how do i create a real estate business plan

Be the agent who’s always there, and you’ll automatically beat the herd.

8. Have good time management.

If you’re like most of us, a big part of the dream is to have more time and energy for the things that really light you up.

But most agents who set out to build a real estate business haven’t built that into the plan. They end up with a revolving door of team members and have to outwork the business problem du jour. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

For experts in automation, a motivating factor is saving time. By eliminating manual work through automation, you can free up time to focus on the activities that actually drive revenue.

The ability to do marketing automation further underscores your need for a CRM, which ends up acting as the engine that supports your efforts.

Top tip for introducing automation: Start with low-risk tasks that you don’t want to handle.

5. Run Facebook ads.

Sixty-nine percent of adults in the U.S. use Facebook. Chances are that your audience is on this platform. By running location-based ads, you can increase your brand awareness in your area and get highly targeted views on your ads.

Featured Resource: Facebook Ads Checklist

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The Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Real Estate Business

Kate Evans is a content writer, real estate subject matter expert, and investor based in Charleston, South Carolina. Her career has taken her to Africa, Europe, and around the US, where she’s contributed to numerous print and online business and lifestyle publications. See full bio

• Know Your “Why”
• Make a Plan
• Create Your Brand
• Company Name
• Bonus Brand Building Tips
• Get the Right Tools
• Website Builder
• Marketing Tools
• Email + SMS
• Twitter, TikTok, + Pinterest
• Leave it to the Pros
• Generate Leads
• Cold Calling
• Buying Leads
• Lead Nurturing
• Remember Your “Why”

Many of us finish our real estate education, pass our exam, and think, “Well, now what?” Because, while we might know about homestead exemptions, the measurements of a government survey township, and how many square feet are in an acre, we don’t know how to start a real estate business.

The truth is, real estate agents are so much more than licensed professionals. We are business owners, responsible for all that goes into a successful business, from branding and marketing to sales and budgeting. We’re the CEO, COO, CFO, and CTO—oh, and we have to actually practice real estate. 

The good news is The Close has you covered. We’ve pulled together all of our tools, resources, worksheets, and templates you need to build your real estate business into a step-by-step guide—and you can start right now!

Know Your ‘Why’

Building a business takes tremendous energy and focus, which is why it’s important to first establish why you’re doing it. Maybe you love the thrill of the deal. Maybe you hope to help people and make their dreams come true. Maybe you want to develop your community. Your “why” needs to drive the large (and small) decisions of your business. 

This can be summed up in your mission, vision statements, and values. Before you can tackle the really exciting things, like your branding, first establish what you stand for. Our resource below will walk you through the process and give you helpful examples of each element.

• Goal: Know your “why”
• Task: Establish your mission, vision, and values
• Resource: Create an Inspiring Mission, Vision & Values Statement for Your Real Estate Business

You know what Yogi Berra said about planning: If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up someplace else. Bottom line: Planning is crucial to building your business. 

Let’s start with a good old-fashioned business plan. It’s a classic because it works. We created our business plan template specifically for agents; it walks you through all of the decisions you’ll need to think through. Your business plan is your blueprint—it will help you reduce risk, identify threats and weaknesses early on, exploit opportunities, and fortify strengths. 

Our business plan leads you through these seven steps:

• Telling your story
• Targeting your specific real estate market
• Identifying your target client
• Conducting a SWOT analysis (don’t worry, it’s all in the template)
• Establishing your goals
• Creating a financial plan (remember what I said about budgeting?)
• Monitoring and evaluation

By the end, you’ll have a crucial founding document that will support and inspire you in the hard times and keep you on track in the rocking good times.

• Goal: Lay the foundation of your business
• Task: Create a business plan
• Resource: 7 Steps to Writing a Real Estate Business Plan (+ Worksheet)

If your business plan is already in place and you’re looking for ways to scale, here are some ideas to differentiate yourself in a crowded market. Carve out a specialty for your business with one from our list of 6 red-hot real estate niches .

You don’t have to take our word for it—Steve Forbes puts it clear as day: “Your brand is the single most important investment you can make in your business.” But it’s way more than just a logo. There are many different components to your brand, and we can help you with each step.  

Start with our business launch kit, which is essentially a collegiate-level crash course in branding and marketing.

If you already have a pretty good foundation for your brand and want a tune-up, check out Real Estate Branding: How to Build Your Brand (+ Case Studies) . Here you’ll go through some thought and strategy exercises to put your branding through its paces and compare it to some successful case studies.

• Goal: Create your brand
• Task: Take The Close’s crash course in branding
• Resource: The Business Launch Kit

What are you going to call yourself? What is going to make you stand out in a crowded market and speak to your value proposition? If you already know because you’ve been tossing it around in your head for months or years, excellent! Skip this step . 

If you’re not sure where to start (or worried you didn’t get it quite right yet), we’re here to help. Our Creative Real Estate Company Names article includes a free name generator. Click on over and take it for a spin.

• Goal: Establish a name for your real estate company
• Task: Brainstorm, then narrow down and test out your options
• Resource: Creative Real Estate Company Names (+ Name Generator)

Now that you have a name, it’s time to create some visuals to go with it. You need a logo that is bold and defines exactly who you are and what you’re all about. If you have the graphic design chops to design your own, go for it (VistaCreate and Canva can help)! If not, maybe leave it to the professionals. Check out Fiverr, where you can set your own budget (as low as $5) and hire a designer to create a custom logo for your business.

• Goal: Decide on a visual representation of your business
• Task: Create a logo (or have one whipped up for you by a professional)
• Resource: The Best & Worst Real Estate Logos (+ Pro Design Tips)

A strong slogan can convey a wealth of information in just a handful of words. Slogans can be pithy (Sell It Like Serhant), earnest (Our Passion Is People. What’s Yours?), or highly local (The Power of Deep Roots). But they must reinforce your value proposition. 

Creating a company slogan is not easy—some entire advertising careers are built on one five-word phrase. But we’re here to help with our own real estate company slogan generator. Go ahead and give it a try!

• Goal: Create a slogan for your company
• Resource: Best Real Estate Slogans & Taglines (+ Slogan Generator)

Now that you know your company name, slogan, and have a stunningly visual logo, let’s tell the world who you are. Bios are some of the hardest things to write, even for professional wordsmiths. But consider this as an opportunity to establish why someone should trust you and how your experience, professionalism, and local ties make you the best choice to help sell or buy a home. 

Don’t have the energy to write up your biography after all of this hard work? We’re going to do it for you. Try out our real estate bio generator !

• Goal: Help prospects get to know you before they meet you
• Task: Write your agent bio
• Resource: Write a Killer Real Estate Agent Bio With These Free Tools & Templates

Turn Your Brand Into a Business-generating Machine

Strong branding is all about attracting a customer base that shares your values. Here we will walk you through some of those commonly overlooked branding tools that can help you shine. You’ll need an excellent headshot, for example, and a business card, and social media templates. This article will guide you through some of the most important, but easy-to-check-off tasks in your branding efforts.

• Goal: Translate your brand into marketing materials
• Task: Create crucial secondary branding assets
• Resource: 7 Real Estate Marketing Materials That Will Help You Build a Better Personal Brand

We are fortunate to live in an age with such advanced technology. There are tools out there to help agents in every step of their business. Here at The Close, we review everything from lead generation companies to website builders. Here are some of our favorite providers for new agents in the categories crucial to starting any successful real estate business.

Pick a Solid CRM

A customer relationship management tool (CRM) gets more and more important the more successful you are. It helps you keep track of your contacts, prioritize communication, and strategize effective touchpoints. 

Our top pick for the past three years has been LionDesk. A lightweight, affordable, and easy-to-use CRM, it has everything you need to start organizing and automating your relationships. Even better, you can get set up with LionDesk starting at just $21 per month—less than half what most other CRM companies charge. Give it a test drive with their free 30-day trial. 

If LionDesk doesn’t seem like the right fit, check out our other top picks, or consider one of the excellent free CRMs in our guide. Just remember what they say: The best CRM is the one you’ll use.

• Goal: Organize your contacts and set up regular touchpoints
• Task: Select and get familiar with a CRM
• Resource: The Best Real Estate CRM for 2023 , + The Best Free Real Estate CRMs of 2023

Build a Gorgeous Website

You’re going to need a standout, optimized website to showcase your logo, headshot, slogan, and bio. There are endless possibilities, from building your own with Squarespace to getting a custom real estate-specific site from Placester to including a site within a lead generation machine like Sierra Interactive. 

For inspiration, take a look at our ranking of Real Trends Top 25 Real Estate Agent Websites , which also has advice and tools for creating your own. When you’re ready to start your own site, consult our list of our top website builders, with tips on how to decide which provider is best for you.

• Goal: Expand your web presence and give leads a place to land
• Task: Create your own website
• Resource: Best Real Estate Website Builders of 2023

Get the Word Out

Now it’s time to shout it from the rooftops! Tell everyone in your community that you have arrived and are ready to fulfill all of their real estate needs. Real estate marketing takes many forms and it can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out. First things first: Take a look at our comprehensive list of marketing ideas and decide which ones are a good match for your business and farm area.

When you’re ready, move over to our article that shows you how to use our template to create an entire marketing plan that’s customized for your business.

• Goal: Market your real estate business
• Task: Create a custom marketing plan
• Resource: The Real Estate Marketing Plan Template for Long-term Growth

Use Marketing Tools to Make Life Easier

If you’re not exactly sure what you need, or if you know what you need but not sure who to work with, we’ve got it all figured out for you. We’ve put together our favorite marketing tools that will really elevate your efforts and make them more efficient. Check out this resource for reviews of tools for community engagement, graphic design, search engine optimization (SEO), email, SMS, video production, and even artificial intelligence (AI).

• Goal: Make your marketing efforts more effective and efficient
• Task: Evaluate which marketing tools you need
• Resource: Real Estate Marketing Tools Every Agent Needs (+ Reviews & Pricing)

Reach the Masses With Email & SMS

A good CRM ( see above ) will help you with your email and texting campaigns. Most already have a library of helpful templates that are appropriate for almost any situation. Announcing your new business? Send out an email introduction. Getting to know your neighbors? Invite them to an open house with a personalized text. Farming a specific area? Become the expert with professional newsletters that outline all of the goings-on.

• Goal: Utilize email and text to skyrocket your marketing
• Task: Incorporate email and SMS into your marketing strategy
• Resource: Easy & Actionable Real Estate Email Marketing Tips

We have plenty of expert tips and templates that will set you up for success:

• Proven Real Estate Newsletter Ideas (+ Tips, Templates & Tools)
• Real Estate Email Templates That Will Generate Business
• Best Real Estate Text Message Scripts for Agents 
• 6-Day New Lead Text Messaging Campaign + Agent Texting Scripts

Conquer Social Media

Social media is a cheap, easy way to market your business, if it’s done correctly. Our advice is to select two, at the most three, social media channels and focus on those.

• Goal: Take advantage of social media to broadcast your message
• Task: Select two or three social media channels and create a social media plan
• Resource: Real Estate Social Networks That Deliver Value for Agents (Ranked) + Social Media Marketing Techniques That Actually Generate Real Estate Leads

If Instagram is a good option for you, that’s great because we’ve got all the templates and tips you need!

• Start with our crash course for real estate agents . It includes templates you can use right out of the gate. 
• Need help understanding what makes for a good post? We’ve dissected it in our Best Real Estate Social Media Templates for Facebook & Instagram .
• Not always sure what to post? Read our Real Estate Instagram Posts That Attract Clients (with Canva Templates) .
• Want some inspiration? Click over to Must-follow Real Estate Instagram Accounts .

Real estate agents have had tremendous success with Facebook over the years. Here are some of our resources on how to make the most of it:

• Awesome Real Estate Facebook Cover Photo Examples to Inspire You (+ Templates)
• How to Set Up a Real Estate Agent Facebook Page to Get More Leads
• How to Create Real Estate Facebook Ads That Actually Generate Leads

Twitter, TikTok & Pinterest

Do Twitter, TikTok, or Pinterest fit your style, brand, and market better? Start here: 

• Funniest Tweets (+ Top Real Estate Twitter Accounts to Follow)
• Real Estate TikTok: 3 Top Agents on How to Get Millions of Likes (+ Leads)
• Powerful Pinterest Real Estate Marketing Ideas From the Pros

…Or Leave It to the Pros

While social media is an excellent marketing tool, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a little help with your social media marketing, or just don’t have the time to invest in it, take a look at Coffee & Contracts. This is a real estate marketing platform just for agents, offering sleek and trendy templates that feature engaging copy.

Talk to five different top-producing agents and they’ll give you five different ways to generate leads they swear are the best. However, we find that the most effective strategies are a mix of different approaches based on your market, budget, resources, and even your personality. Start with Sean Moudry’s customizable template, which takes all of this into account to help you create the perfect lead generation plan for your business. Then check out our 12 tips for getting real estate clients in 2023.

• Goal: Create a strategy for business development and lead generation
• Task: Put together and execute your lead generation plan
• Resource: How to Create a Custom Real Estate Lead Generation Plan (+ Template) + How to Get Clients in Real Estate: Our 12 Best Tips for 2023

Here’s a look at three of the most common lead generation techniques in real estate:

It can be intimidating to pick up the phone and call a stranger. But with our cold calling scripts in hand, you’ll know exactly what you want to say and be ready for any objections they throw your way.

There are some pretty interesting lead generation companies out there, and we’ve done a deep dive review of just about all of them. Start with our guide to the top lead generation companies (plus some to avoid) . 

Then move on to take a look at our top-rated predictive and data analytics companies . They are using some incredibly sophisticated technology to help agents understand their markets and target the right potential clients.

Once you have the lead, then what? Take a look at our guide to lead nurturing and conversion , which will further convince you that a great CRM is crucial to long-term success. It includes tips and scripts to help you make the most of your lead generation efforts. 

Remember Your ‘Why’

Running a real estate business takes patience, dedication, inspiration, and hard work. It can be a lot of fun, but there are definitely days that are long and hard. Most Realtors experience a period of frustration early in their careers. But The Close is here for you. We have exactly the type of strategic advice and fun content you need to get through the hard times. 

And if you feel completely overwhelmed, go back to your “why.” This should be exactly the reason you started your real estate business in the first place—and why you should keep on building.

• Goal: Remember why you started your business
• Task: Lean on The Close community for help, humor, and camaraderie
• Resource: Why So Many Real Estate Agents Fail After Just 2 Years (+ How Not To) + Real Estate Memes Realtors Can’t Stop Sharing

Bringing It All Together

Being a real estate agent is hard work, especially because it requires being good at so many different things. Starting a real estate business takes time and is easier with someone on your side. We’re here to support agents every step of the way. With our combined 40 years of experience, we can offer the advice, the tools, and the resources to get you to where you want to be. We can also give some helpful motivation and a just-for-agents meme or two—or 108 .

Do you have suggestions or advice for someone starting their real estate business? Lessons you learned along the way? Questions? Leave us a comment below.

Kate Evans is a content writer, real estate subject matter expert, and investor based in Charleston, South Carolina. Her career has taken her to Africa, Europe, and around the US, where she’s contributed to numerous print and online business and lifestyle publications.

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Building a Solid Foundation: How to Create a Real Estate Business Plan That Works

A killer real estate business plan isn't just about setting a goal to hit 1 million in sales next year. (It would be a lot easier if it were!) 

A truly great real estate business plan defines exactly what drives your business, where you're headed, and how you'll navigate the market's unpredictable currents. It should be a razor-sharp action plan to scale your real estate empire. 

So, how do you craft this master blueprint without getting bogged down in the details? 

If you’re ready to join the cast of Million Dollar Listings—or if you just want to grow your modest real estate business—we can help.   

We’re going to break down how to create an actionable real estate business plan in just six steps. Your future self, with a thriving real estate portfolio, will thank you. 

What Should a Real Estate Business Plan Include?

A real estate business plan is a comprehensive document designed to help you navigate the ups and downs of the real estate industry and plan for long-term growth. 

TL:DR: A great business plan serves as a complete roadmap to help you get from where you are now to where you want to be. 

So, what should your real estate business plan include? The best plans include these eight sections: 

• Executive Summary: A concise introduction to your real estate venture. Highlight your primary goals, the niche you're targeting, and your unique value proposition in the real estate market.
• Business Description: Discuss the scope of your real estate operations—whether you're focusing on residential sales, commercial properties, rentals, or a mix. Also, mention the regions or neighborhoods you're targeting.
• Market Analysis: Delve into housing trends, regional property demand, and average property values in your selected areas. Study growth patterns and forecast potential shifts in the market.
• Marketing and Sales Strategies: Explain how you'll attract listings and buyers. This might include leveraging MLS, hosting open houses, using digital marketing tactics, or networking at community events.
• Service Offerings: Detail the range of services you plan to offer. This could include buying/selling, property management, consultation, or even staging homes for sale.
• Organizational Structure and Management: As a solo realtor, this might be about your role and responsibilities. If you have or plan to have a team or build a brokerage, describe team member roles, responsibilities, and expertise.
• Financial Projections and Strategy: Outline anticipated earnings from property sales or rentals, operational expenses, and commissions. Factor in marketing costs, licensing fees, and other industry-specific expenses.
• Growth Plan: Since real estate is as much about scaling and expansion as it is about individual sales, describe how you plan to grow—by expanding into new areas and niches, or by adding more agents to your team.

Keep in mind—these sections are suggested, not required. If some of these sections don’t make sense for your business, feel free to drop them. Maybe you want to add something else? If you’re not sure where the heck to start—that’s where this list comes in handy. 

Why Do I Need a Real Estate Business Plan?

Honestly—you don’t have to have a business plan. If you’re feeling good about your business and happy with your growth, feel free to click away. But, if you’re not closing as many deals as you’d like or if you’re just not feeling great about your business’s direction, you might want to stick around. 

In addition to increasing your sales, an effective business plan can help you: 

• Gain a Competitive Advantage : The world is full of real estate professionals. To succeed in this industry, you need an edge. A real estate business plan gives you an advantage in the market because so few competitors will create one. You'll know the exact steps to take to grow your business. Case in point: a well-crafted business plan can boost your chances of success by 12 percent .
• Mitigate Risk: Every new business venture is a risky proposition. Back in 1994, nobody thought Jeff Bezos could sell books online. Now, Amazon is one of the biggest companies in the world, and Mr. Bezos has a cool net worth in the $150 billion range. While your real estate business plan might not help you hit the billion-dollar range, it will help you mitigate risk by helping you identify potential threats and weaknesses.  
• Gain a Deeper Understanding of Analytics: Drowning in data? A great business plan will outline your goals and campaigns, and help you track the metrics that really matter. You can look at your plan in a year and assess your progress toward your goals, and adjust your approach accordingly. This will help you eliminate poor tactics or destructive behaviors and double down on what works for your business.

A business real estate plan also gives you something to celebrate. When you hit the milestones in your plan, reward yourself with a fancy dinner or pop open a bottle of champagne. Treat yo’self. Then get back to selling! 

6 Steps to Create an Effective Real Estate Business Plan Fast 

Now you know what your real estate business plan should include and why they matter. Cool. Now it's time to actually create that killer plan that will help your business grow. Ready? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a proven plan of action you can use to grow your business.

1. Start With Your Story

Who are you as a real estate professional? Are you a master of landing the right deal? Love helping families find their forever home? 

All good business plans start with a story that explains who the individual or company in question is, what they do, and the business goals they want to achieve.

To accomplish this, make sure your business plan includes:

• An executive summary: A sentence or two that summarizes what your business does.

Example: "I sell homes to middle-income buyers in the greater Denver area."

• Your mission statement: A few sentences that explain why you do what you do.

Example: "At Smith Real Estate Group, we strive to provide our clients with amazing experiences they'll remember for the rest of their lives. Buying a home is a monumental responsibility. Our goal is to make the process simple, fun, and stress-free for our clients so they're delighted with their purchases."

• Your vision for your business: A couple of sentences that illustrate what the world will look like once you've achieved your mission. 

Example: "Eventually, I want to be the most trusted name in Boise real estate, effectively serving a range of clients who come to me to get the highest possible price for their homes."

• The SMART goals you want to achieve: The individual objectives you'll work to accomplish, i.e., "Sell 15 homes next year," or "Make $150,000 annual salary." Remember, the best goals are SMART, which stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. 

Example: "I'll start making $150k a year (or more) within 36 months. To accomplish this, I'll invest in new marketing techniques to promote my services so I can sell 15+ homes every year."

2. Research Your Target Market

Which area of the real estate market do you specialize in? Do you sell high end luxury condos? Help businesses find the right place to expand? Maybe you’re all about helping folks find tiny homes. 

To answer this question, I suggest a fair bit of research—especially if you're brand new and don't have an established client base. Look for sections of the market that are growing and ones that are slowing down.

It's important to look at data for the location you’re serving . Nation-wide trends are useful to a point. But you really need to know what's happening in your corner of the world.

Also, research your city's other agents, brokerages, etc., as you'll compete with them for potential clients. The more you know about them, the easier it will be to differentiate yourself and achieve your short and long-term goals in the real estate industry.

3. Identify Your Ideal Clientele

Now it's time to zero in on the specific people you sell to.

There are plenty of options. You could be a condo specialist and only engage new leads who want to buy condos in your area. Or focus on real estate listings for new home buyers. Or work in the top end of the market and help wealthy individuals settle into their second homes. You do you. 

The specific demographic you choose to serve should depend on the local market, your unique skill set, and your passions. Find a balance between these three things.

When you know your ideal clientele, take a moment to define buyer personas .

Not familiar with the term? Don’t worry—it's not as weird as it sounds. A buyer persona is a fictional person you invent to represent your real-world target market. Feel free to get weird with it—your persona could be Fred the Family Man, or Suzy the Soup Maker. Just be sure to include personal details, such as goals and pain points to make it useful. 

While it may seem silly, a buyer persona keeps you focused on your ideal clientele so you can ensure your marketing efforts always match the people who want to help. 

4. Perform a SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis helps you pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses and find the opportunities and threats in your chosen real estate market. Think of it like a battle plan to help you conquer your real estate market. Here's a quick example:

• Strengths: Maybe you have amazing people skills, so you host open houses for your clients on a regular basis. This helps you meet potential buyers and sell clients' homes. It also acts as a terrific lead generation strategy . Or, maybe you’re really, really good at staging older homes. 
• Weaknesses: Maybe you hate social media, so you never use platforms like Facebook and Instagram—even though other agents use them to close deals . This would be a weakness, but it doesn’t mean you need to change things. Instead, acknowledge it and adjust your strategy accordingly. 
• Opportunities: If most of the real estate professionals in your town focus on low- to mid-priced real estate listings, you could target the small collection of luxury buyers in the area.
• Threats: Are there a ton of other real estate agents in your area? Maybe a nationwide brokerage is opening a new office and threatening to take your knees out with a bat. (Who knew real estate could be so brutal!) The point is: being aware of threats helps you target your services effectively so you can become a real player in the game. 

5. Set a Clear Marketing Strategy

You might run the best real estate brokerage in the United States. But if nobody knows about your real estate team's supreme skill set, you’re not likely to make many sales. Which won’t be an issue if you’re running a mob front—but if you actually want to make a profit, marketing is crucial. 

Fortunately, you've defined your target market, ideal clientele, and personal strengths and weaknesses. So, building an effective marketing strategy should be easy. 

Think about your target audience: how can you reach these people? Social media is probably your best bet if you serve young, first-time homebuyers. If you serve an older, more affluent crowd, in-person meetups and cold-calling techniques might be a good option.

Consider your competitors, too. What channels do they use to connect with new leads? Use another approach to differentiate your services better.

Finally, take a hard look at your abilities. Just because a marketing plan works for one person or company doesn't mean it will work for yours. Since you're building your business, you need to assess your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you implement strategies that suit your skills and disposition.  

6. Make a Financial Plan

Yes, we gotta talk about money. Adding financial details to your real estate business plan gives you a strong starting point to drive growth. 

How much will you spend on licensing, lead generation, and a real estate CRM ? Remember to budget for everyday expenses while working, like gasoline for your car and meals while traveling. (Just no two martini lunches!) 

You should also include the amount of money you want to make after expenses and taxes and the number of deals you'll need to close to make the numbers work together.

Most people shy away from their finances. Don’t make this mistake. You need to know what your operating expenses are to know what your cash flow is. If you don't know that, you won't know if you're on track to reach your short-term or long-term goals.

One more thing: make sure your financial plan is realistic . Dreaming of million-dollar closings might feel nice, but those numbers won't help you. Do your research and input proper cost estimates. 

3 Tips to Create a Real Estate Business Plan That’s Actually Useful 

BOOM! Now, you know how to create a business plan for your real estate business. Go you. But to make sure your plan is top-notch, keep these three best practices in mind:

KISS: Keep it Super Simple

It’s easy to get lost in the weeds and wind up overwhelmed. Don't overcomplicate the process.

Your real estate business plan doesn't need to be professionally designed unless it’s being shared with business partners or investors. You can write it in Word on your laptop computer. Or scribble it on a napkin while you sip a cocktail at the bar. Whatever feels good to you. 

The most important thing is that you actually create a plan for your real estate business . The way it looks is less crucial. Don't get caught up in the details. 

Differentiate Yourself

What makes you special? No, not just in the “My mom says I'm special!” way. Like, what really makes you stand out from the other real estate agents and brokers in your local area?

Ask yourself questions like " What can I do better than everybody else?", “Why would clients want to work with me over another agent?” or "What am I willing to do that my competitors aren't?"

Did you come up with a few things? Good, now add them to your real estate business plan.

Being average is boring—so figure out where you stand out. Then, infuse it into every aspect of your business, from your website to how you engage with clients. That way, people know what sets you apart.

Revisit Your Plan Regularly

One more thing: your real estate business plan should be a living document. In other words, you should revisit it regularly to make sure it's actually benefiting your business.

Did you choose the right market? Are you serving the right clientele? Is your marketing plan actually working? Assess your business quarterly to see what's working and what isn't. Then use the takeaways to adjust your approach. That way, you can “always be closing” more deals. 

Pro tip: when starting out, use a business plan template . This gives you a starting point and makes it easy to edit your plans at any point. 

Level Up Your Real Estate Business 

If you want to build a successful real estate business, you need a plan. Luckily, you’ve already got one. 

Once you create your plan, you'll have a clear vision you can implement systematically to grow your business faster.  

Know what else will help you succeed in this industry? A solid CRM software with proven contact management, cold calling, email marketing, and sales reporting features.

Sound good? Give Close a try. We make it super easy to track leads, follow up with prospects, generate referrals, and turbocharge your real estate business.

Sign up for a free 14-day trial today to experience the power of Close!

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Blog Business 5 Real Estate Business Plan Examples & How to Create One?

5 Real Estate Business Plan Examples & How to Create One?

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Nov 28, 2023

Crafting a business plan is essential for any business and the real estate sector is no exception. In real estate, a comprehensive business plan serves as a roadmap, delineating a clear path towards business growth. 

It guides owners, agents and brokers through various critical aspects such as identifying target markets, devising effective marketing strategies, planning finances and managing client relationships.

For real estate businesses, a well-written plan is crucial in attracting potential investors, showcasing the company’s mission statement, business model and long-term income goals.

So, how can you write one?

Leveraging tools like Venngage Business Plan Make r with their Business Plan Templates to create your own real estate business plan can be transformative.

They offer a lot of real estate business plan examples and templates, streamlining the process of crafting a comprehensive plan.

Click to jump ahead: 

• 5 real estate business plan examples

How to write a real estate business plan?

• Wrapping Up

5 Real estate business plan examples

As I have said before, a well-crafted business plan is a key to success. Whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting out, examples of effective real estate business plans can offer invaluable insights. Along with a solid business plan, incorporating innovative real estate marketing ideas is crucial for standing out in this competitive market.

These examples showcase a range of strategies and approaches tailored to various aspects of the real estate market. They serve as guides to structuring a plan that addresses key components like market analysis, marketing strategies, financial planning and client management, ensuring a solid foundation for any real estate venture.

Real estate business plan example

There are various elements in a real estate business plan that must be integrated. Incorporating these elements into a real estate business plan ensures a comprehensive approach to launching and growing a successful real estate business. 

What are they?

• Executive summary: The executive summary is a concise overview of the real estate business plan. It highlights the mission statement, outlines the business goals and provides a snapshot of the overall strategy. 
• Company overview: An overview on the history and structure of the real estate business. It includes the company’s mission and vision statements, information about the founding team and the legal structure of the business. 
• Service: Here, the business plan details the specific services offered by the real estate agency. This could range from residential property sales and leasing to commercial real estate services. The section should clearly articulate how these services meet the needs of the target client and how they stand out from competitors.
• Strategies: A very crucial part of the plan outlines the strategies for achieving business goals. It covers marketing strategies to generate leads, pricing strategies for services, and tactics for effective client relationship management. Strategies for navigating market shifts, identifying key market trends and leveraging online resources for property listings and real estate listing presentations to help with lead generation are also included.
• Financial plan: The financial plan is a comprehensive section detailing the financial projections of the business. It includes income statements, cash flow statements , break-even analysis and financial goals. Besides, a financial plan section also outlines how resources will be allocated to different areas of the business and the approach to managing the financial aspects of the real estate market, such as average sales price and housing market trends.

Read Also: 7 Best Business Plan Software for 2023

Real estate investment business plan example

A real estate investment business plan is a comprehensive blueprint that outlines the goals and strategies of a real estate investment venture. It serves as a roadmap, ensuring that all facets of real estate investment are meticulously considered.

Creating a business plan for real estate investment is a critical step for any investor, regardless of their experience level Typically, these plans span one to five years, offering a detailed strategy for future company objectives and the steps required to achieve them.

Key components:

• Executive summary: Snapshot of the business, outlining its mission statement, target market, and core strategies. It should be compelling enough to attract potential investors and partners.
• Market analysis: A thorough analysis of the real estate market, including current trends, average sales prices and potential market shifts.
• Financial projections: Detailed financial plans, including income statements, cash flow analysis, and break-even analysis.
• Strategy & implementation: Outlines how the business plans to achieve its goals. This includes marketing efforts to generate leads, pricing strategies and client relationship management techniques.
• Legal structure & resource allocation: Details the legal structure of the business and how resources will be allocated across various operations, including property acquisitions, renovations and management.

Real estate agent business plan example

A real estate agent business plan is a strategic document that outlines the operations and goals of a real estate agent or agency. It is a crucial tool for communicating with potential lenders, partners or shareholders about the nature of the business and its potential for profitability.

A well-crafted real estate agent business plan will include

• Where you are today: A clear understanding of your current position in the market, including strengths, weaknesses and market standing.
• Where you aim to be: Sets specific, measurable goals for future growth, whether it’s expanding the client base, entering new markets or increasing sales.
• How can you get there: Outlines the strategies and action plans to achieve these goals, including marketing campaigns, client acquisition strategies and business development initiatives.
• Measuring your performance: Defines the key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess progress towards the set goals, such as sales figures, client satisfaction rates and market share.
• Course correction: Establishes a process for regular review and adjustment of the plan, ensuring flexibility to adapt to market changes, shifts in client needs and other external factors.

For real estate agents, a comprehensive business plan is not just a roadmap to success; it is a dynamic tool that keeps them accountable and adaptable to market changes.

Realtor business plan example

A realtor business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the strategic direction and goals of a real estate business. It’s an essential tool for realtors looking to either launch or expand their business in the competitive real estate market. The plan typically includes details about the company’s mission, objectives, target market and strategies for achieving its goals.

Benefits of a realtor business plan and applications:

• For launching or expanding businesses: The plan helps real estate agents to structure their approach to entering new markets or growing in existing ones, providing a clear path to follow.
• Securing loans and investments: A well-drafted business plan is crucial for securing financing for real estate projects, such as purchasing new properties or renovating existing ones.
• Guideline for goal achievement: The plan serves as a guideline to stay on track with sales and profitability goals, allowing realtors to make informed decisions and adjust strategies as needed.
• Valuable for real estate investors: Investors can use the template to evaluate potential real estate businesses and properties for purchase, ensuring they align with their investment goals.
• Improving business performance: By filling out a realtor business plan template , realtors can gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of their business, using this information to enhance profitability and operational efficiency.

A realtor business plan is more than just a document; it’s a roadmap for success in the real estate industry. 

Writing a real estate business plan is a comprehensive process that involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft an effective business plan :

• Tell your story : Start with a self-evaluation. Define who you are as a real estate agent, why you are in this business and what you do. Develop your mission statement, vision statement and an executive summary​​.
• Analyze your target real estate market : Focus on local market trends rather than national or state-wide levels. Examine general trends, market opportunities, saturations, and local competition. This step requires thorough research into the real estate market you plan to operate in​​.
• Identify your target client : After understanding your market, identify the niche you aim to serve and the type of clients you want to target. Create a client persona that reflects their specific needs and concerns​​.
• Conduct a SWOT analysis : Analyze your business’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. This should reflect a combination of personal attributes and external market conditions​​​​.
• Establish your SMART goals : Set specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely goals. These goals could be financial, expansion-related or based on other business metrics​​​​.
• Create your financial plan : Account for all operating expenses, including marketing and lead generation costs. Calculate the number of transactions needed to meet your financial goals. Remember to separate personal and business finances​​.
• Revisit your business plan to monitor & evaluate : Treat your business plan as a living document. Plan periodic reviews (quarterly, semi-annually or annually) to check if your strategies are advancing you toward your goals​​​​.
• Defining your mission & vision : Include a clear mission and vision statement. Describe your business type, location, founding principles and what sets you apart from competitors​​.
• Creating a marketing plan : Develop a marketing plan that addresses the product, price, place and promotion of your services. Determine your pricing strategy, promotional methods and marketing channels​​. If you’re unsure what marketing activities to choose, consider this guide on how to market yourself as a realtor .
• Forming a team : Ensure the cooperation of colleagues, supervisors and supervisees involved in your plan. Clarify their roles and how their participation will be evaluated​​.

Related: 15+ Business Plan Examples to Win Your Next Round of Funding

Wrapping up

The journey to a successful real estate venture is intricately linked to the quality and depth of your business plan. From understanding the nuances of the real estate market to setting strategic goals, a well-crafted business plan acts as the backbone of any thriving real estate business. Whether you’re developing a general real estate business plan, focusing on investment, working as an agent, or operating as a realtor, each plan type serves its unique purpose and addresses specific aspects of the real estate world.

The examples and insights provided in this article serve as a guide to help you navigate the complexities of the real estate industry. Remember, a real estate business plan is not a static document but a dynamic blueprint that evolves with your business and the ever-changing market trends.

Crafting a strategic real estate business plan is a crucial step towards achieving your business goals. So, start shaping your vision today with Venngage.

Explore venngage business plan maker & our business plan templates and begin your journey to a successful real estate business now!

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Premier Agent Toolkit

How to create a real estate agent business plan.

In this article:

Why agents need a real estate business plan

How to write a real estate business plan, free real estate business plan template.

Every agent needs a plan to succeed. A real estate business plan keeps you accountable and on track. An optimal business plan for real estate agents includes firm goals, but it’s also fluid — you’ll want to update your real estate business plan as you grow and the market evolves.

A real estate business plan allows you to stay current with market trends and ahead of the competition. It also helps you track results over time, test lead generation strategies and develop new marketing approaches. Zillow’s Bret Calltharp, a former training leader for a large brokerage group, saw his agents’ business increase by an average of 27% when implementing a business plan for the first time.

Here’s what a good real estate agent business plan will show you:

• Where you are today
• Where you want to be
• How you’ll get there
• How to measure your performance
• When and where to make a course correction

The benefits are clear, and you’re convinced — but where do you start? Here are our recommended steps for creating a business plan for real estate agents:

Write an executive summary

Real estate business planning should always start with a summary of who you are, what services you offer, where you operate and who you serve.

Define your mission statement

Your mission statement is the foundation that supports your entire real estate business plan. It should clearly state your guiding principles and goals.

Create a team management summary

If you’re working with a team, include all members who contribute to your success and how they help. Create a table that shows their roles, responsibilities and time frames for specific tasks.

Know your target client

Determine who your target client is and figure out their story. The more personal you can get, the better you’ll serve your clients.

Who, specifically, is your target client? This could be a first-time home buyer, a home seller, a renter — or a more specific subset like retirees or investors.

What is your target client’s story? Ask your clients specific questions and create a strategy based on their answers. Where do they want to live? What is their annual household income? What do they want from their home?

Outline SMART business goals

Your goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely — in other words, SMART . Once your real estate business goals are SMART, break down each goal into objectives. These should be the specific tasks and activities required to accomplish the goal.

Map out your keys to success

Every real estate agent business plan template should include a table that lists the top three ways to achieve business success — and more importantly, the actions required to fulfill them.

Breakeven analysis

A critical part of real estate business planning is determining your breakeven point. What average commission rate do you need to achieve per unit to break even each month? How many homes must you sell at your average commission rate to break even by your target goal?

Understand your market

It’s crucial to stay on top of your target client’s market. A successful agent will know how the market has behaved in the past few years, as well as where it’s headed (and why).

Segment your market

Let’s look at a target client in a sample real estate business plan.

Suppose the target client is a first-time home buyer. How can we segment that market further to include even more detailed and relevant information? Here are two potential market segments for our first-time home buyer:

• First-time home buyers, single family
• First-time home buyers, multigenerational

Plan for market growth

Map out how much growth you anticipate in your market, and use it to forecast the number of potential clients over the next few years.

Track market trends in your real estate business plan with a table listing possible outcomes on the right and trends on the left.

Track market trends

What market trends do you foresee impacting your business and market segments? Here’s a real estate business plan sample that projects a possible outcome for a rise in multigenerational living:

Develop a SWOT analysis

Every business plan needs a SWOT analysis: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Some sample real estate business plan SWOT questions include:

• What sets me apart from my competition?
• What skills need improving?
• Are there any opportunities I’m overlooking?

Recognize your competition

Who’s your primary competition in your target market, and what makes them your primary competition? How will you outperform them?

Create a marketing strategy

Every real estate business plan template needs a marketing strategy table. Highlight your resources and key features, like this sample:

List ways to generate leads

Always keep a list of effective methods to generate leads , and always update the list when new strategies come up. The lead generation list in your real estate development business plan is as simple as this:

Project yearly sales forecast

Use market growth, trends and other real estate marketing strategies to predict your annual sales for the next three years. Here’s an example table from our real estate business plan PDF:

Outline your personnel expenses

Knowing what you’ll spend in a year will help you determine your breakeven point and set reasonable expectations for growth. A simple expense table, like this one from our free real estate business plan, allows you to project your personnel expenses through the next three years:

Measure client experience

Keep track of all the services you offer — and measure how quickly you deliver them. This is crucial in any real estate business planning document, as it helps you build a strong client relationship and track the results over time. Here’s an example for measuring response time:

Use a client relationship management (CRM) tool

There are many CRM tools out there, so it’s easy to find one that fits your needs. Do you want to track analytics? Use it for email marketing? Keep track of property and listing details? Automate your marketing efforts?

As a Zillow Premier Agent , you can use a CRM to manage all your leads and connections, along with their progress through the real estate journey. You can prioritize leads who are actively looking, submitting offers and under contract. Jot down other tools you’re using, especially transaction management tools and their specific functions.

Calculate your business plan performance

The final step in your real estate business plan template is measuring the plan’s performance. Track performance-related questions and how you’ll measure them. Here’s a sample question and measurement example that many agents use for real estate business planning:

Our customizable template helps you create a real estate business plan that outlines what success looks like — for you and your clients — so you can have your best year yet. This sample real estate business plan gives clear examples and allows for complete customization to your personal goals and your real estate market. Jot down your real estate business goals, clarify the state of your finances, profile your target customers and track other data that’s vital to successful real estate business planning.

Best of all — you can get started today! Just download our free real estate business plan template and add your own goals, projections, expenses and data. Don’t forget to update it regularly to accurately track your progress, evolve with the market and stay current with your target client’s needs.

Related Resources

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Learn how to write a real estate marketing plan with a free template, and meet your goals.

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Real Estate Postcards (Free Templates)

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to create a real estate business plan

• Nirit Braun
• 10 min read

A real estate business plan is a strategic document that outlines the objectives, strategies and tactics a person or a team will employ when starting a business in the real estate industry. This comprehensive and clear plan not only defines the business' mission, vision and goals but also delineates the steps necessary to achieve them.

When starting a business, especially in a dynamic and competitive sector like real estate, a well-crafted business plan becomes an indispensable tool for success. Beyond helping business in their first steps to understanding how to start a service business , a business plan provides a structured framework that helps entrepreneurs make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively and stay focused on their objectives. By articulating the business' value proposition, rental business ideas , target market, competitive landscape and revenue streams, the plan offers a holistic understanding of the venture's potential and challenges.

Looking to kick off your real estate business? Create a business website today with Wix. These real estate agent websites can help you get started.

In this section, we'll break down the key components involved in crafting a successful real estate business plan in six steps.

Executive summary

Company and domain name

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

An executive summary is a concise overview of your entire real estate business plan. It serves as a snapshot that captures the essence of your venture, highlighting its key components and objectives. A well-crafted executive summary should provide a clear understanding of your real estate business' purpose, market opportunity, strategies and potential for success. It's typically the first section of the business plan and should be written after the rest of the plan has been completed.

To write a clear executive summary for a real estate business, follow these steps:

Start with a brief introduction: Describe your business’ mission, vision and the services you intend to offer. Highlight what sets your business apart in the competitive real estate landscape.

Summarize the market demand: Explain what kind of opportunity you aim to address with this type of business . Mention key trends in the real estate industry that support the viability of your venture.

Identify your target audience: Whether it's first-time homebuyers, property investors or commercial clients, briefly describe their demographics and needs.

State the unique value you offer to clients: This could be exceptional customer service, a specialized focus or innovative technology solutions.

Outline your key real estate marketing strategies : Highlight how you plan to reach and engage your target market.

Provide a high-level overview of your projected financials: Include revenue projections, startup costs and funding requirements.

Introduce the key members of your team: Highlight how their skills contribute to the success of the real estate business.

Example of an executive summary for a real estate business: “ABC Realty is a dynamic real estate agency that specializes in helping first-time homebuyers navigate the complex property market. With a strong commitment to providing personalized guidance and support, we aim to simplify the buying process and empower our clients to make informed decisions. Our target market consists of young professionals and families looking for their dream homes in urban areas. Leveraging the latest technology and data analytics, we offer a seamless search experience that matches buyers with their ideal properties. Our marketing strategy involves a mix of social media engagement, local partnerships and educational workshops to establish our brand as a trusted resource in the real estate industry. Backed by a team of experienced agents and industry professionals, we are well-positioned to make homeownership dreams a reality while achieving sustainable growth and profitability. Our projected financials indicate a steady upward trajectory, with a goal of reaching profitability within the first two years.”

02. Company and domain name

Knowing how to name a business is crucial for a real estate venture and a key step before you register your business . It shapes your brand identity, influences client perceptions and establishes trust.

Additionally, selecting a suitable domain name for your real estate website is crucial for online visibility and accessibility. Your online presence should be in top form taking into account that 97% of homebuyers search for their homes online. Here's how to approach these decisions:

Company name

Should reflect your business' values and services

Keep it concise, memorable and easy to spell

Check for trademark conflicts to avoid legal issues

Consider using the free business name generator from Wix for inspiration

Be inspired by these real estate business name lists.

Domain name

Align it closely with your company name if possible

Choose a domain extension (.com, .net, .org) that's commonly recognized

Keep it short and free of complex words or hyphens

Ensure it's easy to pronounce and type

Learn more: How to make a website

03. Market analysis and research

Incorporating comprehensive market analysis and research into your business plan is essential for understanding the competitive landscape and formulating an effective business strategy. Conduct market research to identify trends, competitors and potential gaps in the market. Analyze your target audience's preferences, behaviors and pain points to tailor your services and marketing efforts accordingly.

Understanding the market dynamics allows you to position your real estate business strategically and offer unique value propositions that resonate with clients.

04. Operations plan

An operations plan outlines the logistical aspects of your real estate business, ensuring its smooth day-to-day functioning. This section should cover:

The physical location of your business office or headquarters

The size and layout of your office space

The equipment and technology required to run your real estate business

The roles, responsibilities and qualifications of your team members

05. Marketing and advertising plan

In the competitive real estate industry, a robust marketing and advertising plan is vital for attracting clients and establishing your brand presence. Your plan should encompass various marketing strategies , including:

Social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) and online advertising

Creating valuable content like blog posts, videos and guides

Establishing partnerships with local businesses and industry associations

Hosting events and workshops that educate clients about real estate trends

You’ll also need to develop a suite of brand assets to use in your marketing efforts, starting with a company logo and real estate slogan . You can use a free logo maker or real estate logo maker to get a professional design in minutes. Learn how to make a real estate logo that suits your brand.

06. Financial plan

The average cost to start a real estate brokerage can range from $10,000 to $200,000 , so odds are you will need to secure financing. The financial plan outlines your real estate business' financial projections, funding requirements and path to profitability. It should include all your startup costs including starting an LLC , licensing, office setup, marketing materials and technology needs.

Next, estimate income based on property sales, commissions and other revenue sources. Alongside this outline ongoing operational costs, such as rent, salaries, marketing and utilities. Then take the time to specify how your business will be funded initially, whether through personal savings, loans or investor contributions. Finally, predict when your real estate business is expected to reach profitability based on your revenue and expense projections. You can include within this the exact ways to make money as a real estate agent .

Real estate business plan examples

Here are two templates for hypothetical real estate businesses, each including the main parts discussed in our how-to steps.

Real estate business plan template 1: ABC Realty

ABC Realty is a forward-thinking real estate brokerage focused on serving residential clients in urban areas. With a mission to simplify the home buying process for first-time buyers, we aim to provide personalized guidance and a seamless search experience. Our market research indicates a rising demand for affordable housing solutions and our team's expertise positions us well to address this need. Leveraging digital platforms and local partnerships, we're dedicated to establishing a brand known for trust, transparency and professionalism. Our financial projections show steady growth, with profitability projected within 18 months.

Company name: UrbanNest Realty

Domain name: www.urbannestrealty.com

Market analysis: Our research reveals a growing trend of Millennials seeking starter homes in urban areas.

Competitive landscape: Competitor analysis highlights the need for tailored customer service and simplified processes. We will tap into this by offering comprehensive support and leveraging technology to streamline transactions.

Location: A prime urban location with easy accessibility.

Premises: A modern office space designed for client consultations and agent collaboration.

Equipment: State-of-the-art computers, customer relationship management (CRM) software and virtual tour technology.

Staffing: Agents, property management experts and administrative staff.

Digital marketing: Social media campaigns, targeted online ads and search engine optimization.

Content marketing: Regular blog posts on home-buying tips, neighborhood insights and market trends.

Networking: Partnerships with local lenders, moving companies and interior designers to provide added value.

Events and workshops: Monthly homebuyer seminars and virtual property tours.

Startup costs: $60,000 (licenses, office setup, marketing materials)

Revenue projections (first year): $300,000

Revenue projections (section year): $500,000

Expenses: Monthly rent, salaries, marketing expenses and administrative costs

Funding: Personal savings and a small business loan

Profitability timeline: Projected within 18 months

Real estate business plan template 2: Empire Investments

Empire Investments is a dynamic real estate investment firm specializing in commercial properties. With an aim to provide high-value investment opportunities, we focus on acquiring and enhancing properties with substantial growth potential. Our strategy involves leveraging market trends, identifying undervalued assets and optimizing their value through strategic renovations and management. Our team of seasoned professionals ensures a comprehensive approach to portfolio management, driving investor returns. Our financial outlook is promising, with steady revenue growth projected over the next five years.

Company name: Empire Investments

Domain name: www.empireinvestmentsre.com

Market analysis: Our research highlights an increasing demand for mixed-use properties in urban areas.

Competitive landscape: Competitor analysis reveals a gap in the market for value-add properties. We'll focus on acquiring underperforming assets with the potential for repositioning and strong cash flow.

Location: Central business district for easy access to commercial properties.

Premises: A professional office space for meetings and deal analysis.

Equipment: Advanced financial analysis tools and property management software.

Staffing: Investment analysts, property managers, legal experts and administrative support.

Networking: Building relationships with commercial brokers, property managers and industry experts.

Content marketing: Thought leadership articles, market reports and investment guides.

Webinars and seminars: Monthly webinars on commercial real estate investment strategies.

Direct marketing: Targeted outreach to potential investors based on investment preferences.

Startup costs: $150,000 (licenses, office setup, due diligence expenses)

Revenue projections (first year): $1,000,000

Revenue projections (second year): $2,000,000

Expenses: Office overhead, salaries, marketing campaigns and property management costs

Funding: Combination of private equity, investor capital and personal investments

Profitability timeline: Positive cash flow projected within the first year, substantial returns expected over five years

Top benefits of writing a real estate business plan

Starting a business in real estate requires careful planning and a well-structured business plan offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to the venture's success. A business plan helps you in the following ways:

Attracting investors and funding: A well-developed business plan serves as a persuasive tool to attract potential investors and secure funding. It outlines the business's unique value proposition, market opportunities and growth strategies. By clearly articulating the revenue model and projected financials, entrepreneurs demonstrate their preparedness and potential returns, increasing the likelihood of obtaining an investment and raising money for a business .

Resource assessment: Writing a business plan helps entrepreneurs understand the resources, supplies and staff required to launch and operate the real estate business. This comprehensive assessment ensures that nothing is overlooked, from property acquisition and renovation costs to marketing expenses and administrative needs. By listing these requirements, entrepreneurs can plan for adequate funding and efficient resource allocation.

Strategic direction: A business plan outlines the business's short-term and long-term goals, providing a strategic direction for the real estate business. Entrepreneurs can define their target market, geographic focus and property types, enabling them to make informed decisions aligned with their objectives. This clarity prevents aimless pursuits and helps maintain focus on strategies that align with the business' vision.

Risk mitigation: A well-structured business plan anticipates potential challenges and outlines strategies to mitigate risks. Entrepreneurs can identify industry-specific challenges, such as market fluctuations or regulatory hurdles and devise contingency plans. By acknowledging these risks upfront, entrepreneurs can proactively address them and adapt their strategies as needed.

Operational efficiency: The business plan details the organizational structure, roles and responsibilities required to run the real estate business smoothly. Defining these elements helps entrepreneurs allocate tasks effectively and ensure that the right people are in place to execute the business strategies. This clarity enhances operational efficiency and minimizes the potential for confusion or overlaps.

Measurable progress: A business plan sets clear milestones and metrics to measure the real estate business' progress. Entrepreneurs can track key performance indicators (KPIs) against the projected goals, enabling them to assess their success and identify areas for improvement.

Real estate business plan FAQ

What is a business plan in real estate.

A real estate business plan is a document that outlines your goals and strategies for starting or growing a real estate business. It should include a market analysis, a business model, an operational plan and a financial plan.

Which real estate business is most profitable?

Can you become a millionaire from owning real estate, is it a good idea to start a real estate business, how do i organize my real estate business, want to create another type of business plan.

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Blog Real Estate Best Practices 12 Easy Steps to Creating a Perfect Real Estate Business Plan (2024 Updated!)

12 Easy Steps to Creating a Perfect Real Estate Business Plan (2024 Updated!)

To be truly successful in the world of business, you must create a solid business plan. This is the case no matter what industry you are in, and that includes real estate.

The business plan you work out must be unique. There is no cookie cutter approach. You must keep your brand image and goals in mind when creating the plan that’s perfect for you.

However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your plan is well executed. This article will review those steps to ensure you plan is as successful as possible.

Why Create a Real Estate Business Plan?

A real estate business plan offers several benefits including the following:

• It shows you where your business is at and outlines areas where you can make improvements.
• It allows you to set goals and track progress.
• It can be used to help secure funding. Most potential investors will want to see a copy of your business plan before moving forward.
• It can be a selling point for attracting top talent.
• It provides an outline that will help you manage day to day tasks in an organized fashion.
• It can help you track your marketing efforts.
• It can help you attract clients.
• It will keep you more organized in reaching your long-term goals.

12 Steps to Create The Best Real Estate Business Plan

1. determine your business model.

There are a few ways to go when embarking on your real estate journey. You may decide you want to start or join a real estate team. Or you may decide you want to start or join a brokerage. You’ll want to decide if you need a sole proprietorship or an LLC is in your best interest. You may establish a plan early on in your career, or you may decide to change directions and create a new plan in the middle of your career.

While these are all very different paths to take, there are common elements that will need to be focused on in the plan creation process. They will be outlined in the following sections.

2. Identify Who You Are

Determining your brand identity will help you create marketing materials that reflect your image. Are you a friendly ‘people person’? Or is your main goal finding clients the best investment for their money?

Your strategies will change slightly depending on your business model. If you own or work in a team setting , you must define the role of each team member and their part in helping you reach your goals.

If you own a brokerage, your real estate business plan will help you determine what type of agents you want working for you. If you work on your own , it will all come down to your unique vision.

When putting it down on paper, your identity will consist of:

• Your Mission Statement: Your reason for being in real estate
• Your Executive Summary: One or two sentences that summarize what you do

3. Analyze Your Target Real Estate Market

Once you determine who you are as an agent, you will have a better idea of who you are marketing to. You may be targeting business owners, investors, families, luxury clients and so on. It’s also likely you will be working within a specific area.

After identifying your target audience, you need to figure out how your target market is doing. What are home prices like? How is inventory looking? Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market? And what are future predictions?

You will be able to glean this information by looking carefully at the MLS and staying on top of trends. Online and offline real estate resources will also provide some insight.

In general, you will want to stay on top of:

• General Trends including how long homes are staying on the market on average, commission rates, sale prices, etc.
• Market Opportunities based on supply and demand
• Market Saturations based on inventory and agent services

4. Analyze Your Competition

We all know the saying, ‘keep your friends close and your enemies closer’. Stay on top of what other agents are doing by subscribing to their newsletters and following their social media pages. While you won’t want to copy their strategies outright, they may just inspire you to create a marketing plan that gives you a competitive edge.

You should also look out for underserved niches and competitive saturation.

When it comes to underserved niches, there may be plenty of agents in your area specializing in family residential properties. But how many are serving the commercial sector? Or the luxury sector?

If the city sections in your area are blowing up, consider looking into properties in a nearby suburb to avoid competitive saturation.

5. Decide What Services You Will Provide

Most real estate agents provide the expected services such as conducting open houses, finding homes for buyers, determining pricing, negotiations, and keeping transactions organized in general.

But you can offer additional services that set your business apart. For example, you may provide:

• Staging: Staging involves setting up the home, so it looks more aesthetically appealing. Once upon a time, staging was offered as an addition service. But today, many agents are rolling it into their agent fees. The agent may stage the home themselves, or they may bring in a specialized team for staging.
• Professional Virtual Tours: Today, virtual real estate tours are the way to go. They allow clients to get the experience of being in the home without having to leave their home. If you are not offering this service, it’s time to get onboard.
• Neighborhood Analysis: Most agents provide clients with an overview of what a neighborhood has to offer. But if you want to go that extra mile, you can provide an in-depth report that includes crime rate, types of properties, demographics, and more.
• Relevant Discounts: Agents can offer clients relevant discounts in terms of handyman services, inspections, appraisals and more.

6. Carve Out a Niche

It’s important to carve out a niche in terms of what type of property you want to sell and who your target audience is. But you can get even more ‘niche-y’ by specializing in certain types of properties such as condos and townhouses, catering to first time buyers and so on.

It may seem like carving out a niche is limiting, but it will make people come to you first when they require expertise in your field. When choosing a niche, base it on what you are most skilled at and where you see an opportunity to grow professionally.

7. Create a Marketing Plan

The first step of your marketing plan will involve identifying your target audience and determining the best way to reach them. For example, if you are focused on first time buyers, you will be targeting a millennial crowd. In addition to emphasizing money saving goals, you may also want to advertise yourself as an agent that is environmentally friendly and gives back.

A luxury crowd may have similar concerns, but their main interests will be in finding high end properties that offer the utmost in amenities.

You must also consider the best way to reach your target audience. What social media platforms are they likely to be on? Do you think they will respond well to cold calls , door knockings , and mailings? Or is it best to keep things digital?

You must also consider race, color, origin, sexual orientations, and disabilities. Create marketing materials that are appealing and will not discriminate in any way.

8. Conduct a SWOT Analysis

SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

In terms of strengths and weaknesses, you must consider what you are best at and what could use improving. For example, you may find that you have superior digital skills but that you’re not so great with cold calling. If this is the case, you should focus on digital and avoid cold calls.

However, you may also consider improving weak spots. For example, if it was the other way around and digital was a weakness, you should consider building up your digital skills. This will give you a competitive advantage in today’s world of real estate.

It’s also important to be aware of opportunities and know when to pounce. This will help a lot with lead generation. For example, FSBO, near pre-foreclosure, and divorces are all ideal situations for an agent to come knocking. You may also think of opportunities in terms of underserved areas and niches in your community.

Threats can come in the form of competition and/or changes in the market. There is usually no way to keep these threats from happening, but you can take steps to be prepared when they occur. This will ensure you are in the best shape possible for taking them on and minimizing potential damage.

9. Focus on Your Specific Goals

• Making a certain amount of money in a given time
• Completing a certain number of transactions in a given time
• Attaining a certain number of new clients in a given time
• Reducing lead time
• Growing your company by hiring new agents and employees or opening new locations
• Determining a better work/life balance

When you set up your goals, it’s important to make them measurable and attainable. If your goals aren’t attainable, you will end up wasting time working towards goals you will never reach. You will also become frustrated by your lack of progress.

Measuring goals can be challenging. In today’s digital world, reports and analysis are provided so you can determine your ROI and figure out what’s working and what isn’t. If you are outside of the digital realm, it may be more difficult to measure your progress, but you should have some idea of how well you are doing.

10. Keep Track of Your Finances

No matter how passionate you are about your business, it won’t be a success unless you are making money. You must keep track of how much you are spending and how much you are earning. Your net profits should always be positive.

For best results, implement an online system like QuickBooks. Online bookkeeping systems will provide reports so you can see where most of your money is being spent and your main sources of income. This will help you determine what’s bringing in the most ROI, what’s generating income, and what’s not.

You may also consider hiring an accountant and/or a financial consult. Your financial team will ensure you are making smart moves at tax time and when investing in tools, software, and other business ventures.

11. Review Your Success Ratios

Your success will also be contingent on customer satisfaction. Are your customers pleased with your services? Are they referring friends and family?

If your success ratios are looking good but your finances aren’t matching up, you may be overspending on certain aspects of your business. Look at your records to see where the bulk of your money is going. Cut back if necessary.

12. Revisit Your Real Estate Business Plan Regularly

Your business plan is not set in stone. It’s a good idea to check it on a regular basis so you can revise it in accordance with your current needs. You may also want to create a new business plan if you decide to change up your business model.

A real estate business plan is a valuable tool for agents. It will keep you on course in attaining your goals. This template will help you devise a plan that is best suited to your professional needs. We wish you the best of luck in moving your company forward.

You’re a successful real estate agent, but you’d like to step to the next level. To do that, you want to create a better business plan for next year. So, how do you start? By filling out that form your manager gave you, asking for your goals for next year? Or, maybe you’re attending those trainings where seminar gurus give you 30 things to do next year. That will put you in a quandary because you don’t know how to choose! Please don’t leap to either one. Before you commit, take a look back at your last year (In the strategic planning process, it’s called the ‘ business review’.) Using the same thought process successful businesses use to create effective business plans will give you clarity.

Time To Scope Your Business Plan: Small Adjustments Pay Big Dividends

You and your business are unique.

Don’t copy someone else’s plan or commit to pie in the sky numbers until you know your three business indicators here. Armed with that information, you can pick and choose your actions and goals wisely, because you know they will work for you.

Building Your Business Best: From working with agents in my business planning courses and systems, I’ve observed that many agents don’t build a business plan around their best source of business: ‘sold’ customers and clients. Marketing surveys show that it costs six to nine times as much to get a new customer as to keep an old one. So, if you spend more money on your best source, and less on your other sources, you’ll optimize your investment.

3. How ‘delighted’ are your clients? Most so-called ‘business plans’ in real estate merely are goal-setting grids. Focusing only on the end results suggests that the ends justify the means. However, the consumer sure doesn’t think so! These goal setting grids alone lead agents to miss the point of the decade: Top-flight customer service begets more business. That is, it’s not just what you do, but how you do it. What level of service are you providing? Is it just good enough to get through the transaction? Or, is it so great that your clients are thoroughly delighted ? (Delighted consumers refer business to you–less cost and more effort equals big pay-offs, right?)

Build Delight into your Business Plan

Don’t Worry About the Tactics

If you’ve been gathering those dozens of tactics seminar gurus have suggested you MUST do, your head is probably spinning. That’s not the way to go about creating an effective business plan. Instead, take time to use the strategic planning process, which includes your business review. Commit one hour out of your day now to assess the three areas here and plan adjustments. The bonus: With your answers, you can pick from that myriad of action plans you’ve gathered and choose the ones that support your major goals. Now you have the ‘why’ for your plan, and you’ll be inspired to create and implement your unique business plan.

About the Author

Chris Heller brings 27 years of experience in real estate. Chris serves on the Agent Advice Editorial Board and is the Chief Real Estate Officer at OJO Labs. Chris brings deep expertise having held influential industry positions including CEO of mellohome and former CEO of Keller Williams Realty International.

Last Updated: 12/29/2023

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6 Steps to Creating a Real Estate Business Plan

Real estate is a dynamic and lucrative field that offers a wealth of opportunities for those who plan strategically. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting in the industry, having a well-structured real estate plan is essential for success. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps of creating a robust real estate plan that will help you achieve your goals. From assessing your target market to crafting a detailed financial plan, we've got you covered.

1. Assess Your Target Market

Before diving headfirst into the world of real estate, it's crucial to assess your target market. Understanding your audience and their specific needs is fundamental to your success. Begin by researching the demographics of the area you plan to operate in. Consider factors such as age, income levels, and housing preferences. This information will help you tailor your real estate ventures to meet the demands of your target market.

Additionally, analyze the local real estate market trends. Are property prices rising or falling? Is there a demand for certain types of properties, like condos or single-family homes? By identifying these trends, you can make informed decisions about the types of properties to invest in and the optimal time to buy or sell.

2. Craft a Summary

A well-crafted summary is the foundation of any successful real estate plan. This summary should outline your overall goals and objectives. What do you hope to achieve in the real estate market? Are you looking to generate rental income, flip properties for profit, or build a diversified real estate portfolio?

Your summary should also touch on your values and principles as a real estate professional. For example, are you committed to ethical business practices, transparency, and exceptional customer service? Clearly defining your values will guide your decision-making throughout your real estate journey.

3. SWOT Analysis

Conducting a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis is a critical step in your real estate planning process. Identify your strengths and weaknesses as a real estate investor. This could include your knowledge of the local market, your financial resources, or your negotiation skills. Acknowledging your weaknesses allows you to work on improving them.

Next, assess the opportunities and threats in the real estate market. Opportunities could include emerging trends, under-served niches, or potential partnerships. Threats might involve economic downturns, market saturation, or regulatory changes. Being aware of these factors will help you adapt your plan as needed to mitigate risks and seize opportunities.

4. Determine Daily Operations

Real estate isn't just about buying and selling properties; it also involves daily operations and management. Define how you will manage your properties and interact with clients. Will you handle property management tasks yourself, or will you hire a property management company? How will you market your properties to attract buyers or tenants?

Consider creating a detailed workflow that outlines your daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you're consistently working towards your goals.

5. Create a Financial Plan

No real estate plan is complete without a comprehensive financial plan. Your financial plan should include a budget that outlines your income and expenses. Calculate your potential cash flow from rental properties, taking into account mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance costs, and potential vacancies.

Additionally, plan for future investments and financing options. Will you rely on traditional mortgages, seek private financing, or explore partnerships with other investors? A well-thought-out financial plan will provide you with the clarity and confidence to make sound financial decisions in the real estate market.

6. Create a Marketing Plan

In the competitive world of real estate, a solid marketing plan is essential to stand out. Consider the marketing channels you will use to promote your properties. Will you leverage online platforms, such as real estate websites and social media, or opt for traditional methods like direct mail or local advertising?

Create a branding strategy that defines your unique selling proposition. What sets you apart from other real estate professionals in your area? Incorporate strategies for building a strong online presence, including a professional website, engaging content, and regular updates on property listings.

Creating a real estate plan is a fundamental step in achieving success in the real estate industry. By assessing your target market, crafting a comprehensive summary, conducting a SWOT analysis, determining daily operations, establishing a financial plan, and developing a robust marketing strategy, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the dynamic world of real estate.

Remember that your real estate plan is not set in stone; it should evolve as your goals and the market change. Regularly revisit and update your plan to stay aligned with your objectives and adapt to market conditions. With a well-executed real estate plan, you'll be on your way to building a prosperous and rewarding career in real estate.

Ultimate Guide: 11 Points to Writing a Real Estate Business Plan

Failing to plan is planning to fail. Your business plan is the GPS for success. Instead of wandering, push towards your goals and objectives with clear direction. Developing a real estate business plan is critical to forming a healthy and sustainable business. 

A real estate business plan is an important step for any real estate agent looking to build a successful career in the industry. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are certain key elements that should be included in any plan. First and foremost, it is essential to set clear goals and objectives.

A study of 2,877 business owners found that companies are twice as likely to secure loans and funding if they have a business plan and 75% more likely to grow. Another study showed that 64% of companies who created a plan increased their businesses, compared to 43% of companies that hadn't yet finished a plan. 

Your own business plan is an essential tool for any business, small or large. Real estate agents use business plans to map their marketing strategies, target their advertising, and track their progress. A business plan helps agents set goals and stay on track throughout the year. It is also a valuable reference point when meeting with clients and potential investors. 

While there are many different ways to create a real estate business plan, certain elements should be included in every scenario. These elements include an overview of the business, the company's goals and objectives, a marketing strategy, and a financial analysis. By having these key components, companies can ensure that their real estate business plan is comprehensive and will help them achieve their desired results.

Harvard Business Review (HBR) stated that the chances of success rose by 12% for those that spent no longer than three months on their plan . With any longer proving futile. So, how do you write a business plan for your real estate business without getting bogged down in the details? In this post, we'll look at actionable steps agents and brokers can take to outline, execute and measure the performance of a business plan.

As a real estate agent, you know that the housing market can be unpredictable. You need to be prepared for the ups and downs of the market, and one way to do that is to have a business plan. Your business plan will help you set goals and track your progress. It will also force you to think about the costs of running your business and how you will generate leads. There are many online resources that can help you write a business plan, but the most important thing is to get started. By taking the time to write a plan, you will ensure that your business is ready for whatever the housing market throws your way.

What is a real estate business plan?

A business plan is a written document that captures the future of your business. It details what you plan and how you plan to do it.

Real estate business plans are essential for two reasons. First, they provide a road map for agents to follow as they work to build their businesses. Second, they force agents to think through all the crucial aspects of their business, such as their marketing efforts, target market, and financial goals. 

By taking the time to write a Real Estate Business Plan, agents can ensure that they are taking all the necessary steps to build a successful business.

A Real Estate Business Plan is an essential tool for any business, whether you are just starting or have been in business for years. There are many benefits to creating a Real Estate Business Plan, including: 

• Having a Real Estate Business Plan forces you to take a step back and assess your business as a whole. It allows you to see where your business stands, and identify any areas that need improvement.
• A Real Estate Business Plan provides a roadmap for your business. It can help you to set goals and track your progress over time.
• A Real Estate Business Plan can help secure your business funding. If you seek investment from Venture Capitalists or Banks, they will often require a copy of your business plan before considering your request.
• A Real Estate Business Plan can help you to attract and retain top talent. If you are looking to hire employees or contractors, having a well-crafted business plan can be a significant selling point.
• A Real Estate Business Plan can be a valuable tool for managing day-to-day operations. A clear and concise plan can help you better decide where to allocate resources and how to utilize your team's time and talents best.
• A Real Estate Business Plan can help you to measure and track your marketing efforts. By setting specific goals and objectives, you can more effectively gauge the success of your marketing campaigns and make necessary adjustments along the way.
• A Real Estate Business Plan can serve as a valuable sales tool. A professional business plan can give you a significant competitive advantage if you are looking to sell properties or convert leads into clients.
• A Real Estate Business Plan helps to keep you organized and on track. Trying to run a successful real estate business without a plan is like trying to drive from New York to Los Angeles without a map - chances are, you'll get lost along the way!

Having a Real Estate Business Plan gives you credibility in the eyes of others. If you are working with other professionals such as lenders, appraisers, or title companies, having a well-developed business plan shows that you are serious about your business and increases the likelihood that they will want to work with you in the future.

Last but not least, creating a Real Estate Business Plan is empowering! Taking the time to develop a comprehensive plan shows that you believe in yourself and your business and sets the foundation for long-term success.        

Precisely, it conveys your business goals, the strategies and tactics you'll use to achieve them, potential problems you may run into along the way and how to overcome them, roles and responsibilities, SWOT analysis, and measurement strategies.

What should a real estate business plan include?

Real estate business plans are different from traditional business plans. 

Real estate agents need to focus on their target market, their uniqueness, and how they will succeed against the competition. Real estate business plans should also include an analysis of the current market conditions and the potential for growth in the future. In addition, real estate agents should outline their marketing strategy and have a budget for advertising and promotions. By taking the time to create a comprehensive business plan, real estate agents can increase their chances of success in this competitive industry.

Real estate business plans vary in length and complexity, but all should include the following elements: 

• An overview of the real estate market 
• A description of the agent's target market 
• A marketing plan 
• A financial plan 
• A discussion of the agent's competitive advantages 

Real estate business plans provide a roadmap for agents to achieve their goals. They should include specific strategies for generating leads, marketing properties, and closing deals. The business plan should also outline the agent's budget and target income. Additionally, the real estate business plan should set forth a schedule for prospecting, listing appointments, and open houses. By following a real estate business plan, agents can increase their chances of success in real estate.

How do you assemble a real estate business plan?

A business plan is essential for any real estate business, whether you're just starting out or have been in the industry for years. It provides a roadmap for your business, laying out your goals and strategies for achieving them. But how do you go about assembling a business plan?

First, you'll need to identify your target market. Who are you trying to reach with your real estate business? Once you know your target market, you can start developing your marketing strategy. What methods will you use to get potential clients? How will you differentiate yourself from other real estate businesses in your area?

Next, you'll need to put together a financial plan. What are your revenue sources? How much money do you expect to bring in each month? What are your expenses? How much do you need to save for a rainy day? A clear financial picture will help you make sound decisions for your business.

Lastly, don't forget to include a personal development plan. What skills do you need to improve to succeed in the real estate business? What classes or training programs can you take to close more deals and earn more commissions? A well-rounded business plan will help ensure your real estate business is booming.

Writing a Real Estate Business Plan in 11 Easy Steps

1. write a detailed business description.

There's a story and context behind your business, and the business description is where that should shine. Write a brief overview of your Real Estate business. Include your business goals and how you plan on achieving them. Then create a description of your company, including its history, structure, and other relevant information.

The mission statement is part of the business description — which helps keep the rest on the track. Many mission statements follow a familiar format, like:

"To be the best, full-service Real Estate company in the Triangle and to enhance our quality of life through active community involvement.".

In a microstudy of 200 mission statements, it was found that mission statements most often talk about the company's dedication to customers (85%), shareholders (37%), employees (21%), and society (3%).

As well as a defined mission statement, make sure to include:

• When you were founded
• Where you are located
• Who the leaders are
• Special advantages/partnerships
• Market opportunities
• Legal structure

A very brief real estate business description example is:

"Norris & Company Real Estate is Vero Beach's premier upscale real estate firm. They specialize in luxury waterfront homes and condominiums, particularly in Vero Beach and Indian River County, FL."

2. Market Analysis

Research the Real Estate market in your area and identify any trends or opportunities. Include this information in your business plan.

Real estate agents must constantly be aware of the market conditions in their area to serve their clients best. Agents can provide expert guidance and advice by understanding the trends and opportunities.

When writing your Real Estate business plan, including a comprehensive analysis of the market conditions in your area. It will help you better understand your client's needs and identify potential opportunities.

Your market analysis should include:

• An overview of the Real Estate market in your area
• Identification of any trends or opportunities
• An explanation of how you will address these trends or options in your business plan

By including this information in your Real Estate business plan, you will be able to show potential clients that you are knowledgeable and prepared to help them navigate the Real Estate market.

3. Perform a SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis is a technique used to identify and define several key characteristics that will impact your business: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Think of it this way:

Strengths and Weaknesses are internal. Threats and Opportunities are external.

An analysis can be as simple as making lists of items under each category.

For example, a strength could be a solid and experienced sales team, while a weakness might be that your business is expensive to run because you haven't nurtured supplier relations.

It could be as simple as filling four sheets of paper with descriptions of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats — collaboratively or alone. To make the answers clearer and the exercise more manageable, you can use questions like:

• What do our competitors do better than us? Threat .
• What's our unique selling point? Strength .
• Why have customers churned in the past? Weakness .
• Which markets are underserved in your territory? Opportunities .

4. List Your #1 SMART Goal

It's great to be ambitious, but focusing on one goal makes it easier to stay motivated, track progress, and see the measurable effect of achieving it. Even better if that goal is a SMART Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timed – goal.

Examples of SMART goals you might set for your growing real estate business are:

• Build a new real estate website in the next three months
• Hire and onboard three new SDRs in the next six months
• Increase monthly leads by 50% by next year
• Sell ten houses in the Dallas metro area in the next 30 days.

Pick one at a time and focus on it! Sticking to an achievable goal with a time limit makes it more likely to come to fruition. And, even just writing it down makes you 42% more likely to attain it.

5. Identify Your Market Niche

Before setting out your facts and figures, it's essential to spotlight your target market and how you'll serve this niche. It helps you decide what's realistic and feasible to achieve in your business plan.

Determining your market niche is a fancier way of saying: Who are your services best suited to? While honing in on a narrow target seems a little exclusionary, niche marketing can save you time, effort, and money on marketing.

One tool to help you define your market is a buyer persona. A persona is a fictional typification of your ideal customer, with information that enables you to steer your sales and marketing in the right direction.

It's essential to assess your niche and ensure it is consistent with the market in your area.

For example, if you've decided to focus on first-time buyers, do some research to look at relevant stats and figures:

• What percentage of sales in your market were to first-time buyers in the last 12–14 months?
• What was the average sales price to first-time buyers?

Also, assess how competitive this market is:

• Are you the only agent catering to the young first-timer?
• Are you competing with well-known heavy hitters?

A competitive SEO audit can be a helpful starting point in finding your competitors in the online space, where almost all leads will turn at some point in the buying process.

6. Implementation Plan

Before you can begin implementing your real estate business plan, you must clearly understand your goals and objectives. What are you trying to achieve with your business? Are you looking to buy and hold properties for long-term appreciation, or are you more interested in flipping houses for a quick profit? 

Once you have a good idea of your goals, you can start to put together a plan for how to achieve them. For example, if you're interested in buying and holding properties, you'll need to generate enough income from rentals to cover the mortgage and other expenses. If you're more interested in flipping properties, you'll need to find motivated sellers and then negotiate deals that provide you with a healthy profit margin. 

Regardless of your goals, careful planning is essential for success in the real estate business.

Breaking your goals into action steps makes them more tangible and ensures you're making strides to fulfill them. Here are some keys to converting your real estate business plan into actual business practices.

7. Monitoring & Evaluation

Successful real estate businesses have a plan to monitor and evaluate their progress. This plan includes setting clear goals, measuring progress against those goals, and making adjustments as needed. Without this proactive approach, it can be challenging to identify areas of improvement or stagnation. 

Additionally, a well-executed monitoring and evaluation plan can help to keep employees focused and on track. By regularly assessing performance and goal progress, businesses can ensure that they are making the most of their resources and achieving their desired results. Ultimately, a sound monitoring and evaluation plan are crucial for any real estate business that wants to stay ahead of the competition.

8. Risk Management

Real estate investing comes with a certain amount of risk. But with a well-thought-out risk management strategy, you can minimize the potential for loss and maximize your chances for success.

One of the most critical aspects of risk management is diversification. Investing in various property types in different markets spreads your risk and increases your chances of finding a profitable investment.

Another critical element of risk management has a solid business plan. Thoughtfully consider each step of the real estate investing process, from finding deals to financing them to managing the properties. Have a clear exit strategy for each investment to know when to sell or refinance. And always remember to stay within your comfort level; don't let greed or fear make decisions for you.

With careful planning and discipline, you can create a real estate investment portfolio that withstands market fluctuations and generates long-term wealth.

9. Financial Plan

Having a sound financial plan for your business is essential. To assist you, we've created spreadsheets you can use to estimate goals, income, and expenses. You will find specific instructions in the spreadsheets, but here are some guidelines for creating a financial plan:

To create your plan, determine what your expenses will be.

Here are three main areas your expenses may fall into:

• Licensing: These expenses will include training, state exam fees, etc.
• Personal: This can consist of your wardrobe, technology fees (like computer and phone), and car fees.
• Business: Business expenses include broker fees, website and MLS fees, marketing, advertising, etc.

Our template divides these expenses into the startup and yearly costs to help you discern which payments will recur and which are one-time-only. Here's an example of what your startup expenses might look like.

Yearly expenses might include recurring costs like office rent, electricity bills, and annual license fees.

Estimating income is the biggest concern for most new agents. To do this, you must decide how much money you need to make in your first year and how much you would like that figure to grow. You will also need to research some basic statistics for your market, like the average sale price for homes.

Use our business plan template to help calculate these numbers.

Transactions and Leads 

To meet your income goals and cover expenses, you'll need to conduct a certain number of transactions. And, to complete a certain number of transactions, you'll need to work a set number of leads. There's no need to work this figure out by hand. ‍

Our template will automatically calculate the number of transactions and leads you will probably need to meet your goals. Still, you will have to assess these figures to decide whether they are reasonable. For example, if you plan to work part-time as an agent in your first year but need to close 20 transactions to meet your goals, you are unlikely to have enough time.

10. Create a Personal Development Plan

A personal development plan is an essential tool for any real estate business. By taking the time to assess your strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and create a roadmap for success, you can ensure that your business is on track to reach its full potential. While it may seem daunting, creating a personal development plan is simple. 

Start by taking stock of your current situation. What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your goals for the future? Once you clearly understand where you are starting, you can begin to map out a plan of action. Set realistic goals and create a timeline for achieving them. Put together a resources list and ensure you have everything you need to reach your goals. Finally, implement your plan and monitor your progress along the way.

Remember, your development plan should be flexible and adapt as your needs change over time. With some planning and effort, you can create a roadmap for success that will help you achieve your long-term goals in the real estate business.

11. Write an Executive Summary that Captures the Vision

Your executive summary is an anchor point you can use to understand the overall goals, cement the parameters of your target market, and make decisions aligned with your plan. It's also a way to get inspired by your original vision.

For real estate, it would include points on:

• Target neighborhoods and price ranges
• Target clients and a brief description of the persona
• Brief marketing plan overview
• Market threats and opportunities

Think of the executive summary as the section of your business plan you would explain to a friend a football game when asked how you plan to make money as an agent or broker in your local town/ city or state.

Note: due to the specific details in the executive summary, this part of the business is typically one of the last completed items.

Real Estate Business Plan Template

If you're considering starting a real estate business, you'll need to create a business plan template. Here's a basic template that you can use to get started. Remember that your business plan should be tailored to your specific business and industry.

• Executive Summary

The executive summary is a brief overview of your business plan. It should include your company's mission statement and an overview of your products or services, target market, and growth strategy.

• Company Description

This section will provide an overview of your company, including its history, structure, and team. Be sure to include information on your company culture and values.

• Mission statement

In this section, you will summarize the reason for being and the guiding principles of your organization. For example: "We are a nonprofit that provides free legal aid to those in need." You can also provide a brief overview of what we want them (the users) to come into contact with. 

Why should they care about our mission or message by telling them why it is vital to their lives now and later down the line?

• Company goals

This section will provide a high-level overview of your company's top business goals for its first years in operation.

• Market Analysis

In this section, you will need to analyze your target market thoroughly. It should include information on your customers, your competition, and the overall industry.

• Product or Service

In this section, you will need to describe your product or service. Be sure to include information on your pricing strategy and any unique features or benefits your product or service offers.

• Marketing and Sales Strategy

In this section, you will need to outline your marketing and sales strategy. It should include information on how you plan to generate leads and convert them into customers.

• Operational Plan

This section will need to provide an overview of your business operations. It should include your production process and distribution and fulfillment strategy.

This section will briefly describe what your company offers to customers.

• Target customer

To effectively reach the people we want as customers, you must provide a clear overview of who they are and how your product or service can benefit them. In this section, I'll go over some questions worth asking yourself when determining who your potential clients may be. 

• Best Practices

Write out your ideal practices for how you'll deal with qualified leads versus unqualified leads, how quickly you'll follow up with interested parties, your methods for helping a leader throughout the final steps of the sales process, and how you'll stay in touch with customers after papers have been signed.

• Financial Plan

In this section, you will need to provide detailed financial information for your business. It should include your income, balance, and cash flow statements. The following will include startup expenses, assets, liabilities, capital, break-even analysis, and loan repayment.

• Exit Strategy

This section will need to provide an overview of your exit strategy. It should include information on how you plan to sell or exit your business in the future.

Individual Agent Real Estate Business Plan

Real estate agents need a business plan like any other entrepreneur. A real estate business plan outlines your goals, strategies, and how you plan on achieving them. It is essential to have a business plan because it will help you stay focused and on track. Real estate is a competitive industry, so you need to be able to stand out from the rest.

A business plan will also be helpful if you ever need to seek funding for your business. Investors and lenders will want to see that you have a well-thought-out plan before they give you money. 

Creating a Real Estate Business Plan is essential if you want to build a successful career in real estate. With our easy-to-use template, you can get started today and be on your way to achieving your long-term goals.

There are many benefits to creating a Real Estate Business Plan, including:

• Clarifying your goals and strategies
• Mapping out a clear road map for your business
• Identifying potential obstacles and solutions
• Helping you stay organized and on track
• Increasing your chances of success

So, if you are considering starting a real estate business, sit down and write a business plan. It will be worth it in the long run!

Real Estate Team Business Plan

Before you start your real estate team, it's essential to have a business plan in place. It will help you define your goals, map your strategies, and track your progress over time. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to creating a business plan, certain key elements should be included. Here are a few of the most important things to keep in mind:

• Your team's mission statement: What sets your team apart from the competition? Why do you exist?
• Your target market: Who are you trying to reach with your services? What needs do they have that you can address?
• Your marketing strategy: How will you get your target market and communicate the benefits of working with your team?
• Your financial goals: How much revenue do you hope to generate? What are your expenses? How will you fund your business?

By thoughtfully developing your real estate team business plan, you'll increase your chances of success in an increasingly competitive industry.

Real Estate Brokerage Business Plan

A real estate brokerage business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections of a real estate brokerage business . It should include an executive summary, market analysis, business model, operational plan, and financial plan. The executive summary should briefly describe the company, its target market, and its competitive advantages. The market analysis should assess the size and growth potential of the target market. 

The business model should describe how the real estate brokerage plans to generate revenue. The operational plan should outline the business's day-to-day operations, including staffing and marketing initiatives. Finally, the financial plan should provide detailed information on the anticipated costs and revenues of the company. A well-crafted real estate brokerage business plan can be valuable for attracting investors and achieving long-term success.

Remember that your business plan is a living document that should be updated as your company grows and evolves. Regularly reviewing and revising your business plan ensures that your real estate brokerage is always moving in the right direction.

Ready. Set. Plan

Whether you've got a ready-to-execute business plan or it's still being drafted, the most important thing is to start now — and fast.

At its core, a real estate business plan should outline the steps necessary to achieve specific goals, such as increasing sales or expanding into new markets. It should also identify potential obstacles preventing the business from achieving its objectives. By taking the time to create a comprehensive business plan, real estate businesses can increase their chances of weathering storms and coming out on top in the long run.

A business plan puts you on a clear track that makes your business 75% more likely to grow.

By following the above points, you'll be well on writing a comprehensive Real Estate Business Plan.

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How to Plan, Start and Grow a Real Estate Business: The Definitive Guide [2024]

Will your business idea succeed? Take our quiz - completely confidential and free!

What is a real estate business?

A real estate business involves buying, selling, managing, operating, or investing in land and buildings. Real estate can also include natural resources below or above the ground, such as crops, minerals, or water.

Are you ready to take the leap and start your own successful real estate business? It can be challenging but don’t worry; we’ve got your back.

Our team has substantial experience in the real estate industry. We’ve bought and sold numerous houses, I’ve held a real estate broker’s license for many years, and I have mentored hundreds of people looking to get involved in real estate. And we’ve helped thousands of entrepreneurs and small businesses in the industry get started, operate, and grow their real estate businesses.

We’re excited to share our expertise with you through this guide. It has actionable insights, tips, and best practices to help you plan, start, and grow a successful real estate business.

Starting a business can be overwhelming, but we have everything you need to know here. So, let’s get started!

How to Start a Real Estate Business in 13 Steps:

Develop and refine your idea, write a business plan, hire an experienced business attorney, decide your legal business structure.

• Set up accounting and bookkeeping

Assess your finances

• Get a license

Purchase business insurance

Crunch the numbers, create a strong brand identity, build an online presence, create a sales plan, join a team, grow your business.

• Is a real estate business profitable?

The real estate market is enormous. For example, here are the relevant statistics you should know for the residential real estate market:

• 5.64 million existing and 822,000 new homes were sold in 2020, according to the most recent statistics from the National Association of Realtors.
• The Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO) estimates about 2 million active real estate licensees in the United States. Nearly 1,400,000 are active members of The National Association of Realtors (NAR).
• According to NAR, the typical realtor is a 54-year-old white female who attended college and is a homeowner.
• According to NAR, Realtors’ median gross income was $54,330 in 2021 (an increase of more than ten thousand dollars compared to 2020).
• Over 106,548 real estate brokerage firms are operating in the U.S. (based on the most recent census numbers from the 2017 economic censuses).

According to the National Association of Realtors, annual sales have increased for over a decade. Sales declined in 2022 but are expected to rebound quickly.

Don’t be intimidated by the competition. Over the long term, a real estate career can be a lucrative small business.

People interested in how to start a successful real estate business often ask:

• How do you start a real estate company?
• How much does it cost to open a real estate business?
• How much do real estate business owners make?
• How successful is a real estate business?
• How do realtors get clients?
• Do I need a license to work in real estate as a realtor and broker?
• How do I name my real estate business?
• What does a realty company do?

So, if you have real estate business ideas , let’s take a look at each of the steps you should take to start a real estate business:

Real estate is an enormously competitive field. The chances are that your area already has at least one or two successful and popular real estate brokers and real estate companies actively engaged in the marketplace.

To have the best chance at success when starting a real estate business, you need to consider your strengths, weaknesses, and any areas you are particularly interested in or experienced with.

To develop and refine your business idea , you should be deeply familiar with the area you’d like to set up your real estate business.

Knowing the towns and surrounding areas where you’ll be helping people buy real estate is critical to running a real estate business. Still, it can also influence how you present yourself in the marketplace.

To pick your physical business location, look at the other realtors and real estate companies in the area to determine what your competition is doing in the marketplace and take stock of how these existing businesses are approaching things.

How do your natural strengths differentiate you from the other real estate businesses in the area?

Consider the following questions when starting your real estate business and refining your business idea. Getting outside opinions on some of these can be helpful – don’t be afraid to ask someone you trust what they think about your answers to the following:

• What skills set me apart?
• What is the purpose of my business?
• Who am I providing a service or product to?
• What is the maximum figure I can safely spend on this real estate business?
• Do I need outside capital? How much?
• What kind of work/life balance am I looking to achieve?
• What are my expectations for starting a real estate business?

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• How to Start a Business Checklist
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• Is an LLC Right for You?
• Starting a Sole Proprietorship
• Starting Business Partnerships
• Creating a Powerful Pitch Deck

Find a niche for your real estate business

When starting a real estate business, consider what niche is right for your real estate company to give yourself a leg up on the competition.

You may have many business ideas, but narrowing your ideas is essential.

Do you want to sell to a particular group or segment of the population? Or perhaps you want to concentrate within a specific city area or specialize in buying and selling condos?

Maybe you want to be the area expert in short sales, only focus on rental property management , or perhaps you are your state’s go-to resource for landlord/tenant laws.

You’ll have a better chance of success starting with a specific target audience .

Ensure you set up your real estate business to meet a specific niche’s needs to avoid overspending and underwhelming all of your potential customers.

This is true for any small business, not just the real estate business. Our definitive guide on how to start a business suggests that aspiring entrepreneurs choose a niche for the best chance at success.

Competition is hard enough – make it easier to stand out with a specialty when you start a real estate company.

Here are some real estate business niches to consider when starting a real estate business:

• Residential real estate
• Resort and vacation homes
• Income properties (homes purchased by a real estate investor to generate income through rental or leasing)
• Commercially zoned real estate properties
• Property management
• Rental Property

You also should decide if you want to be a listing agent (help people sell homes) or exclusively represent real estate buyers.

You can also start other types of real estate businesses. Here are examples of real estate businesses beyond brokerage and related services:

• Buy and Hold investor
• Cleaning service provider
• Construction contractor
• Fix and Flip investor
• Home inspector
• Home repair service provider
• Home stager
• House sitter
• Money Lender
• Real Estate online training course expert
• Real estate photographer
• Private equity manager
• Property manager
• Real estate app developer
• Real estate blogger
• Real estate crowdfunding
• Real estate investing club
• Real estate marketing agency
• Real estate podcaster
• Real estate syndication
• Vacation rental service provider
• Vacation rental host

Although a business plan isn't mandatory, it can help crystallize your ideas.

A business plan outlines the financial and operational goals of your business . The business plan takes your business ideas, defines your company’s objectives, and provides specific information that shows how your company will reach those goals.

Your business plan doesn’t need to be 100 pages long. 100-page business plans are not standard in the real estate business. Keep your business plan short, and focus on the essential details. There are several great one-page business plan templates you can use.

Studies show that entrepreneurs who take the time to write a business plan are 2.5 times more likely to follow through and get their business off the ground. The work that goes into creating a business plan also helps new entrepreneurs build skills that will be invaluable later.

A traditional business plan has the following sections:

• An executive summary . This section summarizes the entire business plan, which is generally written last. Anyone reading your business plan will read this first, which is essential.
• An industry overview . This business plan section briefly overviews your business’s industry sector. It includes key players, industry trends, and estimates of industry sales.
• Market research and analysis . This looks at the target market for your product or service. A thorough real estate investment market analysis breaks down your market segments, geographic location, and needs. This section shows anyone reading that you thoroughly understand the people you plan to sell to or serve.
• Competitive analysis . Who are your direct and indirect competitors? How do they meet your target market needs, and how will you differentiate your product or services?
• Sales and marketing plan . What is your unique selling proposition ? What is your value proposition? How will you promote your business and persuade your target audience to buy? What are your marketing strategies? This section goes into detail on questions like these.
• Management plan . This section outlines your legal and management structure. It shows who your leadership team is and what your staffing needs will be. If you plan to seek funding, describe your advisory board here.
• Operating plan . This section includes your business location, facilities, equipment, and what kind of employees you’ll need. Any suppliers, manufacturing processes, and other operating details also appear here.
• Financial plan . This section is for all things financial. Three critical financial documents of any business go here: an income statement, a balance sheet, and a cash flow statement. And you’ll want to include your anticipated startup costs and any non-standard business models you plan to pursue. This is especially important if you’re talking to a real estate investor about investing in your real estate business.
• Appendices and Exhibits . Any information that helps support your business idea goes here, including target market studies, legal agreements, photos of your products, and more.

Read this definitive guide to writing a business plan for actionable insights and free downloadable business plan templates.

Find a mentor who can help review your business plan and answer other questions about starting a real estate business. Many seasoned realtors and brokers seek help with their real estate businesses or potential future partners.

Do market research

When starting a real estate business, you should understand the real estate market you’re entering before you dive into your business plan.

Business planning and market research help build a more successful real estate business.

Who are your direct competitors? Who are the top real estate sales agents working in your target niche? What makes them stand out from the rest of the competition?

When you start, much of the work relies on information gleaned from market research. Don’t skip this step even if you think the information you know about the industry is common sense. You will need the data from your market research to make informed decisions.

When starting a real estate business, you must undertake two major market research types: primary and secondary.

Primary market research is an essential first step. You’ll need to find the answers to questions like:

• What factors do potential clients consider when purchasing real estate, like a residence, business real estate, or land?
• What do they think is working, and what needs improvement in their current location?
• What do they like and dislike about the location they are currently in?
• What is their current mortgage/rent? Do they feel it’s reasonable and has good value?

You answer these questions by talking to potential customers. Surveys, focus groups, one-on-one interviews, conversations on social media, and questionnaires are the tools of choice for primary market research.

Business ideas can be fun, but most won’t survive the scrutiny of careful market research.

And don’t forget to talk to potential competitors too. You might get lucky and find a mentor who might be getting ready to retire.

Secondary market research is information pulled from existing sources.

You can identify competitors and define your real estate business market segments or demographics using currently available data. Leverage social media to find competitors. Critical attributes like age range, lifestyle, and behavioral patterns are data points that divide your target customers into segments .

Once you have this information, you’ll repeatedly refer to it as you build and launch your business. Make sure you spend a decent amount of time collecting data so your decisions are based on solid market research.

Plan for all of the necessary legal and logistical business considerations, and you’ll create a strong foundation for the prosperous future of your successful real estate business.

Can marketing psychology help you increase revenues?

Savvy marketers incorporate one or more psychological principles into marketing campaigns, content marketing, business strategy, and sales strategy. Here is everything you need to know about the principles and theories that can supercharge your marketing and influence people to buy your products or services.

Here's what you need to know to hire a good lawyer for your real estate business.

We’ve met and have sat across the table from many lawyers who are deal-killers. Overzealous and often inexperienced, they focus on the wrong issues and forget that their client needs the deal to move forward. When you talk with lawyers you’re considering hiring, ask them about one or two complicated negotiations and how they overcame obstacles.

Don’t make price your main criterion for hiring a lawyer.

Often, the least expensive lawyers are also less experienced – especially in the areas where you may need help. Paying a cheaper hourly rate might feel good initially, but in the end, you may end up paying far more than if you hired an experienced (more expensive) lawyer in the first place.

Ensure your business lawyer is familiar with the real estate business’s peculiarities and has experience representing other agents or brokers.

The best time to start a relationship with a lawyer is before you start your real estate business. A good lawyer will help you find the proper business structure for the company – and split ownership interests if you have co-founders – in ways that will protect everyone and give you flexibility.

There are many different types of legal structures for various business entities. For new business owners starting a real estate business, choosing the best one for them can feel overwhelming.

Real estate also has special business requirements to consider.

Most real estate agents are self-employed business owners affiliated with a licensed real estate brokerage firm. In this case, real estate licensees (agents) run independent businesses under a licensed managing broker’s supervision.

Opening your brokerage has some similar considerations but with an expanded focus. Opening your real estate brokerage firm in most states also requires a particular real estate license.

In both cases, you are starting a business.

Brokerage-seeking entrepreneurs select one of four legal business structures : sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Here’s a basic breakdown of each:

• Sole proprietorship – this is the most basic business entity. A sole proprietorship means one person is solely responsible for a business’s profits and debts.
• Partnership – a partnership is a shared responsibility between two or more people who hold personal liability for a business.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – a structure that permits owners, partners, or shareholders to limit personal liability but includes tax and flexibility benefits associated with a partnership.
• Corporation – this is an entity legally considered separate from its owners. Corporations can own property, be held liable, pay taxes, and enter contracts.

Hire an expert to form your company and save time. Our trusted partners can help: Northwest ($39 + state fee) or Bizee ($199 + state fee) . We recommend Northwest. After evaluating the leading registration companies, Northwest stands out as our top choice due to its competitive pricing, exceptional customer support, and commitment to privacy. Pay just $39 + state fees and you'll get a free year of registered agent service, articles of organization, privacy, and client support from local experts.

Most real estate agents who work as independent contractors under the umbrella of a real estate brokerage firm operate as sole proprietors.

Additionally, single-owner real estate brokerage firms are also sole proprietorships.

If you start a business independently and opt not to incorporate or form an LLC , you are a sole proprietor by default. It’s easy and quick to form an LLC. For example, if you’re starting an LLC in Texas, this comprehensive guide on how to form an LLC in Texas can help you get started quickly.

Sole proprietorship and partnerships are the most accessible business forms because they form naturally. You don’t have to declare either one. Once you or you and one more person start selling goods or services, you’re automatically a sole proprietor or partner.

Companies and corporations require more effort to set up, but each has distinct financial and business benefits.

Consider your future business goals. You want to choose a business structure to accommodate your real estate business’s growth and expansion.

Once you decide on your legal business structure, register with the government (typically your state and sometimes your municipality) and the IRS.

Your business structure determines the forms you need and where to register.

You can find a complete list of the forms for each entity type on the SBA website . You can also find state-specific tax obligations  on the same site.

You may sometimes need federal, state, or local licenses and permits to operate. The SBA’s database lets you search for licensing requirements by state and business type. And remember to contact your municipality to see if local licensing or registration requirements exist.

You may also need to get a Tax ID, also known as an employer identification number (EIN), from the IRS.

This is not required if you’re a sole owner and don’t have employees. But you might want to get an EIN anyway to keep your personal and business taxes separate and ensure you can quickly hire when the time comes to expand your business.

The IRS has a helpful checklist to help you decide whether you need an EIN to run your business. If you do need an EIN, you can register online for free.

And if the name under which you’ll operate your real estate business differs from the business’s legal name, you may need to register a DBA or “assumed name” in your state. To learn more, here are the DBA requirements for U.S.U.S. states and territories.

Set up business accounting and bookkeeping

Understanding your business's cash flow is important and necessary for tax-filing purposes. Here's what you need to know about accounting and bookkeeping for your real estate business.

Business accounting is how your business records, organizes, interprets, and presents financial information. Accountants analyze the financial condition of a business to help the business owner make better decisions.

Bookkeeping is recording, organizing, storing, and retrieving financial information related to your business.

Accounting and bookkeeping do overlap. The main difference is that bookkeeping is how you record and categorize financial information. In contrast, accounting uses information through analysis, business strategy, and tax planning.

You’ll need to set up real estate accounting software to keep track of your finances when starting a real estate business.

Start by hiring a bookkeeper

A great bookkeeper is not the same as an accountant. Many business owners hire a bookkeeper with simple goals: keep me organized, pay my bills, and prepare for the work handed to the accountant.

Typically, bookkeepers are less expensive than CPAs (certified public accountants) and can be trusted to record and organize your day-to-day business and real estate transactions, keep your bank accounts balanced, produce simple reports, and assist with keeping your financial records in order.

Many real estate businesses will regularly use an outside bookkeeper, paid hourly, in the office to handle all entries, pay all the bills, and manage invoicing and receivables. Having help with this aspect of managing a small company can be indispensable, and the time it can free for a busy owner is invaluable.

Review your accounting processes annually and make adjustments

When starting a real estate business, do not underestimate the importance of a periodic review of your bookkeeping, accounting, and tax strategies. You neglect to look hard at the systems you have in place and the people managing those systems at your peril.

Are you doing your accounting most productively and cost-effectively? Does your CPA have the right real estate industry knowledge level to advise? Does your tax preparer have the skills and expertise to keep you (and your real estate investors) on the right side of the law? And finally (the big one), can you find ways to reduce your expenses while maintaining high-quality controls?

Take the time to reconsider your overall accounting strategy and find ways to strengthen and improve it.

When you start a real estate business, assessing your finances is crucial. These numbers include tracking your sales and commissions - but a smart real estate business owner must account for much more than sales and commissions alone.

Here's what you need to know about business finance and how to crunch the numbers for your new business.

Business finance uses your company’s financial information to help you manage your money and make your business operations profitable and sustainable. These must be in order, especially if your business has real estate investors.

You have many business financing options.

That’s important because you need to determine how you’re going to fund your new business and how you’ll grow it. You’ll have trouble building a sustainable, profitable business if you don’t understand the numbers.

Be extra careful to conserve your funds when starting a business. Don’t overspend.

Some purchases will be necessary and make sense for your business, but others, like expensive and unnecessary equipment, will threaten your small business’s survivability.

The good news is that most real estate agents and real estate brokers can run their businesses without considerable costs until they build a book of clients and can spend a bit more on equipment and supplies.

Today, most marketing and sales materials are sent digitally, saving much money on color printing costs.

You’ll need to set up a bookkeeping and accounting system to keep track of your finances. We talked about this above. This is important to understand your business’s cash flow and for tax-filing purposes. Your accounting and bookkeeping system will include income, expenses, capital expenditures, profit, loss, EBITDA, etc.

Get a real estate license

Whether working in New York, California, Texas, Illinois, or another state, you will need the appropriate license for your real estate business.

A real estate license

If you are entirely new to the business, you must get your real estate license before working as an official Realtor.

A real estate license in most states allows you to sell residential real estate. You’ll need separate certifications to sell business real estate (known as commercial real estate).

There are four basic steps you need to complete to get your real estate license and start working as a Realtor:

• Take the real estate pre-licensing course for your state. You’ll need your real estate pre-licensing course to take your state’s real estate exam. This grants you a real estate license. You’ll need to study the topics covered in the exam, including fair housing laws, property ownership types, fiduciary responsibilities, titles, deeds, contracts, and other necessary aspects of real estate law. Every real estate pre-licensing course will cover the rules and regulations for your state and the federal real estate laws in effect for all 50 states.
• Pass the real estate licensing exam. The exam length varies from about 1.5 hours to 3.5 hours based on the state you’re in. In most states, you must correctly answer 70% to 75% of the questions to pass. The state exam will cover the same topics in your pre-licensing courses. Most states have multiple-choice exams that test national real estate principles and laws and state real estate principles and rules.
• Submit your real estate license application.  Submit your license application to your state’s real estate board when you pass your exam. If there are application fees, you will need to include those. Be prepared for the possibility that your state may require all real estate license applicants to submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
• Find a real estate broker to work for. Now that you’ve successfully passed your real estate exam, submitted your application for a license to your state’s real estate department, and paid any necessary fees, you must find a real estate broker to work for. Having your license associated with a licensed real estate brokerage is necessary to start working as a real estate agent . This is a critical decision that requires research and careful thought. Consider the benefits involved should you choose to work with a franchise brokerage or the benefits of working with a boutique brokerage instead.

A broker license

The basic steps for obtaining a real estate broker license are the same in most states:

• You’ll need a real estate license. You must complete the aforementioned education, pass your state’s licensing exam, and have thoroughly followed up with submitting your application and any necessary fees.
• Experience.  Realtors must typically have at least 2 to 4 years of experience working in the real estate industry before they are eligible to apply for a broker license. Additionally, some states require a real estate agent to complete a minimum number of real estate business transactions before becoming eligible for a real estate broker’s license.
• Education. Broker applicants in every state are mandated to complete pre-licensing education, which can vary from 45 to 90 hours before they are permitted to apply for a broker’s license.
• Broker’s exam. You must pass the broker licensing exam. The broker’s exam is lengthier and more comprehensive in every state than the exam for a real estate agent. It is essential to prepare well and study all the necessary materials, and there are courses available  to help you master the information on this in-depth exam.
• Application and Fees.   Complete the broker license application and pay any applicable fees. The fees range from $150 to $200, depending on your state.

You would be surprised how many new business owners forget to protect themselves and their businesses by purchasing insurance before starting their business.

It doesn’t help to buy insurance after starting your real estate business and incur claims.

Business insurance can cover property damage, theft, intellectual property lawsuits, and other incidents. Those can be very costly to small businesses, and you must protect yourself and your new business. This is especially true in real estate, where transactions include advice, guidance, and large amounts of money.

As a real estate services provider, you’ll want liability insurance to protect against possible claims. Your clients depend on your expertise and management; an unhappy client can always sue you if something goes wrong.

You’ll need workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance if your real estate business employs people. Coverage varies by location, and many general liabiliG.L. (GL) policies will cover workers’ compensation.

Here’s a good read on the different insurance types you should consider as a real estate business owner.

When you start a new business, even a home-based real estate business, understanding the numbers involved is crucial.

These numbers include tracking your sales and profits – but an innovative business must account for much more than sales alone.

Real estate sales tend to ebb and flow with the economy. That means you must prepare for inconsistent revenue’s ups and downs. You must know how much income you need to cover when things are leaner.

Plan for health and life insurance costs, and include potentially unpaid vacation time in your budget. Everyone needs a break at some point, and your budget needs to account for that.

When launching a brokerage of your own, or even if you’re starting as a newly licensed realtor, your business costs may include the following:

• your branding (logo, business cards , and real estate website)
• any license or permit fees
• fees for tools you use to market on social media and to build your web presence and social media presence
• deposits and rent for a physical work location if you plan to lease your workspace
• basic infrastructural costs like phone and internet service, invoicing software , etc.
• marketing and advertising costs, including the cost of marketing materials
• equipment costs or leases
• salaries or wages for any employees

Once you know how much it will cost to get you started, compare that with your funds. Then plan how you’ll make up any difference.

You’ll still incur costs no matter how small your business is, so pay careful attention to your budget.

Run calculations to determine how much it will cost to create your business. These numbers allow you to plan and consider your fees and what you should charge.

Real estate agents and brokers often market their services based on their brand and personality.

Crafting a memorable brand identity is crucial for any real estate professional.

As we’ve previously discussed ,

…your brand is your company’s public identity. Ideally, your brand should embody the best (and most essential) attributes of your company.

A brand represents how people know you and your business. It affects how customers perceive your reputation or the reputation of your company.

A strong brand is more important than ever in today’s competitive real estate market.

Ask yourself these important questions:

• What identity/personality do I want my real estate brand to project?
• Who will want my products or services?
• What can clients get from my services that they can’t get anywhere else?
• What can clients get from working with me  that they can’t get anywhere else?
• What are my brand values?
• What is the most important part of my customers’ experience?

Your answers to these questions (and others like them) will build your brand’s core. All of your future branding and rebranding decisions should expand on these ideas. Your business name , company logo , and real estate website design should all grow from the concepts you laid out here.

Far too many real estate companies have identical logos. Be sure your real estate logo is unique.

And don’t forget about real estate signage. Leave dull signs to others and instead get real estate signs that sell.

It’s a good idea to review your answers to the questions you answered periodically to ensure you can relay your brand value in person – and ensure the answers still apply.

Whenever you make personal appearances, carry business cards and brochures for people who want to learn more about your services.

And don’t forget to showcase your brand identity on social media consistently .

Before you delay building a strong brand identity for your real estate business because you might not have a considerable budget, rethink that plan.

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars building a strong brand identity. Here are a few pricing guides that can help you identify the sweet spot for pricing:

• How much should a logo design cost?
• How much does a business card cost?
• How much should a brochure design cost?
• How much does website design cost?

The above guides cover free, cheap, affordable, and expensive options. You’ll find a price point that will fit your budget, regardless of the size of your budget.

You can learn more about the nuts and bolts of establishing and maintaining a consistent brand identity in Grow Your Small Business with Consistent Branding .

The web is an essential sales and marketing tool for all small businesses; real estate agents and brokers are no exception.

According to a study on homebuyers, 90% start their search online, and 40% contact a real estate agent after researching the web.

A web presence isn’t optional – you must be on the Internet to compete in the real estate market and build a successful real estate business. And since real estate services are typically local,  learn how to use Google My Business for your real estate business .

Customers choose real estate services based on the brand, the real estate professional behind the brand, and that person’s reputation. Your business website is often the first contact point between you and potential clients. Make that first impression a good one with a well-designed site by learning how to build a real estate website or by hiring a website designer and a developer to do that for you.

Ensure that your  website design truly embodies your real estate brand. Visitors should understand who you are, your services, qualifications, and reputation.

Your real estate website design and marketing copy should project your personal or broker’s brand voice and identity. Here are some suggestions:

• If you work as a real estate agent, include a photo and bio. Homebuyers want to know the person behind the site.
• Be authentic and avoid marketing “happy talk.” Speak the same language as your customers.
• Include high-quality examples of sales you’ve closed, and include social proof wherever possible.
• Give site visitors an easy way to get in contact with you.
• Show your listings with high-quality photos. Don’t hesitate to spend a few dollars on real estate photo editing services to maximize the impact of the images in your real estate listings.
• For your listings, consider including virtual house tours. This will help busy buyers assess your listings and save you time because people typically only want to see properties they’ve already put on a shortlist.
• Consider adding floor plans to your listings. Adding a floor plan to a real estate listing can increase click-throughs from buyers by 52%.

Aim to create a site that builds your brand, establishes your approach and style, and communicates your value proposition. As with other personality-driven fields (like real estate sales and other creative services), people are not just buying your services but purchasing a relationship with you.

Building a strong social media presence is key to connecting directly with your audience and drawing more visitors to your website. Create a presence by building a social media calendar and employing a real estate chatbot . The chatbot can assist clients in finding their perfect properties and maintain ongoing communication. These strategies will greatly enhance your brand’s visibility and foster trust with potential clients.

Remember that after you talk to people, whether in person or on social media, they’ll head to your website for more research.

When purchasing something as important as a home, trust is critical. Make sure everything about your brand conveys that you’re a trustworthy authority.

Finally, a robust website design powered by strategic SEO and well-planned strategies will lend credibility and legitimacy to your business. To learn more about great website design, check out Grow Your Small Business With These 7 Website Design Best Practices .

Market research remains a valuable tool every business owner should use when starting a new business venture.

When you’re ready to open your real estate business, having a well-researched plan will save you time, stress, and money in the long run. Your sales and marketing strategies will lay out your game plan to build your real estate brand and help create word-of-mouth referrals for your real estate company.

When creating a sales plan , understand your choices and consider which will work best for your business.

Start with the big one: how will you sell your real estate business services?

Real estate is often a personal, intimate service, so a hands-on approach is more effective and successful. Your website can help you generate leads, but your success is based just as much on the customers you say no to as the ones you say yes to.

What does this mean? It means getting up from the computer and on the phone.

A quick call with a potential client can establish whether you fit their needs well. It saves you and your customer time and effort if there isn’t a good match.

This pre-work leads to the second part of your sales plan: the in-person consultation. You want to meet with your clients so that you can work out in advance their needs, expectations, and any critical factors.

This phase’s ultimate goal is for your client to commit to working with you to buy or sell real estate.

Of course, here’s where the real work starts! No matter what service or product you offer, one crucial thing to remember is the post-sales experience.

A crucial part of your sales plan is what happens after you’ve completed the work. Post-sales customer care can be a place where you differentiate yourself from your competitors.

Many real estate agents and brokers find their clients through word-of-mouth from happy new homeowners. Create a great sales experience with your clients to increase the likelihood that you’ll get plenty of word-of-mouth referrals.

Word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool, especially for real estate agents. As we  wrote :

In fact, customers referred to a product are more valuable. A Wharton School of Business  study found that referred customers have a 16% higher lifetime value and are more loyal.

Consider your sales plan to capitalize on every opportunity to close the sale and generate future ones.

The first step in choosing to join or starting your brokerage is understanding the pros and cons of the two basic real estate brokerages: franchise and boutique brokerages.

National Franchise Brokerages

The first type of brokerage in the real estate business is called franchise brokerage.

Franchise brokerages work under the umbrella of large national companies. These companies grant brokers the right to use their company name, branding, and business plan. The franchise receives these benefits, and the larger company gets a percentage of every real estate deal closed by that office.

The same model works in industries that support real estate brokerages. For example, you can buy a franchise , run your own mortgage brokerage service, and offer your real estate clients mortgages.

Most franchisees are independently owned. However, each franchise brokerage must follow the corporate office’s rules and regulations.

There are many advantages to working for a franchise brokerage. The larger companies provide vast resources for marketing and branding, easy name recognition, and a larger online traffic percentage.

There are drawbacks, as well.

Ironically, the major drawback of working for a national franchise is their advantage’s flipside: their size.

In particular, new agents may find the impersonal nature of a large franchise to be off-putting. The consequent lack of mentoring and professional development can make breaking into a highly competitive market an added challenge. You can still find a mentor at a national brokerage, but it’s more complicated.

Boutique Brokerages

A small company usually owns boutique brokerages in the real estate business. A single broker manages them, and the agents in that brokerage typically work closely together.

There is an inherent advantage to ensuring each agent is working at their best, which means that newer agents can benefit from more experienced agents’ extra attention and direction.

Boutique brokerages are also more flexible with branding regulations. Agents have a creative license to build a brand without as many constrictions, which can help new agents create a standout brand for themselves from the start.

The primary disadvantage of working with a boutique brokerage is that the available budget for marketing materials and other resources is likely significantly lower than that of a big chain. Brand recognition may be harder to achieve and will be limited to the areas the boutique serves. Agents may find it challenging to maintain their reputation in other areas should they decide to do so, given the lack of brand awareness in other locations.

Brokerage as a Service (BaaS)

BaaS, or Brokerage as a Service, offers aspiring real estate professionals a one-stop solution for all their business needs. By providing a comprehensive package of essential tools and services, BaaS streamlines the process of entering the real estate industry, making it easier and more efficient than ever before.

The model typically includes a range of services, such as:

• Licensing and training
• Marketing and branding
• Listing management
• Transaction coordination
• Support and mentoring

BaaS offers several key advantages, making it an attractive option for newcomers and seasoned professionals.

• Lower costs : Traditional brokerage models often come with high fees and expenses. BaaS provides a cost-effective alternative with lower upfront costs and a pay-as-you-go structure that helps agents manage their budgets.
• Access to technology : BaaS platforms offer cutting-edge tools, including CRM systems, marketing automation, and data analysis. These resources can give agents a competitive edge in the market.
• Flexibility : BaaS providers allow agents to choose from various service packages, ensuring they only pay for their needed services. This flexibility makes it easy for agents to scale their businesses as they grow. And because agents are not attached to a physical office, they can work from anywhere.
• Support and mentorship : BaaS platforms often include access to experienced real estate professionals, offering invaluable guidance and advice to help agents navigate the industry.

While BaaS has many advantages, it also has trade-offs compared to other real estate models. Here are the key ways BaaS is better and worse than other models.

Why BaaS is better:

• Streamlined processes : BaaS simplifies launching a real estate career, allowing agents to focus on their clients and sales.
• Lower barriers to entry : The reduced costs and comprehensive support offered by BaaS make it easier for new agents to break into the market.
• Increased efficiency : The advanced tools and technology available through BaaS help agents manage their time and resources more effectively.

Why BaaS is worse:

• Less autonomy : Some agents may find the structured nature of BaaS restrictive, preferring the freedom of traditional models. However, if autonomy is important, you can choose white-label sponsorship plans that offer the benefits of a traditional brokerage and the freedom to build your brand.
• Limited customization : BaaS platforms may not offer the same level of customization and personalization as traditional brokerages.

Here are some actionable insights to help you get the most out of BaaS:

• Choose the right BaaS provider : Research different providers and select one that aligns with your goals, values, and desired level of support.
• Leverage the technology : Make the most of the tools and resources provided by your BaaS platform. This will help you work more efficiently and stay ahead of the competition.
• Network with other agents : Engage with your peers on the BaaS platform and learn from their experiences. This will help you develop your skills and expand your network.
• Invest in your brand : Don’t rely solely on the BaaS provider’s branding . Develop your personal brand to create a unique identity and stand out in the market.
• Seek mentorship : Take advantage of the support and guidance experienced professionals offer on your BaaS platform. Their insights can be invaluable in helping you navigate the industry

Real estate is a challenging industry to enter. Competition is fierce, and there's plenty of it.

Getting started can feel daunting, especially if you're fresh from earning your real estate sales agent or broker's license. Where to begin?

Networking is an essential marketing tool in any real estate professional’s toolkit. It should be a critical part of your marketing plan. Making connections and establishing credibility is crucial, but remember to choose quality connections over quantity.

Consider a targeted approach to finding people at networking events to help you realize your goals and build your sphere of influence based on those connections. You want to build a diverse network of individuals and businesses who can provide advice, assistance, sales leads , or help you “level up.”

Set up a CRM

Successful real estate businesses run on relationships. How well you track these connections and manage your contacts can dramatically affect how successful your business is and how quickly you grow your business.

What you need is a customer relationship management system or sales CRM .

Use a robust sales CRM to organize your leads, contacts, and network connections. As we said in our look at the Top 9 CRM for Small Business :

A customer relationship management system is a way to track and analyze all of the interactions you have with your customers and potential clients.

By collecting customer information, you can simplify and scale engagement by capturing all of the communications your company has with its customers.

You never know where your next referral or customer may come from. CRM allows you to shape the customer experience and optimize your interactions so you’re always ready for that next lead.

Contact your leads

Once you start tracking your leads in a CRM, you should reach out and engage with them. Studies  show that the longer a lead sits unanswered, the lower the possibility that it can be converted into a sale: from 80% if you reach out immediately to 20-35% if you wait 30 minutes or more.

However, before you contact a lead, do some research. Look at their prior real estate transactions. Have some questions ready, and be prepared to answer some, too. Write down answers to some of the common questions. Above all, be positive and open-minded.

The focus is on quality instead of quantity. Spend the time to create rapport with potential clients and talk to them like a friend. You are there to help.

And remember that while email is a common choice for business communication, real estate clients often prefer text messaging . To effectively reach potential clients, consider embracing a variety of personalized communication channels. Remember, tailoring your approach can significantly boost your conversion rates.

Ask for Referrals

Referrals are a significant source of leads for real estate businesses. Once you’ve established a successful relationship with a customer, don’t hesitate to ask for a referral.

Often, if you do your job well, no additional effort is required to get a referral. People are generally happy to share a positive experience working with someone. A brief reminder at the end of doing business with a customer can help nudge someone who might otherwise forget.

However, satisfied clients are just one source of referral business.

In addition to friends and family, business associates and people in your social and professional networks can help expand your pool of referrers.

When asking for a referral, don’t beat around the bush. A straightforward request is, “I would appreciate your help growing my business. Would you feel comfortable leaving me a review or referring anyone you know who needs my services?”

Many resources are available for making such a request, especially on the Internet. Consider using email campaigns featuring enticing perks or freebies for the first few clients to refer your business (remember to use an email address that matches your real estate business name and not just a personal email). Even, if you’re not an experienced email marketer, you can use AI writing tools to easily create engaging email copy.

You can also reach out to existing clientele through social media platforms, an easy and more personal way to engage with your connections.

When starting your own real estate business, there's much to consider.

But with this guide, you have a proven step-by-step plan that shows you how to start your own real estate business.

Top Resources for Real Estate Agents and Brokers

Here are helpful resources for real estate agents and brokers:

Inman News (leading independent real estate news service)

Realtor.org (official membership site for the National Association of Realtors (NAR)

Realty Times (leading news and advice site for real estate consumers and professionals)

Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections from the Society of Home Inspectors.

Tips for Selecting a Real Estate Professional – from the Federal Trade Commission.

Institute of Real Estate Management (international communication of real estate managers).

National Mortgage News (up-to-date information about the mortgage industry)

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The Business Plan Real Estate Professionals Need In 2024 

A guide to developing an actionable business plan that gets your new real estate company off the ground..

Not having a business plan is the quickest way for your new real estate company to fail. In fact, 25% of enterprises without a business plan fail within the first two years of operating.

However, a business plan entails much more than a mission statement, executive summary, and financial plan. A concrete plan encompasses all the aspects involved in running a successful real estate business.

Proper real estate business planning includes thinking beyond the first few clients you’ll acquire. Solid business plans incorporate considerations for building your real estate team, promoting your business, and competing in ever-changing markets.

In this article, we discuss three steps to develop a comprehensive business plan for your new real estate company so that you can achieve longevity and success.

Step One: Conduct Market Analysis

It’s likely that the market you’re entering into is crowded. Your business plan needs to outline how you will compete within your niche. To do this, you can conduct market analysis.

You need to answer the question: why would clients choose to buy or sell with me and not other companies?

It’s vital to look at what your competitors are doing on a regular basis. This allows you to find ideas that you can easily replicate and identify gaps in the market that you can fill.

➡️ Understand your target market

You’ll need in-depth knowledge of the real estate market to grow your brokerage. Keeping your finger on the pulse of this fast-moving industry requires regular research.

For example, you could check listings or read real estate newsletters several times a week. This will help you understand market trends and find new ways to generate leads for your own business.

When developing your business plan, you should research:

• The types of properties in your area.
• The average sales prices for these properties.
• The average time on the market.
• Typical commission rates for agents
• What potential buyers are looking for.
• The current property demand.

You should also research the market at a state or national level and not limit your real estate business to local opportunities. 

➡️ Analyze your competition

Analyzing the competition helps you see where the market is saturated and how you can carve out your own unique proposition. 

As a new brokerage, you will go up against industry giants operating nationally, established local players, and innovative companies offering a powerful proposition. There are lessons to be learned from these types of real estate companies that you can use in your business plan.

➡️ Get ideas from industry giants

Companies like RE/MAX and Coldwell Banker are household names, with thousands of agents and extensive resources. You might not be able to compete with them directly, but what you can do is cherry-pick ideas that are effective and easy to implement. 

You can also look at what they’re doing poorly, for example. See their shortcomings as opportunities to fill a gap in the market.

A good example is spotting customer pain points and addressing them in your business plan. Take note of what is being written on review sites about your competitors, and think about how you will address such issues within your own business.

Customer pain points are often easy to find on review sites like Yelp or the Facebook page of a real estate business. Type in the competitor’s name, and you’ll quickly find positive and negative reviews.

➡️ Find ways to compete with established local players

Your business plan must include how you will convince prospective clients that they should choose you instead of the other local players.

Find ways to differentiate your real estate business from the rest. There are two main approaches to doing this.

The first is to avoid competing directly. Look at your competitors’ listings and see which properties they are good at selling. You can then target a different kind of property or customer and begin building a niche for your business.

Alternatively, you can take competitors on in their own niche. This will be tough, and you’ll need to identify a tangible benefit you can offer to draw customers away, such as lower commission rates.

➡️ Get inspiration from innovative realtors

Some real estate brokerages make a name for themselves by disrupting their target market with innovative propositions. You need to do the same within your business plan.

Examples include undercutting the market with cheaper real estate agent rates, offering to buy houses below market value, and selling on the customer’s behalf.

For example, Rex’s unique proposition is based on savings for their clients. They offer a 2% commission and a 50% rebate of the buyer’s agent commission in certain circumstances.

This sets them apart from the standard 6% commission paid by the client to traditional agents.

When considering a unique angle, don’t just try to be different—also think about what your target market is looking for. A community already getting low real estate agent rates won’t be interested in a 1% reduction, so be smart about how you improve on your competitors’ offerings.

Step Two: Plan Your Real Estate Business Structure

The structure of your real estate business will define how it operates on a day-to-day basis. Your business plan is an opportunity to make crucial decisions about your structure.

Don’t forget to regularly review your initial business structure a few times per year—for example, when reporting quarterly figures. Regular reviews allow you to make changes to your structure without being stuck in one model for a full year.

The only exception is finding agents, which you should make time for every week, especially in the early days of your real estate brokerage. 

➡️ Choose between a franchise or an independent business model 

One of the first questions you must ask yourself is whether you want to be completely independent or buy into a franchise.

The real estate sector is home to many large and successful franchises. That’s because they can give brokers brand recognition and help them attract clients quickly.

Franchises also offer a range of advanced tools, including software for lead tracking, email marketing efforts, deal management, and commission calculating.

The downside is that you’ll give up a certain level of freedom and have to pay a license fee.

Well-known franchise RE/MAX provides extensive support options for its franchisees, including a toll-free line, a grand opening, online support, proprietary software, and a franchisee intranet platform.

However, these benefits don’t come cheap. According to Franchise Direct , RE/MAX’s total franchise fees can cost up to $239,500 . This is what the fees cover:

Some of these fees are optional and will not be relevant if you decide to operate remotely, for example. In this case, the license cost will decrease accordingly, and the initial investment could be as low as $43,000.

➡️ Choose between a remote or on-site office location

Your business plan must define how you and your team will work. You could decide to run a remote brokerage. This is more affordable to operate and allows you to sell properties almost anywhere.

To begin with, all you’ll need is a phone and laptop. In the long run, you’ll need the right software and technology to offer clients a great service.

For example, Matterport provides 3D technology that allows you to create virtual tours of properties. They simplify uploading videos to your site, and you can even include space measurements.  

On the other hand, a brick-and-mortar brokerage provides presence and visibility in busy areas. 

This means that people are more likely to think of you when it comes to selling their homes. You’ll also pick up passing trade and inquiries from people who want to deal with a real estate agent face-to-face.  

However, it also means covering overheads such as electricity and rent, which can significantly increase your operating costs.

We recommend that new brokerages start remotely and only open a brick-and-mortar office if they can afford it. 

➡️ Find great real estate agents

A real estate business cannot function without good agents. A top-tier real estate agent will generate leads that help grow your business and get your name out there.

When your real estate business starts out, it might not be possible to afford more experienced agents because they come with higher demands and commission expectations.

Therefore, finding a promising real estate agent still trying to make a name for themselves is a smart way to gain talent at a lower cost.

➡️ Network with local real estate agents

You’ll need to get out there and start networking to meet potential agents and understand what they are looking for. 

Attend local industry networking events, listen to agents’ concerns and frustrations, and figure out how you can provide them with a better offer.

Invite successful local agents for lunch and find out what would make them want to work for your real estate business. You can also ask them whether they know other agents looking to change brokerages.

➡️ Offer agents a better package

A good question to ask yourself is why these agents would switch to your brokerage and how you will retain this talent once you have it.

You need to offer an enticing commission structure that allows your real estate business to profit.

A great example of this is EXIT Realty . This real estate business is known for attracting top agents through a commission structure that rewards good performance. Agents who recruit other employees receive a bonus. Additionally, all their agents receive training to keep them updated with industry trends.

EXIT Realty is a large real estate business with extensive resources. However, you can apply the same underlying training and incentive principles to your recruitment strategy.

➡️ Consider your real estate agent commission structure

Your commission structure is the main factor in attracting agents, and it’s something you need to consider in your business plan.

While agent commission is typically between 5 and 6%, the way it is split between broker and real estate agent can be agreed upon in different ways. The three most common are:

• Traditional commission split: The total commission is divided between the agent and the broker. This offers the real estate agent a limited incentive.
• Commission threshold: The percentage the real estate agent pays the broker changes once they’ve passed an agreed-upon target. This is great motivation for agents and keeps real estate business profits growing.
• Flat-fee structure: The real estate agent keeps 100% of the commission but pays a regular flat fee to the brokerage. This is a better option for a brokerage with a high turnover.

➡️ Offer client incentives

Client incentives help your brokerage to stand out. You’ll need to ensure that your buyer and seller incentives fit your commission structure and niche. Your business plan needs to outline these before your first deal.

For example, offering a flat fee would not be an essential factor for sellers in the luxury property market and would limit your profits if you pay high commission rates.

 The most common incentives include:

• 1% fee: This is a lower fee than the average of 3%. You earn less per sale, which incentivizes sellers to choose your brokerage. 
• Flat-fee brokerage : Offering to work for a flat fee ensures the client knows exactly what they’re paying for, no matter the final sale price.
• Minimum-service flat fee: This model removes the agent, leaving the seller to find the buyer. For a flat fee, it offers minimal services, such as listing the property on a multiple listings service (MLS).
• Charitable donation: This involves donating a percentage of your commission to a charitable cause, an option that could impress clients without costing the brokerage much.
• Express sale: The brokerage gives the seller a fast cash offer to buy the property from them before the broker sells it.

Step Three: Planning for Your First Sale

When you start out, no one will have heard of your real estate business, so it’s essential to get your name out there and build a good reputation.

While developing your real estate business plan, you need to consider how you will market your business and build your brand.

Here are some ideas for your brokerage’s marketing plan:

➡️ Use your existing connections

The real estate industry is all about person-to-person interaction, so the easiest way to make your first sale is by networking and using your current connections.

To begin with, you should call your contacts in local real estate and ask whether there are any opportunities available. 

Regularly remind friends and family to keep their ears to the ground and recommend you to anyone looking to sell or buy property.

You can gradually reduce the frequency of using personal contacts as your brokerage grows and starts to draw business through marketing and word of mouth. 

➡️ Build an online presence

An easy-to-use website, social media presence, and video content will all help you make your first sale.

Different parts of your website will need to be revisited at different times. For example, you’ll want to update your blog at least monthly, while your “About us” section may only change every few years.

Many companies offer website packages with a listings template, and almost all brokerages use these platforms and focus on this feature.

Your website should highlight your expertise and explain how you can help them successfully buy or sell property.

The key elements to include in your website are:

• An overview of your brokerage: Explain your value proposition to buyers and sellers.
• An “About us” section: Introduce each real estate agent your clients will work with and highlight their experience, expertise, any big companies they have worked for, or awards they have won.
• Contact section: Ensure potential clients can speak to an agent instantly. Include an instant messenger option or chatbot to encourage them to get in touch immediately.
• A real estate blog: Ensure your brand appears in search engine results pages (SERPs) and provide clients with helpful information by regularly posting blog articles. 

➡️ Design for free

There are many easy-to-use website builders that allow you to design your website for free.

Most website builders will charge you for purchasing a domain name or accessing higher-level customization options.

We recommend designing your website in the free version and switching to the paid-for option once you start selling. This saves spending money on your website until it is published.

➡️ Get a good domain name

The domain name is the business card of your real estate business. A simple, easy-to-remember address that someone can type into their search bar is important.

A good domain name could include what your real estate business does, where it is based, who runs it, or all of the above.

➡️ Conduct search engine optimization (SEO)

Good search engine optimization (SEO) is vital for modern brokerages.

If your website isn’t appearing high enough on search engine results pages, it’s unlikely that people would discover your brand when they search for it. 

SEO is all about working to increase organic traffic to your site through online searches.

The ultimate aim is to get Google to list your website on the first page of results for specific relevant keywords—for example, “real estate agents in Spokane.”

Appearing on the first page of the SERPs is vital, as few people look further than that.

Good SEO is an ongoing process, and you’ll need to monitor your website’s ranking at least monthly to ensure that your content continues to perform well on the SERPs.

Spokane REALTORS® have done an excellent job at landing the number one spot in Google’s SERPs for the keyword “Spokane realtors”.

➡️ Do it yourself or find an expert

You can either optimize your website yourself or hire an agency to do it for you.

Doing it yourself is time-consuming and requires some specialist software—however, it is possible to succeed with DIY SEO. This beginner’s tutorial from Ahrefs provides a step-by-step guide on how to optimize your website.

Using an agency, on the other hand, will cost you more money but may achieve better results.

Local SEO is critical when starting out in real estate, as you’ll usually work with specific neighborhoods and communities. Here are a few ways to improve your local SEO:

➡️ Create quality local content

Populating your website with relevant content will help it rank in SERPs. Consider questions local buyers and sellers may ask and write content that speaks to them.

For example, suppose you want to target the search term: “what is the average property value in Spokane.” In this case, you may choose to write an article about the city’s property market and how sellers can maximize their asking price.

You could also write blog posts that link to local stories. For example, you could create hyperlocal content around property news or changes in the local real estate market.

It’s crucial to ensure that your blog posts are of high quality. The better they are, the greater your chances of ranking well. Quality is far more important than quantity, so your articles should be well researched, expertly written, and relevant. 

➡️ Get onto local business directories

Ensuring you’re on large sites like Yelp and smaller local directories helps people find you through another avenue. It may also boost your local SEO ranking.

Google uses these sites to verify the information listed in its index, so the more your real estate business shows up on other sites, the more value is placed on its listing.

➡️ Create a Google My Business Profile

Google My Business is a free online tool that helps you market your real estate business on Google’s search page. It is a crucial part of good local SEO and a cornerstone of any marketing plan.

Here’s an example of a Google My Business profile for Spokane REALTORS®:

It boosts your brokerage’s visibility by giving you a free profile that appears on popular products such as Google Maps and Google Search.

The first step is to sign up and create the card that appears on the right-hand side of Google when someone searches for your brokerage.

This holds critical information like your website, location, and contact details. This way, if someone is interested in your brokerage, they can contact you immediately.

If you add your address, Google My Business will highlight your real estate business on Google Maps. Clicking your location icon on the map brings up your card. This is helpful if someone searches for a real estate business near them. Watch this guide on how to set up a Google My Business profile for more information.

➡️ Create an email list

Email blasts and newsletters are highly effective marketing strategies that you shouldn’t leave out of your business plan. Unfortunately, most realtors don’t do email campaigns well.

Many customers repeatedly receive the same email content from several brokerages, each providing outdated listings and telling them that the market is “hot.”

A hot market might be great news for realtors who benefit from high demand; however, buyers struggling to find a home may be frustrated by this.

Email campaigns waste time and money if you’re not giving customers useful information.

Put yourself in the client’s position when creating email content—what will help them buy or sell their property?

Here are a couple of ideas to create useful marketing email content:

🏠 Buying and selling tips

Most people only buy or sell a property a handful of times in their lives. This means they might only have a basic understanding of how the market and processes work.

Providing buying and selling tips helps them understand the process and sets you up as a trusted partner who understands their challenges.

According to Campaign Monitor , research shows that the perfect newsletter text is a maximum of 200 words—which is far too short to include useful information.

Instead, publish your guides as blog posts on your website and link to them via an enticing email campaign.

You could publish these blog posts on a weekly basis and round them up in an email newsletter at the end of each month. 

🏠 Listing alerts

Many brokerages send out monthly roundups or listings that are usually outdated by the time that clients read them. You can provide a more valuable service by offering customers the chance to sign up for daily alerts. 

Scan your target market every morning. If a new property becomes available, let subscribers to your daily alert mailing list know immediately. This way, you become a reliable source of new opportunities for buyers who may be struggling.

📧 Setting up your email campaign

Setting up a newsletter or email campaign is simple. There are many software options, but the most trusted include MailChimp , Sendinblue , and Active Campaign .

All three offer a free plan and have varying levels of customization to meet your needs.

Each allows you to easily import your own images and content into a template. Alternatively, you can build your newsletter from scratch.

➡️ Cold calling

Cold calling isn’t fun but it’s an effective way to achieve your first sale. Data from the Keller Center into the effectiveness of real estate agent cold calls found significant positive outcomes for successful cold calls.

Additionally, cold calling isn’t just limited to finding clients. You’ll also need to regularly call top-producing real estate professionals in order to build relationships with them and entice them to come and work for you.

To begin with, you’ll have to make cold calls on a daily basis to sell your first property or get your first real estate agent on board. However, even after that, you’ll still need to make regular sales calls to ensure your real estate business continues growing. 

Here is our step-by-step guide to cold calling:

📞 Create a prospects list

To start off with, you’re going to need a list of prospects—people who may be interested in your services.

Building a list requires some research, and an excellent place to start is with expired listings. These will alert you to people who want to sell their homes but have failed with other agents.

Another source is “For Sale By Owners” listings on large property websites. These sellers may be apprehensive about working with a real estate agent, but the effort of selling a house could have turned into an inconvenience by the time you contact them, making you the perfect alternative.

📞 Develop a sales pipeline

Once you have your list, you need to start making phone calls. Your aim shouldn’t be to immediately get the person to buy or sell property with you—after all, you’ve just called out of nowhere, and they don’t know who you are.

Create a sales pipeline that lets you gradually develop trust with the prospect and get them to buy into your services. Instead of getting the person to buy or sell with you, you aim to move them along the sales pipeline.

Here’s an example of a simple real estate sales pipeline, which is a crucial element of your business plan:

• Awareness: Get on the client’s radar, introduce your real estate business, and understand their needs. Ask them to commit to a short, no-obligation meeting or phone call to discuss how you could help them. Remove any leads that are genuinely not interested from your list.
• Engage: Meet in person or hold a call. Ideally, view the seller’s property or ask buyers what they are looking for. Ensure you get all the information you need from the customer. Ask buyers to let you suggest suitable properties for sale. Provide sellers with a proposal explaining why they should sell with you.
• Make an offer: Provide buyers with various property options and ask them to choose two or three to view with you. Present your proposal to sellers and ask for their feedback. If the feedback is negative, adjust your offer. If it’s positive, ask the client to sell with you.
• Qualify: At this stage, the buyer or seller becomes your client. Your aim is to close a deal and have a happy, satisfied customer.
• Recommend: Ask your client to write a favorable review online and to recommend you to their friends and family. Ask whether you can get a quote from them to use in your marketing efforts and ask their permission to feature a photograph of them at their new home.

📞 Stay motivated

Cold calling is tough. You should change your script if you’re not succeeding after five calls. Try a new tactic, for example, one based on where clients lost interest during unsuccessful calls.

Researchers from the Keller Center found that motivation is critical for cold-calling agents. Focussing on keeping up the momentum and not becoming despondent improves outcomes when an unreceptive person answers the phone.

Boost Your New Business with Software for Real Estate Success

Developing a comprehensive business plan that considers all the factors above is a surefire way to achieve success in your new real estate venture. 

One crucial part of your business plan to consider is the tools and systems you’ll use to run your company effectively. An example of a tool that can take your new business to the next level is Paperless Pipeline .

Our software automates the entire real estate transaction process, which means you don’t have to spend valuable time trying to stay on top of your transactions. 

Instead, you can focus on growing your new business while letting Paperless Pipeline handle transactions, document management, compliance, and agent commissions.

If you’d like to try Paperless Pipeline out yourself for free, visit our website . We can’t wait to show you how successful your new real estate business can be with our software.

Related Articles:

How to Start a Real Estate Brokerage — The complete guide to starting your own successful real estate brokerage.

The Complete Real Estate Transaction Guide – Real estate transactions from start to finish. Learn about the people involved, what needs to happen, and how to make it simpler.

The Complete Guide to Recruiting Real Estate Agents – Learn how to successfully recruit and retain the very best real estate agents.

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• Sample Business Plans
• Real Estate & Rentals

Real Estate Business Plan

People would always need to find places. Be it for offices, homes, and whatnot.

Finding the ideal place irrespective of your needs and requirements is never a cakewalk, to begin with.

You can go through a number of real estates business plan templates before you write your plan.

Industry Overview

The market size, measured by revenue, of the Real Estate Sales and brokerage industry, is $156.2bn in 2021, and the industry is expected to increase by 0.4% in 2021.

Also, the market is changing at a rapid rate and the way people use spaces is changing at a rapid rate too.

Hence, to get on or stay on the higher end of the spectrum you’ll need to upskill and change the way you do business constantly.

But that is a fair trade for the amount of growth and profitability this industry has to offer.

Say goodbye to boring templates

Build your business plan faster and easier with AI

Plans starting from $7/month

Things to Consider Before Writing a Real Estate Business Plan

Be specific.

The real estate industry is broad when it comes to work and what you can do. It can either be a source of primary or passive income. At the same time, you might be involved in the industry as an investor, agent, or builder. Decide what you want to do and plan on that basis.

Do your research

The trends of the real estate business change constantly, hence doing your research and updating it constantly is a crucial part of your profession.

As your knowledge and expertise is your greatest asset in this industry, keep expanding it to stay at the top of things.

Build a team of skilled professionals

Having a team you can build your real estate business with is essential.

Select a group of individuals with a diverse set of talents ranging from good communication skills to brilliant analytical skills. Given the dynamics of the real estate business, you never know what skills might come in handy in your business journey.

Be ready for change

As we have constantly discussed, real estate is a dynamic industry. Change is the only constant you’ll have in this business.

Thus, it is important for everything from your plan and way of doing business to be change-friendly.

Sources of Funding for a Real Estate Business

Gaining funds is one of the major reasons for writing a business plan. And here are a few good funding options for your real estate business:

A traditional loan is one of the most basic options for getting funded. You can opt for this if you have a good credit score.

Non-bank mortgage lending

This is a good option if you don’t want to go through a lot of paperwork.

The asset-based mortgage

For this, the lenders look at the rental value of your property and provide a loan on that basis. It is a good option if you don’t want or can’t get a loan based on your personal assets or income.

Above all, it is essential to plan your business to figure out your funding requirements and the right way to fulfill the same.

Write Your Business Plan

If you have enough connections, and the ability to find places for people that have attributes they want and need then a real estate business can be a profitable one for you.

A business plan helps you get funded, explain your ideas to the stakeholders of your business, and make better decisions.

Hence, planning is an important aspect of starting or growing your business.

It has been created using Upmetrics online business plan software that helps you create dynamic and customizable plans anywhere and at any time.

Our sample real estate business plan can help you with writing a well-rounded business plan for your business. It can act as a guide and prevent you from getting stuck in a certain section for too long.

Real Estate Business Plan Outline

This is the standard real estate business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

• Market Opportunity
• Demand for Housing
• Financing & Investment Forecast
• Introducing Kegan
• Business Model
• Short Term Goals
• Long Term Strategies
• Keys to Success
• Contemporary Living for the 21″ Century
• The Complete Package
• Pricing Strategy
• Implementation Strategy – Action Plan
• Target Market Overview
• Housing Shortage Overview in Saudi Arabia
• Housing Shortage Overview in Riyadh
• Housing Prices
• Kegan Home Prices
• Market Positioning & Brand
• Marketing Strategies
• Sales Strategies
• Sales Process
• Competitive Landscape
• Competitive Advantages
• Rashid Bin Said
• Director of Construction
• Member name
• Chief Accountant
• Director of Marketing & Sales
• Other Staff
• Independent Directors
• Solid Balance Sheet
• Impressive Cashflow
• Financial Summary
• Financial Assumptions
• Income Statement (Five-Year Projections)
• Balance Sheet (Five-Year Projections)
• Cash Flow Statement (Five-Year Projection)

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this sample real estate business plan into your business plan and modify the required information and download your real estate business plan pdf or doc file.

It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Download a sample real estate business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free real estate business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your real estate business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

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Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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• Directories Complete listing of state and local associations, MLSs, members, and more.
• Become a Member As a member, you are the voice for NAR – it is your association and it exists to help you succeed.
• Logos and Trademark Rules Only members of NAR can call themselves a REALTOR®. Learn how to properly use the logo and terms.
• Your Membership Account Review your membership preferences and Code of Ethics training status.
• Highlights & News Get the latest top line research, news, and popular reports.
• Housing Statistics National, regional, and metro-market level housing statistics where data is available.
• Research Reports Research on a wide range of topics of interest to real estate practitioners.
• Presentation Slides Access recent presentations from NAR economists and researchers.
• State & Metro Area Data Affordability, economic, and buyer & seller profile data for areas in which you live and work.
• Commercial Research Analysis of commercial market sectors and commercial-focused issues and trends.
• Federal Advocacy From its building located steps away from the U.S. Capitol, NAR advocates for you.
• REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) Promoting the election of pro-REALTOR® candidates across the United States.
• State & Local Advocacy Resources to foster and harness the grassroots strength of the REALTOR® Party.
• REALTOR® Party A powerful alliance working to protect and promote homeownership and property investment.
• Get Involved Now more than ever, it is critical for REALTORS® across America to come together and speak with one voice.
• All NAR & Affiliate Courses Continuing education and specialty knowledge can help boost your salary and client base.
• Code of Ethics Training Fulfill your COE training requirement with free courses for new and existing members.
• Continuing Education (CE) Meet the continuing education (CE) requirement in state(s) where you hold a license.
• Designations & Certifications Acknowledging experience and expertise in various real estate specialties, awarded by NAR and its affiliates.
• Library & Archives Offering research services and thousands of print and digital resources.
• Commitment to Excellence (C2EX) Empowers REALTORS® to evaluate, enhance and showcase their highest levels of professionalism.
• NAR Academy at Columbia College Academic opportunities for certificates, associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
• NAR Newsroom Official news releases from NAR.
• REALTOR® Magazine Advancing best practices, bringing insight to trends, and providing timely decision-making tools.
• Blogs Commentary from NAR experts on technology, staging, placemaking, and real estate trends.
• Newsletters Stay informed on the most important real estate business news and business specialty updates.
• Leadership & Staff National, state & local leadership, staff directories, leadership opportunities, and more.
• History Founded as the National Association of Real Estate Exchanges in 1908.
• Strategic Plan NAR’s operating values, long-term goals, and DEI strategic plan.
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• Establishing Your Business

Quick Takeaways

• Create your brand
• Build your technology platform
• Establish a lead generation funnel

Source: 8-Steps to Start a Real Estate Brokerage & Actually Make Money ( Kyle Handy , Oct. 27, 2021)

You’ve finally made the decision to open your own brokerage. What do you need to know?  Learn the steps to make a successful transition from agent to owner.

There are a variety of brokerage business models to choose from—traditional, flat fee, a la carte and 100% commission. Find out which model will work best for your brokerage. Writing a business plan allows you to create a detailed roadmap for your firm’s future and how you will achieve those plans. In your business plan, you should include financial planning, marketing strategies and hiring and personnel.

NAR has curated a list of useful websites providing more information to help you establish your new brokerage.

See References for more information.

Latest on this topic

Common Brokerage Models

Education: Management and Leadership

NAR Library & Archives has already done the research for you. References (formerly Field Guides) offer links to articles, eBooks, websites, statistics, and more to provide a comprehensive overview of perspectives. EBSCO articles ( E ) are available only to NAR members and require the member's nar.realtor login.

From the REALTOR® Store

Real Estate Brokerage Essentials® - Real Estate Brokerage Essentials®: Navigating Legal Risks and Managing a Successful Brokerage, Fourth Edition is the most comprehensive business tool for brokers to run their offices efficiently and minimize their risk for legal liability. This is a must have for all Brokers! (Item 126-359)

Broker to Broker: Management Lessons from America's Most Successful Real Estate Companies - Broker to Broker takes a unique approach to brokerage management by bringing you the ideas, strategies and lessons brokers and sales managers are implementing today. Compiled from the "For Brokers" section of REALTOR® Magazine it offers the best tips and advice on how to manage a residential real estate brokerage. (Item 141-60)

Sample Employee Manual for Brokers - Are you looking for assistance in developing an employee manual? NAR has a sample manual for you to tailor for your employees! (Item E126-155) Note: This employee manual is NOT intended to be used as a policy manual for independent contractors.

Striking Out on Your Own

How to Start & Grow a Real Estate Business in 2024 ( Kaplan Real Estate Education )

Top sales agents focus on sales activities and outsource the administrative and transactional activities. They realize that it’s these sales activities that will lead to the growth of their business. For example, reach out to 15 contacts, add two contacts to your Book of Business, knock on 30 doors, make 75 telemarketing calls, send out 30 emails, and mail out 20 flyers. Hold open houses on Saturdays and Sundays.

The 8-Step Guide to Starting a Real Estate Brokerage ( Fit Small Business , Mar. 1, 2024)

If you are a leader (a person who guides and communicates well with others), you have the first building block to being a successful broker. However, if you are the “bossy type” who likes to bark orders, tell others what to do, or believe that only your opinion counts, then being a broker is not for you.

How to Start a Real Estate Brokerage ( TRUIC , Nov, 1, 2023)

• Typical startup costs are:
• Real Estate Broker’s License - $1,500
• Office lease deposit - $2,000
• First month’s rent - $2,000
• Utilities, Telephone, Internet - $250 per month
• Office signage - $2,000
• Marketing expenses - $2,000 per month
• Employee expenses - (depends on the number of agents)

5 Mistakes I Made Opening My Real Estate Brokerage ( Janis Benstock Real Estate Academy , May 25, 2023)

The best thing I ever did for the health of my brokerage was to ask for help by hiring a business strategist. It has saved me so much time on the learning curve and it’s difficult to even put a number on the return on my investment.

Making the Transition From Top Producer to Broker-owner ( REALTOR® Magazine , May 4, 2021)

For other real estate practitioners thinking about making the transition from top producer to broker-owner, consider joining your local chamber of commerce. Get to know other professionals in your marketplace. Ask the chamber to support your office’s grand opening, which can help spread the word about your new brokerage and build those valuable relationships with members of the community.

How to Start a Real Estate Brokerage ( Placester )

Depending on the type of real estate brokerage you want to start, you’re looking at startup costs of at least $10,000. And that’s if you’re bootstrapping it and jumping in with the bare essentials. Thinking about opening up a brokerage under a franchise? Costs can easily hit $200,000, and that doesn’t include the ongoing fees you’ll be liable for like license renewals.

Creating a Business Plan and Choosing a Brokerage Model

7 Steps to Writing a Real Estate Business Plan (+ Worksheet) ( The Close , Apr. 3, 2024)

A killer business plan forces you to think through your goals and objectives, as well as your budget, so that you have a real chance of success right from the beginning. It keeps you realistic and establishes a way for you to clearly monitor and evaluate your success. 

How to Write a Solid Real Estate Business Plan in 2024 ( Luxury Prescence , Mar. 13, 2024)

For an agent or a broker, a real estate business plan is essential for determining your identity in the luxury market and what you can offer clients. It helps you hone in on your ideal customer and allows you to assess the financial viability of your business easily. 

Your real estate business plan is a guide to your goals and a clear-cut strategy for how you can stand out from the competition, grow your business, and fulfill your overarching mission.

12 Easy Steps to Creating a Perfect Real Estate Business Plan (2024 Updated!) ( Agent Advice , Dec. 29, 2023)

You should also look out for underserved niches and competitive saturation.

When it comes to underserved niches, there may be plenty of agents in your area specializing in family residential properties. But how many are serving the commercial sector? Or the luxury sector?

What Are the Different Brokerage Models an Agent Can Choose From? ( PropStream , Jan. 4, 2023)

Taking a cue from popular subscription-based businesses in other industries (like Netflix and Spotify), subscription-based brokerages usually offer agents monthly or yearly service plans.

Agents can often choose from multiple pricing tiers based on their needs. For example, you might pay a base fee for using the brokerage as a storefront and co-working space (where you can meet clients) and a higher fee for additional access to marketing software, training, and other tools and resources.

National vs. Boutique vs. Virtual Brokerages: Which is Right for You? ( Aceable Agent , Jan. 20, 2023)

Virtual brokerages, also known as cloud brokerages, are online only with no physical location. Since most agents do the bulk of their work from a home office, a virtual brokerage makes a lot of sense. This this especially true for seasoned agents that have a large contact list and don’t need as much training.

The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Real Estate Business Plan + Free Template ( Placester )

The length of business plans vary, but they generally outline between one and five years. For our purposes, we’ve used a length of three years. Few agents are able to fully develop their business in only a year, while planning five years into the future can be very speculative. For most new agents, three years is a reasonable time frame for achieving a degree of financial success and establishing a viable career in the industry.

Most business plans fall into one of two common categories: traditional or lean startup. Traditional business plans are more common, use a standard structure, and encourage you to go into detail in each section. They tend to require more work upfront and can be dozens of pages long. Lean startup business plans are less common but still use a standard structure. They focus on summarizing only the most important points of the key elements of your plan. They can take as little as one hour to make and are typically only one page.

Useful Websites

U.S. Small Business Administration  — This website should be the first stop for anyone wanting to start a business. Topics covered include startup basics, writing a business plan, financing, marketing, employment, and tax topics. This site also has special areas for women business owners, veterans, minorities, Native Americans and young entrepreneurs. You can also find a local SBA office for further assistance.

SCORE Association  — SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, we have provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneur Magazine  — From choosing a business structure to naming your business, this website highlights the nitty-gritty basics of business star-ups. How-to guides, online newsletters and a resource center of articles provide helpful information for your start-up.

Inc.com — Inc.'s website provides information on starting, growing, and leading your business.

America’s Small Business Development Centers ( SBDC) — America’s SBDC represents America’s nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) – the most comprehensive small business assistance network in the United States and its territories. There are nearly 1,000 local centers available to provide no-cost business consulting and low-cost training to new and existing businesses. Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can go to their local SBDCs for FREE face-to-face business consulting and at-cost training on a variety of topics.

Minority Business Development Agency - MBDA is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce that promotes the growth of minority-owned businesses through the mobilization and advancement of public and private sector programs, policy, and research.

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) — NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries; and with chapters across the country. With far-reaching clout and impact, NAWBO is a one-stop resource to propelling women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.

Books, eBooks & Other Resources

Ebooks.realtor.org.

The following eBooks and digital audiobooks are available to NAR members:

18 Steps for Starting Your Business (eBook)

The Accidental Startup (eBook)

Business Made Simple (Audiobook)

Business Plans Kit for Dummies (eBook)

Business Plans That Work: A Guide for Small Business (eBook)

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Starting Your Own Business (eBook)

The Fearless Woman's Guide to Starting a Business (Audiobook)

How to Grow Your Small Business (Audiobook)

How to Write a Business Plan (eBook)

Launching While Female (eBook)

The Real Estate Entrepreneur: Everything You Need to Know to Grow Your Own Brokerage (eBook)

Six Steps to Small Business Success (eBook)

Start a New Real Estate Brokerage, Economically! (eBook)

Starting a Business for Dummies (eBook)

Write Your Business Plan (eBook)

Your First Business Plan (eBook)

Books, Videos, Research Reports & More

As a member benefit, the following resources and more are available for loan through the NAR Library. Items will be mailed directly to you or made available for pickup at the REALTOR® Building in Chicago.

Real Estate Brokerage: A Management Guide (Chicago: Dearborn, 2004) HF 1375 C99 Ed. 6

Have an idea for a real estate topic? Send us your suggestions .

The inclusion of links on this page does not imply endorsement by the National Association of REALTORS®. NAR makes no representations about whether the content of any external sites which may be linked in this page complies with state or federal laws or regulations or with applicable NAR policies. These links are provided for your convenience only and you rely on them at your own risk.

10 Things Your Real Estate Business Plan Needs (FREE Template)

A real estate agent business plan is essential for success in today’s competitive market. It helps you set clear goals, define your vision, and outline the steps to achieve short-term and long-term objectives. As a real estate professional, having a well-crafted business plan can be the difference between being a top producer and struggling to make ends meet.

In your business plan, you’ll want to start by creating a vision statement that outlines the purpose of your real estate business and reflects your values. Setting firm goals will help you stay accountable and focused, allowing you to adapt to market changes or growth and remember that your business plan should be fluid and up-to-date to stay aligned with your ultimate objectives.

Your real estate agent business plan should be thorough, covering various aspects such as market analysis, organization structure, and marketing strategies. By having a comprehensive plan, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that come your way, ensuring your real estate business flourishes.

Understanding Your Target Market

Identifying your ideal client.

Understanding your target market is crucial to establish a successful real estate business plan. Begin by identifying your ideal client. Consider factors that may define your target clients, such as age, income level, family status, and property preferences. Reflect on your strengths as an agent and which clients you connect best with. This will help you focus your marketing efforts and create tailored strategies for your target audience.

Market Segmentation

Market segmentation divides your target market into smaller, more specific groups based on shared characteristics. In real estate, you can segment your market into categories such as:

• First-time homebuyers
• Empty nesters

By segmenting your market, you can tailor your services and communication strategies according to the unique needs of each group. This will lead to more effective marketing efforts and a better understanding of your potential clientele.

Analyzing Local Market Trends and Opportunities

Gather data on your local real estate market to identify trends and opportunities for your business. Analyze factors like:

• Market growth
• Market saturation
• Local property values
• Employment rates
• Infrastructure development
• Population demographics

By analyzing local market trends, you can identify areas with potential growth or areas that are becoming overly saturated. Use this information to adapt your services and expertise to market conditions, helping you stand out among competitors and position yourself as an expert in your niche.

Remember, a comprehensive understanding of your target market is essential for shaping your real estate agent business plan. By identifying your ideal clients, segmenting the market, and analyzing local market trends and opportunities, you’ll be better equipped to create tailored marketing strategies and make informed business decisions. This will ultimately contribute to the success and growth of your real estate business.

Lead Generation Strategies

Building an online presence.

To create a robust lead generation plan, build a strong online presence. A real estate agent must have a well-designed and user-friendly website to capture leads. Keep these factors in mind:

• Make sure your website reflects your branding and expertise
• Optimize your site for search engines to enhance its visibility in search results
• Include clear calls-to-action (CTAs), so potential clients can easily contact you
• Utilize high-quality images and videos to showcase properties
• Share helpful and informative content through a blog or resources section

You can also leverage social media channels to expand your reach and showcase your expertise in the industry. Focus on the platforms most relevant to your target audience and share valuable content related to real estate, local events, or home improvement tips.

Networking and Referrals

Building a strong professional network is essential for generating quality leads. Here are some strategies to boost your referral pipeline:

• Attend networking events, conferences, or workshops in your area. Engage with professionals in real estate or related industries
• Establish relationships with local businesses and community organizations
• Hold open houses or host educational seminars to engage potential clients in person
• Develop relationships with past clients and ensure you stay top of mind so they recommend you to their connections

Additionally, create a referral program that rewards clients and other referrers for sharing your services with their network. This will incentivize them to talk about you and help expand your reach.

Traditional Marketing Methods

Despite the increasing importance of digital marketing, traditional methods still have their place in generating leads for real estate agents:

• Send direct mail campaigns, like newsletters or postcards, to targeted neighborhoods, highlighting your strengths and successes
• Advertise in local print media, such as newspapers or specialized real estate publications
• List your services and properties in industry-specific directories, both online and offline
• Design and distribute eye-catching flyers, brochures, and business cards
• Participate in community events or sponsor local charities to enhance your company’s reputation and visibility

Make sure to keep track of the effectiveness of each lead generation method and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. This will help refine and improve your overall marketing strategy and ensure you invest resources into the most productive channels.

Lead Conversion Techniques

Building rapport and trust.

To build rapport and trust, focus on the following:

• Be genuine and authentic with your prospects, showcasing your expertise and knowledge.
• Listen actively, taking the time to understand their concerns and needs.
• Display empathy towards their situation, offering tailored solutions for their specific problems.
• Stay engaged through the entire process, from the first interaction to closing.

Qualifying Leads

When it comes to qualifying leads:

• Ask open-ended questions to gauge their needs, timeline, and motivation for buying or selling
• Inquire about their financial situation and any potential barriers they may have
• Learn more about their preferred neighborhoods, housing type, and other preferences
• Prioritize leads based on their level of interest and readiness to move forward

Effective Communication and Follow-Up Strategies

For better communication and follow-up:

• Establish a consistent schedule for checking in on leads, such as every few days or weekly
• Personalize your communication, tailoring messages to each lead’s unique situation and preferences
• Practice active listening and respond thoughtfully to their questions or concerns
• Utilize several communication channels, including email, phone calls, text messages, and social media

Utilizing CRM Systems for Lead Management

Leveraging CRM systems can help you organize and optimize your lead management process:

• Track important lead information and interaction history in a centralized location
• Set reminders for follow-up tasks, appointments, or important milestones
• Analyze your leads’ behavior to understand their needs better and provide personalized service
• Create targeted marketing campaigns to engage your leads and nurture them toward conversion

By implementing these techniques and focusing on leads, marketing strategies, and communication, you’ll be well on your way to creating a thriving real estate agent business.

Closing Deals and Earning Commissions

Negotiation tactics.

When closing deals, it’s crucial to employ effective negotiation tactics to help both you and your client reach a favorable outcome. Some negotiation tactics include:

• Understanding the market: Know the local market trends and use this information when discussing price adjustments or concessions.
• Compromise: Find common ground and offer reasonable solutions to meet both parties’ needs.
• Leverage: Use your expertise in the real estate industry to highlight your client’s strengths and make convincing arguments.

Handling Objections and Overcoming Challenges

As a real estate agent, you’ll encounter objections and challenges in closing deals. To address them efficiently, consider the following points:

• Listen to the client’s concerns and empathize with their situation.
• Identify the objection: Determine the root cause of the objection and respond with a compelling solution.
• Maintain professionalism: Stay calm and composed, avoiding confrontational behavior.

Preparing and Presenting Offers

Presenting a well-prepared offer is vital to increasing the chances of closing a deal. Keep in mind:

• Research: Analyze comparable properties in the area to establish a competitive price for the offer.
• Documentation: Ensure that all necessary documents, such as pre-approval letters and proof of funds, are in order.
• Presentation: Employ clear and concise communication when presenting the offer, highlighting its benefits to the seller.

Managing the Transaction Process and Paperwork

Effectively managing the transaction process and paperwork helps keep the deal on track, which includes:

• Organization: Maintain an organized system for tracking important deadlines and required documents.
• Communication: Regularly update all parties involved in the transaction, ensuring they know the progress and address any concerns.
• Attention to detail: Ensure all forms, contracts, and other documents are accurate and complete.

By successfully closing deals, you’ll earn commissions based on your agreed split with your broker. For instance, if you close a deal worth $350,000 with a 6% commission rate, the gross commission income will be $21,000. If your commission split with your broker is 70/30, you’ll earn $14,700 while your broker receives $6,300. Utilizing the strategies discussed in this section will help you maximize your commission income and prove beneficial to your real estate business plan.

Client Retention and Building Repeat Business

Maintaining client relationships after closing.

Building lasting relationships with your clients is essential for repeat business and referrals. After closing a deal, continue to provide value by offering support with any post-closing issues, such as paperwork or maintenance concerns. Keep in touch with your clients and remember important milestones, such as anniversaries or birthdays. Show appreciation for their trust in you by sending thoughtful gifts or cards or simply checking in periodically.

Asking for Referrals and Testimonials

Word-of-mouth marketing is an incredibly powerful tool in the real estate industry. Encourage your satisfied clients to share their positive experiences with friends and family. To achieve this, be proactive in asking for testimonials and reviews, which you can later showcase on your website, social media, and other marketing materials. Here are some strategies to obtain them:

• Reach out via email or phone, and kindly request a testimonial or referral
• Provide a simple template to make it easy for clients to write a review
• Offer incentives, such as discounts on future services or gift cards, to show gratitude for their time and effort

Staying Top-of-Mind Through Regular Communication and Updates

Establish regular communication with your past clients to stay top-of-mind and generate repeat business. Keep them informed about the latest market trends, neighborhood developments, or listings that interest them. Here are some communication tactics you can employ:

• Send personalized monthly or quarterly e-newsletters
• Share relevant content, such as articles or videos, on your social media platforms
• Organize events, like client appreciation parties or educational seminars, to maintain connections and foster new ones

Maintaining client relationships, requesting referrals, and staying top-of-mind through regular updates will strengthen your real estate business with repeat clients and new prospects. Remember, satisfied customers are the key to long-term success in the real estate industry.

Measuring Success and Adjusting Your Strategies

Setting goals and key performance indicators (kpis).

To measure the success of your real estate agent business plan, start by setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). These can serve as benchmarks for success and provide direction on areas to focus your efforts. Consider setting goals for various aspects of your business, such as sales volume, new client acquisition, and customer satisfaction.

In addition to your goals, establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track your progress. KPIs are quantifiable metrics that help you evaluate the effectiveness of your strategies. Examples of KPIs for a real estate agent business plan include:

• Number of new leads generated per month
• The conversion rate of leads to clients
• Average days on market for properties
• Percentage of listings sold

Tracking and Analyzing Results

With your goals and KPIs established, continually collect and analyze data to track your progress. Regularly monitoring your results allows you to identify trends, spot potential problems, and evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing efforts. Some methods to track your data include:

• Using a CRM system to manage client relationships and interactions
• Employing analytics tools to evaluate the success of digital marketing campaigns
• Conducting a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to identify areas where you excel or need improvement

Pay close attention to competitor performance and market trends to better understand how your strategies compare and identify any gaps you may need to address.

Adapting and Optimizing Your Strategies Based on Data

Once you’ve gathered and analyzed your data, use insights to adapt and optimize your strategies. Make data-driven decisions to improve your marketing efforts, streamline processes, and better allocate resources. Some steps you can take include:

• Adjusting your marketing budget and tactics based on your marketing ROI
• Revisiting your goals and KPIs to ensure they still align with your overall business objectives
• Fine-tuning your pricing strategies or the type of properties you focus on to meet market demand better

Maintaining a proactive approach to adjusting your strategies will keep your business plan agile and responsive to the changing real estate market. This will go a long way in helping you achieve the success you envision for your real estate agent business.

Time Management and Organization

Prioritizing tasks and setting a daily schedule.

In your real estate agent business plan, it’s crucial to have a time management and organization strategy. Start by prioritizing tasks that align with your [business goals]. Break down tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Then, create a daily schedule following the block scheduling method:

• List your key tasks for the day.
• Assign specific time blocks for each task.
• Stick to the schedule and avoid multitasking.

You’ll notice increased productivity and improved time management with this approach.

Using Productivity Tools and Apps

Take advantage of productivity tools and apps to help you stay organized and manage your time efficiently. Some popular tools for real estate agents include:

• Calendars: Apps like Google Calendar or Outlook can help schedule appointments and manage deadlines.
• Task Managers: Utilize tools like Trello, Asana, or Todoist to manage your projects and collaborate with your team.
• Time Tracking: Apps such as Toggl or Harvest provide insights into your work habits, helping you identify areas for improvement.

Remember to limit the number of tools you use to avoid digital clutter and duplicate information.

Delegating and Outsourcing Tasks When Necessary

As a real estate agent, delegating and outsourcing non-core tasks is essential to focus on your primary responsibilities. Here are some tasks you can consider delegating:

Identify areas where your expertise may not be as strong or where your time can be better spent, and consider outsourcing those tasks to professionals. This approach will help you manage your workload and improve the quality of your services.

Ongoing Education and Professional Development

Staying up-to-date with industry trends and changes.

To stay competitive in the real estate market, you must keep up with industry trends and changes. By monitoring resources like the National Association of Realtors (NAR), California Association of Realtors (CAR), and multiple listing services (MLS), you can stay informed about the latest developments in your field. Set aside time to read industry publications, attend webinars, listen to podcasts, and follow industry-leading professionals on social media.

Pursuing Relevant Certifications and Designations

Continuing education is crucial for staying current in the fast-paced real estate industry. Pursue relevant certifications and designations to add credibility and value to your practice. Organizations like NAR and CAR offer various designations demonstrating your expertise and commitment to professionalism to clients and colleagues.

Examples of real estate certifications and designations include:

• Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
• Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
• Green Designation (Green)
• Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)

To obtain these certifications, you must complete specific coursework, pass exams, and maintain membership in the relevant organizations.

Participating in Networking and Learning Events

Engaging in networking and learning events within the real estate community can help you build relationships, share ideas, and learn from the experiences of others. Attend conferences, workshops, and local meetups relevant to your niche, region, or areas of interest. Not only will this enhance your industry knowledge and skills, but it can also be an opportunity to form valuable connections that will benefit your business growth.

In summary, staying up-to-date with industry trends, pursuing certifications and designations, and participating in networking events can help you maintain and develop your skills as a real estate professional. Committing to continuous learning and professional development is essential to ensure your long-term success in the real estate business.

A well-structured business plan is essential for success as a new real estate agent. With a solid plan, you can set your goals, identify your target market, and analyze your competition. A comprehensive business plan lets you plan your marketing strategies, map your operating expenses, and create revenue projections.

To get started, consider using a business plan template tailored to real estate agents’ needs. This will give you a framework to follow as you develop your plan.

Developing a business plan is just the first step in the process. You need to take action and implement your strategies to realize your goals and achieve success. Revise your plan regularly, adapting and updating it as needed. This will ensure you stay on track with your goals and remain competitive in the ever-changing real estate market.

As a new real estate agent, taking bold steps toward your objectives may feel intimidating. However, trust your plan, apply your outlined strategies, and stay persistent. Your dedication will pay off in the long run.

Starting a career in real estate can be challenging, but you don’t have to face the journey alone. There are numerous resources and support networks available to help new real estate agents excel:

• Professional networks : Join local real estate associations and online forums to connect with experienced agents, ask questions, and expand your knowledge.
• Mentors : Seek accomplished real estate agents who can offer guidance, share valuable experiences, and provide personalized advice.
• Training and education : Keep your skills fresh by attending workshops, participating in webinars, and pursuing continuing education courses relevant to your field.

By leveraging these resources and committing to your business plan, you are setting yourself up for a successful career in real estate. Don’t forget to celebrate your achievements along the way and take pride in your progress. Now is the time to take action; you will surely achieve your goals with determination and hard work.

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How to Write a Solid Real Estate Business Plan in 2024

March 13, 2024

If you want to grow your real estate business , then you’ll need to get clear on where you want to go and how you can get there.

Research from the Harvard Business Review indicates that entrepreneurs who create formal business plans are 16% more likely to achieve viability than those who don’t. Further studies also demonstrate that business planning can accelerate a firm’s growth by 30% , and the time invested in writing a business plan can significantly enhance the likelihood of success .

In this article, we’ll guide you through the critical elements of a strong real estate business plan, helping you create a unique strategy aligned with your company goals.

Find It Fast

Why every agent and broker should have a real estate business plan

A real estate business plan acts as a strategic blueprint for an agent, team, or brokerage, mapping out key facets, critical milestones, company goals, and the business’s overall financial health. A plan needs a clear vision and roadmap for how the company will achieve its goals and grow within its specific market.

Additionally, general business plans are pivotal in securing capital and compelling potential investors or partners. A great business plan can attract skilled employees and top-level talent, leading to further expansion and growth.

For an agent or a broker, a real estate business plan is essential for determining your identity in the luxury market and what you can offer clients. It helps you hone in on your ideal customer and allows you to assess the financial viability of your business easily. 

Your real estate business plan is a guide to your goals and a clear-cut strategy for how you can stand out from the competition, grow your business, and fulfill your overarching mission.

Real estate business plans: the basics

When constructing your real estate business plan, it’s best to keep things simple, manageable, and achievable. Focus on where you are now, where you want to go, and how you can reasonably get there.

Here are six critical elements of a straightforward real estate business plan:

• Executive summary:  The executive summary serves as a brief overview of who you are, your purpose, and your goals.
• Overview and objectives:  The overview and objectives section can vary somewhat based on your individual needs, but they should include your mission statement, your history, and your objectives.
• Market opportunities and competitive analysis:  Your business plan should outline where market conditions are ideal for the rapid growth of a business and what your competition is already doing in that space.
• SWOT analysis:  SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats and is a useful analytical tool for determining your strategic position.
• Marketing plan:  The marketing plan identifies and details how you will reach and attract your target audience.
• Financial plan:  A financial plan is a fairly straightforward snapshot of the economic health of your business.

Most business plans adhere to a timeframe of three to five years, though some are as short as one year, others as long as seven. Although everything in this article provides recommendations for a three to five-year plan, it’s worth looking beyond five years for future growth opportunities.

Creating your own real estate business plan 

Now that you know the main sections of your real estate business plan, let’s dive into exactly what goes into each element. 

Executive summary

A good summary is typically one to two pages (although one is optimal) and should include the following:

• Description of services
• Summary of objectives
• Brief market and competition snapshot (you’ll dive deeper into this later in your business plan)
• Capital or partnership requirements, if applicable

Your executive summary is the one part of your business plan you can recite from memory. There’s no fluff. Consider this your elevator pitch to sell your vision and convince others to join you on your mission.

Overview and objectives

Mission statement.

Your mission statement is why you do what you do—the guiding principles for your business. 

For example, here are two excellent real estate company mission statements:

• Compass : Our mission is to help everyone find their place in the world. Compass is building the first modern real estate platform, pairing the industry’s top talent with technology to make the search and sell experience intelligent and seamless.
• Sotheby’s Realty : Built on centuries of tradition and dedicated to innovation, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand artfully unites connoisseurs of life with their aspirations through a deeply connected global network of exceptional people.

Your history is just that—when you started, location, leadership, milestones, and notable services or specializations.

Objectives are your primary goals. A common technique for establishing your goals is through the “SMART” method, ensuring your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Objectives that might cover the course of a five-year plan include:

• Rebrand the company website in 30 days.
• Establish a social media presence in 90 days.
• Close five transactions per month in year one and double transaction volume by year three.
• Double the size of the firm by year five.

Ensure your goals are targeted and realistic within your set time frame. 

More likely than not, your business will have multiple objectives simultaneously. Group them based on category and designate a team member who will be responsible for managing achievements, setting milestones, and assessing progress.

Market opportunities and competitive analysis

Understanding your market and your competition involves taking stock of the landscape’s size, demographics, demands, and trends.

Market opportunities

When determining your market opportunities in your business plan, consider the following questions: 

• What is the size and stability of the market?
• Is the market currently on an upward or downward trajectory?
• What are the current demographics of the market?
• What segment of the market do I want to target? 
• Is there a demand for a particular type of housing? 
• Are there more sellers than buyers, or vice versa? 

Also, pinpoint specific market circumstances that could significantly impact your business, like interest rate trends or local economic development. Be sure to document these insights in your plan as well. 

Competitive analysis

In many business plans, competitive analysis is worthy of its own standalone section. Regardless of how you present it, devote some space to your competition and thoroughly research what they currently do in the real estate market.

Include both immediate and secondary competitors, and note if the market is primed for new competitors in the future. Also, identify the risks and opportunities when comparing your niche market and services versus others vying for similar business. 

Remember to ask yourself:

• What do I offer clients that the competition does not? 
• Can I stand out in this market and generate revenue?
• How can I advertise myself to showcase these differences?

SWOT analysis

Through its matrix-like formatting, you can use data-backed facts to analyze your team’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a visual way. Here are some questions you can ask yourself for each section:

• Is your brand recognizable?
• Do you have an in-house expert for each specialization within residential or commercial real estate (or both)? 
• Do you have an active pipeline of new leads ? 
• What is your unique selling proposition (USP)?
• Do you lack consistent social media or online content? 
• Is your brand relatively new or unrecognizable ?
• Are you missing out on lead-generation opportunities?
• Is your website engagement lacking?

Opportunities

• Has your team just branched out to a new area of real estate? 
• Is market demand growing in your area? 
• Have you uncovered a new source of referrals ?
• Are there any new teams in your niche with a USP similar to yours?
• Are mortgage rates rising enough to slow down demand?

By uncovering factors in each grid of the SWOT analysis matrix, you can identify areas that need immediate attention or capitalize on specific strengths.

Marketing plan

Creating a marketing plan is an exercise in understanding your ideal client and then molding a campaign that ensures you can target those customers. Here are a few key points to outline in your marketing plan:

Demographics

• Consider your ideal client persona, including age, location, income, and profession.
• Consider what attracts this ideal client. What are they looking for in properties? What are they avoiding?
• What type of neighborhoods, amenities, or lifestyle are they seeking?

Marketing channels

• Which platforms are your ideal clients engaging with the most? Which ones do your competitors frequently utilize?

Along with these aspects, consider how to position yourself better than your competitors to attract this client. Think about the benefits you can offer and how you can showcase this with a smart real estate marketing campaign .

Financial plan

A financial framework is a crucial aspect of your real estate business plan since it provides insight into the economic health of your business. It gives you a better idea of the valuation of your business, acts as a guide for your budget, and helps you set more realistic financial goals.  

Here are the elements of a financial plan that should be included:

Profit and loss statement

• This is also called an income statement or pro forma. This shows a company’s profitability (or loss) over a certain length of time.

Cash flow statement

• This statement provides an overview of your actual cash position.

Balance sheet

• A balance sheet shows where you stand regarding assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time.

Operating budget

• An operating budget is a detailed view of your income and expenses, usually over 12 months. 

Break-even analysis

• This outlines the revenues necessary to cover all costs and your business’s potential to be profitable. 

Depending on your real estate business position or if you’re an individual broker or agent, you can simplify this area with just an operating budget and break-even analysis.

4 common mistakes agents make when creating a real estate business plan

1. thinking the business plan needs to be perfect.

Your real estate business plan will not be built overnight. You can still run a successful company while your business plan is being created. Instead of waiting to make a “perfect” business plan, follow our step-by-step guide to get started. Then, you can modify as you learn more about your client, your competition, and the trends in the market. 

2. Not having someone else review your business plan

Like any other business document, having a second pair of eyes review your real estate business plan is always helpful for typos or mistakes and for any glaring questions or inconsistencies. Be open to feedback from people, both in the industry and outside it—if someone is confused by an aspect of your plan, chances are they won’t be the only one. 

3. Not using the business plan to gain more clients

While your plan is useful for an overview of your business and its goals, don’t forget to use it as a guiding tool. For example, once you make your marketing plan, you’ll have a stronger idea of your ideal customer. So, be sure to use that information to create more targeted outreach efforts. This includes:

• Adjusting your marketing and advertising budget
• Creating a more targeted marketing campaign, including website, social media, and email
• Determining how to nurture non-specific outreach efforts such as referrals , SEO , and open houses
• Developing a data analytic strategy—how will you measure your marketing success and make changes if necessary?

4. Not coming back to the business plan 

Your real estate business plan is not a one-and-done proposition or something to be written, tossed in a drawer, and forgotten. 

Make time to periodically reevaluate your progress and see where you stand in reaching your goals. Once every 90 days is a good rule of thumb, but review more or less frequently as you see fit. And if you start hitting those goals early, take the time to make new ones.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to pivot if something isn’t working. Goals can change, so return to your business plan and modify it as your company ebbs and flows. 

Luxury Presence: your real estate business plan partner

With beautifully crafted websites, SEO strategists, and top marketing expertise, Luxury Presence is here to help you define your business and grow in the real estate market. Contact our team of experts today to refine your online presence and stand out from the competition.

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How to Start a Real Estate Business

Candice Landau

15 min. read

Updated March 18, 2024

Free Download:  Sample Real Estate Business Plan Templates

If you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance you love talking to others, building connections, and helping out—you’re a people person. And in terms of profitability, real estate is a solid bet for many who are looking for passive investment streams, or to build a service that’s in high demand in many parts of the US.

A little bit about the sources in this article:

I interviewed more than 13 real estate agents for this article! Unsurprisingly, there’s some feedback that seems to hold true across the board, including the importance of having a good online presence, a solid understanding of SEO, a niche or a well-defined target audience , brilliant people skills, and the ability to manage your contacts and connections.

• 1. Planning

Whether you’re starting a real estate business, a corner coffee shop, or a company that manufactures rocket parts, it’s a good idea to write a business plan . Business planning makes you more successful— it’s been scientifically proven !

Not only will working through the planning process prompt you to think about important things like how you’re positioned to compete with similar businesses, and how much cash you’ll need to actually get started ,  it will also help you validate your idea and get into a habit of setting goals and milestones .

According to real estate investor Eric Bowlin , the purpose of a business plan is twofold.  He says, “First, it gives you a way to formalize your goals and direction. More importantly, it is a document that you can provide to lenders or investors to clearly illustrate not only your direction but where you are and how you got there.” During the planning process, Eric got a lot of great advice from a local Small Business Development Center .

If you haven’t had any experience in the real estate industry, it’s a good idea to get advice from someone who has. Real estate agent Jamal Asskoumi of Castle Smart says, “If you yourself are not directly involved in real estate, then it’s best to find someone who is, at the planning stage. They’ll know a lot more of the do’s and don’ts.”

Of course, you could always go down the route of taking formal courses on the topic, or reading the right books (see the resources section at the end of this article).

Take a look at some of our free sample real estate business plans for additional guidance.

• 2. Market research and idea validation

How do you know you’ve got an idea that will work? How do you know you’ve picked a niche in the real estate market that actually has a target audience? How do you figure out how to position yourself within this niche?

These questions and many more like them can be answered in the initial market research phase. By conducting both primary and secondary market research , you give yourself a broader idea of whether or not the target market you’ve picked is valuable enough to pursue.

Of course, there’s no one-fits-all approach to figuring out what niche you’re best served to help—and the variety of responses we got from real estate agents across the United States is proof of that.

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Do market research early

Taking the time to do your market research early will also save you both time and money. Michelle Stansbury , a realtor at Bluegrass Partners Trust Realty says, “My first year was a lot of fumbling around figuring out what didn’t work. My second year I tripled my business.”

Do market research to assess your own skills

Brad Pauly, the owner of Pauly Presley Realty , took the same trial and error approach but for him, it was a good way to figure out his own strengths and weaknesses. “I figured out my target market through trial and error,” he says. “When I started in the industry, I wouldn’t turn away any business! Once I realized my strong suits, I focused on them. Four years after I was licensed, I obtained my broker’s license and created the company we have today.”

If you’re not sure of your own strengths and weaknesses, conducting a SWOT analysis can help you figure them out.

Get some real-world experience or find a mentor

If you’re a doer first, another route to market research is to simply get in there and start doing things. Most people don’t have the additional time or money to do this, but if you do, good for you, it’s as valid a method as any. Morgan Franklin , a licensed real estate agent based out of Lexington, Kentucky, says, “I was confident [my idea] was going to work because I had already developed enough business to pay all of my startup expenses before I took my real estate exam.”

However, Morgan did spend some time working for a real estate attorney so he had a bit of know-how before diving in. “If you have no experience, I would strongly urge a new agent to find a mentor to work with for the first year or two,” he suggests. If you haven’t had much exposure to the industry, going the “mentor” route is a good idea.

That said, Morgan did do a fair bit of research himself. When asked how he figured out who his target market was, he responded, “I looked at the volume of sales in my city, from the property valuation administrator, and then looked for the ‘sweet spot.’ That is where the bulk of the volume of transactions was occurring. From there, I aimed for the upper end of that group.”

Cheryl Julcher , the Managing Broker at Yellow Brick Properties, did her market research, but also chose to start in an area she felt passionate about. “Here at Yellow Brick, we are all about healthy, safe, comfortable, and smart homes—eco-conscious and sustainable housing,” she explains.

“We went with our passion, and that is what I would advise anyone to do,” says Cheryl. “Go with the market sector —millennials, empty nesters, etc.—that you care about the most and are most knowledgeable about.”

If you have strong feelings about a particular sector, chances are it’s a good place to at least start doing your market research.

• 3. Branding

Branding is important for businesses of every size. If you’ve got a memorable brand, it’s easier to build credibility, look bigger than you are, attract customers, and in general be the first person or company people think of.

According to branding expert Sara Conte of Brand Genie, “Although you can influence your brand through well-designed logos, hilarious ad campaigns, carefully crafted press releases, or super-friendly service, ultimately, your brand is what the outside world says it is.”

Essentially, your reputation is your brand.

Branding tip #1: Your reputation is all down to your relationships

Real estate agent Jamal Asskoumi, of Castle Smart , knows this well; not only does he believe in the importance of setting yourself apart from the competition, but also in the importance of your relationships with your clients.

“When branding in real estate, try to make it as personal as possible. This is a business which relies heavily on interaction and building relationships. Ensure your business exudes the same welcoming smile you have.”

Be someone people want to align themselves with. You are the brand , after all.

Realtor Tim Frie takes this idea a step further. He says, “Building a reputation is more important than building a brand in real estate…plus, building a reputation is a lot easier than constructing a brand.”

Branding tip #2: Provide value and give people what they need

Reputation and authenticity seem to go hand in hand in real estate. Michael Kelczewski a real estate agent for Brandywine Fine Properties Sotheby’s International, feels that people can sense non-verbal cues and behavior patterns. As a result, there’s much less that can go wrong if you behave authentically.

Real estate investor, Eric Bowlin , holds the same belief. “Real estate is actually about people more than the land,” he says. “As a small business in real estate, I think it’s more about branding yourself than branding the business. Make people want to work with you.”

Branding tip #3: Creatively create your own space

If, however, you take pride in having the creative chops to brand something that stands out because it’s new and innovative, you have a unique opportunity.

Cheryl Julcher of Yellow Brick Properties differentiated her brand from competitors by developing a brand of homes called Zoetic Homes™. “Each home comes with a nutrition label, is quality verified by an independent third party, and is guaranteed to have a design that matches actual performance.”

Branding tip #4: Be the go-to expert

Being an expert in your industry is another great way to set yourself apart. For Morgan Franklin , the secret ingredients were video and an active social media presence.

“I have branded myself as a local expert and have differentiated myself through the use of social media, and more specifically, video,” says Morgan. “I host a weekly real estate show that is published to YouTube and Facebook. This has been huge as it has associated my brand with higher-end properties even though I haven’t had those listings.”

On the flipside, if you’re young and inexperienced, you might have as good an opportunity to sell yourself. “Sell your inexperience (and youth if that applies to you) as an asset,” says agent Michelle Stansbury. “You will be hungry to succeed and are more likely to work harder to get homes sold than the agents who have already ‘made it.’ Inexperience isn’t a total weakness and don’t let anyone convince you that it is.”

• 4. Making it legal

One of the best things about getting into real estate is that for most states, there’s really only one exam you need to pass. Study hard, and you might be able to do it in a couple of months. Naturally, this differs slightly from state to state, so make sure to check in with your own state about regulations and rules.

In Florida, for example, you don’t need to be a real estate agent or a broker in order to open up a real estate company. According to Tim Frie , “You just need a broker-of-record who is an officer or manager of the company who is responsible for overseeing the actions and transactions of the sales associates.”

The Real Estate Prep Guide website is a great place to find test prep materials or to get a taste of what the real estate exam in your state looks like.

Of course, real estate qualifications aside, there are some things that you can do pretty early on, including figuring out a name for your business, registering said name ,  applying for a Federal Tax ID , and obtaining any necessary business licenses and permits .

For Tim, choosing a company name was a strategic action. “My partners and I decided on something very close to home: a combination of two of our names. A lot of notable real estate companies are named like this: Coldwell Banker, Keller William, Engel & Volkers, Long, and Foster. Not only did we want to emulate what was already proven in the industry, but through the way that we provide service, we wanted something very deep to leave behind as a legacy that was a result of our hard work and dedication.”

Many other real estate agents also simply go with their own name, as it’s a great way to attach your business to your personal brand.

Providing you know what things you need to get done to start , the process of actually getting started isn’t all that hard. “Create a corporation, register your DBA, make sure you are in good standing with all boards and commissions,” says Brad Pauly owner of Pauly Presley Realty , listing some key things you need to do to get started. He also advises aspiring entrepreneurs to look into getting liability insurance. That’s key!

If you’re still worried about where to start and how to make it “legal,” real estate broker James Brooks advises consulting an attorney who specializes in real estate law.

• 5. Getting financed

One of the great things about getting started in the real estate industry is that having a huge amount of cash on hand isn’t always necessary.

It’s also a business that you can start part-time while you’re still holding down a day job (though of course, you may need a flexible employer so that you duck aside to occasionally take phone calls).

Joshua Jarvis, the owner of Jarvis Team Realty , says, “The startup cost to launch in real estate is very low. I used the savings I had and for less than $1,000 I was able to start. Now my monthly budget is 10 times this, but you don’t really need any money to start—or so most think.”

The real thing to think about, according to Joshua, is cash flow . “Don’t just calculate the startup cost, calculate ‘carrying cost,’” he says. “As in, how many months it will take you to start cash flowing. In real estate, there are a good 60 days or more before you could get paid.”

For Hollywood real estate agent, Gwen Banta , getting the finances to take the job seriously had a lot to do with other revenue streams to begin with, including her work as an actress and writer.

If you do find that you need  investor funding or a bank loan , writing a business plan is a solid first step.

Real estate agent Jamal Asskoumi, took the finances for his business from personal savings. “If you cannot fund the project yourself, ensure you know how and where to find investors,” he says. “Also, create a flawless business plan to present to them.”

If you’re wondering what a real estate business plan looks like, take a look at some of our free sample real estate business plans . They’ll give you a great idea of how to structure your own plan. Also, be sure to check out the resources below, including our guides on funding and pitching , which will help you when it comes time to present to an investor or a bank.

• 6. Setting up shop

For most people getting started in real estate, an office location isn’t necessary. At this beginning phase, the focus is really more on building a reputation within your chosen niche.

Real estate investor  Eric Bowlin says, “The vast majority of people I know who work in real estate have started in their own home. It’s more important to choose a target market than to worry about a location for your storefront. At startup, you need to be flexible and able to rapidly adjust your plan if it’s not working. A physical location will tie you down to that market and make you less flexible while simultaneously adding expenses.”

Of course, there may come a time when you do want to find a business location ,  hire employees , and get set up with the right technology. Then again, hiring employees isn’t for everyone. Eric says, “I’ve had employees in the past and I will never hire an employee again. The government regulations for employees is far too burdensome and expensive. Instead, everyone I work with is treated like a contractor and given a 1099.”

When it comes to technology, great customer relationship management software and a shared inbox solution seems to be the real estate agent’s prized possession. Cheryl Julcher doesn’t mince her words: “Our essential technology is our CRM, and the ability to work from anywhere 24/7.”

And she’s not the only one who advises using a tool that helps you manage your contacts. For owner Joshua Jarvis , a good CRM is practically indispensable, and it’s something many real estate agents overlook. “The only real piece of technology that might not be common sense is a database. Whether it’s an advanced CRM or simply Outlook, this is huge. Your database is your business.”

If you haven’t already been convinced, doing well in real estate boils down to those personal connections you make, whether or not you’ve got a real-life office location. If you do hire employees, make sure they’re a good fit with your values and your brand first. After all, you don’t want to damage the great reputation you’ve spent so much time building.

• 7. Marketing and launching

Ask any real estate agent how they market their business, and you’ll find that “SEO” and “a good web presence” are common responses. Beyond the required networking you’ll need to do, maintaining an online presence in your real estate niche is key to your success.

Again, we go back to the importance of your personal relationships with people. Getting business is all about seeing people, wherever they are, though it’s equally important to have an online presence so that people can find you themselves!

Tim Frie says, “A lot of real estate marketing is based on forming relationships, and you can do that most efficiently by blending an online strategy with a traditional outreach and connection strategy.”

If you don’t have any customers, a good place to start is to reach out to people in your existing network. “Tell them about what you’re doing,” Tim says. “Ask if they know anyone who you can provide value to. If you’re new and starting out, you need to put yourself in situations that allow you to create new connections, meet new people, and provide value just by being yourself. Once people like you, they’ll correlate your name with ‘real estate’ when they themselves or someone they know want to buy or sell a house.”

Candice Landau is a marketing consultant with a background in web design and copywriting. She specializes in content strategy, copywriting, website design, and digital marketing for a wide-range of clients including digital marketing agencies and nonprofits.

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7 Fundamentals of a WORKABLE Real Estate Business Plan

Your real estate business plan is your greatest predictor of success…

…because when done correctly, it serves as your guide for the entire year. Let me show you how to bring more certainty to what you can achieve.

Our industry is going through a monumental shift, leaving much uncertainty in the air. However, with a powerful real estate business plan in hand, you can navigate these turbulent waters with confidence. No matter which direction the market takes, your finely tuned real estate business plan will keep you on track and unfazed. Let it be your guiding light that illuminates the way forward, ensuring unwavering certainty in your journey.

That’s why I hosted a webinar called “ Make It or Break It: Business Planning for a Turbulent Year and Beyond ,” which is dedicated to helping you create a real estate business plan for success. 

In this blog, I’m giving you a sneak peek inside, sharing seven fundamental elements that make up a truly effective real estate business plan. Take some time to think about each of them before you listen to the webinar!

I can’t stress how important it is that you begin thinking about this stuff NOW and do it in the correct way. So with that said, let’s dive right in…

Real Estate Business Plan Fundamentals

No. 1: purpose.

Begin with your “What?” It is a fundamental principle that the universe cannot give you what you want if you don’t even know what you want.

So what do you want? But more than that, what does it look like? In ten years, what do you hope to build? “Selling some houses to make some money” is not a mission; it’s just a thing you want to do, and it won’t fuel you to achieve anything truly special.

If you haven’t already realized what your purpose is, you can discover it by listing out what you value, because your mission statement should reflect the physical manifestation of your values. And if you need help here, in the webinar I’ll show you what my top five values are in order to give you an example to work off of.

No. 2: Motivation

Now that you know what you want, WHY do you want it?  

The fact of the matter is that you will get tired and there will be times when you feel like getting complacent or not following through. In order to have a guaranteed way of refueling yourself and staying on track, you need to be very honest about what motivates you.

Fear of letting down my family, those who work for me, and the agents I serve is what honestly motivates me. These answers sound like what you’d hear from a LOT of people, but the truth is, sometimes people deceive themselves about what actually motivates them. This requires deep introspection. If money, lots of vacations, or status are what really inspire you to work at your best, you need to know that.

Once you know what or who you’re doing it for, it’s time to put an accountability plan in place, because no one can stay self-motivated all the time – that’s just not how people work. And unless your spouse is a professional business coach who can look at your numbers and hold you truly accountable, they don’t exactly count.

No 3: Units & Goals

What if I told you that you could bring increased predictability to your business , even with uncertain market conditions? That’s the power of tracking and measuring , and in next week’s webinar, I’ll help you dig into all the most important metrics to know.

It’s about getting very specific about what’s possible and breaking it down into an equation you can follow for success. When you set overly ambitious goals without reason or a guide to reaching them, then those aren’t real goals – they’re hopes and wishes.

No. 4: Marketing & Lead Gen

Identifying how you’ll attract new business and committing to your plan is one of the most crucial steps toward making the new year a successful one:

• What marketing are you currently running?
• What marketing are you planning to run?
• And most importantly, what marketing can you afford to run?

Your marketing budget and action plan are vital to a successful real estate business plan, but they must have a thoughtful strategy behind them. Look through what’s showing you the best results and what lead-generation pillars can complement or integrate with what you’re already doing.

Maybe there are areas where you spent too much money or ones where you would have benefited from investing significantly more. We need to get your budget dialed in and then align it with the action items you need to be hitting yearly, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily. Join me for the webinar and we’ll give you the template to figure all of this out.

No. 5: Operations  

Just because someone is running a business doesn’t mean that they always understand how it works. If you keep doing the same procedure over and over and have inconsistent results with it, there is something wrong with the procedure.

Our goal in this section is to prepare you and your team (if you have one or are planning to build one) with all the tools, resources, and SYSTEMS you need to get more done with less effort. If your SOPs aren’t already completely locked down, you want to pay extra attention to this section of your business plan. 

No. 6: Finances  

Isn’t it interesting how people who don’t budget their money always seem to struggle with it, no matter how much they make? Well, you’re not going to be that person.

Your real estate business plan should have an exact breakdown of what happens with every commission check, covering your taxes, expenses, and every other aspect of your financial plan. You’ll want to work on paying off debts, making wise investments, and having money set away in case you need it (REMEMBER THAT SHIFTING MARKET?).

No. 7: An Important Exercise  

I’m going to hold back here because we covered this exercise at length during our “Make It or Break It: Business Planning” webinar , and broke it down step by step. Get access to this important business planning webinar , and be sure to take notes because this is an exercise that should be done annually for every business plan you craft. 

How About Access to a Business Planning Webinar?

As a real estate professional, solving problems for a profit is what it’s all about. And with the inevitable challenges that the next 12 months will bring, it’s more crucial than ever to be equipped and prepared. That’s why our recent business planning webinar , “Make It or Break It: Business Planning for a Turbulent Year and Beyond,” was a massive hit. 

With access to this on-demand business plan webinar, you’ll gain immediate access to our acclaimed seven-point business plan template, essential tips on fostering the right mindset to conquer today’s volatile market, engaging Q&A sessions, and more insights from Tom Ferry. 

Don’t miss this chance to arm yourself with the knowledge and tools to thrive. Unlock your access to the full video, business plan, and more.

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