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How I Went from Business Banking to Real Estate and Became a Top-Producer

Are you ready to make the leap into real estate but unsure about how to transition? You’re in luck! Leah Williamson, a top-producing agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers in Atlanta, Georgia, is here to share her journey from business banking to real estate success.

Getting Started

I’m not going to sugarcoat it – starting a new career can be daunting. But with the right advice and a positive attitude, you can set yourself up for success. My first piece of advice is to be open and honest about your goals and aspirations with your friends, family, and colleagues. For me, sharing my decision to pursue a career in real estate with my network helped me gain valuable insights and support.

As a business banker, I had a strong background in sales and customer service, which has served me well in real estate. However, I needed to learn how to cultivate relationships in a new industry. I started by networking with lenders, consultants, and business bankers who are deeply entrenched with consumers every day. I also became a member of the PTA and the board of my HOA to expand my network and connections.

Cultivating Relationships

Building strong relationships is key to success in real estate. As someone who is naturally people-oriented, I focus on building rapport with my clients and understanding their needs. I do this by listening to their stories and sharing my own experiences. My goal is to make my clients feel like they are more than just transactions – they are my friends.

To achieve this, I offer my clients personalized checklists and provide services such as carpet cleaning, house cleaning, and decluttering. I also follow up with my clients regularly to check in and celebrate their milestones. My favorite tip is to send them Amazon gift cards to recognize and celebrate their achievements.

Being True to Yourself

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being true to yourself. As a family-oriented person, I didn’t want to compromise my values or change who I am to fit into the traditional real estate mold. Instead, I decided to own my authenticity and be proud of who I am. This approach has not only made me more relatable to my clients but also allowed me to stand out in a crowded industry.

Setting Goals

Goal-setting was a crucial part of my journey to success. I set a goal to grow my business by 33 percent year-over-year and broke it down into smaller, manageable parts. I scheduled my goals into my calendar and regularly checked in to track my progress. Having a clear vision and a plan has allowed me to stay focused and motivated.

Prospecting

Prospecting is an essential part of being a real estate agent. To generate leads, I focus on my "center of influence" – lenders, consultants, and business bankers who are deeply entrenched with consumers every day. I also leverage my social media presence by following my clients and sending them personalized messages. A good CRM (customer relationship management) system is also essential for follow-up and organization.

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, I’m excited to take my business to the next level. I’ve set a goal to earn my broker’s license and work with a partner on some commercial business. I believe that taking calculated risks and embracing change will be key to continued success.

Conclusion

Leah Williamson’s journey from business banking to real estate is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to adapt. By focusing on building strong relationships, being true to oneself, and setting clear goals, anyone can achieve success in the real estate industry.

FAQs

Q: How did you make the transition from business banking to real estate?
A: I took courses to earn my real estate license and joined a reputable brokerage with a strong training platform. I also leaned on my network and sought guidance from experienced agents.

Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about real estate?
A: Building strong relationships with clients is key to success. Listen to their stories, understand their needs, and provide personalized services to set yourself apart.

Q: How do you stay organized and manage your time effectively?
A: I use a CRM system to stay organized and schedule my tasks and goals. I also prioritize my clients’ needs and focus on providing exceptional service to build a loyal customer base.

Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the real estate industry?
A: Be true to yourself, focus on building relationships, and set clear goals. Take calculated risks and be open to learning and adapting.

Author: www.inman.com

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