Episode 179: Embracing Technology and Building Your Brand with Marki Lemons-Ryhal
In this episode of Hustle Humbly, we dive deep into technology tips for realtors with the one and only Marki Lemons-Ryhal. Marki is a six-time international bestselling author, a keynote speaker, and a powerhouse educator who specializes in helping agents get massive returns from simple tech and social media strategies. With decades of experience and a strong focus on entrepreneurship, she shares actionable insights to help real estate professionals thrive in today’s digital world.
From Reluctant Tech User to Industry Leader
Marki didn’t grow up with technology. At 52 years old, she openly shares that social media and tech didn’t come naturally to her. However, as a business owner, she knew she needed to follow the data. Early reports from NAR showed massive increases in internet use by buyers, and she made the decision to lean into tech for the sake of her business. Her advice to seasoned agents? Stop resisting change. Start learning by surrounding yourself with tech-savvy people and watching what works.
Finding Your People and Creating Meaningful Content
Marki stresses the importance of identifying your niche and tailoring your content to your target audience. For her, that means women aged 45–54 who want real conversations—about business, life, and yes, even bras. By speaking directly to her tribe, she builds trust and connection, which naturally leads to real estate conversations and referrals.
Real Estate SEO: Be Where People Are Searching
One of Marki’s most valuable technology tips for realtors is to speak in the language your audience uses when searching online. She recommends using Google Trends to see what buyers and sellers are searching for and creating content to match those terms. Want to be found for free? Focus on SEO and stop chasing virality. Instead, stay consistent and intentional with the information you share.
Using Canva for Lead Generation
Canva isn’t just for cute Instagram posts. Marki uses Canva to create full lead generation funnels—from ebooks to email signatures to websites. She teaches agents how to design lead magnets and landing pages, connect them with Google Forms, and deliver valuable downloads automatically. Her advice: invest in Canva Pro and use it to streamline your branding and marketing workflows.
Narrowing Down Your Platforms
Marki made the intentional decision to leave TikTok, Clubhouse, Snapchat, and Twitter—not because they aren’t valuable, but because her audience wasn’t there. She advises agents to find where their target clients are most active and focus there. For her, that means Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Real estate agents don’t need to be everywhere. They just need to be strategic and consistent.
The Importance of a CRM and Email Marketing
In addition to social media, Marki emphasizes having a strong CRM and email marketing strategy. She currently uses Kajabi and Wise Agent and has tried several platforms over the years. The key takeaway? Get your contacts into a CRM and consistently nurture them. Use the data to make decisions and build a sustainable, referral-based business.
Building a Retirement Plan with Multiple Income Streams
Marki also shares her impressive business structure: 13 streams of income, from referral fees and speaking to book publishing and e-commerce. She openly discusses planning for retirement and intentionally building a business that runs without her needing to be everywhere at once. It’s an inspiring example of what’s possible in real estate when you diversify your income and embrace change.
Final Thoughts and a Toast
We wrap up the episode by toasting Marki’s mentor, Frank Williams, who changed the trajectory of her career by encouraging her to pursue education and public speaking in real estate. Marki’s journey is proof that you can succeed by embracing technology, staying curious, and focusing on what truly matters—serving your audience and building relationships.
Key Takeaways:
- Use technology tips for realtors like Canva and Google Trends to grow your business organically.
- Focus on platforms where your audience is already active.
- Build a CRM and use it to manage your database and automate follow-up.
- Be consistent with your content and align it with what people are already searching for.
- Diversify your income and build a business that supports your lifestyle and long-term goals.
Connect with Marki: Visit markilemons.com to learn more about her courses, books, and speaking engagements.
