In the real estate industry, first impressions will either make or break you when it comes to winning business.

Preparation and branding are key to helping you stand out from your competition. We’ve put together a list of what we consider the 5 most important ways to improve your listing presentation and win that next listing:

1. Show up on time and always follow up

This may seem like a no-brainer, but your first impression is extremely important. The homeowner is looking for a punctual go-getter, not an agent that is too busy, or too lazy, to honor their appointment time.

To round out the initial listing presentation, always follow up with a personalized note or a thoughtful gift. This small gesture leaves a big impact guaranteed to keep you top of mind.

2. Brand yourself 

Establishing a strong brand recognition will help you stand out from other real estate agents. Here are a few ways to build your brand and grow your business in the real estate industry: 

Adhere to a specific color palette and font

Selecting a color palette and font that fits your brand is crucial. A well-thought-out color palette is one of the key drivers in brand identity and recognition for consumers. Take some time when establishing your brand’s color palette and check out these great posts from Canva on understanding color theory. 

“The most effective color choices go beyond just personal preference — because colors have an extraordinary ability to influence mood, emotions, and perception.” – Canva

Similarly, choosing a typeface that you use across your branded content and marketing materials will further establish your brand identity.

“When a company is designing a brand identity, a consistent set of fonts must be used—each with a specific purpose.  Typography lets you create a certain atmosphere and have a personality.” – Brand by Kelly

Use professional photography for every listing

As you build your brand, you want to create a consistent brand identity. There are many benefits to using a real estate photographer to take images of your listings including more online traffic, more showings, and more offers. Another benefit is positioning yourself as a high-caliber real estate agent. Visuals are a great way to improve your listing presentation.

By showcasing your professionally photographed listings to a potential client, you are telling them that you see the value in high-quality marketing strategies for your business as well as theirs.

“With 96% of home buyers looking at houses online, the way you visually market your listings is critical to stand out from the crowd. The best way to differentiate yourself and get more showings is with professional real estate photography.” – Virtuance

Learn more about why real estate photography matters here.

Make sure to have a high-caliber headshot

Get a professional headshot – Another way to brand yourself as a high-caliber agent is to get professional headshots. Your headshot will be used on every listing flyer, on your website, on every third-party platform and your social media pages like Facebook and Linkedin. For this reason, it is extremely important to have a professional high-resolution headshot to promote your brand.

Body language experts agree that the facial expression you use in your headshot will factor into how prospects view you. Are you competent? Trustworthy? Influential? These are all characteristics you can showcase with a professional headshot.

Build a strong social media presence

Today, social media platforms act as portfolios for leading real estate agents. Building a strong social media presence will not only help gain exposure for your listings but will help establish your brand as innovative and forward-thinking. Try experimenting with different social media channels to see which one works best for you and your market.

3. Be a champion for your community  

Nothing makes a homeowner more nervous than an agent who doesn’t know what’s going on in their market. It is important to understand your communities and neighborhoods to share the most recent statistics – yearly home sales, the average sales price to list price, number of homes taken off the market, upcoming construction and road work, etc.

Some agents even offer community statistics on their websites, which not only allows homeowners to see that they are knowledgeable about their market but encourages homeowners to do the same.

4. Design a comprehensive marketing plan

A marketing plan you show to clients is much preferred over saying you can sell their home. Homeowners want to see that you are proactive and organized in your strategies to get their houses sold.

A professionally bound book with real estate photography from previous listings can grab the homeowner’s attention while an updated marketing plan on your tablet can show the client what you have done most recently.

5. Listen to the needs of the homeowners

Homeowners have many choices on how to sell their home. This can include selecting different real estate agencies, agents within those agencies or even FSBO. At your listing presentation, pay close attention to the needs of the homeowner.

Take notes as you engage them with genuine follow-up questions. Selling a home is oftentimes an emotional process, and the homeowners need to understand that you are on their side. The real estate business is a people business, after all.

Homeowners are ultimately seeking a confident agent who is passionate about the market, understands the community and is on their side, fighting hard for them. As you prepare for your next listing presentation, consider these five tips for success.

Enhance your listing presentation with Virtuance

Are you ready to improve your listing presentation? Remember, arrive at your appointment on time and be prepared with your branded, marketing portfolio in hand ready for a win! Check out some more tips on how to crush your next listing presentation to win your next client!

FAQ

Listening is key. Pay attention to the homeowner’s specific needs, concerns, and goals. Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper into what matters most to them. Selling a home can be an emotional journey, so it’s important to show empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to helping them through the process.

First impressions matter! Being punctual shows that you’re professional, reliable, and respect your client’s time. It’s a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to the process. Plus, following up with a personalized note or thoughtful gift after the presentation helps solidify that positive first impression.

Branding is all about consistency and visibility. Start by establishing a color palette and font that reflects your personality and style. Use professional photography for your listings to help them shine. Don’t forget a high-quality professional headshot, as it helps showcase your personal brand.

Consistency in branding, professionalism, and local knowledge sets you apart. Stay on top of industry trends, be proactive in your marketing efforts, and always make sure your presentation reflects the value you bring as a real estate expert.