New Agent, Knoxville, TN Seeking Advice/Tips/Strategies

[Benjamin Barredo]

Hello BP Agents. 

My name is Ben Barredo and I am a brand spanking new Real Estate Agent working for KW in Knoxville, TN. I'm so new that my application hasn't actually processed yet. However, I am ready to hit the ground running. Unlike a lot of new agents, I understand that getting a license isn't the only thing required to make money in this business. Additionally I'm planning to use my commission/income to both live off of and to launch a RE Investing journey into buy and holds. 

I was hoping I could get some advice and tips from some of you more seasoned agents. 

1. I will be starting out part time until the end of the year (I hope) at the latest. I don't have money to pay for GoogleClic ads or mailers so I'm going to have to initially depend strictly on my own hustle. Which do you think has the best return for the time put in - Door Knocking, Cold Calling, Attending Social Functions, or something else? I've been watching a lot of YouTube videos on door knocking and cold calling and while researching I get an almost even split on which is better but I also come across some threads (on FB) that say cold calling and door knocking are both a waste of time. 

2. Because I'm going to be part time, I plan to focus on sellers because listings seem to be less time consuming than being a buyer's agent. What do you think? Of course I won't only do listings, I'll be open to both but as far as marketing myself and creating my brand, I want to focus on sellers. 

3. What are some cheap ways to start building an instant lead generation? What are some ways to start building long term lead generations? 

4. I plan to take advantage of leads that fit my investment strategy (BRRRR) and make my own offer on those. I want to work them as a investor and not an agent. Any advice on how to approach that? I know in my state I am required by law to disclose my agent position and from there I can make an offer. Should I go through another agent or can I work the contracts on my own and with a title company?

5. Any other advice or stories on how you got started? What was your first year like? How'd you do? What was the most important lesson you learned that year? Where are you now? 

6. Any books that you suggest I add to my "Must Read" list? 

Thanks for your time. I look forward to learning something from you guys. 

One more thing - do any of you work for KW and if so, I know they offer websites and a mobile app in their technology package but does KW have its own CRM software like Podio, RealGeeks, etc.? I currently use Podio for my wholesaling but I'm thinking of switching to RealGeeks.com