What to Expect from 2010 – Real Estate White Paper

As every agent knows, for the past few years we’ve faced a highly challenging real estate market throughout most of the country. However, experts say that we can expect the market to shift back up in 2010. In fact, many regions hit the bottom of the market mid 2009 and are already working towards a more positive real estate climate.

Every area and neighborhood has its own set of circumstances that affect when they finally make the upward turn. But there’s no mistaking the fact that nearly all agents everywhere are anticipating a long-awaited change in the market. And change means opportunity. To capture the lucrative opportunities of 2010, it’s essential for agents to make a plan, create a system, and follow through to gain the competitive edge during this crucial time.

How do you know whether your market is shifting? Unfortunately, it’s hard to tell for sure until the market is well underway. However, there’s no missing the positive signs when they occur: inventories  decrease, homes sell more quickly, and mortgage rates are generally favorable to buyers.

It’s always important to remain realistic: in 2010 we will not return to the hair-afire buyers’ market of a few years ago. But preparation is the key to success, and here’s what you just might look forward to in 2010:

1. Lots of questions—and a little skepticism. People are still very nervous about the real estate market—understandably. Your job is to educate, explain, and be patient while you build the relationship. Growth Leader helps by making it easy for you to provide automated listing alert emails. You get credit for providing the helpful information, while your buyers learn more about the market and prepare themselves to make a move.
2. Movement. The good news is, people are moving—because they want to or because they must. Some who have been “waiting it out” may not be able to wait anymore. You can expect to see a lot more general interest as people begin researching homes. These days 80% of home buyers begin their home search online. Be sure to capture those prospects first by using Growth Leader’s team of online advertising experts to drive prospects directly to you.
3. Transactions—that is, if you market yourself right and have a system in place. When you have competition, a system can go a long way in helping you set yourself apart. If you’re not prepared, you can expect those transactions to go on another agent’s balance sheet. Growth Leader can help. It goes beyond just helping you generate active prospects, providing a solution to convert those prospects into closed business. That way you can make your career more rewarding than ever.

Now that you know what to expect in 2010, the next step is to calculate your business and living expenses.