Realtors: Trusted By Buyers and Sellers
Most homebuyers work closely with real estate agents. Finding the perfect home that fits their budget and lifestyle takes time and requires agents to get to know their clients. This relationship creates trust between agents and clients. So, when homebuyers need a contractor to supply services — especially when it comes to home inspections or radon testing — homebuyers turn to the person they trust, their real estate agent.
Agents typically have a small connected network of contractors they recommend. Realtors also know the hazards of radon, the importance of testing, and how radon real estate affects deals. They know using providers they trust will help make transactions go more smoothly. One of the highest goals of realtors is to make the process go as smoothly and quickly as possible. Therefore, becoming a part of an agent’s inner circle of trusted contractors can lead to growing your business.
In short, during this process, keep in mind what it is like to be in your realtor’s shoes:
- They want the process to go as smoothly and quickly as possible for their clients
- They want to have backup plans ready for when things don’t go as planned (like a failed radon test)
- Giving a referral to their client puts their reputation on the line
- They will likely already have someone to recommend for radon testing and mitigation. You will need to show how you’re different and why the process will be smoother for them if they pick you.
Radon Testing Is Required in Real Estate Transactions
Radon testing is required in real estate transactions.
Currently, 37 states require a realtor radon disclosure of any known radon levels as part of the home selling or home buying process. However, 23 states require testing by law.
Regardless of laws and disclosure requirements, the EPA recommends all buyers and sellers test for radon.
How To Network To Generate Realtor Relationships
Networking with real estate agents and firms is the best way to build your referral business. In most cases, that means one-on-one communication. In many cases it only takes a handful of busy realtors in a selling season, such as summer, to increase your pipeline for testing or mitigation services.
Direct Outreach
Attend realtor get-togethers or make personal contact by calling or visiting a local, established real estate office.
"I know that it's in your best interest to make the real estate transaction as smooth as possible. Here's how I can help. Here’s how I am different from the competitors. Will you consider giving me a try on your next project?"
Here are a few other ideas on how to network with realtors:
- Many brokerages have weekly sales meetings. Ask if you can bring breakfast one week and tell them about your services.
- Nearly every community has a small business networking group, such as Business Network International (BNI). These are groups of small businesses that meet to discuss common concerns and learn about opportunities. Joining a group that connects you with realtors and other businesses that can provide referrals.
- Be active with your local real estate association and home builder’s associations in your town. They host regular networking events and educational seminars.
- Host a free educational session for real estate agents on radon regulations.
- Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and make a cold call.
Ask for Referrals
Another opportunity is asking your current clients for referrals. If you already know an agent, ask if they will refer you to their neighbors.
Check with any brokers, lawyers, closing agents, and lenders that you already have a relationship with to see if they are willing to give you referrals.
If you can get a referral from someone an agent already trusts, it can open the door for you.
Make Sure Your Digital Assets Are in Order
Before a realtor is going to commit to doing business with you, they are going to research your business online. The first place they will go is online to your website. They will want to verify you are an established contractor and appear professional before making a recommendation, since a referral puts their reputation on the line.
Even after recommending you, home buyers and sellers will likely look at your online presence, too. So, if you don’t have a high-quality, professional, and easy to navigate website, even a recommendation may not be enough.
There is also work to do beyond your website. Potential customers will likely go to search engines to compare you to other providers. When they Google your business, what shows up? If you’re not one of the top results, it hurts your credibility.
Real estate agents and potential customers will also check review sites. If you have negative reviews — or a lack of reviews — it can hurt you. A realtor won’t want to recommend you to their clients if there are negative reviews.
Quite simply, your online presence is the way people judge the quality of your work these days. The best websites will demonstrate why customers should trust you, provide the information they need to feel good about their decision to use your services, and drive new leads at the same time.
Need More Leads for Your Radon Business?
AdeptPlus specializes in lead generation for radon pros. We help position companies as radon mitigation and testing experts and fill your pipeline. We are responsive radon web experts that build websites that drive new leads. Our experienced one-on-one account managers work with you to build a lead generation machine to drive new business and new revenue.
Book a strategy call with the radon marketing experts at Lead Patrol today.