Real Estate Excellence Podcast Today, we’re joined by Dirk Schroeder and Mark Trumbo. Dirk has been a Real Estate Professional in St. Augustine since 1984, who has handled just about every type of real estate transaction, including land development, joint ventures, and commercial, industrial, and business opportunities. Mark has worked in the business along with Dirk for about 25 years, eventually getting to create his own real estate company.
Both have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share, and today's episode is all about expanding one’s circle of influence. We'll be talking about how to build a network and increase one’s chances of selling property. We'll be discussing how to stay consistent and generate leads using various tools and techniques and teaching you how to create a successful career.
[07:43 - 15:06] Agent finds broker that matches ideals
In order to become a real estate agent, he took a real estate investing class and then interviewed several brokers.
He describes the cumbersome process of brokering properties in the 80s, before the internet and other new technologies emerged.
He ended up signing with Dirk because he felt that Dirk was the best fit for him based on their conversation about his ideals for a family-oriented business.
[15:07 - 22:39] The Importance of a Good Broker
The importance of a good broker relationship: many agents say that the commission split means nothing if the broker isn't adding value.
Tracy recommends Dirk as a great broker because he is always available to answer questions and provides valuable training.
Technology has made it easier for agents to do their jobs, but it's important to have experienced brokers who can help guide them through complex transactions.
[22:39 - 30:00] Century 21's Massive Education Network Helps Agents Succeed
Century 21 is a large real estate company with many resources available online and in person.
Agents should be spending time in education to keep their skills sharp and be prepared for the market.
However, agents should also know when to stop focusing solely on learning and start doing actual work in the real estate business, as well as learn to manage their time to balance their work, education, and personal lives.
Agents should also attend local real estate events and meet other agents.
[30:00 - 37:33] Century 21 St. Augustine Properties Offers Tips for Agents in a Traditional Market
Dirk talks about how Century 21 has changed the real estate business and how he has adapted to multiple market conditions in his 38 years of experience.
Mark discusses how he is currently coaching agents to make offers that are stronger and more acceptable to sellers and to be consistent in their practices.
The guests remark how the market is currently stable but predict that there will be an increase in population in the next five years, which will lead to an increase in demand for real estate.
[37:33 - 45:13] Getting Agents to Do More Social Media
[45:13 - 52:40] Century 21 St. Augustine Properties offers agents education to stay ahead of the curve
[52:40 - 1:00:02] Airbnb is causing the housing crisis on St. Augustine Beach
[01:00:02 - 01:06:56] How to Stay in Front of Your Clients
Guests talk about how easy it is to find good rentals in St. Augustine if you put effort into looking around and staying in touch with clients.
They advise having a look at what the existing rental rates are wherever you're looking to invest while making sure that you're not overshooting.
The importance of “old school ways” marketing is remarked on, as it can make agents and brokers stand out for potential clients.
[01:06:56 - 01:10:34] How to Succeed in Real Estate with Tracy Hay
Dirk likes using local publications outside St. Augustine records to cater to older folk who still like pen and paper.
He also writes for the St. Augustine observer, not just for marketing purposes but for education.
DIck has written 52 articles for the St. Augustine Observer and Cliff Lockton's Beaches Journal.
He recommends joining a community of like-minded individuals to help expand your skills.
Quotes:
“You can only go so far within your community, and then you gotta go outside of the community. You need to have connections worldwide, and you need to get a world-class education.” -Dirk Schroeder
“You need to know when to actually stop taking classes and get to the important stuff.” - Dirk Schroeder
“There’s working on the business and working in the business. Working on the business is marketing, social media, and searching for leads. Working on the business is calling leads, showing up to houses, and making it to appointments. You need to spend around 20% of your time working on the business before you can work in the business.” -Mark Trumbo
