It’s no secret. Inventory is at an all time low which means the market has been absolutely brutal for our buyers. It can be tough! (For both of you - client and agent!) There are a few tricks we can try to drum up inventory. It’s going to take a little bit of extra work on your end (the agent), but once you’re all gathered ‘round that closing table and doing your happy dances, you’ll realize it was all worth it! So don’t give up, dig deep, and keep trying!
Here are 6 ways to find inventory in your area:
1. START WITH THE MLS
Check the MLS daily for new listings that match your buyers’ criteria or are SLIGHTLY outside of it, and ensure any auto searches you’ve set up aren’t too specific.
2. SEND LETTERS
Send a letter to the neighborhood to see if anyone is considering selling. Let them know if you have a buyer lined up and what it is that buyer is looking for.
3. CIRCLE DIAL
Pick up the phone! Call through the neighborhoods your buyers are interested in.
4. CHECK EXPIRED
A home that didn’t sell 6-24 months ago might be the perfect fit for your buyer.
5. CHECK FSBOS
Review any potential FSBO properties. Check out the standard websites, look at social media community pages, and drive through neighborhoods searching for those little red FOR SALE signs.
6. NEW CONSTRUCTION
If your buyers’ budget and time frame allow, consider new construction properties and start checking into potential neighborhoods.
Not rocket science, right? However, it IS extra work. We weren’t kidding about digging deep! And while it’s so hard to do in this market, try to keep that chin up! Try to stay positive. Be the rock for your clients. We’re all feeling this pinch but each day is an opportunity to chip away more and more.
It won’t be like this forever! Everything is cyclical! You got this!
I probably should tell you that I am an FPG agent and our Social Media Coordinator. I’m a boy mom for life and constantly chasing messes (when I’m not breaking up fights!) and truly love serving my community by way of real estate. I get to meet and help so many amazing people around town! It has been an awesome career.
Now as the brokerage’s Social Media Coordinator, I get to brag about how awesome our city and people are.
Win-win.My husband and I were referred to FPG when we returned home to Indiana. I was drawn to their way of doing business and when I was offered an opportunity to join them the choice was easy! If you’re thinking of a career in real estate or one with Ferris Property Group, we’d love to talk.
- Kate Sowles