Seminars and classes

[Bryan Sullivan]

What does everyone think about real estate seminars? I went to a seminar the other day a learned some valuable information but it was hard to distinguish if the speaker was just boasting about their intensive class or if they actually wanted to help. They seemed like they had some inside knowledge and a great system that guarantee results when it comes to income producing properties.  They were some great salesmen and I forgot to bring my wallet so when I went to go sign up for the classI could not. I viewed it as a sign. What is your experience with these seminars and the classes they offer. Was is a good thing I forgot my wallet or a missed opportunity? 

[James C.]

Bryan,

IMHO seminars are a waste of time and money. I think there are investments with better returns on/of both out there.  Since you are an agent, you have access to some really talented folks in your industry.  

Your best bet is to find a really great deal and partner with a local investor/mentor to get things moving. If you are doing the agent thing correctly, you should be talking to at least 30 or more folks per day, previewing 6 to 10 houses, working with buyers, your sellers, other agents, mortgage brokers and appraisers.  

Certainly in all of those contacts you can find someone who knows someone that you can learn from without paying thousands of dollars. 

If you are at a loss as to how to begin,  start with the oldest, most experienced sales person in your office. Shadow them for a day or two. You'll learn more in those two days than you'd ever learn in any seminar. 

The guy I learned from, when he started out, his designated broker/owner wouldn't let him sell anything he didn't buy himself. That right there is a real education. 

Just a thought or two.

Good luck, 

Jim