According to the latest prediction from NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, home sales should increase slightly and prices will stabilize in many markets this year. And while there is still a discrepancy between consumer confidence and affordability, positive economic indicators suggest that we could be on track for a recovery in the near future.
As you prepare your business for buyers this year, keep in mind that agents who earn the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation not only show dedication toward promoting the value of buyer representation but they gain advanced training and education in the process. REBAC members receive a number of tools and resources to help them become the trusted resource for consumers even before the transaction begins. Here are just a few:
Homebuyer Resources
REBAC members have access to the new Home Buyer’s toolkit, a comprehensive home buying guide for consumers that includes the key steps in the home-buying process, financial considerations and negotiation tips. Members also receive access to a series of free, printable handouts through our consumer one-sheets on topics such as ‘Am I ready to buy a home?’ and ‘Moving Checklist.’ And new this year, members can customize these homebuyer resources with their personal information to maintain top-of-mind awareness when a consumer is ready to buy.
Marketing Tools
REBAC understands that today’s agents and their brokers are pressed for time. With that in mind, we created a series of professionally designed marketing materials to help members and real estate offices promote the value of their service to the general public. From postcards to banner ads and brochures, these marketing materials are customizable and can help agents stand out in their local market.
Networking and Referrals
From a Facebook app that allows members to promote their ABR® through their business page to the ABR® Network, an exclusive interactive online community featuring forums, groups and blogs, there are plenty of ways for members to share expert advice, best practices and generate referrals through their REBAC membership.
To learn more about the benefits of earning the ABR® designation or to enroll in a class today, see the article, “The Professional Advantage,” in this month’s edition of Real Estate magazine or visit REBAC.net.
Marc Gould is the executive director of The Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC).
To learn more, visit REBAC.net.
