Turn up the volume on your real estate success at Inman On Tour: Nashville! Connect with industry trailblazers and top-tier speakers to gain powerful insights, cutting-edge strategies, and invaluable connections. Elevate your business and achieve your boldest goals — all with Music City magic. Register now.
This post was updated Jan. 27, 2025.
Let’s get real — listings are the lifeblood of this business. Always have been and always will be. You know it. I know it. And here’s why: Listings don’t just sell homes; they create momentum. A good listing isn’t just a transaction — it’s a magnet for more business. It gets you calls, leads and buzz. Suddenly, your name is the one everybody’s talking about at neighborhood barbecues.
Listings also build your credibility. When people see your name on “for-sale” signs, social media posts, and sold stickers, they think, “Wow, this agent knows their stuff.” They don’t just see you as an agent — they see you as the agent. The one they want in their corner when it’s time to sell.
And let’s talk visibility. Every listing you take is like a mini marketing campaign for you and your business. Your sign in the yard, your posts online, your open houses — it all screams, “I know how to get homes sold!” And that attracts both buyers and sellers. It’s the ultimate two-for-one deal.
Here’s the kicker: As buyer agreements shift, being the go-to listing agent will matter more than ever. There’s a lot of talk about commissions and changes in how agents work with buyers. But one thing is sure: The agents who dominate in 2025 will be the ones who know how to secure listings, wow sellers and turn one success into many.
This isn’t just about picking up a few more listings here and there — it’s about becoming the agent everyone in town thinks of when they think of real estate. That’s market leadership. And it starts with having the right strategies to find leads and build relationships that lead to long-term success.
25 proven strategies for listing leads
Ready to step up and be the listing leader in your market? Let’s get into it — here are 25 proven strategies to help you crush it in 2025.
1. Call current FSBOs
They’re letting strangers into their homes. Position yourself as the safe, professional advocate they can trust.
2. Revive old FSBOs
Call those for-sale-by-owners who gave up months ago. With market shifts, they may be ready to try again — with your expertise.
3. Reach out to expired listings
They’ve already shown they want to sell. Be the agent who listens and offers solutions.
4. Reconnect with past clients
Offer a Neighborhood Market Report, and ask how they’re doing. Relationships matter.
5. Adopt orphan clients
Call clients of agents who’ve left the business (aka orphans), and let them know you’re here to help.
6. Host public open houses
Open houses are buyer and seller lead magnets. Make them exceptional experiences.
7. Create neighborhood-only open houses
Exclusivity attracts interest. Send special invites to neighbors before a public open house.
8. Network locally
Build connections with local business owners and professionals to expand your sphere.
9. Door knock with value
Door knock with an item of value, like a market report.
10. Commit to consistent direct mail
Direct mail campaigns work if you stay the course and follow up. One-and-done won’t cut it.
11. Send monthly e-newsletters
Save on postage while maintaining regular, engaging touches with your sphere.
12. Host informational seminars
Partner with vendors to host homebuying or selling seminars. Use family-friendly themes.
13. Write handwritten notes
A personal touch, like a handwritten note, stands out in a sea of digital communication.
14. Call rental owners
Many landlords are ready to cash out. Help them transition.
15. Wear a nametag everywhere
This simple step can spark “in-the-line” dialogues that lead to opportunities.
16. Pick a niche
Specialize in a market segment you’re passionate about, like first-time buyers or seniors.
17. Join PTAs or PTSAs
School partnerships build relationships and connections with local families.
18. Create community Facebook pages
Engage neighborhoods online through Facebook groups and pages to become the go-to resource in your area.
19. Wrap your car
Make every drive a branding opportunity. Wrap your car in your branding. People notice.
20. Sponsor local events
Booths at community events allow you to meet potential clients face-to-face.
21. Start a market podcast
Position yourself as the local market expert while building an audience.
22. Leverage ‘just-listed’ calls
Notify nearby homeowners about new listings and uncover more sellers.
23. Give out business cards
Is giving out business cards old-school? Yes. Is it effective? Absolutely. Always be ready to ask for business.
24. Engage on Instagram and Pinterest
Showcase listings creatively on Instagram and Pinterest and build a following.
25. Be the neighborhood reporter
Share local updates, trends, and real estate insights through videos, blogs, or newsletters.
How the heart leads to homes
Picking up the phone can be daunting. Many agents cling to scripts for comfort, but scripts can feel robotic, and frankly, they are a dead giveaway that screams inexperience. Instead, focus on genuine conversations. Listen, respond authentically, and build trust. When you call to provide value, the experience transforms for both you and the person on the other end.
The secret to success in 2025? Serve with heart, learn relentlessly, and adapt courageously. By embracing these 25 strategies, you’ll grow your business, enrich your community, and strengthen your network. The future is bright — it starts with your next listing.
Darryl Davis is the CEO of Darryl Davis Seminars. Connect with him on Facebook or YouTube.
