How My Referral Network Can Work For You

A real estate referral network is an organized system for sending information about prospective customers from one office to another. Referrals -- either for a potential buyer or a property to be listed for sale -- are sent to other markets when the customer can’t be serviced effectively where the lead originates. For example, if a seller in one town wants to move to another, the lead would be referred to the referral network’s office in that market.

So, what does sending referrals between real estate offices have to do with a local home seller? In a word – plenty! Generally, about 75% of people who buy a home do so for lifestyle reasons, and are trading within their own market area. Out of market buyers, including transferees who move due to a change in job location, make up the balance. Therefore, access to a strong referral network is important even if you aren’t moving out of town, since it can generate potential buyers for your home from outside your market. 

Companies with good referral networks receive the lion’s share of out-of-town buyers. While some local independent brokers may be involved in sending referrals, it is often on a much more informal basis. To do it well involves an established network and communications systems, as well as effective follow-up.

Although transferees account for only one part of the real estate market, in terms of serious buyers, this group has even greater importance than local prospects! When people are transferred between cities, they have to find a new home. People who want a new home only for lifestyle reasons usually don’t have to buy. The urgency isn’t there. So, out-of-town buyers can be even more advantageous to a person who wants to sell their property quickly.

Moving from Calgary? Ask me for a referral to a qualified MaxWell broker in your new city and then together we can prepare for the sale of your home in Calgary. Remember, a company’s ability to attract out of town buyers can help to increase your chances of selling your property. You owe it to yourself to use it to your best advantage. 

Frank N. McCullough, M.Eng. REALTOR
MaxWell City Central
Phone: (403) 542-1799
Email: frankmc@creb.com