The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life for everyone – suddenly and in significant ways. Without question, its health impacts are the first and foremost concern. Beyond the immediate and obvious effects on health, however, the virus has changed day-to-day life for many – and real estate agents are certainly no exception. Many agents who were conducting a booming business only a month or two ago suddenly find themselves with few, if any showings. Open houses filled with buyers are no longer feasible in this time of social distancing, and in-person closings have slowed tremendously, if they are happening at all. Understandably, all of this can be very unsettling.

Finding new ways to adapt and move forward during this time may be challenging – but it is essential. At GayRealEstate.com, we value our excellent network of agents across the country, and we are here to help you through this time. While we can’t change the reality of the situation, it is our hope to provide agents with helpful ideas of how to make the most of this time, and to come out of it stronger, and more prepared than ever to help buyers and sellers across the country find the homes of their dreams.

As you make an effort to find your “new normal” during this very unusual time, consider the following tips:

  • Make use of available technology: Fortunately, we live in an age where we have amazing technology at our fingertips – and this is the perfect time to make use of it. Agents across the country are finding ways to provide enhanced virtual tours – not only pictures and videos included with a listing, but personalized walk-throughs one-on-one with potential buyers as well. Other agents are finding ways to conduct closings entirely online using electronic signatures. Some are having virtual open-houses, and online question and answer sessions about properties with potential buyers. There are many ways to make use of technology that can help you move your business forward, even if you aren’t conducting that business in-person.
  • Take time to re–tool your business: Instead of viewing this downtime as wasted time, view it instead as an opportunity to re-tool, improve, and enhance your business model. If you have more time than ever on your hands, use that time wisely. Review your marketing materials. Upgrade your webpage. Reach out to old clients. Make new connections. Check-in with other agents. Build your network. Improve your social media presence. Find ways to help your community in a safe way that preserves social distancing. There are plenty of things that you can do during this time that will pay dividends later and improve your business for the long-term.
  • Share helpful and informative content: During this unsettling time where news seems to be changing almost constantly, your clients are more in need now, than ever, of pertinent information. Share helpful and informative content with your clients about the impact of COVID-19 on the real estate industry whenever you can. Consider also sharing helpful information on other topics that your clients might find useful – such as how to work from home productively, best practices for staying healthy, or ideas for easy home improvement projects. This information not only helps your clients – it also helps to keep you engaged and thinking, which ultimately increases your productivity and feelings of well-being. This is not to mention the fact that it will increase your visibility to those clients who may need your professional help for any number of real estate needs during this time.
  • Don’t forget to focus on your own health: The time in which we currently find ourselves is difficult for all of us. You are no exception. While it may be tempting to burn the candle at both ends trying to find ways to keep your business afloat, this urge should be resisted. The truth is that being rested and healthy actually enables you to be more productive. Don’t neglect self-care, especially during difficult and stressful times. Spend some time doing things you enjoy. You’ll be glad you did, and you’ll be better able to address the challenges you face if you do.

We are living through an unprecedented time. We find ourselves in new territory – with no map or guidance as to how we should move forward. In times like these, the best thing that we can do is chart a new path, together. At www.GayRealEstate.com, we’re here to help you do exactly that. We want agents across the country to know that we’re here for you, in whatever way we can be. Together, we’ll get through this – stronger, prepared, and ready for a bright new chapter ahead.