It’s Friday, let’s sweep this week!

Hello Friday! I bought my comedy night ticket (focus of last weeks blog post) & now back to back to market antics, ideas to refocus business in the 4th quarter and interest rate predictions from multiple sources.

Let’s begin with the answer from last week’s trivia question as it describes so very well “The Lock-in Effect” our market is experiencing…

What percentage of WA State homeowners are currently benefiting from an interest rate below 5%? *naturally, I’m speaking to WA State homeowners with a mortgage. Answer is: 86%

Now let’s turn our focus to predictions. I would generally agree that when we see rates begin to tick down, we’ll be in a better place. Demand appears still very strong. I share these predictions – not so much for the numbers (as they are just that, predictions) yet all sources I’m following are predicting to trend down. As you can see, Matthew Gardner’s numbers are higher than the average, yet all Q-3 2024 numbers show a similar landing place. Again, it’s the trend I’m speaking to here…

Let’s now turn towards an immediate helpful approach to having real real estate conversations. Done well, this idea provides increased opportunities for you.

What I’ve noticed in my real estate coaching moments over the years is this: if there is one activity to immediately focus on from week to week to increase real estate conversations is just that – a focus on more conversations. A very fruitful approach is to have a goal of 20 conversations per week. Track them, write them down. The gold however becomes at end of each day to think back on every conversation and jot down a one “next step” for each. I promise you – there is one – every single time. Look for it…

20 conversations X 20 unique follow ups = branding you as the professional = you being top of mind.

And, a suggestion I’ve been sharing this week is to bring a different curiosity to these conversations. You and I are very used to the concept of responding to “how is the market?” What if we asked our spheres, clients, people we are naturally in flow with, “I’m curious, from your perspective, what do you see happening in the housing market?” or “I’m curious, what have you noticed locally in the housing market?” Imagine those responses! Would you agree that when we have their perspective it provides a wonderful environment for us to provide our actual knowledge? I’m enjoying turning the tables myself in these conversations. Try it, let me know how it goes! An idea worth spreading in my humble opinion. With an increased focus for the remainder of the year in having real real estate more conversations – this moves us to the “can explain” bucket – see below.

There is a very high ROI on this activity – have fun with it!

Today is PNW beautiful. Have a wonderful September weekend in productive real estate and play. Appreciate the work & play we get to do together. Both meaningful.

Here to help – the ultimate goal.

– Laura, 206.227.7133 c