New realtor having a hard time getting listings

[Robert Yousef]

Im a real estate broker in Illinois and i'm hungry to make money in this industry. Its been about a month and I haven't made a single dollar. I know its still early in my career to be worried but I know the money is out there and I need to take it. Ive been reading The Book of YES by Kevin Ward and lately i've tried cold calling FSBO's on zillow but haven't had any appointments yet which gets a little discouraging, should i just keep smiling and dialing? Looking to hear from successful agents and what I could do to be one of the best in the business.

[Jake Alger]

Hi Robert,

Real Estate isn't something that shows returns immediately, it's a grind.  My recommendation aside from smiling and dialing is to network, network, network.  Oh yea, and network!  

Reach out to other agents in your firm, ask if anyone needs help with open houses, showings, etc.  You wouldn't believe how many established agents don't want to do their own open houses.  This is a great way to pick up buyers.

Attend local networking events, fundraisers, conferences, happy hours.  Even if there aren't buyers or sellers in attendance, handing out cards, shaking hands, kissing babies helps show that you're part of the community.  The people you meet may have leads, or if they don't right away, giving them a business card or getting theirs and following up at a later date, may give you a referral to someone they know or have talked to since.

Go to local sporting events, even games for local elementary schools, high schools, etc.  Network with the parents in the stands.  Sponsor a little league team, a girl scout troop, whatever the case may be.

Send mailers, post cards, market updates, letters.  Include a business card and some personalized touches.

None of these may give you instant results, but it's all about the end game, right?  Get out there, network.  Don't get stuck behind a desk all the time, people need to see you're part of the local hustle and bustle.

This is simply what I could come up with in a few minutes.  Hang in there and keep working hard, it will pan out eventually!  Nothing comes easy in life and the longer you can hold out in your new career, the more successful you will be down the road!

Feel free to reach out if you need anything.  Best of luck.