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Smart Prospecting for the Holidays: Checking In and Updating Home Values

The holiday season is a time for connection, reflection, and sincere appreciation—and that makes it one of the best times of year to reach out to your database. Instead of traditional, sales-heavy prospecting, the holidays offer an opportunity for genuine, thoughtful outreach that strengthens relationships while still delivering meaningful value. One of the most effective ways to do this is by gifting homeowners a complimentary update on their home’s current market value.

Start your outreach with warm, personalized holiday greetings. This sets the tone for a friendly, heartfelt conversation and reminds clients that you value them beyond the business relationship. When you begin with sincerity, the real estate insights that follow feel natural and welcome.

Show genuine interest in their life and their home. Ask how their year has been, inquire about any updates or improvements they’ve made, and take the time to listen. People appreciate when you remember details and take a personal interest—it builds trust and lays the foundation for more meaningful conversations.

Offering a complimentary home value update is a valuable and thoughtful gift. With your expertise and access to current market data, you can provide homeowners with an accurate picture of what their home might sell for today. This simple gesture demonstrates your knowledge, keeps you top of mind, and provides information homeowners truly care about.

Along with the home value estimate, share a quick snapshot of today’s market trends. Homeowners appreciate understanding current conditions, whether that includes shifting interest rates, low inventory, or neighborhood-specific changes. Sharing relevant insights positions you as a trusted advisor who helps them make sense of the market.

Use this opportunity to offer guidance for future plans. Whether they’re considering selling next year, refinancing, or simply staying put, your expertise can empower them to make informed choices. A simple reminder that you’re available whenever they’re ready goes a long way.

Most importantly, create a zero-pressure experience. The holidays should feel generous, not sales-driven. Make it clear that your outreach is simply a helpful check-in and a valuable update—not a push for immediate decisions. When clients experience you as a resource rather than a salesperson, they remember your professionalism and integrity.

Smart prospecting during the holidays isn’t about chasing leads—it’s about deepening relationships. By checking in with warmth, offering meaningful value, and empowering homeowners with information, you reinforce your role as their trusted real estate advisor. This season, give the gift of knowledge, connection, and clarity.

Looking to be part of our Real Estate Expansion Team or referral network? Fill in the form below, and let’s start a conversation about how we can collaborate. Your referrals are important to us, and we value the potential of growing our network with like-minded professionals. We’re excited to connect with you!

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Step into Your Greatness: Bring That Energy into the New Year and Your Real Estate Business

As we stand on the edge of another year, it’s easy to reflect on what could have been—or to dream about what could be. Many people see greatness as something “out there,” reserved for those with special talents, luck, or opportunities. But here’s a little truth bomb for you: greatness isn’t out there. It’s already within you, waiting to be unleashed.

So, what does this mean for the New Year and your real estate business? It means it’s time to stop holding back, step up, and claim your success. Let’s talk about how you can channel this energy and start building momentum for the months ahead.

1. Mindset Matters: Stop Chasing, Start Owning

The first step to greatness is realizing you don’t need to go find it—it’s already in you. Stop waiting for perfect conditions, for market changes, or for the “right time.” Real estate success comes to those who act now.

  • Start every morning with a mantra: “Today, I show up. Today, I claim my greatness.” Sounds cheesy? Maybe. But mindset matters.

2. Set Bold Goals That Inspire You

Vague goals like “sell more houses” or “get more clients” won’t cut it. Set goals that make you stretch. Instead of focusing only on numbers, think about impact.

  • Example Goals:
    • Help 10 first-time homebuyers achieve their dreams.
    • Close 20% more deals by implementing a consistent follow-up system.
    • Grow your network by attending one new event every month.

3. Take Consistent Action

Greatness isn’t about huge, flashy wins—it’s about showing up every day. It’s the phone calls, the showings, the open houses, the follow-ups, and the relationships you build. When you combine action with intention, things start to snowball.

  • Small Steps to Try:
    • Schedule 2 hours every morning for lead generation.
    • Send handwritten thank-you notes to clients.
    • Post one valuable real estate tip per week on social media.

4. Let Go of Excuses

It’s easy to blame the market, the economy, or even the time of year for a slow business season. But the real estate pros who thrive are those who rise above excuses and focus on what they can control.

  • Ask Yourself: What’s holding me back? Is it fear? Doubt? Laziness? Identify it and commit to breaking through.

5. Invest in Yourself

Greatness grows when you grow. Make learning and self-improvement a priority. Whether it’s real estate trends, negotiation skills, or personal development, every new skill sharpens your edge.

  • Ideas:
    • Read one book a month (start with Atomic Habits or Ninja Selling).
    • Sign up for a real estate seminar or mastermind group.
    • Hire a coach to hold you accountable.

6. Surround Yourself with the Right People

The journey to greatness doesn’t happen alone. Build a circle of people who believe in you, challenge you, and push you to be better. This might include colleagues, mentors, or friends who share your vision.

7. Celebrate Your Wins

Big or small, wins are wins. Recognize the progress you make each day, week, and month. Acknowledging success—no matter how small—keeps your energy high and your momentum strong.

Ready to Own Your Greatness?

This year, step boldly into your story. Realize that you don’t have to wait for greatness—it’s already in you. By showing up with intention, taking consistent action, and staying focused on growth, you’ll not only build a thriving real estate business but also a life that feels aligned with your purpose.

The New Year isn’t just about resolutions. It’s about realizing you are the resolution.

Let’s make this your best year yet.

Looking to be part of our Real Estate Expansion Team or referral network? Fill in the form below, and let’s start a conversation about how we can collaborate. Your referrals are important to us, and we value the potential of growing our network with like-minded professionals. We’re excited to connect with you!

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Why I Joined eXp Realty—and Why You Might Want to Too

Changing directions in your real estate career is no small step. When I chose to join eXp Realty, I wasn’t just searching for another brokerage—I was looking for a smarter way to grow, create financial freedom, and align with a company that’s redefining the future of real estate. That’s exactly what I discovered.

Here’s why I joined eXp—and why it might be the right move for you too.

1. Ownership in the Company

At eXp Realty, you don’t just work for the company—you become an owner. Through their stock equity program, agents earn shares for doing what they’re already doing: closing deals, reaching milestones, and helping others join. This creates long-term wealth potential alongside your regular commissions.

2. Revenue Share Program

One of the most exciting parts of eXp is the Revenue Share Program. When you introduce other agents to eXp, you earn a percentage of the revenue they generate—without managing them. As your network grows, so does your income. It’s a true residual income opportunity that rewards you for building a community, not a company.

3. Cutting-Edge Technology

eXp operates entirely in the cloud. That means no costly franchise fees, no office overhead—and access to a virtual world full of tools, training, and collaboration. Whether you’re working from home or on the go, everything you need is just a click away.

4. World-Class Training and Support

There are 50+ hours of live training every week, covering everything from lead generation to listing presentations. You’ll learn from top producers around the country—and you’re never alone. The collaboration at eXp is like nothing I’ve seen before.

5. Work-Life Freedom

Because eXp is cloud-based, I can run my business from anywhere. That flexibility allows me to serve my clients better and still make time for what matters most—family, hobbies, travel, and personal growth.

Joining eXp Realty changed the way I think about my real estate career. I’m not just building a business—I’m building a legacy. If you’re an agent who’s driven, open-minded, and ready for something bigger, this might be the opportunity you didn’t know you were looking for.

Let’s talk. I’d love to share more about my experience and help you explore whether eXp is the right fit for you.

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Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526

eXp Realty of California, Inc.

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Mastering Inner Excellence: A Guide for Entrepreneurs and Real Estate Agents

Jim Murphy’s book Inner Excellence is a roadmap to peak performance and personal mastery. While it was originally written for athletes, its principles are just as relevant to entrepreneurs and real estate agents. Success in business, much like in sports, requires mental clarity, emotional resilience, and an unwavering focus on your goals.

What Is Inner Excellence?

At its core, Inner Excellence is about cultivating a mindset that allows you to perform at your best, no matter the circumstances. Murphy emphasizes the importance of being present, understanding your purpose, and aligning your actions with your values. These concepts are powerful tools for anyone navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and real estate.

3 Key Lessons from Inner Excellence for Entrepreneurs and Real Estate Agents

1. Clarity Is Key

Murphy stresses the importance of having a clear vision of your goals. As an entrepreneur or real estate agent, this translates into knowing what success looks like for you. Whether it’s closing a certain number of deals, building lasting client relationships, or growing your business, clarity helps you focus your energy.

Application Tip:

  • Create a vision statement for your business. Revisit it daily to remind yourself of your why.
  • Break your big goals into smaller, actionable steps.

2. Embrace the Process

Murphy encourages readers to focus on the journey rather than just the outcome. In real estate, not every deal will go through, and as an entrepreneur, not every idea will succeed. Learning to find joy in the process helps you stay motivated and resilient.

Application Tip:

  • Celebrate progress, not just results. Did you improve your prospecting efforts or make a new connection? That’s a win!
  • Reflect on lessons learned from challenges and failures.

3. Master Your Mindset

Inner Excellence is built on the idea that success begins in the mind. Negative thoughts, distractions, and self-doubt can derail even the best plans. Murphy’s methods teach you to stay present, manage your emotions, and maintain confidence.

Application Tip:

  • Practice mindfulness to stay focused during high-pressure moments, like client negotiations or deal closings.
  • Develop a morning routine that includes affirmations or visualization to set a positive tone for the day.

Why It Matters in Real Estate and Entrepreneurship

Both fields demand adaptability, perseverance, and a strong connection to others. Whether you’re closing deals, managing client expectations, or building your brand, Inner Excellence gives you the tools to handle stress, stay motivated, and build a business that aligns with your values.

Putting Inner Excellence Into Action

  1. Define Your Purpose: Why did you become a real estate agent or entrepreneur? Write it down and revisit it often.
  2. Be Present: In every interaction, give your full attention. Clients and colleagues will notice your focus and authenticity.
  3. Focus on What You Can Control: Let go of outcomes you can’t influence, and instead, pour your energy into your preparation and effort.

Success is more than just reaching your goals—it’s about who you become along the way. Jim Murphy’s Inner Excellence reminds us that with the right mindset, we can overcome challenges, connect deeply with others, and create a fulfilling and successful career.

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Looking to be part of our Real Estate Expansion Team or referral network? Fill in the form below, and let’s start a conversation about how we can collaborate. Your referrals are important to us, and we value the potential of growing our network with like-minded professionals. We’re excited to connect with you!

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How One Smart Call Stays on Top of a Prospect’s Mind

In real estate, we all know that “no” doesn’t always mean “never.” But how do you get a foot in the door with a prospect who’s not interested in moving right now? A recent example of a real estate cold call sheds light on the power of a skillful opener and a subtle follow-up.

Here’s how the call played out:

Agent: “Hi, this is Sam, I’m a real estate agent here in Austin. Do you still own the property on Cedar Avenue?”

Prospect: “Yes, I do.”

Sam: “I don’t suppose you’re thinking of selling it?”

Prospect: “Not at the moment. I like the place.”

And right here is where most calls end. But Sam, in this example, took it one step further, without being pushy.

Sam: “Sounds like that’s your forever home.”

This small comment triggered the prospect’s desire to clarify.

Prospect: “Well, maybe not forever…”

Sam used this small opening to plant a seed:

Sam: “Once a quarter, I send out an email with updates on what homes in East Austin are selling for. If you’d like, I can add you to the list.”

The result? The prospect said yes, allowing Sam to stay on their radar without overstepping.

Lessons for Building Rapport and Staying Top of Mind

1. Acknowledge Reality

It’s a fact: most people aren’t thinking about selling at any given moment. Acknowledging this, instead of pushing past it, can be disarming for your prospect. When Sam said, “Sounds like that’s your forever home,” it was a gentle acknowledgment of reality, showing understanding rather than insistence.

2. Ask Permission, Don’t Assume

By framing his follow-up as a “Would you like?” rather than an assumption that they want more information, Sam gave the prospect control over the conversation. This approach can make the difference between being remembered positively or dismissed as just another sales call.

3. Become a Familiar Name

Quarterly updates on neighborhood pricing is a non-intrusive, value-added approach. By staying top of mind through these updates, Sam ensures that when the prospect does consider selling, his name is the one they think of first.

Phrases to Create Subtle Openings

If you’re a real estate agent, or in any field where repeat interactions matter, here are a few lines to try:

  • “Sounds like it’s perfect for you right now.”
  • “Seems like it’s ticking all the boxes.”
  • “Out of curiosity, are there any situations where you might consider other options?”

The Takeaway: Be a Better Opener, Not Just a Closer

If you want to close more deals down the road, focus on being a good opener today. When the timing is right, your prospect will remember your professionalism and gentle persistence, making it more likely they’ll reach out to you.

Looking to be part of our Real Estate Expansion Team or referral network? Fill in the form below, and let’s start a conversation about how we can collaborate. Your referrals are important to us, and we value the potential of growing our network with like-minded professionals. We’re excited to connect with you!

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Unearth Hidden Real Estate Opportunities: Smart Prospecting with Vacant Homes

Sometimes opportunities are often hiding in plain sight. One such opportunity lies within the realm of vacant homes. Recent data from LendingTree has unveiled an intriguing facet of the real estate market: millions of vacant homes across major U.S. metro areas. As a smart prospector, this could be your golden ticket to discovering untapped rental and sales potential. Here’s how to harness this valuable information.

The Vacant Home Advantage

Vacant homes are more than just empty spaces; they represent a wealth of possibilities. The average vacancy rate in major metros is 7.22%, which means there’s a substantial pool of potential leads waiting to be explored.

Contacting the Title Company

To kickstart your journey into this hidden market, consider reaching out to your local title company. They often have access to information about vacant properties in your area. Request a list of these homes, as it can be a valuable resource for your prospecting efforts.

Analyzing Vacancy Reasons

Once armed with this list, it’s essential to understand why these homes are vacant. LendingTree’s data indicates that vacancies can occur for various reasons, including homes for rent (26.61%), part-time use (17.04%), and homes undergoing repairs (7.98%). This insight helps you tailor your approach when contacting homeowners.

Crafting Your Pitch

When reaching out to homeowners of vacant properties, craft a compelling pitch that addresses their specific situation. For those considering renting, highlight the potential rental income. For those with homes in need of repair, emphasize your expertise in real estate and renovation.

The Takeaway

In a competitive real estate landscape, smart prospecting means exploring unconventional avenues. Vacant homes represent a treasure trove of opportunities waiting to be uncovered. By contacting your local title company, understanding the reasons for vacancies, and tailoring your pitch, you can position yourself as the go-to real estate professional for those seeking to unlock the potential of their vacant properties. It’s not just about selling or renting a house; it’s about transforming a vacant space into a thriving home.

https://wrenews.com/nearly-5-5-million-homes-are-vacant-across-the-largest-metro-areas/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Nearly+5+5+Million+Homes+Are+Vacant+Across+the+Largest+Metro+Areas&utm_campaign=WRE+News+10+05+23+Nationwide&vgo_ee=zWIuIx%2BmpB01jrOD2pfsYRsXkq25juVpEohUnFmACUPeSMk1TsjOxg%3D%3D%3ADpTVjnNlUVWQ7WvOTmy7ZAsb7jZOvRbB

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