When your current and previous clients think of you and your services, what trajectories do their thought patterns take? Are they fondly recalling the superior care and attention you’ve delivered, or are they dead set on finding someone else when it comes to their next real estate transaction? Do they view you as their go-to for pertinent, reliable information, or are you competing neck-and-neck with social media platforms in this arena?

If your answers to these questions lean a bit to the left, you could do a lot more for yourself and your business if you bulk up your service offerings with one simple (though admittedly, layered) idea: Be more engaging.

A Long-Term Engagement

Creating your network of new, repeat and referred business is, in many cases, a courting process. Most people these days don’t simply open a phone book, close their eyes and point to find their real estate professional. Word-of-mouth and reviews (particularly those presented by a reputable Internet-based organization) are road signs for pointing people toward their purchasing destinations today, whether said purchase is a tangible item, service or combination of both. Getting in front of your clients and future clients (more than once, and in a way they find engaging) is crucial for your business. When it comes to attracting, catching and retaining those clients, a long-term commitment to the relationship is a must.

Catch Their Attention – And Keep It

So, how do you nurture a long-term relationship with past, current and future clients? One way is to be a gushing, overflowing, all-knowing source for not only great information, but the precise information your clients are seeking. This requires you to think like your clients. What kind of information are they looking for? Do they need to know something they don’t yet realize they need to know? Based on factors like age, stage in life and social preferences, having a solid idea of what your clients are looking for as well as how to present said information to them is key in snagging their attention and cultivating those long-term relationships so vital to your business.

The intent is not to bore your clients with an onslaught of unsolicited information, but be the engaging source for what they need to know, when they need to know it. You know your target market best, and probably have a good idea of what they find most engaging. The more you interact with your target audience, the more spot-on your delivery of services and, ultimately, achievement of business goals will be.

Most professionals should and do conduct their business dealings according to a set of ethics, a compendium going far beyond what’s largely regarded as basic “work ethics.” Each industry has its own standard of expectations, and that which is considered usual and customary. The parameters, however, may vary from one trade to the next, depending upon regulatory rules and expectancies set forth by governing bodies and even the segments targeted to receive your marketed goods or services.

No matter your role within any given industry, maintaining high ethics and delivering your products or services with supreme integrity is likely expected, both by your superiors and individuals seeking your offerings. Are you acting on behalf of your business in this regard, hitting the mark each time when it comes to ethicality, integrity, honesty and truthfulness?

Check Yourself Before You…. Well, You Know How This Goes

How do you know if you’re meeting ethical expectations in your business dealings? Is it just a “feeling” you get when you “do the right thing,” or is there a code of ethics mapped-out for you to follow? The answers to these prompts may depend upon what you do for a living, and how heavily regulated your business sector happens to be.

However, no matter your trade, ensuring you act in accordance with established guiding principles is important for not only keeping yourself out of hot water, but also for ensuring you deliver at the highest level to those you serve with your skills, knowledge and expertise. After all, you (as a consumer) likely expect to receive the same in return when purchasing. Keep your business and your conscience on track by sticking to that coveted (and expected) code of ethics.

How We Ensure Ethical Delivery of Title Services

Here at Linear Title & Escrow, we proudly adhere strictly to not only industry regulations, but also our commitment to serving you and your clients with the highest level of excellence in settlement proceedings. We accomplish this in the following ways:

• Non-disclosure of confidential information
• Zero misrepresentations
• Total transparency in fee calculation and financials
• Adherence to all laws and regulations per Virginia and federal guidelines

We never want you or your valued clients to doubt our authenticity, professionalism or the integrity with which we conduct each closing. To learn more about how we maintain ethicality in our title and escrow practices, contact us at (757) 340-0340.

The American Land Title Association (ALTA) recently released an article regarding consumer confusion and misunderstanding when in comes to title insurance fee calculation within the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s mortgage disclosures. While the genuine intent to recent changes in disclosure methods was meant to demystify the cloud of confusion surrounding obtaining a mortgage and associated risks, as well as simplify the process, it seems these efforts may be missing their mark. (Read the article here.) At Linear Title & Escrow, we want all those who sit at our closing tables to have full understanding of not only title insurance fees, but any fees associated with the closing process.

We believe in being transparent with the settlement procedure, and aim to provide closing information to the best of our ability in the most obvious, open and easy to understand means possible. If you or your clients have any questions or concerns, or would like further clarification on how closing costs are calculated, please contact us today at (757) 340.0340.

Let’s face it – people want to buy from people, not a computer or mobile device. Even though we all make those online purchases, it’s still nice to know there’s a human behind the machine (somewhere). The buying process is emotional for most, particularly when it comes to real estate. People are looking to make a connection with the agent best able meet their needs, one who stands out among the crowd, who can understand where they are in life and lead them to the property of their dreams. Are you reaching above and beyond the average, delivering all you have to offer?

Personalize Your Efforts

The more personalized you make your marketing efforts, the more genuine you’ll seem to buyers and sellers. But what do you really offer, apart from finding and showing potential properties? Are you extending your reach, going beyond the competition to deliver services most others don’t? Do you strategically position yourself within the market to stand out among your colleagues? Here are a few ideas for expanding the breadth of your services, and increasing your chances for attracting new clients:

• Offer tips, little-known-facts or interesting information on a property, neighborhood or location in question. The more positive attributes people know about the properties they’re considering, the greater appreciation they’ll feel towards their new purchase.

• Provide a relocation packet. Even if simply moving from one neighborhood to the next, it’s nice to know the highlights and hot spots of a new place. Listing helpful information such as parks, schools, restaurants, daycare centers, kid-centered activities and phone numbers or website addresses of utility providers is going the extra mile.

• Post on social media about local goings-on and topics of interest. Be ever-present on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn or your very own blog, reminding everyone of your talents and experience in the real estate field.

• Send holiday and birthday cards to current and previous clients. This little extra touch can go a long way in keeping the lines of communication (and referrals) open with clients.

• Offer freebies (but things people actually use). Tumblers, coffee mugs, pizza cutters, reusable grocery totes and portable power banks emblazoned with your name and contact information are hot giveaways right now.

• Stay active and visible in the local community. Volunteer for or sponsor charity or other events, or run that 5K you’ve always promised yourself you’d do.

• Send a monthly, quarterly or year-in-review newsletter. Keep all of your clients in the loop with real estate or other news, and remind them all of the wonderful things that happened throughout the year.

The more you do to give your potential and existing clients a more personalized experience, the better your chances of being the one they call or refer to when real estate needs arise.

As a real estate agent, you make it your business to know the distinct details surrounding a property, as well as the specific needs of each client. You may even have a good idea of the inner workings of settlement, a factor important for seeing your clients through the entire purchase process. In truth, the more you know about title and escrow services, the better equipped you are to deliver the ultimate in customer service to your clients – and be the one people turn to when looking to buy or sell.

Know These 6 Key Settlement Facts

1. The process of searching and rendering a clear title varies among title companies and attorneys, and even from state-to-state. Experiences from one closing process to the next may differ for both you and your clients.

2. A Lender’s Policy and Owner’s Policy serve different purposes. It’s important to make certain you know what each entails, and pass this information on to your clients.

3. To follow up fact #2, an Owner’s Policy is the only thing protecting your clients in the event problems with title are discovered after closing. Strongly encourage your clients to purchase an Owner’s Policy to avoid having to pay for someone else’s error.

4. Though not required, obtaining a survey reveals specifics of the property in question and is highly recommended for the buyer. Since many buyers are unware of such benefits, it’s a good idea to initiate this conversation and encourage them to request a property survey to protect their interests.

5. Disclosure of final closing figures is very much lender-dependent. Each lender differs in how and when they release the amount needed for closing, typically until the day before or even the day of closing. Though often a stressful time, prepare your clients to be flexible (and patient) until those final numbers are released.

6. Funds cannot be held in escrow pending issues or needed repairs detected during a walkthrough conducted the day of closing. To prevent final hour escrow concerns, avoid waiting until the last minute to schedule the walkthrough. The title company or closing attorney needs any and all invoices for work/repairs to be completed at least 48 hours prior to closing.

At Linear Title & Escrow, we are always ready to answer any questions, no matter how simple or complex. Contact us today at (757) 340-0340 to learn more about our settlement services.

We’ve all read them, left them or used them in our own purchasing decisions. But what do reviews really say about your business? Most consumers value the opinions of others, often reaching out to the online community for help when searching for a specific product, service or professional to meet their needs or wish list. Are you getting reviews for your business? How are they stacking up to the competition?

Authoritative Positioning

The more reviews you have, the more you appear as an authority within your industry. Yet, it’s not just about getting reviews, per se: You obviously want those reviews to be positive and in favor of your services. The better your reviews, the more people trust your good name and ability to provide what they need over your competition.

Going for Those 5-Star Reviews

With the obvious goal being to score 5-star reviews every time, setting specific metrics for your business is key to reaching those coveted high marks. For the best chance to impress, shoot to exceed even your own expectations on factors like:

• Quality
• Consistency
• Customer Service
• Delivering on Your Promise
• Overall Client Satisfaction

Going the extra mile and offering freebies, upgrades or add-ons (even if it’s just your time) gives you star-like quality in the eyes of your valued clients.

“Could You, Please?”

Asking for reviews can be a difficult thing for some individuals, which is why engaging the assistance of business platforms designed to attract and manage your business reviews may be the way to go if you’re stuck or find it difficult to get started. Run an Internet search for something like “get help with business reviews,” and you’ll find a whole host of organizations that can help you on your way.

Paying It Forward

We all want great reviews for our business services, but how “great” are we at leaving them for others? Pay if forward by showing your support and appreciation for products, services and professionals you use in your own life, and hope others do the same in return. Leaving reviews can even help you become better at what you do, as you evaluate what makes you really like and appreciate the item or service you’re reviewing.

How are you ranking in your business reviews?

In today’s technology driven environment, our reliance on mobile platforms is ever-increasing. We cling desperately to our phones, for they’re the invaluable gateway to the world at large – and for business professionals, often the key to our livelihood.

Since most of us depend so greatly on the cellular tether (though some still refuse to give up sticky notes and paper planners), it only makes a good deal of sense to have the most useful apps available today. Check out a few that real estate professionals are finding most useful.

Time-Saving Apps for Your Virtual Business Assistant (and by That, We Mean Your Phone)

CircleBack provides immediate, convenient access to all of your important contacts. A major highlight is its ability to keep your contacts current, updating information as it changes.

Get documents signed (in-person or remotely) and the sales process moving forward with SignEasy. This handy little app works on any platform, even when your Internet service fails you.

With Homesnap, the “Snapchat” for real estate, you can share photos and important information on a property with your buyers and other sellers, and communicate right on the app. Your convos are saved for future reference, keeping all discussions surrounding properties of interest in one convenient location.

Enjoy the capabilities of your desktop from the convenience of your phone. Microsoft Remote Desktop keeps you productive and nailing your business objectives with easy access to pertinent documents, sales agreements and other information vital to your daily business, right from your mobile device.

Live-stream video of a property to any client, anywhere with Periscope, and it’ll be like they’re right there with you. The ultra-convenient app works on both iPhone and Android platforms.

A Word About Social Media Apps

Social media platforms are widely considered to be one of the most effective ways to reach potential clients and stay connected with those you’ve previously served. Want to see your business continue to grow? Keep your social media presence relevant, current and right in front of your target market. Having these apps handy on your phone keeps you closely connected to your clients, and hopefully a bright, successful future.

What apps do you currently use to help your real estate business?

As you well know, buying a home is a huge deal for people, whether a first-time buyer or a seasoned home buying pro. Preparing your clients for what to expect throughout the process lends to a smoother settlement and a more accurate expectation for what’s to come.

Tips for Ensuring Client Preparedness

1. Provide an overview of the process, especially for first-time home buyers. People like to know what’s going to happen (or at least have a general idea). Though you’ve been through it numerous times before, your clients likely haven’t. Give them a virtual or mental walk-through of the settlement process so they can gear up for the big event.

2. Have them keep an eye out for the closing disclosure form from the lender. Kindly remind (or inform) your clients to watch for this item in the mail, so they may have an accurate idea of the financials of the transaction.

3. Ensure your clients know the amount of money they’ll need to bring to the closing table. This is a follow-up to the previous tip. In the event they don’t take the time to review the lender’s CD, it’s a good idea to prompt them to do so or review it with them.

4. Help them schedule a closing time with the settlement agent. Whether you take on this task or they do, make certain all parties are privy to that much anticipated time slot.

5. Submit home warranty, repair or termite contracts on time. Stress the importance of getting any relevant invoices to the title agent no later than 48 hours prior to closing. This way, these documents can be added to the disclosure form and handled appropriately to facilitate a smooth settlement process.

6. Put yourself in their shoes. Ask them if they have any specific questions about the closing process. (This may require some prompting, if your clients seem unsure.) What information would you want to know? It’s also prudent to give realistic expectations if bumps along the road may delay settlement.

For further details on preparing your clients for the closing process, contact Linear Title & Escrow at (757) 340-0340 today.

How do you rate in your client reviews? Do you consistently exceed the mark of excellence, or are you working hard toward reaching that goal? In this heavy field of competition, we must continually work to elevate our “brand” and unequivocally exceed client expectations to remain ahead of the pack. What can you do to stand apart from the rest? Raising the bar on your services is one place to start – even when you think you can’t possible go any higher.

Follow Through, From Start to Finish

Purchasing decisions are emotional for most people – especially when bigger price tags are involved. You clients may expect you to be the rock they need to lean upon throughout the buying process. Doing everything you can to provide resources, encouragement and just plain kindness throughout the entire experience will elevate your status when it comes time for them to review your services or provide a recommendation to others.

Anticipate Client Needs – Before They Do

Want to really impress your clients? Think ahead and anticipate their needs, questions and concerns before they do. That way, you’ll always be at the ready with a concrete answer or able to mitigate obstacles before they arise. Use your experience in past situations or place yourself in your client’s shoes to do your best to “foresee” the road ahead.

Go the Extra Mile

Just when you think you’ve done enough, do even more. Even if there’s nothing new to report, contact your clients to simply “check-in,” keeping them informed of where things stand in the buying process. Make yourself as available as possible, and do your best to go the distance in wowing them throughout the experience.

Mean What You Say, and Say What You Mean

Being completely transparent and forthcoming with relevant information builds trust, showing your honesty and integrity as a professional. Whether you have news that’ll make your client’s day or cause disappointment, be confident in your delivery and truthful with their expectations.

Fact is, it’s a tough race, with everyone vying for new or repeat business and a competitive position within the marketplace. Do whatever it takes to exceed that mark of excellence, each and every time.

Be in the business of branding your business.

 When your clients (or potential clients) hear or read your business name, does it resonate in a particular way? Does it conjure up a certain (branded) image or promise of an out-of-this-world experience? Perhaps you’ve chosen to associate your business with a catchy jingle, symbol or remarkable color combination. However you decide to brand your business, the importance lies in your ability to stand out among the crowd – especially if your business it part of an industry well populated.

Brand for Your Life

As any marketing expert will profess, branding your business properly and strategically is a cornerstone to a sound marketing plan, and ultimately your business success. It’s important to carefully consider how you want your business to be perceived and take steps to implement robust branding strategies to meet that objective. You and those associated with your brand must then continually work to support those efforts to build and maintain trust in your name, products or services, and longevity.

Be a Mover and a Shaker

Are you maximizing your efforts to support and grow your good business name? Do you analyze every marketing angle, ensuring all bases are covered? Maybe you have a talented marketing team who does all of this, but if you’re marketing on your own (or on a budget), consider these branding techniques to help you along your way:

• Know your direction. Having a clear understanding of the precise message your brand should emit is crucial. Once defined, you can then work on brand/product placement, visibility and presence within your market.

• Blanket your branding. Ensure your identifiable markers (logo, image, audio – whatever helps define your business) are well-placed, wherever appropriate to support your marketing objectives. For some businesses, this may mean everywhere and anywhere, while others may opt for selectivity as part of their branding strategy.

• Be innovative, be unique, but above all, be engaging. Standing out among the crowd often involves taking bold risks, broaching spheres of influence others have yet to attempt. Think about what tactics your target market finds engaging, and be the first to charge in that direction.

• Be consistent, and persevere. Above all, effective branding of your business requires consistency and perseverance, from all organizational representatives. Your company voice should remain fluid across all mediums, helping to establish trust and reliability in your business name.

Whatever strategies you chose, it’s important to understand that branding in a full-time effort. Your brand is essentially your business’ personality. Let it shine, engage and inspire.