First impressions matter.
You need your first interaction with real estate agents to be one that exudes professionalism and reliability, yet you must be unique and likable.
As a former real estate agent, there were a couple differentiators that my colleagues and I agreed would get us to try a new home inspector:
Personalization is key in connecting with people online. It takes a little effort that most aren't willing to put in.
Agents are master socializers. They know what a generic email looks like because they probably use them themselves. Look at the agents website, read a few details about them - it only takes 2 minutes. Social media can be another great window into agents personal lives as well. Their dogs, their kids, their clients. There will be something that you can connect with. Then mention this in your email.
You'd be surprised at the personal human connections that come from finding out their kids are into the same things as yours, or that you both have a passion for historic homes.
You really have to look in the mirror before you can approach real estate agents. You can be the most likable, nice inspector in the world but it still has to come down to the value you're going to provide to agents and their clients.
Is it your experience? Many inspectors have experience - tell them how and why this will benefit them.
Don't have experience?
Is the software you use and reports you generate modern and user-friendly? Tell agents about this! We live in a fast-paced, technology focused world - more and more agents care about this.
What about offering a special deal to their first client? (hint: This makes agents look good to that client. They got them a good deal. Make sure to let them know it's an introductory deal for them to get to know you and your style, so they don't expect it)
Are you very personable with clients? Again, tell them how and why this benefits them.
It's an old rule of marketing - people are more likely to try something if they've had a number of positive exposures or impressions with a person or brand. Social media is a quick and easy to way get these. Keep in mind that many of these seemingly young, social media using Realtors are or will be the big producers in coming years. And they have big influence over millennial homebuyers.
It's also not just young millennials using social media. Realtors tend to be a social, high-communication group - I've seen many 50 and 60+ real estate agents utilizing social media. Many are active on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. So if they recall that you followed them, or even better interacted with their posts, then your chances of them trying you out go way up.
Find them on social media. They often link to all the sites right from their footer of their website.
Hi Jane,
I enjoyed reading your latest blog post on all the construction going on in this town - good for business!
I'm reaching out today because I think I can be an asset to you and your clients. I have over 30 years of construction experience - this really makes clients feel like they understand the ins and outs of their soon-to-be home.
Add to that, I really take the time to answer questions before, during and after the inspection - this helps transactions go much smoother.
Let me know this email got to you, and I'll look forward to working together in the near future!
Joe Inspector
www.bestinspector.com
Hi Bob,
I noticed your real estate business is in the family - so is my home inspection business! Makes it fun and interesting on some days :)
I'm reaching out today because I think I can be an asset to you and your clients. I differentiate by using Spectora home inspection software to generate reports that are very visual and user-friendly. Other agents have commented on how beautiful and helpful the reports are.
I add to that my diligent follow up with clients, so they feel completely comfortable with what needs to be addressed, without alarming them.
Let me know this email got to you, and I'll look forward to working together in the near future!
Hi Emily,
I noticed you specialize in the _____ area, I have a special place in my heart for that area - my grandmother lives there. I also love the challenge of inspecting older homes.
I want to offer you a special deal so we can get to know each other and work together in the future. I'll do an inspection for your next client for a reduced rate (based on square footage). How does that sound?
I pride my work on being diligent and following up with the client multiple times to make sure they understand the health of their future home.
Let me know this email got to you, and I'll look forward to working together in the near future!
Many inspectors fly through this part of building their business, but the details matter.
If you feel overwhelmed at the thought of finding, researching and effectively reaching out to real estate agents - write into our chat bubble or email to see how we can help.