Nancy Iliffe is a Realtor with Shelton and Stewart Realtors working in Miami.
Every week, we ask a Miami real estate professional for their thoughts on the top three stories from the week before. This week, we spoke with Nancy Iliffe, a Realtor with Shelton and Stewart Realtors.
Miami Agent (MA): In a recent article, we discuss five ways to boost your online presence, which has become especially important in real estate as more and more homebuyers are beginning their search online. What, if anything, do you do to keep yourself relevant online?
Nancy Iliffe (NI): Marketing skills require dedication and consistency. Since I have very little for this, I try to keep my website updated, relevant and simple to navigate.
Photo’s posted anywhere online must be professional and of the highest quality. Look at your profiles the way others would and be critical. Make sure to add head shots, complete your profile on media sites and keep adding people to your circles to increase followers and strengthen your online reputation. Always advertise your web site on signs, email blasts, MLX listings and newspaper ads! Very basic no nonsense stuff!
MA: Goldman Sachs released an analysis this week that found mortgage lender standards were remaining tighter than “normal,” pre-crisis levels. Have you noticed this trend, and if so, how has it affected your business?
NI: This is one of the biggest obstacles we are facing now. You need to make sure buyers and sellers know before hand what the pitfalls of financing are. Having several experienced mortgage brokers available to discuss buyers’ needs and PRE APPROVE is mandatory if you want a successful closing. I always make the lending process a priority before we go to contract!
MA: Being a successful real estate agent often involves making yourself a presence in the communities in which you’re selling. What advice would you give to young agents to help them stand out in their markets?
NI: Most realtors are naturally social. We like people so we enjoy making them happy. This is the best part of the job. Participating in your children’s school, church and neighborhood events or your favorite sport or hobby will bring new people you have something in common with into your life naturally.
This is a win win situation!