6 Tips to Get Your Real Estate Business Ready for the Holidays

The holiday season is just around the corner, and while things can slow down in real estate, it’s a great time to prepare and set yourself up for success. Here are a few tips to keep your business moving, even when the market takes a holiday break:

1. Check In on Your Current Deals

Now’s the time to review your pipeline and make sure all your transactions are on track. Touch base with clients and lenders to avoid any last-minute hiccups. You want to make sure everything is buttoned up before the holiday rush.

EXAMPLES: If you have a closing scheduled in mid-December, check with your lender to confirm there won’t be delays due to holiday closures. Send reminders to clients about outstanding documents or requirements. Proactively addressing these issues will help you avoid any last-minute surprises that could derail the deal.

2. Reconnect with Past Clients

The holidays are perfect for sending a little extra love to past clients. Whether it’s a thoughtful holiday card, a small gift, or even hosting a quick client appreciation event, this is the time to remind them you’re still around (and ready for their referrals!).

EXAMPLE: Host a quick, informal client appreciation event or happy hour. This could be a small gathering at a local restaurant or even a virtual event where clients can drop in, say hello, and enjoy some holiday cheer.

3. Prep for Tax Season

Help your clients get a jump on tax season. Share tips on how their real estate investments can help them with tax savings or partner with a financial pro for some co-branded advice. It’s a win-win for everyone!

EXAMPLES: Partner with a local tax expert or financial advisor to host a webinar or send out a co-branded guide on real estate-related tax savings, like mortgage interest deductions or property tax write-offs. If you work with investor clients, discuss the benefits of 1031 exchanges or capital gains strategies they can take advantage of before year-end.

4. Get Festive with Your Marketing

Just because things are slowing down doesn’t mean you should disappear. Create some holiday-themed content for social media, send a cheerful newsletter, or offer a special deal for year-end closings. It keeps you visible and shows your clients you're engaged.

EXAMPLES: Create a holiday-themed social media campaign with tips for winter home maintenance, or showcase listings that would make a “perfect holiday home” with cozy, festive imagery. You could also offer a limited-time deal, like free home staging or discounted closing costs for sellers who sign contracts before the end of the year. If you send out a holiday newsletter, include a seasonal recipe or local holiday events to engage your readers.

5. Invest in Learning

The holiday lull is a great time to sharpen your skills. Whether it’s online courses, market trend research, or earning a new certification, staying informed now will give you a head start when the market picks up again.

EXAMPLES: Consider enrolling in an online course or certification program. Whether it’s learning more about digital marketing, attending our Seller Financing CE next month, or deep-diving into new tech tools for the real estate industry, these new skills can give you an edge in the new year. You might also attend local workshops or networking events to connect with others in the industry.

6. Plan for Next Year

Take a moment to reflect on this year and set goals for the next. What worked? What didn’t? Use this slower period to map out a solid plan for growth when the market heats back up.

EXAMPLE: Look back at your successes and challenges from the year. Did you hit your sales targets? What marketing efforts brought in the most leads? Use this insight to set realistic goals for 2024. Create a plan for new strategies, whether it’s expanding your digital presence, increasing referrals, or diversifying into new markets like luxury or commercial properties. You might also start planning out your first quarter marketing calendar so you hit the ground running in January.

By staying active and keeping in touch with clients, you'll not only keep the momentum going but also set yourself up for a strong start in the new year. Enjoy the holidays, and here’s to a successful season ahead!