4 Powerful Tips to Sell More Homes This Winter
“Oh baby it’s cold outside.” For most realtors, that means sluggish winter sales are approaching. Most potential buyers decide to wait until the spring when the weather is more palatable and the holiday season is over. Unfortunately, that could spell a dreaded drop-off in home sales for realtors. Here is a proven formula for fighting off the brutal winter-season lull and selling more homes this winter.
Reward Referrals
Use this slower time to focus on those clients who send referrals your way. Thank them on your social media channels or in an email newsletter. You could also send a thank you card or even a gift to those that have recently brought business to you. Sure you can send a branded mug or calendar, but a little thoughtfulness goes a long way. If they have pets or children, send a dog toy or a children’s toy to thank them in a more meaningful way. Include a small note reminding them that referrals are a large part of your business, and you’d appreciate them keeping you in mind. Your appreciation and your gesture will make them more inclined to refer you.
Don’t Hibernate!
The holiday season creates many opportunities to reach out to previous clients and potential buyers. A holiday greeting card is a great way to stay in front of your clients (this tip also works great for birthdays and home buying anniversaries). Check in to see how they are doing in their new home and if they have had any recent life changes. You’ll be the first to know if they’re having another baby, relocating, or looking to downsize and you’ll be at the top of mind when they decide to make a move.
“Just Listed” Properties
How many potential buyers did you stop hearing from just before the holiday season? These should be your first point of contact for new listings. Make sure they are still seeing your latest properties as one may spark their interest enough to make a move during the winter. You can take it one step further if you know or remember the “deal-breaker” that kept your serious buyers from buying before winter hit – the one thing they just wouldn’t buy without. Be sure to send those potential buyers any homes that come on the market that would fit their needs, and highlight the features they were looking for; It could be the trigger that gets them to commit.
Why Not Save Them Some Money!
Who doesn’t like being told about a great deal! Make it a season of savings for your clients by letting them know about special offers, closing credits and exclusive discounts that can really save them some money when they purchase. Special offers such as First Time Home Buyer closing cost credits and VA Loan closing cost credits might be available, but they’re usually for a limited time. At New America financial, First Time Home Buyers receive $1500 towards closing cost if pre-approved by December 31, 2014. Veteran and Military families financing their home with a VA loan from New America Financial can take advantage of a limited time VA Loan $2500 closing cost credit. Look for opportunities to help your clients save on their purchase and don’t let them miss out on a great offer.
Remember, serious buyers are looking for homes all year round – even when it’s cold outside! Stay in front of your clients and prospects, with timely and valuable information and ‘wow’ them with great personal service to keep your business from going into hibernation this winter.