An Industry in Change: The Agent’s New Role as a Consultant
Posted by Michelle Smith/Director of Knowledge Services Mon, 30 Jul 2007 16:05:00 GMT
RISMEDIA, July 27, 2007— The residential real estate brokerage industry appears to be about half way through a 10-15 year industry transition – one that is creating confusion and frustration, but above all, huge opportunities.
That’s the message of the 2007 Swanepoel TRENDS Report that, since its release in February, thousands of brokers and agents have used as a roadmap to reposition their businesses for the future.
“If brokerages, Realtors and Realtor Associations are to remain relevant and effective, they must clearly understand the changing real estate environment and the new, evolving real estate business models,” states Stefan Swanepoel, industry consultant and author of the report.
According the report, real estate professionals will “certainly survive as the primary link between Americans and the American dream,” despite the industry’s constant evolution. The advent of new models such as Zillow, Trulia, Redfin and many others are all contributing in different ways. As a result, real estate professionals will have to step up their “game” by improving their knowledge about real estate, the neighborhood and technology, as well change their mindset from a “salesperson” to that of a consultative, interpretive and negotiating lifestyles facilitator.
“Clever brokers and agents will objectively research every market and model, every nook and cranny, every book and every course – searching for that one idea that will spark a new strategy, idea or method that will lead to more effective customer service,” Swanepoel says.
“Never has the industry experienced so much change,” he states. “What was important last year, or last month for that matter, will in all probably not be relevant tomorrow. Those that understand that and are able to pull their team of agents together are the ones that will benefit the most.”
At 159-pages, the Trends Report offers extensive research and analysis of the top real estate trends, technology innovations, shifts, and new business models changing our industry.
The Report is also now available for the first time on DVD, being released on August 1. It shares Stefan’s insights and perspectives on camera. The DVD includes a 90-minute video presentation of the 10 most important trends along with his Powerpoint slides, available at a limited time offer of $49.95.
To learn more about the top 10 trends impacting real estate or the 90-minute DVD visit www.RealEstateBooks.org. Use the promo code RIS2007 for a 10% discount and free shipping on either item.
