Why New Real Estate Agents Shouldn't Take on Everything

By Marcus Vanzant

Marcus Vanzant is a second-generation real estate broker and founder of Marcus & Company Realty in Bradenton, FL.

In real estate, it can be tempting to take on every type of property and program. As a salesperson, you may feel the urge to sell as much as possible. However, handling too many different types of properties, especially when you’re new to the industry, can be risky.

The importance of focus. New agents should consider focusing on working with buyers before diving into listings. Buyers can help you understand what the market is looking for. This knowledge is crucial when it’s time to work with sellers. Understanding what buyers want will help you guide sellers in preparing their homes to sell for the best price. This could mean advising sellers to declutter, clean, or replace outdated features. These are tasks that might be difficult for a new agent, but they are essential for a successful sale.

The costs of taking on listings. While listings can be an exciting opportunity, they come with significant expenses and responsibilities. For instance, many agents may take their photos instead of hiring professionals. This can make the property appear unprofessional and unappealing.

Listings also require consistent effort and costs for activities like cold calling, finding buyers, hosting open houses, and marketing the property. These tasks can become overwhelming and costly if not managed properly.

The complexity of certain properties. Some property types, such as condominiums and co-ops, require specialized knowledge. For example, selling a condo involves understanding the condo association rules and legalities. Co-ops can be even more complicated. Selling properties you don’t fully understand can lead to problems down the road.

As an agent, it’s important to know when to say no. You can’t be an expert in everything. Sometimes, it’s better to focus on what you know well rather than taking on a property that could become a liability.

Surround yourself with the right people. To succeed in real estate, surround yourself with people who know what they’re doing. Connect with experienced and successful agents. If you want to become a top producer, find a brokerage that encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing. Being around high-performing agents will help you learn and grow.

Study, learn, and improve. If you want to take on more complex properties, invest time in learning. Study the market and the property types you’re interested in. Seek out training and network with experienced agents. Growing your expertise requires continuous learning and hands-on experience.

Real estate is about more than just making sales. You’re dealing with people’s major financial investments. Each property you list or sell could be worth millions. Don’t take that responsibility lightly. Focus on your strengths, connect with knowledgeable people, and continue developing your skills to grow in this industry. If you have questions or need guidance, please reach out. You can call me at 941-404-8676 or send an email to success@marcusandcompanyrealty.com. I look forward to hearing from you.