No two days in real estate are ever alike. That’s what we love so much about this profession; it keeps you on your toes. But with all the excitement and daily tasks – from administrative tasks to showing homes, negotiating contracts, home inspections, office duty, marketing and more – it’s easy to let your time management skills slip. You are, after all, likely trying to balance your real estate career with your home life and any other obligations that you may have.
If you start to get overwhelmed or feel like you’re not finding the balance you desire, consider these tips to help you manage your time more efficiently:
1: Determine and Set Expectations
While real estate is often viewed as a 24/7 business, it’s important to determine and set expectations for how you will manage your time. For example: Do you answer client calls after 8pm? Do you spend 30 minutes each morning reviewing the new listings in the MLS? How will you allot time for continuing education, professional meetings and community networking?
It is important, particularly with your clients, that you also set communication expectations. Do you always respond to emails instantly? Is it ok to text message? When you set communication expectations with your clients, you’re gently saying, “my time is valuable and I know yours is too, so here’s the best way for us to communicate.”
2: Delegate, Delegate, Delegate
If you’re lucky enough to have a team working with you, try to delegate assignments that you can pass on. This includes administrative duties like mailing out letters, sending follow-up emails, or maybe checking with an inspector to confirm a time. By delegating tasks that you don’t have to be a part of, you’re allowing yourself more time to work directly with and for your clients. Trust your team and trust that they are here to make your job easier. Consider weekly team meetings and follow-up ones, if needed.
3: Use Available Technologies
There are so many wonderful technologies available to us today that can help streamline our communications, office functions and more. In markets where electronic signatures are permitted, Docusign, for example, allows you to send and sign documents with ease. Evernote is another great example, which allows you to capture ideas, information and notes in one easy-to-access place. And, a robust CRM product like can help you manage your client database, communications and more.
Real estate is a fast moving business
Real estate is a fast moving business, and it’s easy to be overwhelmed if you are not properly prepared. Take some time and consider implementing the tips we’ve mentioned and allow yourself to work smarter, not harder.
Do you have other tips for time management? Post in the comments below or start a discussion on our Facebook page.
