No team? No problem! You don’t have to go it alone when you align yourself with colleagues and strategies that optimize your service, coach Verl Workman writes.
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Being a solo real estate agent has its advantages — flexibility, full commission and complete control over your business. However, one of the biggest challenges solo agents face is the lack of built-in support that teams provide. That said, lone agents can still create their own network of support to help them grow and stay competitive. Here’s how:
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1. Brokerage support
Your brokerage is your first line of support. Some brokerages offer extensive resources, including:
- Training and mentorship: Many brokerages provide new agents with coaching or mentorship programs; no team required.
- Marketing assistance: Some brokerages offer templates, CRM systems and digital advertising resources.
- Transaction coordination: A few brokerages provide transaction coordinators to handle paperwork. They’re either included in your fees or you would pay per transaction.
- Legal and compliance guidance: Your broker can help ensure contracts and disclosures are in order. Compliance is good for everyone.
If your brokerage lacks robust support, you may want to consider moving to one that aligns better with your needs.
2. Leverage a virtual assistant (VA) or freelancer
As a solo agent, you don’t need a full-time team, but outsourcing tasks can free up time for client relationships. Consider hiring:
- A virtual assistant for administrative work, appointment scheduling and email follow-ups.
- A transaction coordinator to ensure contracts, paperwork and compliance are handled smoothly.
- A marketing specialist to manage social media, advertising and branding.
3. Join a mastermind group or real estate coaching program
Many successful solo agents invest in real estate coaching or mastermind groups where they can:
- Get advice from top-producing agents
- Learn new business strategies
- Stay accountable for their goals
- Create leverage
- Exchange referrals and networking opportunities
There are established programs like Workman Success Systems and others that provide structured coaching for solo agents.
4. Develop a strong vendor network
Having a trusted network of lenders, inspectors, title companies, attorneys and contractors makes a solo agent’s life much easier. These professionals can:
- Offer quick solutions for client concerns
- Help with last-minute deal-saving strategies
- Refer clients back to you for future business
We consider our vendors as partners and involve them in the areas where they have true expertise and set standards of care so our clients are blown away by the services we provide.
5. Use technology and systems to your advantage
A great CRM (customer relationship management system) is like having a personal assistant. These platforms help solo agents automate lead follow-ups, manage transactions and stay organized.
6. Partner with other agents as needed
Solo doesn’t necessarily mean alone. Some solo agents create informal partnerships with other independent agents for:
- Coverage when on vacation
- Co-listing or referral opportunities
- Brainstorming and market analysis
You can also consider joining a brokerage with a collaborative culture where solo agents support each other. Again, if your brokerage lacks robust support, you may want to consider moving to one that aligns better with your needs.
7. Invest in personal branding and marketing
Without a team’s name recognition, solo agents must build their personal brand to stand out. This means:
- Maintaining an active social media presence
- Creating video content for local market updates
- Sending regular email newsletters to past clients and leads
Marketing yourself as the go-to expert in your area builds trust and keeps your pipeline full.
8. Consider a hybrid approach
Some agents find success by joining a team with flexibility, meaning they still work independently but get access to resources like lead generation, admin support and training. If you want some support but don’t want to give up full control, this might be an ideal balance.
There are so many definitions of a team, and I believe that no one should tell anyone else what kind or type of business they must build. It’s your business and it’s up to you. To me, all “team” means is “leverage.” It’s using or leveraging technology, systems and people so you can serve more clients and still have a life — however you choose.
