It is said that Real Estate is all about location, location, location...however, the business of Real Estate Investing is really about Marketing...which is all about Networking, Networking, Networking! Let's face it, Real Estate Investing is absolutely a networking business. If you are a rehabber, a pretty house investor, a wholesaler, or any other discipline of Real Estate Investor, it is all about your ability to move your product. To do that you have to know who your target market is, and then get out there and network with them to build your Buyer List.
So, how do you get out there and network? Well, three critical, cost effective networking measures that every Real Estate Investor should immediately implement into their arsenal of weapons to build their Buyer List are:
1.Join Professional Trade Associations
2.Always carry a Business Card
3.Have a Web Presence
Professional Trade Associations are an excellent way to meet other industry professionals. At most Trade Associations, you will have the opportunity to meet your competition, meet vendors that can help you grow your business, and potentially find clients...in our case Buyers. These professional associations were designed and set up specifically for you to network and grow your business! Most have nominal membership fees that more than pay for themselves within the first month as you utilize the tools they have put in place to help you grow. A few associations for you to consider affiliating yourself with are: Local Real Estate Investors Associations, Local Builders Associations, BNI (Business Networking Inc.), and Local Apartment Associations.
Next, business cards...this is plain and simply the most cost effective form of branding and advertising you can implement into your business. You should set a goal of handing out 100 cards to new potential clients/buyers each week. Tell everyone you know and everyone you meet who you are, what you do...and most importantly how it can benefit them! Business cards are very inexpensive, and in some cases can be free! One great resource many of our students have used is www.vistaprint.com where you can get FREE custom printed business cards.
Lastly, and most importantly, in today's business environment, you simply must have a web presence. The addition of a website to your business tool kit will instantly add credibility that says, 'I am a real legitimate business'. Additionally, you can build your site to have the appearance that you are a mogul in your industry even if you are just getting started. There are numerous resources available to buy a domain names, host your site, and even templates that you can build your personal web site in less than 30 minutes. This is a must have for any serous investor.
So, there you have it...three quick and easy methods to get out there today, start networking and build your Buyer List! The only question now is...will you do it today?
