Coffee Talk
Coffee Chat Strategy for Real Estate Referral Agents: Setting Up 3 Chats Per Week
For real estate referral agents, staying top of mind with your network is crucial. Coffee chats are a fantastic way to keep relationships warm, foster trust, and remind your contacts that you’re the go-to person for real estate referrals. Here’s a weekly plan to ensure you set up at least 3 coffee chats per week with people in your warm market:
Identify High-Potential Contacts: Focus on people in your network who are likely to hear about real estate needs—past clients, other real estate professionals, lenders, title reps, attorneys, or even friends with large networks. Make a list of those who you haven’t seen in a while or who might benefit from a friendly catch-up.
Block Out Regular Time Slots: Choose 3 time slots each week dedicated to coffee chats. For example, aim for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings or afternoons. Consistency is key—it ensures you have time carved out and keeps the process running smoothly.
Send Casual Invitations with a Real Estate Hook: Reach out with a personalized, easygoing message, letting them know you’d love to catch up. Add a subtle mention that you’re still active in real estate referrals:
“Hi [Name], I’d love to catch up over coffee and hear what you’ve been up to! I’m still helping people find great real estate agents and would love to hear about your latest adventures. Are you free for a chat next week?”
This approach keeps the tone light but reminds them of your role in real estate without being pushy.
Focus on Relationship-Building, Not a Sales Pitch: The purpose of these chats is to strengthen relationships, not to give a sales pitch. Ask about their current projects, life changes, or real estate plans. Share any interesting market trends or recent experiences you’ve had in the industry. Let the conversation be organic, while subtly reminding them of your referral services.
Listen for Real Estate Clues: As you chat, listen for any hints that they or someone they know might need help buying, selling, or investing in real estate. If they mention a potential move or a friend looking for an agent, that’s your chance to offer your services as a connector.
Leave the Door Open for Future Referrals: Wrap up each chat by expressing your appreciation and leaving an open invitation for future connections:
“It was great catching up, [Name]. If you ever know someone looking to buy or sell a home, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help them find the perfect agent!”
Follow Up with a Thank-You and Reminder: After each chat, send a brief thank-you note. Reinforce that you’re there for any real estate needs, but keep it friendly and informal. For example:
“Thanks again for meeting up today, [Name]! It was great catching up. If I can ever help connect you or your friends with a trusted real estate pro, don’t hesitate to reach out!”
By keeping your coffee chats regular and intentional, you’ll strengthen your network and maintain your position as a top-of-mind real estate resource. This strategy is all about nurturing relationships, staying visible, and ensuring that when people think real estate, they think of you first.
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