Q&A: How Can Realtors® Succeed This Year?

As we go further into the year, it’s the perfect time for Realtors® to reassess their business strategies and refine their skills. Here’s some insight from Derrick Barker, CEO and co-founder of real estate financing company Nectar. 

What strategies can Realtors® use to succeed in their businesses this year? What trends might they prepare for? 

“Recent data shows that 47% of people who bought homes in the past two years made offers without physically touring the property, compared to just 12% of those who purchased their homes 10 or more years ago. Currently, 85% of millennials would consider buying a home sight unseen,” Barker notes. 

“This means that Realtors® should focus on convenience and communication, prioritizing client convenience through virtual walkthroughs and AI-powered tools like 24/7 chatbots and automated communication systems that allow clients to access information and services anytime. This is what many homebuyers will be looking for in 2025.” 

How can Realtors® stand out in an increasingly competitive market? 

“To effectively stand out, the best approach for several years has been video. It’s essential to prioritize video and leverage it across platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram with short, engaging content.” 

“The focus isn’t solely on showcasing properties, but, more importantly, on building a personal brand and establishing trust,” he emphasizes. “Well-crafted videos can effectively condense what would typically require an hour or two of in-person conversation with a potential client, which is crucial given the significant trust involved in assisting someone with a major life purchase.” 

What are some common mistakes Realtors® make that could hurt their business, and how can they avoid them? 

“A key mistake Realtors® often make is poor follow-up, like forgetting to return calls,” Barker says. “Realtors® can avoid this by using AI tools to automate simple responses via email, call and text. These tools can be trained with listing details to answer basic questions and gather buyer data for CRM simultaneously.” 

What real estate opportunities do you think 2025 will present, and how can Realtors® take advantage of them? 

“Demographic trends in 2025 offer distinct opportunities in multiple market segments. Baby boomers transitioning to retirement communities present a significant listing source, while tech-savvy millennials look for instant, digital-first communication and services. Additionally, the robust multifamily housing market, driven by urban population growth, offers potential for higher returns. Residential Realtors® can also consider expanding into commercial real estate and investor services, opening up even more opportunities to close deals and grow professionally.”