Erica McClenny

I’ve been a Realtor for a decade now and I’ve sold hundreds of homes in my career. I don’t have time to sit down and have lunch with someone I don’t trust, don’t know anything about or someone who’s asking me to hand over my book of business to benefit their bottom line. It’s my honest viewpoint and sorry if it’s harsh. I have some very solid partnerships with a few key people and I’m a tough cookie to break! That being said a phone call like the following, would defiantly intrigue me and catch my attention.

“Hello this is Bob Broker from ABC Mortgage Co. and I just wanted to double check if you’ve thought about blogging as a way to generate business?”

Now be prepared, you may get the question back “Excuse me, what’s a blog?” Many Realtors aren’t super internet savvy nor do they waiver from the typical marketing tactics that have been taught for years and years. That’s ok, if you can show them with a few basic steps, how to set up a free blog that you the mortgage broker are “helping” with. You may just get your foot in the door. You will also increase the value of your new partnership, if you are willing to contribute to their blog weekly. This is a very simple step that will take you about 5 minutes each week.

Realtors, new and seasoned, are intimidated by all the mortgage programs out there. Guidelines and qualification criteria are changing daily. We don’t have time to keep up with it all and still successfully sell homes. Realtors need you and you are a wealth of information. How often do you receive articles and information about the mortgage world? I personally receive several emails a day with information. Keep in mind, a blog article doesn’t have to be original. You can reference the link or article and add your own twist about your local market. This is a win-win opportunity for you the lender to look like a hero to your new partner. Plus, the more often your name hits a web page or website, the better your chances are of capturing the attention of online home buyers and local folks looking to refinance. It’s FREE advertising for both of you. The weekly update is also an under the radar excuse for you to continue contact with your new Realtor partner.

I’m sure you’re asking yourself where do I start and what free resources are available out there? You may also be thinking to yourself, I need my own blog! That’s a great start before you pick up the phone and offer something you’re not doing yourself. You’ll be able to offer to cross promotion all of your Realtor partners on your own blog. The more exposure, the more business it will generate. I’d suggest offering this to multiple agents in your area because not everyone will follow up and continue to blog. I’ve tracked that my real estate blog www.happyhousehunt.com is most effective if I’m blending local events, hot spots, restaurant reviews, market trends- national & local along with education about real estate. Keep it interesting, light and helpful and keep it consistent. Give it time, business will come and the referrals will roll in after some effort.

http://newsroom.blogs.cnn.com/2009/10/08/smartest-cities-in-america/

CNN research ranked Raleigh/Durham, NC as the smartest city! Interesting information about my area. I relocated here for college in 1995 and I was amazed at all the benefits the area offered.

1. 2 hours to the beach
2. 3 hours to the mountains
3. Easy access to Interstates to head North or South (and it's about half way)
4. Job and Career Opportunities that are growing daily
5. Inexpensive Taxes compared to other areas in the country
6. Knowledge flowing with TONS of College's and Universities within 30 miles
7. Nightlife and Events for all types of ages
8. Family Friendly towns with bigger city amenities
9. Lots of great food...I'm still amazed at how many restaurants we have here!
10. Seasonal changes without getting hammered by winter

It's a wonderful place to consider if you're looking to relocate. If you'd like a relocation package emailed, feel free to contact my team. We're happy to supply homes for sale or rent, job information, area maps or whatever you may need from a local contact. If you're looking long term or short term, it doesn't matter...just educate yourself.

I just logged on and noticed I move up a spot on the AR list of Raleigh, NC Realtors! I broke the top 10 in Raleigh but now I'm up to 7. I'm super excited and I just wanted to give a big WHOO HOO to everyone out there. It's dedication and time but well worth the return. Just the education for home buyers, new agents and home sellers is priceless.

This site has given me so many tips, tools and inspiration to continue in a business that can be rough. It's been a joy to read others thoughts and learn different mindsets in a huge industry.

I always look for client feedback, fellow agent comments and overall marketing idea's that work in other industries.

I'll keep climbing the ladder of success and I'll see some of you at the top! Enjoy the rain today!

It’s Monday morning and I feel awful. I hate to admit it but I wish I had a 9-5 job today. I’ve been battling the flu for 4 days now and I think the flu is winning! I’m the worst at allowing myself a day off just to rest. I feel guilty when I know home buyers have questions, my listings and sellers want answers and feedback on showings. Ughh…I just want to hide and climb into bed. Someone bring me some tea, my laptop, a few movies and maybe a popsicle or two. I just want to take a nap and veg.

Anyone else know what this is like?

Should Realtors have the option of telling clients this? Sorry, I’m not coming into work today. I’m sick, call me tomorrow! Now don’t misunderstand me. The Raleigh market is buzzing and homes are for sale everywhere, but I don’t want to be that person who passes the flu along to a first time home buyer or someone’s children.

I hope everyone else is enjoying this cool breezy Monday. I’m going to suffer through, serve my buyers needs and find them some great deals, online! I’ll email and answer calls but don’t expect to see me on the streets quite yet. I’m going to make sure I’m feeling better before I jump into the car and show a house or two.