Real Estate Professionals
Effective communication is key to real estate success and strong client relationships. Here are some tips:
• Ask Informed Questions: Show genuine interest by asking considerate questions to understand clients’ specific needs and preferences rather than making assumptions. Position yourself as an expert by structuring initial meetings like interviews.
• Listen Actively: Communicating requires both parties to listen to understand each other. Pay attention and respond appropriately to stay on topic while also sharing your perspective.
• Polish Written Correspondence: Confirm preferred contact methods and ensure all written communications demonstrate proper spelling, grammar, structure, and timely responses to maintain trust.
• Display Engaging Body Language: First impressions matter, so stand with confidence, make eye contact, and relax mannerisms. Note others’ non-verbal cues for understanding.
• Stay Connected Appropriately: Keep clients informed at a suitable cadence with relevant property listings or process updates using their channel of choice. Maintain open communication throughout to satisfy clients and build a loyal customer base.
Real estate success is dependent on effective communication that establishes rapport, understands client’s needs, and provides an exceptional experience. This can create satisfied customers who help drive repeat and referral business. It’s important to approach every interaction with respect, regardless of the situation. Remember that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness. By demonstrating respect in your interactions, you can build stronger relationships and make a positive impact on those around you. Let’s work together to create a culture of respect and kindness in all our interactions.
by Kim Dale | Feb 16, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
Earlier this month, I attended the Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting, and I am still blown away by Williamson County’s accomplishments at both the board and member levels in 2023. Numerous leaders were recognized state-wide for setting the PACE for real estate in Central Texas. Our strategic plan can be broken down into a simple acronym: promote, advocate, connect, and educate. When our members come together under this common goal, we set the pace of the industry for our community. Our current, past, and future leaders made a huge impact on our industry this year and deserve all the recognition that they can get.
Advocacy is one of the main focuses of our association, and we are proud to have three individuals recognized for their contributions and passion for TREPAC. Jack Stapleton, 2015 WCREALTORS President, was awarded the Platinum R Award and recognized for becoming a RPAC Hall of Fame member with a lifetime contribution of $50,000 or more. Tami Baker, 2024 Advocacy Committee Chair, was awarded the Spirit of TREPAC Award, which is given to Texas REALTORS® who have exhibited excellence on one or more of the P.A.C. criteria at the local level during the year. Renée Damron, an active member of both the Advocacy Committee and the Community Service Committee, was awarded the Heart of TREPAC Award, which is given to TR Affiliates P.A.C. criteria at the local level during the year. We are so proud of these three for continually advocating and dedicating their time to serving our industry.
We were also recognized for our efforts in professional development. Education is at the forefront of our values at WCREALTORS, and we are pleased to have received two recognitions. Alisha Austin, our Professional Development Chair, serves on our Board of Directors and was awarded the Texas REALTORS® Educator of the Year. This award recognizes an instructor who’s made the most significant contributions to real estate education in Texas. Anyone who has ever taken a class instructed by Alisha Austin knows how much passion she puts into her teaching, and there is no better recipient of this award. Our Selling the Suburbs: WCSPECIALIST Certification Course, created by Darian Rausch, received the Texas REALTORS® Education Program of the Year for the Series or Shorts category. This series goes over anything and everything that a REALTOR® should know to sell real estate in Williamson County. The courses are offered twice a year, and I highly encourage you to check them out.
These past and present leaders continue to pave the way for our association. I am looking forward to where our future leaders will take us.
by Kim Dale | Jan 20, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
As we embark on the year ahead, I’d first like to say that I am truly honored to be serving as your 2024 Association President. Taking on the role of Association President is a huge leadership role and one that I do not take lightly. In my perspective, a leader is someone who inspires action, ignites passions and empowers others to succeed by recognizing the value in their unique skill sets. As I take on this position, I acknowledge the trailblazers who came before me who helped to set the PACE and pave the way, setting the foundation for another successful year. I am equally inspired by those new members who are just starting their journey into real estate, who will bring fresh insights and ideas to our Association, and by those whom I get to serve alongside, guiding this Association forward.
When I started in real estate 11 years ago, I walked into my brokerage without a clue of what I was getting myself into. I was clueless about what an Association meant for us as real estate agents. I was told that I needed to join an Association, so I drove down the street and walked through the door. I was immediately greeted with a warm smile, was handed forms and applications and yet another fee schedule and realized that by joining I would have access to the MLS. Great! Now I can view and show properties! My entire perception of the Association was that it provided me access to the MLS, at that time little did I grasp that it was so much more.
After meeting with my first potential client, I realized that I needed guidance, education, coaching, and leadership. I began observing what successful agents around me were doing and asked them what I needed to do. I started going where these agents were going, and it turns out that these inspiring agents were attending business meetings, events, property tours, city updates, networking gatherings, committee meetings, and classes all revolving around the Association with fellow real estate professionals with shared objectives. They all aimed to keep our profession and business at its best and provide our clients with the exceptional service they deserve. Moreover, it seemed that these agents who invested so much of their time and energy into bettering their profession were also the most successful.
I am very much aware of some challenges we face in the current market, as there is an air of uncertainty for many. In this season in our profession, with challenges stemming from interest rate hikes, national lawsuits, and soaring property taxes after significant inflation, we have witnessed members leaving the industry to pursue different paths. However, as Albert Einstein astutely said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” I want our members to know that this Association stands with them, offering the tools, classes, information, and supportive community that will help us navigate through another year of uncertainty. We will continue to equip them for success, and inspire them to get involved and join committees. I want them to use myself and our staff as a resource and for support.
During my tenure as your president, I envision a collaborative group of individuals who are all working towards shared goals. I see an opportunity for agents, brokers and affiliates to combine their talents and create a strong team. We have put together an amazing set of committees that have set the PACE for this Association. We have members who have selflessly volunteered their time and have a dedicated staff who work diligently to ensure the success of our members and committees. Our Board of Directors is genuinely committed to the growth and future of this Association. My vision for the Association is to continue to grow and cultivate a strong membership, building on the foundation that captured my heart when I became a member 11 years ago. Association membership goes beyond MLS access; it constitutes a community of like-minded individuals with shared goals, committed to upholding ethics, contributing to the community, and acquiring comprehensive knowledge in all aspects of real estate.
Our objective in 2024 will be focused on our members. Identifying your goals, igniting your fire, and empowering you towards success.
by Delaine McMurry | Jan 20, 2024 | Women's Council of REALTORS
Welcome to 2024, the Women’s Council of REALTORS Austin is very excited for our year. Our event line up has been meticulously curated for our members. This year, our focus is twofold: fostering robust business-building activities and cultivating an ecosystem of invaluable connection within our community.
The winds of change that swept through the past year have undeniably transformed the landscape of our business operations. Recognizing this we are dedicated to equipping our members with the tools and opportunities needed to not only navigate this shift but also thrive in it. We firmly believe in the power of collective learning and shared experiences to enhance both individual and collective growth.
Against the backdrop of rising costs, we remain steadfast in our commitment to maximizing value for our members. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programming, we strive to deliver exceptional educational opportunities at accessible price points. Moreover, our robust community initiatives offer unique avenues to deepen connections within our networks and express gratitude to those who enrich our lives — be it colleagues, clients, or family.
For those curious about the Women’s Council of REALTORS Austin, we extend a warm invitation to join one of our monthly business-building and accountability sessions. These gatherings offer a welcoming space to introduce yourself, witness the essence of our community, and discover the multitude of benefits we offer.
We eagerly anticipate your presence at our upcoming events. To catch a glimpse of the enriching experiences that await, visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wcr.austin/
by Kent Redding | Jan 20, 2024 | Austin Board of REALTORS
At the Austin Board of REALTORS®, we aim to foster a community of belonging among the most engaged and professional REALTORS® in the nation. Being a part of this esteemed Association means being part of something larger than oneself. As real estate agents, we deeply understand this. The heart of our work is putting ourselves in another’s shoes and helping them find “home”. And the impact of that work literally shapes the Central Texas communities we serve.
That’s why I’m naming 2024 as our “Year of Empathy.” Empathy is the bedrock of agent professionalism, fostering trust and rapport not only with your clients but also with fellow real estate professionals. As our marketplace continues to evolve, and ABoR continues to advocate for housing affordability and accessibility, empathy should define who REALTORS® are and guide our interactions.
Empathy is also an essential component to fostering a community of belonging. Our collective strength lies in valuing every voice and every individual, and this commitment to inclusion is what defines the Austin Board of REALTORS® and Unlock MLS.
As a Board, we welcome your feedback, input, ideas, and suggestions. I pledge, alongside my fellow Board members, to listen, learn, and engage honestly and respectfully. We want you to remain engaged members, whether that’s attending one of our signature events such as the Central Texas Housing Summit, listening to the Driving It podcast each week, or just taking advantage of one of the many ABoR benefits available to you, such as a free subscription to Austin Business Journal or Inman Select.
As your 2024 President, I’m committed to leading with empathy and fostering opportunities for you to collaborate and connect. That begins with our Annual Meeting on January 31, for which virtual tickets are still available at www.ABoR.com/Events. We’ll be providing an important legal update and unveiling several new ABoR and Unlock MLS benefits that are coming to you this year. In addition, Dr. Clare Losey, our in-house housing economist, will share a 2024 forecast for the Central Texas Housing Market.
There’s a lot going on in our industry right now, and I understand that this can feel unnerving. While change can feel uncertain, it also presents us with new opportunities.
If you seek a supportive community where your voice is heard and understood, ABoR will continue to be here for you.
by Tawanna Verock | Jan 20, 2024 | Editor's Choice
As we embark on a new year, local associations are invigorated by the infusion of new leadership. The Austin Board of REALTORS and the Williamson County Association of REALTORS proudly introduce their respective presidents for 2024, Kent Redding and Kim Dale. These esteemed individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their positions, ensuring a promising future for their organizations.
Kent Redding, a distinguished professional with Berkshire Hathaway Texas Realty, assumes the role of president at the Austin Board of REALTORS. With a career marked by excellence and a deep understanding of the real estate industry, Redding is well-equipped to guide the association towards even greater heights. His proven track record of success, coupled with a passion for fostering collaboration and growth within the real estate community, makes him an ideal leader for the Austin Board of REALTORS.
Meanwhile, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS welcomes Kim Dale as its president for 2024. Dale brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her tenure at Realty Texas, where she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and service. With her extensive network and strategic mindset, Dale is poised to strengthen the association’s position as a leading force in Williamson County’s real estate market.
Both Redding and Dale embody the qualities of effective leadership—vision, integrity, and a dedication to their respective communities. They understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing the real estate industry in their regions and are ready to champion the interests of their members. By fostering collaboration, advocating for industry best practices, and staying abreast of emerging trends, they aim to ensure that their associations remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
Under their guidance, the Austin Board of REALTORS and the Williamson County Association of REALTORS can look forward to a year filled with growth, professional development, and enhanced member services. Redding and Dale will work tirelessly to provide resources, educational opportunities, and networking platforms that empower their members to thrive in a dynamic and evolving real estate landscape.
by Ashley Jackson | Dec 16, 2023 | Austin Board of REALTORS
As my tenure as President of the Austin Board of REALTORS® draws to a close, I am honored to share reflections on a year marked by remarkable achievements and profound growth. When beginning my presidency, I envisioned 2023 as a pivotal ‘Year of Connection.’ I wanted to foster an environment where ABoR and Unlock MLS served as vital connectors, empowering our members with the right tools at the right time to elevate their businesses continuously.
Helping our members access and build on these connections has become a core part of who I am as a leader. I’m ecstatic to say that this year has seen some incredible new connections forged, including:
• Unlock MLS Brand Launch: A momentous occasion, we introduced the long-awaited Unlock MLS brand, featuring a cutting-edge mobile app and an impactful consumer awareness campaign.
• Strategic Addition: Dr. Clare Losey, ABoR’s inaugural housing economist, joined us. This addition catalyzed the launch of a new market research arm and the Driving It Home podcast, enriching our members with invaluable insights every week.
• Advocacy Triumphs: We celebrated several major wins in advocacy, striving to make housing in Austin more accessible and affordable for all.
• Global Expansion: ABoR Global achieved significant milestones by representing Austin in international real estate forums in Calgary, Canada, and Paris, France. Our crowning achievement was securing the Global Association of the Year award at the recent NAR ceremony.
In the face of industry uncertainties, I believe that every challenge harbors opportunities and success is attainable in any market landscape. My years of volunteering with ABoR have taught me that we excel in finding opportunities within disruptions, guiding our members toward success on their own terms. This is what sets ABoR apart as one of the most innovative REALTOR® associations in the country.
As I step aside, I encourage each of you to persist in learning, stay engaged, and perpetuate the tradition of forging meaningful connections within ABoR. Together, we are poised for an exciting and prosperous future, and I anticipate the continued success of our incredible organization.
by Tawanna Verock | Dec 16, 2023 | Editor's Choice
In the competitive world of real estate, building trust and staying top-of-mind are crucial for success. While exceptional service and expertise are the cornerstones of any successful agent’s career, a strategic and thoughtful approach to gift-giving can further strengthen client relationships and foster loyalty.
The Power of Personalized Gifts
Gift-giving goes beyond the act of simply presenting a material object. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate genuine appreciation and personalized care for your clients. This can be especially impactful in the context of real estate, where clients entrust you with one of the most significant decisions of their lives.
According to a survey by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR):
• 81% of members believe that gift-giving is an effective way to stay in touch with clients.
• 72% of NAR members report that they give gifts to their clients at least once a year.
• 65% of NAR members report that they give gifts to their clients on holidays.
• 52% of NAR members report that they give gifts to their clients on closing dates.
These statistics highlight the widespread recognition among real estate professionals of the positive impact that gift-giving can have on client relationships.
Let’s Get Specific
First-time buyers: A personalized doormat with their last name is a practical and welcoming gesture. A set of kitchen towels with their initials or a cookbook featuring recipes from their favorite cuisine are thoughtful additions. A small plant or succulent adds a touch of life to their new space.
Move-up buyers: A luxurious set of bath towels and bath salts offer a relaxing experience. A bottle of high-quality wine or a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant provides a chance to unwind after the chaos of moving. Tickets to a local theatre performance or a sporting event caters to their cultural interests.
Investors: A subscription to a financial magazine or a book on real estate investing equips them with valuable resources. A donation to their favorite charity in their name demonstrates your commitment to their values. A gift basket filled with gourmet snacks and drinks provides sustenance for their busy schedules.
Gift Ideas Beyond the Material
While tangible gifts are appreciated, it’s important to remember that the most significant aspect of gift-giving is the thought and effort you put into it. Sometimes, a simple gesture can be just as meaningful as a more elaborate gift.
Here are some non-material gift ideas for your real estate clients:
• Offer to help with a post-move project, like unpacking boxes or assembling furniture.
• Connect them with local businesses or service providers they may need, such as landscapers, cleaners, or handymen.
• Provide them with valuable information about their new neighborhood, including upcoming events, community resources, and hidden gems.
• Write a heartfelt letter expressing your appreciation for their business and outlining your commitment to their future needs.
The Power of Timing
There are several strategic times throughout the year when gifting opportunities arise. Holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Diwali are natural occasions to express your appreciation. Consider sending a small gift on closing day as a way to celebrate the culmination of your successful partnership
Gift-Giving Strategies
• Segmentation: Segment your client list based on their interests, hobbies, and life stages. This allows you to tailor your gift-giving strategy for each segment.
• Frequency: Develop a consistent gift-giving plan, such as sending a small token of appreciation every quarter or on their birthday. This keeps your name at the forefront of their mind.
• Local Focus: Partner with local businesses to offer discounts or exclusive gifts to your clients. This not only benefits your clients but also helps you build relationships within your community.
• Digital Gifting: For clients who live far away or for eco-conscious individuals, consider digital gifts like e-books, subscriptions to online services, or donations to their chosen charities
Presentation Matters
The presentation and follow-up are equally important aspects of successful gift-giving. Take the time to wrap the gift beautifully and include a personalized note. After giving the gift, follow up with your client to see how they liked it and if there is anything else you can do to assist them.
Gift-giving is a valuable tool for building relationships and staying top-of-mind in the real estate industry. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can choose gifts that are thoughtful, personalized and well-received by your clients. Remember, the most important thing is to put thought and effort into your gifts, and your clients will appreciate the gesture. By investing in building strong relationships with your clients, you’ll ensure that they turn to you for all their real estate needs, both now and in the future.
by Kasey Taylor | Dec 16, 2023 | Women's Council of REALTORS
As a seasoned REALTOR and president of the local Women’s Council chapter, I’m thrilled to share insights from the recent National Conference. This collaborative event marked a pivotal moment in our organization’s history, leaving us energized and equipped to navigate the future of real estate.
Mastering Negotiation with “Ask Like an Auctioneer”
The conference kicked off with a captivating keynote by Dia Bondi, renowned for her empowering “Ask Like an Auctioneer” initiative. Her session, “Never Leaving Money or Opportunities on the Table,” was a masterclass in negotiation. Bondi seamlessly blended the assertiveness of an auctioneer with the finesse of a seasoned negotiator, equipping us with invaluable tools to maximize our potential in every deal.
Finding Serenity in the Hustle: Embracing “Bringing Calm to Chaos”
J’aime Nowak, another esteemed speaker, delivered an insightful presentation titled “Bringing Calm to Chaos.” She delved into practical strategies for reducing stress, optimizing efficiency, and ultimately, achieving more, while navigating the demands of our high-pressure field. Nowak’s message served as a timely reminder of the crucial role self-care plays in sustaining success in our industry.
Celebrating 85 Years of Trailblazing: Honoring the Legacy of Women’s Council
This conference also marked a monumental occasion: the 85th anniversary of the Women’s Council. The session “Honor the Legacy of Women’s Council” was an emotional and powerful tribute to the pioneers who paved the way for our success. We celebrated the contributions of certified networks, PMN designees, and Leadership Institute graduates, all of whom have played critical roles in advancing our profession.
A Network of Strength and Synergy: Uniting Women in Real Estate
As the conference concluded, I couldn’t help but reflect on the immense privilege of serving as the local Women’s Council president. This network serves as a beacon of support, learning, and growth for women in real estate, its impact truly inspiring and empowering. The camaraderie and collective wisdom shared within this group are unparalleled, and I am immensely proud to be a part of it.
The National Conference was more than just an event; it was a celebration of our collective strengths, a recognition of the challenges we face, and a roadmap for future success. We walk away with renewed vigor, equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support to excel in our industry.
Beyond the Conference: Building on a Legacy of Success
As members of this esteemed network, we remain committed to never leaving money or opportunities on the table, to finding calm amidst the professional chaos, and to honoring the legacy of those who paved the way for our success. Together, we continue to build on this incredible foundation, making a lasting impact in the world of real estate.
My sincere privilege and honor lie in continuing to support the incoming board in their future endeavors. I have no doubt that 2024 will be a year of unparalleled growth and achievements for the Women’s Council.
