By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, January 31, 2009-Between the shaky economy, falling interest rates, and maintaining a quieter stream of business, there’s a lot to consider when working with buyers and sellers in today’s marketplace. But with all of these elements changing around us, there are still many constants to help keep you productive-communication, honesty, and hard work. Here, learn what other best practices Ellen Klein, a Realtor from Rockaway, New Jersey, is utilizing to stay productive in today’s real estate climate.
Ellen Klein
Realtor
Century 21 Christel Realty
Rockaway, New Jersey
Region served: Northern New Jersey
Years in real estate: 10
Average sales price: $450,000-$500,000
Average time on market: 3 months
Best tip for dealing with difficult customers: Just be honest with them
Advice for real estate rookies: Work hard, investigate every lead and network
Key to staying profitable: Do as much business as you can so that you can stay ahead of the curve. Real estate is a 24/7 business and you need to be on top of what is going on within the industry at all times.
Best tip for dealing with the slower market:
I am constantly communicating with my sellers to make sure they are being kept in the loop as to what is occurring within the market. I get in touch with them at least once a week and offer them news, advice, or any other information that will allow them to stay on top of the market and see where it is going.
How do you ensure that you always get the right listing price?
Getting the right listing price involves doing your homework and providing your customers with the information they need to price their home accordingly so that it will sell. I share as many comps as possible with each seller that I work with and show them where the market is headed. It is important that I let my customers know that they can sell their home as long as they list it at a price that can sell within the current market.
What are the best online marketing strategies that you are utilizing within your company?
Realtor.com is a great website that allows me to see how much traffic is being driven to each listing. I share this information with my customers as well so they are aware of how much exposure their home is getting. And of course, Century21.com continues to be a major source of traffic for interested home buyers.
What makes your company unique in today’s market?
The national brand that stands behind our company, as well as our advertising and marketing programs, has given us a unique advantage in that people are comfortable with the Century 21 name.
