WASHINGTON EDITION
ADDING VALUE TO LISTINGS
Small Yard? Big Statement:
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF MICRO OUTDOOR SPACES
& the Advantage of Identifying Neighborhood Amenities
Key Mistakes To Avoid For
Agent Strategies To
A SUCCESSFUL HOME SALE
GROW YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE COVER STORY
SHANNON JONES
WASHINGTON EDITION
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SHANNON
SHANNON JONES JONES
CONTENTS 4) Adding Value To Listings & The Advantage Of Identifying Neighborhood Amenities
15) Small Yard? Big Statement: How To Make The Most Out Of Micro Outdoor Spaces
6) Agent Strategies To Grow Your Social Media Presence
20) Key Mistakes To Avoid For A Successful Home Sale 22) Creative Meditation For The Real Estate Professional
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Adding Value to Listings & the Advantage of Identifying Neighborhood Amenities Everyone knows the famous real estate phrase: location, location, location. In fact, it is hard to underestimate the pivotal role that a region can play when it comes to determining a home’s value. In today’s competitive market, the littlest things can truly add up—especially when it comes to neighborhood amenities. While most savvy agents know the figures regarding school 4
district ranking and local property taxes, have you ever considered the under-the-radar amenities that drive buyers and bidding wars? To derive the highest value from a listed home, you need to paint a complete picture of the area in which you’re selling. With that guiding principle in mind, let’s consider a few modern amenities and how they add drastically to your bottom line.
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Walking a fifteen-minute radius of the area or performing a deep-dive into customer review sites or food blogs can help you identify hidden gems or local favorites. A little can go a long way: restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment
Know thy history: creating a narrative of the neighborhood
Everyone has a favorite take-out spot, coffee shop, or neighborhood watering hole. Identifying the key players in an area—such as restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment hotspots—will create a livable picture that prospective buyers can latch onto. Walking a fifteen-minute radius of the area or performing a deep-dive into customer review sites or food blogs can help you identify hidden gems or local favorites. While a cute coffee shop down the street may seem like a bonus instead of a foundational amenity, you never know what kind of homebuyer you might net if you include the cozy characteristics that make a house a home.
As humans, we’re drawn to narratives. Sales pitches and marketing campaigns hinge on an alluring storyline. That’s why understanding a neighborhood’s history can frame and contextualize a property to great effect. After all, buyers aren’t just drawn to sturdy foundations and bedroom counts; they like to imagine their lives unfolding inside those four walls. Get a sense of the area’s historical timeline, architectural style, noteworthy community members, and the like. Conveying this intriguing information to buyers helps them connect more personally with a property, while understanding the holistic picture of their potential new home.
From here to there: public transportation and commuter access While this rule may not apply to all properties, considering access to public transportation is a major draw for today’s buyers. Especially amidst the more eco-conscious Millennial segment eager to buy within city limits—knowing public transportation access points and schedules can add serious value to listed properties. Also, think outside the box: do nearby thoroughfares boast dedicated bike lanes? Are there plans to expand rail lines to the area in the future? Deliver a confidant picture of the area’s public transportation access and prospective buyers will trust your expertise. Top Agent Magazine
While it is always good to cover the basics of school districts and property values, it is even more useful to expand your knowledge base and bring a warm, human element to locational knowledge. Not only will you appeal to a younger demographic of homebuyers who values this strategic information, but you will also broaden your understanding of your service area at large. Think of it this way: a neighborhood is far more than a collection of homes on a block. A neighborhood is about atmosphere, access, and a sense of community. If you authentically appeal to this guiding truth, and buyers will surely rise to the occasion.
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AGENT STRATEGIES TO
GROW YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE In real estate, where connections and maintaining relationships with clients are crucial, having a strong social media presence is essential for any REALTOR®. A wellcrafted agent profile on social platforms can not only showcase your expertise but 6
also help you connect with a wider audience, build trust, and ultimately grow your business. Here are some comprehensive agent-profile tips to elevate your social media presence and establish a strong online persona:
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CREATE AN ENGAGING AND INFORMATIVE BIO
Your bio should introduce you as a real estate expert and spotlight your specialties, service areas, and what makes you unique. Include relevant keywords so you will rank high in a Google search.
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HAVE A PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE IN PROFILE PICTURES
It’s important to have a clear, high-definition photo of yourself. You should look professional, but at the same time approachable. Wear clothes that align with your brand, and keep the background simple.
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SHOW OFF YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS
Share your professional success, accomplishments, accreditations, and awards. This will enhance your credibility and make you appealing to potential clients. Those who visit your social media site will know you’re an expert.
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MAINTAIN A PERSONAL CONNECTION THROUGH POSTS
Buying and selling real estate is a highly personal experience. It’s vital that you showcase your personality and relatability. Clients want to work with someone who they feel comfortable with. Incorporate your hobbies, personal anecdotes, and interests in your posts.
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HIGHLIGHT YOUR COMMUNITY WORK
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CREATE CONTENT THAT CAPTIVATES
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ENGAGE FOLLOWERS
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KEEP TO A SCHEDULE
Whether you’re sponsoring an event, volunteering, or supporting local businesses, it’s beneficial to show your followers that you care for your community. It will help portray a positive brand image, and demonstrate a dedication to the areas you serve as a REALTOR®.
Produce varied and interesting content, balancing listings with insights into the market, news, and tips for buyers or sellers. This will keep your followers engaged and help solidify your status as a top expert in the field.
When people comment or message you, it’s important to respond. It’s also great to get conversations going on your social media pages by posing questions with your posts, running polls, or asking for opinions.
Post regularly on social media, at times when your audience is most active. This will ensure your posts are being seen by the largest audience possible. And when your followers know when to expect your posts, they will remember to check it out.
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POST BEHIND THE SCENES INSIGHTS
Offer a look into your everyday life in the real estate world, including preparing for open houses, client meetings, or your office setup. Maintaining an authentic presence will help you connect to your followers.
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DON’T FORGET ABOUT STORIES AND REELS
Take advantage of Instagram and Facebook’s Stories and Reels. This is where you can post more spontaneous and creative content. Some of the highest engagement on social media happens on these platforms.
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STRATEGIC HASHTAG USE
Use hashtags that are relevant to what you’re posting. You can even create your own hashtag that reflects your brand. When you use a mix of the two, you’ll reach a larger audience.
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COLLABORATE WITH PEERS
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CREATE EDUCATIONAL CONTENT
Don’t be afraid to partner up with local businesses, industry influencers, and other professionals. You can cross-promote content and create content together. This will introduce you and your brand to new audiences.
Establish yourself as an expert by sharing knowledge about the real estate market, 8
process, or regulatory changes. Educating your audience not only demonstrates your expertise but also provides them with valuable information.
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POST CLIENT FEEDBACK
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QUALITY VISUALS ARE KEY
Feature positive feedback from satisfied clients. Testimonials build trust and provide social proof of your skills and commitment to client satisfaction. Consider creating visually appealing graphics or dedicated posts to showcase these testimonials.
Invest in high-quality visuals for your posts. Clear and appealing images are crucial in the real estate industry, whether you’re showcasing a property, sharing a personal story, or promoting your services. Professional visuals make a significant impact on social media platforms. Remember, building a strong social media presence is an ongoing process that requires a blend of creativity, consistency, and genuine engagement. Regularly assess your analytics to understand what resonates with your audience, and adjust your strategy accordingly. By incorporating these agent-profile tips, you can effectively grow your social media presence, establish a meaningful connection with your current and potential clients, and differentiate yourself in the competitive real estate landscape.
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SHANNON JONES Top Agent Magazine
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SHANNON JONES Top Agent Shannon Jones focuses her efforts on the Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick areas in Washington, where she finds joy in helping people achieve their real estate dreams. Naturally hardworking and goal-oriented, Shannon Jones was looking for another gig to supplement her long-time government position. A true people person with a love for homes, she decided on real estate and earned her license. “It was part-time at first,” she explains. “I have always worked 10 Copyright Top Agent Magazine
two jobs since I was about 16 years old, and I occasionally got to watch my biological father work as an agent in Colorado, so I already knew I would enjoy it.” Her early exposure to the field laid the groundwork for what would become not just a career but a passion. It wasn’t long before Top Agent Magazine
Shannon was resigning from her previous path and putting in full-time work as a REALTOR®. Focusing her efforts on the Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick areas in Washington, she finds joy in helping people achieve their real estate dreams. Growing up in the area since fourth grade has not only made her deeply invested in the community but also exceptionally
knowledgeable about its unique attributes, including its strong educational system, four distinct seasons, and the Hanford Site, which attracts a diverse range of professionals from around the globe. Shannon’s blend of local insight and genuine care for her clients has resulted in an impressive 30 to 35% repeat and referral business rate.
Growing up in the area, Shannon’s blend of local insight and genuine care for her clients has resulted in an impressive 30 to 35% repeat and referral business rate.
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For Shannon, the focus is not on the money, but on providing an exceptional experience. “My main philosophy is, it doesn’t matter how many units I sell, because each client to me is a success.” After interviewing Shannon it became clear that making money is NOT her focus, providing an exceptional experience for her clients is her top priority. She truly does not care about the number of units she sells; her concern is whether or not she made her client feel valued and aims to exceeded their expectations. Shannon wholeheartedly believes her success is a gift from God and giving back to others, what God has given her, brings her joy. Shannon puts her belief Copyright Top Agent Magazine 12
into practice, as evidenced by her significant contributions through the Homes for Heroes program. By giving back $160,000 to clients who qualified for this program over three years, Shannon has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication to her community. Her involvement doesn’t stop with financial contributions, as she also frequently volunteers with local organizations, such as one that fights against the sexual trafficking of minors. This blend Top Agent Magazine
of professional integrity, generosity, and active community engagement marks Shannon as not just a real estate agent but a pivotal community figure. When it comes to marketing herself and her listings, Shannon harnesses the power of social media and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ marketing team. “We have,
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bar none, the best marketing team on the face of the earth, I believe,” she says. Her strategy involves getting a listing ready, complete with professional photography, then letting the marketing team craft and execute social media campaigns. Through this collaboration she is able to focus on what she does best, serving her clients directly.
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Her future plans include nurturing the next generation of real estate professionals, starting with mentoring her son as he completes his real estate education. As the years go by, she’ll continue to soak up every minute she gets with clients. It’s what she loves most about her work. “I love being able to
help the lowest low-income or first-time buyer and making their dreams come true,” she reflects. “I love handing over those keys and seeing their faces when they walk into their first home, it’s just such an amazing experience to be by their side through it all.”
For more about Shannon, please call 509-254-3447 or email SJones@bhhscentral.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 14
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Small Yard? Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces When house-hunters compile their lists of musthave home items, a dreamy backyard space is often near the top. After all, who doesn’t want an outdoor oasis of their very own? From summer barbecues to open space for your dog to frolic— everyone has their own aspirations when it comes to creating the perfect backyard paradise. But as homebuyers seek properties deeper within city limits, and Millennials opt for properties with Top Agent Magazine
urban amenities and access, home-connected outdoor spaces are becoming a bit smaller in stature. Of course, size isn’t everything when it comes to outdoor space. Even balconies, rear patios, and ultra-tiny yards can provide homebuyers with the outdoor reprieve they crave—even on a smaller scale. For a few ideas that can help you envision all the possibilities of a micro outdoor space, read on for inspiration.
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Think vertically. When space is at a premium, think up instead of out. In other words, make the most of small spaces by capitalizing on your backyard, balcony, or patio’s overhead height. Mood-setting string lights, hanging pocket or wall gardens, floating shelves, and modern overhead hangings can create a sense of privacy and luxury without cluttering the square footage on the ground.
Soothing sounds set the mood.
Upgrade the look of structural components. Not in love with your patio pavers? Don’t have the sweetest view off your balcony? Whatever your small backyard living space gripe may be, there’s always a solution if you go back to the basics. Consider the structural components of your outdoor space that you aren’t in love with and there’s likely an affordable, eye-pleasing solution. For instance, plenty of home goods 16
retailers make a variety of punchy or luxe outdoor rugs that can disguise stained or lackluster outdoor flooring. Power-washing is another great solution for old grime and dirt that’s an eyesore. Don’t have a great view? Planting ivy on bare walls, installing adjustable mood lighting, or hanging planters can create a more inviting ambiance.
While there may not be room for a swimming pool or pond in a micro yard or balcony, you can still bring the calming presence of water to your outdoor oasis. Fountains run the gamut in sizing and price, making this amenity an easy acquisition. What’s more, a running fountain not only adds a soothing sound to your space, but it also helps drown out noise from the street or the neighbors—making your space entirely your own and stress-free.
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Don’t compromise on your culinary dreams. If you love to entertain in outdoor spaces or relish the chance to man the grill—small outdoor spaces don’t have to trip you up. Grill options (both propane and charcoal) come in a range of sizes, many of which can be outfitted securely to balcony posts or be tucked away and out of sight when out of use. Consider nesting tables or those with a removable leaf to adjust your seating and dining options depending on company.
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Another trick? A small, oscillating fan can keep air flow moving in a small space during grill season—and can be easily affixed to walls or posts, as well. Don’t let yourself or clients be discouraged by spaces with more limited square footage in outdoor areas. Furniture and design trends have already begun shifting toward providing better small-space options, and at the end of the day, a backyard space is all about providing an area for relaxation. With a few well-placed, strategic choices, you can still have it all.
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Laughs!
Graham Harrop Graham Harrop Cartoons Cartoons
Putting the power of humour to work for you!
Putting the power of humour to work for you! grahamharrop.com
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KEY MISTAKES TO AVOID FOR A SUCCESSFUL HOME SALE Steering clear of these common home selling errors is essential for a seamless and effective 20
transaction. Here are some top home-selling mistakes to avoid:
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Picking the Wrong Agent
Low-Quality Listing Photos
An experienced and compatible real estate agent is crucial. Select an agent with a strong performance history and knowledge of your local market.
Dishonesty
Improper List Price
Avoid setting an unrealistic asking price. Analyze the local market and similar properties to find a competitive and fair price.
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Not Making Repairs
Make necessary repairs and improvements to attract buyers. Addressing issues beforehand can make your home more appealing.
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No Home Staging
Proper staging is key. Declutter, depersonalize, and arrange furniture to highlight your home’s features.
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Not Tending to Curb Appeal
First impressions are vital. Enhance your home’s exterior with maintenance, landscaping, and possibly a new paint job.
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Ensure your listing has high-quality photos. Attractive, clear images can significantly impact buyer interest.
Lack of Marketing
Expand beyond traditional marketing. Utilize online platforms and various channels to increase your home’s visibility.
Be transparent. Fully disclose the property’s condition to avoid potential legal complications.
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Having Emotions Involved
Maintain a business perspective. Emotional attachment can complicate the selling process.
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Ignoring Market Trends
Understanding current market dynamics can guide your decisions regarding pricing and the best time to sell.
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Not Being Flexible
Openness in negotiations can facilitate a sale. Be willing to consider reasonable offers and compromises.
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Unprepared Showings
Maintain a show-ready home at all times. A tidy and clean environment can make a strong impression during unexpected showings.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of selling your home quickly and at a satisfactory price. Top Agent Magazine
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Creative Meditation
for the Real Estate Professional The real estate world can be an industry of intense emotional and psychological pressure. Deadlines, meetings, employee needs, client needs and a hundred other items on which one needs to focus on a daily basis can create an environment that is not only not conducive to mental well-being, but can be outright detrimental.
easily into the daily hustle & bustle world of the busy real estate agent.
Learning to quiet the mind has been the focus of meditation for millennia. While those not familiar with the concept of meditation may instinctively think of yoga mats, incense, and chanting when the word “meditation” arises, there are in fact, many forms of meditation that can integrate quite
• When driving to a showing or to meet a client
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First, think about when you are alone each day. Here are some possible times to practice mediation during the work day: • When driving to the office in the morning
• Before your open house begins • After the open house • Driving home in the evening Top Agent Magazine
Repeating a mantra can be very calming, particularly when you are trying to rid yourself of negative, self-defeating thoughts. These are just five examples of times when you can take advantage of meditation techniques to quiet your mind and, by extension, increase productivity. A calm mind is a more thoughtful, better tuned instrument. Here are some examples of meditations you can try:
1 For when you’re driving, download and listen to any number of audio Guided Meditations available on the internet. YouTube has a generous selection of these, many of which are geared towards success in business. 2 Repeating a mantra can be very calm-
ing, particularly when you are trying to rid yourself of negative, self-defeating thoughts. It doesn’t matter what words you choose, as long as you feel good about your choice. “I am a success” or “I will approach all of my clients with love today” are two examples. Whatever works for you and gets you into the desired mindset.
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3 Something as simple as listening to pleasant music in your car can be considered meditation, provided it brings you to a place of comfort as opposed to one of spiritual discordance.
4 The most important thing, however, is to take time to find gratitude in everything you do. Count your blessings, be grateful the exciting career in real estate you have built for yourself.
Once you’ve mastered some of these techniques at quieting your mind, you can attempt to find some that work even better for you. Walking, plain silence, or even exercise can have meditative qualities and benefits if practiced on a regular basis. When you’re truly feeling calm, your clients can sense this. And with this comes the feeling that you can be relied upon to stay focused and calm in any unforeseen circumstances. And in the world of real estate, that’s a highly prized commodity. 23
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