Why I Eliminated The Word "Listing" From My Vocabulary
Are you a listing agent? I sure am not. Rather, I am a marketing agent. I don’t list property. I create strategic marketing plans. I directly influence the sales process on behalf of sellers.
The word “listing” completely devalues the work of an effective real estate professional. Anyone can list property. A minimum wage worker can list a home for sale. My assistant can list a home for sale. Heck, a computer can most likely list a property for sale through an automated system.
A listing is essentially a commodity. A listing can be done by anyone. That is why I am not a listing agent. Listing agents get their commissions reduced. Listing agents can be replaced. Listing agents are all the same and must compete on fee. Listing agents are most certainly not worth the many thousands of dollars they are often paid.
I am a marketing agent. Marketing agents create strategic plans to have the greatest influence on price for their home seller clients. Marketing agents have unique ideas that create real value. Marketing agents are worth more than their pay. Great marketing agents are irreplaceable.
Think about this and make a change in your language. The change will make your presentations more compelling and your value undeniable. It is a winning mindset that you must either adapt or you will inevitably become just another real estate agent. You decide.
* Photo via be-virtual-assistant-wise.co.za
Jae Kim
Posted at 19:29h, 30 NovemberThat freaking rocked! Great article!!!
Daniel Beer
Posted at 13:53h, 01 DecemberGlad to see you get pumped up!
Daniel Beer
Posted at 13:54h, 01 DecemberIt has a lot to do with why some agents thrive while most others struggle to make one or two sales a year. Mindset matters.
Drew Meyers
Posted at 13:55h, 01 DecemberMindset not only matters…it’s everything. Without a solid mindset, you WILL fail no matter what.
Sam DeBord, SeattleHome.com
Posted at 08:31h, 01 DecemberGood take, Daniel. If you provide the same services as everyone else, you compete only on your fees. The sales pitch “I am cheaper” isn’t nearly as attractive to a seller as “I can sell your home more quickly.”
Dahlia
Posted at 02:53h, 02 DecemberGood information! Thanks for sharing it with us on your blog.
mikec (@blogboy2)
Posted at 16:43h, 09 DecemberI have been thinking about this for a long time, but never could find the right words ~ until you, Daniel. I have also thought how the word “listing” means nothing to the client. What does it mean? If you have to explain it, then it’s useless. A “marketing agent” ~ now that’s something you don’t have to explain except by pointing out your marketing plan.