Agent Tech Mastery

Mastering Newsletters: Strategies to Engage, Impress, and Stay Top of Mind.

What's the point of doing a newsletter?
Stay top of mind with clients and prospects
Showcase expertise
Build and maintain relationships
Provide value through personal touches
How often should newsletters be sent?
Consistently, typically monthly
Check analytics to determine optimal frequencyBatch content creation for efficiency (e.g. 3-4 months at a time)
Content Strategy
What type of content should be included?
Relevant, valuable information for recipients
Local events, restaurant recommendations, coupons
Avoid generic content like staging tips for recent buyers
Customize content for different segments (e.g. first-time buyers)
How can AI help with newsletter content?
Generate ideas for local events and activities
Create enticing subject lines
Produce content in agent's tone of voice
Save significant time in content creation
Best Practices
How to make newsletters more engaging?
Include a clear call-to-action
Use enticing subject lines (not just "Newsletter")
Keep content concise and visually appealing
Personalize and review content, don't use generic templates
What technical considerations are important?
Use proper newsletter service (e.g. Mailchimp, CRM) for analytics and unsubscribe options
Track open rates and click-through rates
Ensure compliance with anti-spam laws
Common Mistakes
What are some newsletter pitfalls to avoid?
Sending without reviewing content
Using generic, non-customized templates
Ignoring analytics and recipient preferences
Lack of consistency in sending
Focusing solely on self-promotion
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. 
As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. 
PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.

Website Wars: Choosing Between Custom, Broker, or Template Solutions - Agent Tech Mastery Podcast

Podcast Purpose
Discuss website options and best practices for real estate agents.
Key Takeaways
Every agent should have a website to establish credibility and online presence.
Three main website options: custom-built, templated hosting service, or brokerage profile.
Regular website maintenance (every 6 months) is crucial for functionality and relevance
Effective lead capture and nurturing requires understanding and customizing the process
Topics
Website Necessity and Options
Agents need websites to prove legitimacy and showcase services
Main options:
Custom-built website (expensive, requires ongoing maintenance)
Templated hosting service (recommended, provides support)
Brokerage profile (cost-effective for new agents, but less control)
Domain ownership is crucial for continuity if changing brokerages
Website Content and Functionality
Mobile-friendly design is now standard but crucial Branding (logos, colors, taglines) should be established before website creation
About section should be personalized, not generic template content
IDX feeds for property searches may not be worth the extra cost
Test all contact forms and lead capture systems regularly
Lead Generation and Management
Be cautious with aggressive lead nurturing systems (e.g., frequent texts/emails)
Understand and customize the lead follow-up process
Move qualified leads to a personal CRM for proper nurturing
Consider the long-term accessibility of leads when using third-party systems
Website Maintenance and Updates
Regular checks (every 6 months) for broken links, outdated information
Update photos, bios, and content to reflect current information
Ensure all functionality (forms, links, etc.) works properly
Consider offering valuable incentives for newsletter sign-ups, not just generic requests
Next Steps
Review and update your website if it's been more than 6 months
Test all contact forms and lead capture systems on your website
Consider implementing a valuable incentive for newsletter sign-ups
Reach out to Agent Tech Mastery for their website maintenance checklist
Listen to upcoming podcast on newsletters and AI use in real estate
 
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.
Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen.
 
PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.

Decoding Mortgage Rates: What They Truly Mean for You With Lynn Kelly

For mortgage advice: Lynn@LynnKelly.ca, 778-839-9363
Discuss recent Bank of Canada interest rate changes and their impact on mortgages, with insights from mortgage broker Lynn Kelly.
Key Takeaways
Bank of Canada rate cuts only directly affect variable rate mortgages, not fixed-rate mortgagesFixed mortgage rates are based on bond yields, not the Bank of Canada ratePre-approval and understanding true affordability is critical before house huntingAppraisals play a crucial role in determining how much a lender will finance
Topics
Bank of Canada Rate Cut Impact
Bank of Canada rate dropped from 4.25% to 3.75%Banks' prime rate decreased from 6.45% to 5.95% as a resultOnly affects variable rate mortgages, not fixed-rate mortgagesFor every $100,000 of mortgage on a 25-year amortization, borrowers save about $30/month
Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgages
Fixed rates currently around 4.2-4.4% for 3-year terms
Variable rates now around 5.45% (prime 5.95% minus ~0.5% discount)
Historically, variable rates tend to outperform fixed rates over time
Fixed rates offer payment stability, while variables can fluctuate
Variable rates easier to break (3-month interest penalty) vs fixed (interest rate differential)
Mortgage Pre-approval and House Hunting
Critical to get pre-approved before house hunting
Pre-approval should involve detailed discussion (1+ hour) about finances, not just a quick check
Buyers should not exceed pre-approved amount, even in competitive situations
Appraisals determine maximum financing, regardless of purchase price
Buyers may need to cover shortfall if appraisal comes in lower than purchase price
Appraisal Process
Lenders finance the lesser of purchase price or appraised value
Appraisers use recent comparable sales to determine market value
Adjustments made for property differences (e.g., single vs double garage)
Banks have lists of approved appraisers; brokers choose from that list
Next Steps
Potential homebuyers should seek thorough pre-approval before house hunting
Work with reputable agents and mortgage professionals who prioritize education and client protection
Be cautious of overbidding in competitive situations, considering appraisal risksConsider speaking with Lynn Kelly for mortgage advice: lynn@lynnkelly.ca, 778-839-9363
If you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod
As always, I would love to hear your comments.  Reach out after you watch/listen. 
PS.  You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.

Business Planning with Agent Tech Mastery

Darci and Terry discuss the critical need for real estate agents to have a comprehensive business plan, including projecting revenue, mapping out all expenses, and understanding the true profitability of their business. They emphasize that many agents lack this foundational planning, leading to poor financial management and lost opportunities.
 
Breakdown of Agent Commissions @ 11:42 Terry explains in detail how agent commissions are typically structured, with a significant portion going to the brokerage for fees and services. They highlight that agents need to fully understand these splits and deductions to accurately assess their net earnings and profitability.
 
Implementing Consistent Business Planning @ 32:26 Darci and Terry recommend that agents work with their brokerages to develop an annual business plan, and then review and update it regularly throughout the year. They suggest setting aside dedicated time to focus on this planning process, and making it a consistent, ongoing part of running the business.
 
Tracking Marketing Effectiveness @ 34:23 Darci shares examples of agents wasting money on ineffective marketing and lead generation tactics, without properly tracking the return on investment. They stress the importance of closely monitoring the performance of all marketing efforts and making data-driven decisions.
 
Recap and Next Steps @ 39:40 Darci and Terry wrap up the discussion by encouraging listeners to reach out to them for further support and guidance on improving their business planning and operations. They highlight the resources available through Agent Tech Mastery and invite listeners to connect with them.
 
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.
 
As always, I would love to hear your comments. Reach out after you watch/listen. PS. You can find us on any of your favorite podcast apps by searching for Agent Tech Mastery.

CRM Enlightenment with Agent Tech Mastery

Defining CRMs and their importance @ 0:00
Darci and Terry discuss what a client relationship management (CRM) software is and why it is an essential tool for real estate agents. They emphasize that a CRM is more than just a contact database - it helps manage the entire client lifecycle, including appointments, email campaigns, and transaction management.
Pitfalls of using a CRM incorrectly @ 5:29
Darci and Terry share stories of agents who have struggled with CRMs, either by not using them properly or by relying on a brokerage-provided CRM. They caution against using a CRM as a standalone database without integrating it with other systems, and warn about the risks of losing data when switching brokerages or CRMs.
Criteria for evaluating and selecting a CRM @ 12:59
Darci outlines key criteria to consider when evaluating a CRM, such as whether it provides a two-way sync with contacts and calendars across devices. She advises against using pre-built features like newsletters and drip campaigns, and instead recommends customizing them to reflect the agent's unique brand and communication style.
The cost of not using a CRM effectively @ 24:27
Darci shares that many agents she has spoken with have lost significant business opportunities, often in the range of $100,000 to billions of dollars, due to not having a properly configured and utilized CRM. She emphasizes the importance of consistently staying in touch with past clients and contacts to maintain top-of-mind awareness.
Recap and next steps @ 37:02
Darci and Terry wrap up the discussion, encouraging listeners to book a call with them to review their current systems and get guidance on selecting and implementing a CRM that aligns with their business needs. They also tease an upcoming podcast episode on the topic of newsletters.
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business

Digital or Printed Business Cards with Agent Tech Mastery

What to look for in a printed card, info on the card, your image, etc. Some amazing digital card options Should you leave a card at a showing? and more....
 
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod

Should Real Estate Agents put images, logos, icons or banners in their Signature? With Agent Tech Mastery

In this episode, we tackle a key aspect of real estate communication: email signatures. Should real estate agents include images, logos, icons, or banners in their signatures? We’ll explore best practices to ensure your signature is both professional and functional while avoiding common pitfalls that can clutter communication and undermine your branding.
Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, these insights will help you refine your email signature and boost your overall communication strategy.
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod or call 604.800.8365, it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.

REALTORS® & the Cloud: Dropbox, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, One Drive with Agent Tech Mastery

Dropbox, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, One Drive, what the heck?
Which one should I use.
What happens in your computer dies?
Should you sent files as attachments?
Should you use multiple cloud storage services? And much much more....
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod

REALTORS® and Free Email Addresses - Bad Or Good? Agent Tech Mastery

In this episode, we talk about using a free email address for your real estate business. Is it a smart move or a potential pitfall for your professional image? We’ll explore the pros and cons of relying on free email services versus investing in a custom domain.
Tune in to discover how your choice of email address can impact client perceptions, branding, and overall business credibility. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your professional presence, this episode will help you make an informed decision.
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod it's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business. Again, https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod

What CRM should An Agent Use? Agent Tech Mastery

What is a CRM? How to choose a CRM? Can I get by without using a CRM? Syncing a CRM Systems and the importance of them. The money-making stuff. We will go over Email blasts and Drip Campaigns and their true power.
Are you stuck and piecemealed your business together? Let's get you where you want to go. If you want our help to do that, book a call with Agent Tech Mastery at https://www.agenttechmastery.com/applypod It's absolutely free and possibly the best call you have ever had to change your business.❤