In today’s challenging real estate market, it’s always necessary to stay one step ahead of all your competitors. You need to be the one that potential customers see and feel comfortable with. You need to be the one that stands out among all your peers and clinches the deal.

There is no real secret to success in the real estate field, except hard work and constant self improvement, which is why humility and a willingness to learn from mistakes are of utmost importance. You also need have an indomitable spirit, which means you never give up easily in the face of repeated failures.

With that in mind, here are the six most common habits that successful agents practice:

1) Answering calls and e-mails at lightning speed

Leaving your phone switched on and being contactable is a hallmark of any good agent as it is the key gateway for you to snag clients. Once you are easily contactable, you will be able to catch a lead and not let a good opportunity go. You’ll also be able to follow up on any potential sales that come in, ensuring more cash flow for you.

2) Updating Yourself about New Technology

Keeping up with the latest apps, websites and social media sites will allow you to reach a wider and more inclusive audience, especially if and when you need to advertise yourself. Using these new communication technologies available will also allow you to update your clients with the information they need with speed and precision.

3) Know Every Detail About Your Neighbourhood

Have an intimate knowledge of the area where you specialize in. All the locations of important amenities should be at your fingertips. You should also keep up with local property prices and trends, as well as current issues and happenings in your neighbourhood. These will help you answer any queries that clients have and if you can provide them a solid answer, they’ll definitely be impressed.

4) Form Extensive Networks

You’ve definitely heard the phrase ‘No man is an island’. Well, in the real estate business, ‘No Agent is an island’. You need to make friends with other agents so that you can gain advice. Apart from that, you should hook up with the best appraisers, contractors, developers, financiers and insurance providers so you can provide a full package of service to your clients.

5) Invest in Advertising

Vary your mode of advertisement, from online to old school leaflets, and make sure your details are printed clearly. In some cases, you may need to spend a bit in order to make your name the most searchable one for the area where you’re based.

6) Explain things patiently

Many of your property sales or rental deals will involve people who are experiencing the process for the first time. Therefore, your job is to make sure they fulfill all the necessary steps and that you help in educating them what these steps are. Under no circumstance should you ever blame your clients or make them feel stupid if they say they don’t know. You will gain immense gratitude is you make the process comfortable for them.