The Ultimate Listing Agent Game Plan
When I list a home, I don’t just throw it on the MLS and hope for the best. My goal is to present your property in a way that highlights its unique features, attracts the right buyers, and gets it sold at the best possible price. Here’s a step-by-step look at the marketing efforts I undertake to go above and beyond for my clients.
1. Comprehensive Pre-listing Preparation
Before the marketing even begins, I ensure your home is prepared to make a lasting first impression. This means working with you to declutter, stage, and enhance the home’s curb appeal.
Tip: Staging doesn’t have to break the bank. Even minor adjustments like rearranging furniture or adding fresh flowers can make a big difference.
Included Administrative Work:
- Scheduling professional cleaners and stagers.
- Ordering any last-minute repairs or touch-ups.
- Coordinating pre-listing inspections (if necessary).
2. Professional Photography & Videography
High-quality visuals are essential in today’s market. I work with top-tier photographers to capture your home in its best light, both through photos and a walkthrough video.
Tip: Always shoot photos on a bright day and focus on showcasing the most attractive rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms, which buyers often prioritize.
Included Administrative Work:
- Booking photographers and videographers.
- Reviewing and approving final edits.
- Organizing floor plans and aerial drone shots for larger properties.
3. Social Media Blitz
Once I have the visuals, I create a series of engaging social media posts to launch across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. I use a combination of static posts, video walkthroughs, and Instagram Reels to reach as many potential buyers as possible.
Tip: Social media ads can expand your reach significantly, especially when targeting specific demographics. For example, targeting buyers in neighboring cities looking to relocate can yield strong results.
Included Administrative Work:
- Drafting captions and scheduling posts.
- Setting up and managing paid ads.
- Responding to inquiries through social media direct messages.
4. Listing on the MLS and Syndication
Once everything is prepared, I officially list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which then syndicates the listing to hundreds of real estate platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin.
Tip: Pay attention to how your listing appears on these platforms. Ensure that the photos load properly and all key details are accurate. Small mistakes can turn buyers away.
Included Administrative Work:
- Inputting listing details (square footage, lot size, property features, etc.).
- Updating and maintaining the listing until the home is sold.
- Tracking performance across syndicated platforms.
5. Hosting Open Houses & Private Showings
Open houses are a traditional but effective tool, and I ensure your home shines during these events. I provide refreshments, promotional materials, and make the experience as welcoming as possible. I also arrange private showings for serious buyers.
Tip: Make sure to offer virtual open house options for out-of-town buyers or those who prefer not to visit in person. This expands your potential audience.
Included Administrative Work:
- Organizing promotional materials (brochures, floor plans).
- Coordinating with other agents to schedule private tours.
- Sending post-showing follow-up emails to gauge interest.
6. Email Campaigns to Potential Buyers and Agents
Beyond online platforms, I run targeted email campaigns to local agents and buyers in my network who may be looking for a property like yours. This helps bring in leads who may not be actively searching but are still interested.
Tip: Personalize email campaigns as much as possible. For example, if the home has a large yard, target families looking for space for children and pets.
Included Administrative Work:
- Designing email templates and scheduling the send.
- Monitoring open rates and click-through metrics.
- Updating contacts in the CRM to ensure accurate targeting.
7. Consistent Communication and Updates
Throughout the marketing process, I keep you updated with weekly reports. These include feedback from showings, traffic from online platforms, and adjustments I’m making to our strategy. Transparency is key to ensuring we’re both on the same page.
Tip: Use this time to make strategic adjustments. If we’re not seeing the interest we expected, we can tweak the listing, update photos, or adjust pricing.
Included Administrative Work:
- Compiling performance reports from platforms like Zillow and Redfin.
- Communicating with the seller on next steps based on buyer feedback.
- Adjusting listing details or strategy as needed.
Marketing a home takes time, effort, and attention to detail, but these steps ensure that your property stands out and reaches the right buyers. My goal is to maximize exposure, create buzz, and ultimately, sell your home for the best possible price. Circle back to the Career Corner for more Listing Agent tips!
Follow us for more Real Estate Agent Tips!
Follow us on and become part of the PREC community
Never miss a tweet by connecting with us on Twitter
Check our our posts about trends in real estate industry and market
About the Author
Gabbi knew that real estate was the right career from the start. She is now dual licensed in both Kentucky and Ohio. She had her first sale within a month of getting licensed and hit her first million in sales volume within her first 6 months. She will have her real estate license for the rest of her life. Call her anytime if you have questions about becoming a real estate agent. She loves to share her passion for real estate with others!
