We’re starting a new series that profiles successful Help-U-Sell brokers. The goal is to honor these brokers while at the same time offering insight and advice for all of our brokers and agents.
Our first Broker Focus profile subject is Karen Detwiler of Help-U-Sell Detwiler Realty in Pennsylvania.
An almost 10-year real estate veteran, Karen started out as a part-time licensed assistant with a Help-U-Sell office while learning the ropes of real estate. In March 2005, she opened up her own Help-U-Sell office.
Her office has closed 56 sides so far this year. She attributes some of this success to advertising on the radio and old-fashioned meet-and-greets. “I believe networking with community organizations, churches, local chambers and our local Realtor association is the most cost effective marketing tool in this market,” Karen says. “It doesn’t require an outlay of money, but gets us as agents interacting with the community.”
Another tactic she has used, based on what she’s noticed in her market, is properly pricing a home at the beginning of the listing, “right along with that, making sure your listing outshines the competition in ‘showability.’” She has also observed buyers take more time looking at the inventory of homes available prior to making an offer on a property.
Karen has a love for real estate, which shows in her work. “I believe real estate has to be a passion that you have inside of you,” she says.
For new brokers, she offers great advice.
• For those that got into real estate at the height of the market, this current market is a real adjustment. Start small. You don’t need a lot of agents, but the ones you have make sure they have the drive and stamina to succeed.
• Focus on your clients, as they will be your best advertising! I found testimonials were a great tool.
• Current and past clients always seem to know someone who is in need of buying or selling a home, so don’t be afraid to ask for referrals.
If you have more advice to share, please comment below.