5 Real Estate Shortfalls and How to Avoid Them

Every real estate agent knows that you never want to fall short when it comes to working with your clients or gaining new ones. You want to do your best to get an edge, get noticed, and get that listing.

Using RPR, your NAR member benefit, can certainly help you do that. RPR gives you access to data, tools and property reports that can help you "wow" your clients and close more deals.

Here are some tips on how to use RPR and how to easily avoid some common real estate shortfalls.

1. Not... having your pricing game down.

Shortfall: When you come in with a list price above value, it may be attractive to the client, but it may also lead to a stale listing in the end. Coming in below fair market value, on the other hand, might not be enticing enough to land the listing.

Solution: Hit the bull's eye on perfect pricing with RPR's comp analysis tool. This step-by-step wizard walks users through the process of validating basic facts about a subject property, selecting comps and adjusting those comps to yield a customized and flexible pricing strategy.

2. Not... marketing your listing properly.

Shortfall: Online ads, photos, postcards... oh my! Today's buyer starts online, and depending on the agent's marketing effort, will then reach out to the agent or schedule a viewing.

Solution: Get a jumpstart on your marketing with RPR's One-page Property Flyer. This simple, comprehensive one-page flyer is perfect for direct mailers and posting around your geographic farming area. Also, don't forget to incorporate RPR market data and charts into your postcards and other marketing pieces.

3. Not... acting on that FSBO down the street.

Shortfall: Your buyer spots a FSBO in a highly desirable neighborhood. Naturally, they want to know more—yet without listing information, you have little to offer.

Solution: RPR Mobile™ leverages the power of your smartphone or tablet with the strength of RPR. By downloading the free app, you can instantly view nearby properties; and get listings, owner info, sales, valuations, tax, mortgage, school stats and market trends. So, while you're "at the curb," simply activate your RPR app. Your GPS will instantly pinpoint where you are and all you have to do is select and view the FSBO property to get the information that your client is looking for.

4. Not... making minor repair recommendations to your client.

Shortfall: First impressions count. If a property has a loose banister or debris in the front yard, potential buyers will notice, likely making it more difficult to find a buyer.

Solution: At the time of your listing appointment, make sure to offer recommendations for small repairs or home upgrade jobs that the homeowners can do with your consultation. Staging the home is a critical part of the job, and could result in a higher valuation for your clients.

5. Not... preparing your clients.

Shortfall: Your clients just had their kitchen remodeled, including having custom appliances installed that they plan to take when they move. By keeping the kitchen as-is, potential buyers may end up loving all of the enhancements as much as your sellers, becoming a point of contention for a seemingly easy transaction.

Solution: Have your seller replace new appliances with generic ones that can be sold with the home. This way, buyers won't become attached and use these fixtures as leverage during the home selling process.

And there you have it: five ways to stand out, make a great impression, and utilize RPR in the process.

To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.