Building lasting relationships is one of the most rewarding aspects of real estate—a transaction is never the end of a connection, but the beginning of one.
For Quay 1 International Realty making a conscious effort to stay in touch with past clients, keep them (clients) informed about market developments in their area and remain available whenever they need property advice.
The team believes that genuine service is what makes people remember you. Whether it’s assisting with a future valuation, answering a question about the property market or helping them navigate their next move, we want clients to know they can contact us long after the transaction has been completed.
At the end of the day, repeat business and referrals come from trust. When clients feel that you have their best interests at heart, they are far more likely to return when they are ready to buy or sell again, and recommend you to their friends and family.
The first year: Make the transition smooth
In the weeks immediately after transfer, a new homeowner has practical questions they did not expect. Municipal account registration takes time, it can take up to six weeks for the new owner's name to appear on the municipal system after registration. In the interim, meter readings from the date of transfer are essential to avoid billing disputes, says Morné Prinsloo, local agent with REMAX Town and Country Roodepoort and Krugersdorp.
"I follow up with every buyer within two weeks of transfer to make sure they have recorded those readings and understand what to do if their first account arrives incorrectly in the seller's name.
"I also share a list of trusted service providers: plumbers, electricians, solar technicians, painters, and security companies I have worked with or verified over the years. A new homeowner who gets that list from me early experiences me as someone who continues to add value after the commission has been paid. That impression lasts," says Prinsloo.
Advice for new agents:
For Cindy Brits, Broker/Owner of REMAX Dazzle believes that community involvement plays a massive role. "Clients want to see that you are involved and giving back on a regular basis, whether through schools, NGOs, or clean-up projects".
Brits advises maintaining a premier market presence - be seen and heard in the area and on your social media platforms. And remember, don't be a 'secret agent.’ Get clients to know and trust you before you even walk through their doors.
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