- You need to set
better boundaries
- as a realtor
- The Local Element
- January 19, 2024
Setting boundaries seems to be a common topic among the real estate industry.
so Let's talk about it!
1: Define your work hours
We totally get it, work hours as a real estate agent can be a touchy subject. We tend to stay up working late nights and spend our weekends with our clients. We do a lot of work on the common “off hours.”
However, it IS possible to set boundaries in this area if you can manage them accordingly.
Set (realistic) work hours and stick to them as closely as possibly. Communicate these hours and set expectations.
2: Use technology available to you
We want to touch on technology second because utilizing technology can help fill gaps when it comes to defining your working hours!
We suggest you utilize technology available to you like setting up automated responses to clients during your non-working hours to let them know when they can expect a reply. A simple email back to your client will let them know you aren’t simply ignoring them but will work on getting back to them as soon as you are not preoccupied.
Other technology solutions could be programs like Zapier which allows your mundane tasks to be automated so that you are able to do what you are best at, the people work!
You could also consider using Calendly, which allows your people to set appointments with you according to your current schedule!
3: Learn to say "no"
Which also means: learn your limits and don’t take on more than you can handle.
If taking on another opportunity causes an interference with your ability to give your current clients quality service, is it worth the risk?
In addition, if taking on an opportunity causes a rift in your work-life balance, you may need to reconsider other options.
Managing your workload and saying no to potential opportunities may save you a lot in the long run, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.
4: Set client expectations
Start managing expectations from the beginning. You don’t want to get down the road in the process of helping your client and have them upset with availability or response times!
While setting restrictions may seem unique in the world of real estate, it is important for you and your mental health to set boundaries. Plus, YOU get to make make these boundaries!
This is one of the appealing parts of the industry, you get to pick and choose how you work and when you work. If you want to go all day and night for your clients, that’s totally up to you! If you want to set a cut off time in the evening, this is your choice. Just make sure to stick with your plan because exceptions will turn into regular occurrences if you aren’t careful.
5: Schedule personal time
Say what?! Schedule time for relaxing?
…yes.
Schedule time to relax, for hobbies, and for social time! And, treat it with the same importance you would when you schedule time with a client.
Personal time is necessary and will help you in the long run. Don’t skip it!
Bonus: Regularly evaluate & adjust
If things are working great with your work/life balance and there is no need to adjust, that’s awesome. However, things change in life and work regularly, which we’re sure you already know.
So, take the time to assess your boundaries down the road and see if adjustments need to be made. Make sure to revisit every once in a while as life changes and keep creating the balance you want and needs.
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Our tip:
Start out by looking at Facebook marketplace for less expensive furniture, decor, and appliances.
Also, make sure to make calls regarding wifi early on. Take it from us, it is incredibly frustrating to move into your new office and not have wifi to get to work as soon as possible