Referrals in many industries, real estate included, can be the lifeblood of your business. These recommendations from satisfied clients and partners can boost your reputation and bring in a steady stream of new customers. At SMART Real Estate Consulting, we understand the significance of referrals and have developed a strategic approach to help our agents and brokerages stay top of mind.

A business plan is the roadmap all business owners need to navigate entrepreneurship. However, creating a business plan isn’t as common in real estate as other industries. Real estate agents often jump into the work of representing buyers and sellers and may be left feeling aimless when faced with inevitable obstacles in growing.

Years ago, when I (Ivey) first started my real estate career, I began my business planning for the coming year in late October or early November.

In real estate, as in life, it’s easy to stretch yourself thin. Often, as you strive for success, you try to be the expert in every part of your field rather than zoning in on your strengths. When you find the intersection of what sparks joy and what you're best at, you’re working smarter instead of harder. But how do you find that niche?

As a REALTOR® or brokerage, closing real estate transactions is the ultimate goal. It's the moment when all the hard work, negotiations, and paperwork come together to seal the deal. However, successfully closing a real estate transaction and earning future business requires careful attention to detail and effective communication. Five-Star reviews, repeat clients, and referrals all hinge on how good of a job you do for each client, hence why the SMART mantra is “Do Good.” Read these essential tips to navigate the closing process, ensure a smooth and successful transaction, and earn future business.

In the competitive world of real estate, going the extra mile as a REALTOR® or broker can set you apart and make a significant impact on your clients. However, new agents often receive a license after just a few weeks of school and have limited knowledge regarding how to go above and beyond for their clients and close major deals. Even experienced agents may lack nuance to navigate tricky transactions. This is where Ivey and SMART Real Estate Consulting offer a competitive advantage.