Building a Network as a New Real Estate Agent

Why Networking is Crucial in Real Estate

Starting as a real estate agent can be challenging, but building a strong network is key to success. The real estate industry thrives on relationships—whether with clients, fellow agents, or industry professionals. A well-established network can provide referrals, mentorship, and valuable market insights.

1. Leverage Your Personal and Professional Contacts

Before reaching out to strangers, tap into your existing network:

• Family & Friends: Let them know you're in real estate. They may know someone looking to buy or sell.

• Former Colleagues & Clients: If you’ve worked in a different industry, previous connections can turn into leads.

• Community Groups & Local Events: Attend neighborhood gatherings to meet potential clients naturally.

  
  

Real-World Example:

Sarah, a new agent in Vancouver, started by contacting friends and family. Her cousin was looking to buy a condo, which led to her first sale and a referral to another buyer.

2. Attend Real Estate Networking Events & Conferences

Connecting with experienced professionals can accelerate your growth. Look for:

• Local real estate meetups (check platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite).

• Industry conferences such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) events.

• Brokerage training sessions—a great way to meet top-performing agents.

3. Use Social Media to Build Your Brand

Your online presence is as important as your in-person network. Here’s how to stand out:

• LinkedIn: Connect with real estate professionals and share market insights.

• Instagram & Facebook: Post property listings, success stories, and client testimonials.

• TikTok & YouTube: Create educational videos about home buying, market trends, and real estate tips.

Pro Tip:

Engage with comments, answer questions, and provide free insights—this helps establish credibility and attract potential clients.

4. Partner with Local Businesses

Form partnerships with businesses related to real estate:

• Mortgage brokers – Cross-referrals benefit both parties.

• Home inspectors & contractors – Trusted professionals enhance your client service.

• Interior designers & stagers – Help sellers prepare homes for the market.

Example:

John, a Toronto-based agent, teamed up with a local coffee shop to sponsor a real estate Q&A event. This boosted his exposure and brought in three new clients.

5. Join Real Estate Associations and Online Communities

Being part of a professional organization enhances credibility and opens networking doors:

• Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV)

• British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA)

• Facebook & Reddit real estate groups

6. Follow Up and Stay Connected

Meeting people is just the beginning—consistent follow-up is where relationships are built:

• Send a thank-you email or message after networking events.

• Keep in touch with valuable market updates.

• Offer assistance even if there’s no immediate transaction.

7. Continue Learning and Improving

A knowledgeable agent attracts more clients. Keep learning by:

• Attending real estate training sessions.

• Following market trends and updates.

• Taking online courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy.

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Career?

If you're just getting started, check out our comprehensive guide on becoming a real estate agent in British Columbia: How to Become a Real Estate Agent in British Columbia. This guide walks you through licensing, training, and industry insights.

Final Thoughts

Networking as a new real estate agent is about building genuine relationships. By staying active in your community, engaging online, and forming partnerships, you’ll establish a strong foundation for long-term success.