The real estate industry has long been an entrepreneur’s playground. Knowing how to get started and acquiring the needed skills to start your own business are essential, but the basics will only take you so far. If you want to maximize your rate of success, you need to be able to evolve with the industry and capitalize on new advances in marketing and technology.
In an era where buyers can find a surplus of independent information online, agents are turning to technology to better service their clients.
“Good listening and follow up” are critical to success, says industry leader Richard Rector, president and owner of Realty Executives International. Rector, who has been in the industry just shy of 40 years, notes that real estate is, above all, a “people” business first. Providing clients with the best possible service should be top priority.
“It’s critical to stay abreast of new things,” says Rector, the recent recipient of RISMedia’s National Homeownership Award.
To better connect buyers and sellers with his agents, Rector has been using Hubzu, an all-encompassing auction and sales platform that allows industry professionals to save time and energy, while still meeting the needs of their clients.
“Consumers come into the real estate arena from many doors, and Hubzu is one with different features than other portals,” explains Rector.
The interactive component of Hubzu is one of its largest draws. Not only can listings be posted, marketed and managed by agents, but clients can interact with the site as well. On top of traditional search features, clients can use Hubzu to schedule a showing or even make a bid. Allowing clients access to the entire buying experience online—from searching to comparing similar properties to closing a deal—is a major part of the platform’s appeal. The ease of use streamlines the process for real estate professionals, allowing them to seamlessly meet their clients’ needs.
“Hubzu has some features that appeal to certain clients; many investors became familiar with Hubzu during the foreclosure and REO surge,” says Rector, who notes that the platform has helped his company transcend into new marketing segments.
Rector explains that in this age of speedy communication, a buyer expects quick service and multiple options. With Hubzu, they can choose to write a traditional offer, or use the bidding tools for an auction, or even utilize the “buy it now” feature.
“Choice for consumers is good, and Hubzu gets that,” Rector says. “Success comes from discipline and systematizing, as well as personalizing the customer experience.”
For more information, please visit www.hubzu.com.
