Chairman’s message: What are your business New Year’s resolutions?

By Jef Conn

January 01, 2024

When prospects and clients see how many different things we do to make sure transactions are as smooth as possible, they will better see your value!

What Are Your Business New Year’s Resolutions?

The new year is a great opportunity to look at areas for improvement, including our businesses. Many REALTORS® use the new year to jump-start changes or growth in their businesses. Even if you didn’t make resolutions before January 1, you can start now, or anytime. Here are some ideas to consider:

Focus on what you do for your clients and then share that with your clients!

There’s a lot of background noise in the media the past few months about the value of a REALTOR®. As a REALTOR®, you do a lot! You may even do more for your clients than you realize. The National Association of REALTORS® has written down 179 ways REALTORS® help their clients. To find the list, scan the code on this page or search “179 ways” at nar.realtor.

Do you do things not included on this list? Write those down and be sure to share what you do for your clients, no matter how small. When prospects and clients see how many different things we do to make sure transactions are as smooth as possible, they will better see your value!

Get comfortable talking about commissions

Most of our clients have heard something about the lawsuits occurring around the country, and they might be confused. Now’s a great time to remind them that commissions are always negotiable between brokers and clients. Sometimes, clients just need us to explain how the MLS compensation model works and how the commissions get paid at closing. Need additional talking points? Check out realestatecommissionfacts.com, which provides clear information about commissions. Team up with someone in your office and practice having conversations about commissions. Have any questions about how to discuss commissions? Be sure to talk to your broker.

Stay up to date on pending commission lawsuits

You’re going to hear a lot about the lawsuits this year, including those filed in Texas. You can stay on top of the latest, most-accurate information by visiting our dedicated webpage, texasrealestate.com/lawsuit and reading other Texas REALTORS® communications (like the article on page 28 of this issue).

Have fun

The most important resolution? Have fun! Real estate should be a challenging and rewarding career. Don’t forget to have fun. Get to know your competitors and get involved at your local board. The relationships you make in 2024 will help you in your business for years to come. Have fun doing it.

Your Texas REALTORS® Leadership Team has had lots of discussions about how we can best serve you, our members, in 2024. Our resolutions include keeping our members at the forefront of every discussion and every decision. You’ll hear us share a lot about transparency this year and how we’re working to make sure you, our members, are informed about what’s going on. Especially with these lawsuits. We’re here for you and for our industry.

Jef Conn is 2024 chairman of Texas REALTORS®.

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