The Ultimate Checklist I Wish I Had as a New Real Estate Agent
Hey there! Today, I’m sharing something I wish I had when I was just starting out in real estate: my ultimate checklist for new agents. If you’re looking to propel your business forward and set yourself up for success, these tips are for you. Let’s jump in!
1. Figure Out Your Income Goal
Start by reverse-engineering your income. For example, if you want to make $100,000 a year and the average home price in your area is $500,000, with a 3% commission, you’ll need to sell about six homes a year. That’s about one home every two months.
When you break it down like this, your goal feels much more attainable.
2. Have a Business Plan
I remember when I was starting out, people kept telling me to make a business plan — but I had no idea what that really meant! Forget the long, complicated versions. You just need a one-page business plan that outlines your income goal, your strategies for generating leads, and how many hours you want to work per week.
Will you focus on social media? Door-knocking? Working your sphere of influence? Define it — and if you want a copy of the business plan I use, drop “business plan” in the comments, and I’ll send it your way!
3. Become an Expert in Your Local Market
Knowledge is power! Learn everything you can about your local neighborhoods, schools, home styles, inventory levels, new builds, and market trends.
Tour homes, visit open houses, study MLS data, and stay up to date on interest rates and builder incentives. When you become the go-to expert, people naturally turn to you for advice — and that builds trust and referrals.
4. Think About Your Branding
Branding matters. Create a cohesive look and feel for your business, from your logo to your social media presence. Consistent branding helps people recognize and remember you.
5. Use the Right Tools & Technology
Align yourself with a brokerage that provides tools to help you succeed. Look for systems like a CRM (customer relationship management), lead generation platforms, and a personal website. For example, I use KV Core, which helps me stay on top of my leads and get daily updates when people visit my site.
These tools save you time and help you work smarter, not harder.
6. Separate Your Personal & Business Accounts
Please, please, please set up separate bank accounts and credit cards for your business!
When I first started, I mixed everything together, and my husband (who’s a tax accountant) was not impressed. Having a dedicated business account will make tax time so much easier and help you maximize your deductions.
Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level?
If you’re a new agent or an experienced one looking to grow your business the modern way using social media, I’d love to connect! Give me a call, shoot me a text, or send me an email — it’s always a pleasure to help fellow agents reach their goals.
Thanks for stopping by, and I can’t wait to cheer you on in your journey to real estate success!
