“We’re enduring a bit of a double whammy with not knowing if we’re in or out of a recession while heading into the election season,” says Mike Huff, Broker/Owner of Prudential Anderson Properties, when asked what today’s consumers are most concerned with.” I think people are nervous about the economy and future home values.” Read on to learn about this real estate professional’s must-have tech tool and how he keeps his agents motivated.
Mike Huff
Broker/Owner
Prudential Anderson Properties
Houston, Texas
Region served: The greater Houston area
Years in real estate: 30+
Average time on market: 47 days
Average sales price: $325,000
Must-have tech tool: Technology changes so quickly that the answer could be different a week from now. In my office, I have a real estate sign made of painted wood that my grandfather used 60 years ago. That was state-of-the-art then and probably stayed that way for 40-plus years. In the recent age of cellphones and the Internet, I would say my smartphone is my top tool because I can “virtually” do anything from it. I also have an iPad that comes in handy.
What are the market conditions like in your area?
We’re very fortunate in all of our markets. Our biggest problem right now is keeping good inventory because once we get it, it sells quickly. It’s a good problem to have and we feel very fortunate because of that.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate?
I like to say it’s a different situation every day, but that’s a lie. It’s a different situation every 20 to 25 minutes. The landscape changes often and that keeps it exciting.
What are today’s consumers most concerned with?
I think people are nervous about the economy and future home values. We’re enduring a bit of a double whammy with not knowing if we’re in or out of a recession while heading into the election season. So, there is a lot of nervousness on multiple levels. I think a lot of consumers realize with rates the way they are currently, it will be harder to get a better deal in the future than what’s accessible now.
How do you sustain relationships with previous clients?
I rely on my agents to do that, and they utilize a variety of methods. They do it online with blogs and social media. Some use email and occasional direct mail or newsletters. Others are very active in civic and charitable organizations. Regardless of how it’s done, building a relationship and continually reaching out are key components to generating and sustaining business. It requires being not only a REALTOR®, but being someone who is active in the community and willing to put forth the effort to engage.
What makes your company stand out?
I hope it’s our honesty and our integrity. We work hard to put those above profit and we try to always do the right thing. While it’s easy to do that when things are going your way, it can be difficult when things are tough. That’s when we have to try a little harder. We’ve often used the slogan, “We’re here for you!” And we mean it, both for customers and our agents.
How do you keep your agents motivated?
I come from a world where if you don’t hunt, you don’t eat, and that’s what this business is all about; you’ve got to produce to survive.
