Episode 88: Listener Q&A — Real Estate Tips, Lessons, and Laughs
In this episode of Hustle Humbly, we’re diving into more of your incredible listener questions! This is Part 2 of our Q&A series, and we’re kicking things off with real stories, practical advice, and honest reflections about what I wish I knew as a new realtor. Whether you’re brand new to the industry or in a season of reevaluation, this episode is packed with relatable experiences and valuable lessons that can help shape a thriving real estate career.
Hilarious Challenges: Real Estate Signs in Tough Terrain
We start off with a laugh, sharing tips on how to get your sign in the ground when the soil is rock-hard—or even frozen. From custom mallets to clever water tricks and awkward encounters with limestone yards, this segment highlights real-life problem-solving and humor in real estate. Spoiler alert: frozen ground isn’t our specialty, but teamwork and creativity go a long way.
What I Wish I Knew as a New Realtor
This episode dives deep into what I wish I knew as a new realtor. From building a strong database early to embracing open houses—even without listings—we reflect on those critical early decisions. We share how creating structure and learning from trial and error ultimately helped us grow. Setting boundaries, even before kids or burnout, came up as one of the most important lessons. Respecting other agents’ time and not treating every client concern as an emergency? Game changers.
For more tips on starting strong, check out Episodes 17 and 26.
Networking Fatigue: Is It Normal to Always Be “On”?
We answer a relatable listener question: Is it normal to always feel like you’re networking? The answer is no. You don’t have to be in sales mode at every family gathering or soccer game. You’re allowed to be human. We believe in authentic relationship-building, not treating people as transactions. Yes, be open about your profession—but you don’t need to wear a name tag to the grocery store.
Relevant episodes include:
-
Episode 5 (Boundaries and Self Care)
-
Episode 85 (Emotional Boundaries)
-
Episode 39 (Love Your Sphere)
New City? New Career? No Problem.
Starting over in a new city during COVID? We’ve got ideas. Whether it’s leveraging online community groups, jumping into Zoom meetups, or creating social content that helps you get found, you can still build relationships and grow your sphere digitally. The same applies for new realtors looking for connection. Lead by showing up and adding value, even virtually.
Postcard Farming: Does It Work?
A listener asked about postcard marketing—and whether it’s still effective with the rise of digital tools. One of us had great results using a 4-part postcard series in a specific neighborhood (leading to six closings and over $30K in commissions). The secret? Consistency and targeting. Just don’t expect a recipe card to random zip codes to do the trick.
Helping Clients… Who Aren’t Actually Your Clients
We get real about sticky situations—like when friends list with another agent but then come to you for advice. Our tip? Stay professional. Always direct them back to their agent. If they press, ask, “What did your agent say?” It protects everyone involved and keeps your reputation intact.
Setting Expectations and Boundaries
Another hot topic: what to do when a client only wants to communicate at night. We stress the importance of setting boundaries early. Use email templates. Don’t train clients to expect instant replies at all hours. New agents often confuse being available with being professional—start as you mean to go.
Should I Join or Start a Team?
If you’re wondering whether to join a team, build one, or stay solo, we break down the pros and cons. We reflect on our personal paths and emphasize the importance of knowing your goals, strengths, and systems before making a big change. Also—do the math! Understand how commissions split on a team before you commit.
For more, listen to Episode 81 (Do You Need an Assistant?) and Episode 56 (Broker Interviews).
Do Brokers Owe Leads to Top Agents?
A provocative question! We explore whether brokers should give leads or incentives to their top producers. The short answer: it depends. We discuss fairness, the broker’s business model, and the importance of creating your own opportunities. Ultimately, your income is your responsibility.
Are You Really Generating Leads or Just Chasing Numbers?
We challenge the traditional idea of “lead generation.” Instead of cold calls and forced conversations, we prefer building genuine connections through social media, sphere engagement, and community involvement. Our goal is to run a business that aligns with our values—and that means no sleazy sales tactics.
Templates and Notes That Don’t Feel Salesy
Handwritten notes still go a long way. We share a template we’ve used to ask for referrals in a non-salesy way. It’s about staying top-of-mind with your sphere in a genuine way, not begging for business.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Own Way
As always, the heart of Hustle Humbly is about helping you find your own way in real estate. These listener questions gave us the perfect chance to dig deep into what’s working, what’s not, and what really matters. And if you’re wondering what I wish I knew as a new realtor? It’s this: protect your energy, focus on relationships, and keep showing up with integrity.
Want more help building your real estate career with ease and impact?
Check out Episode 17 (“What to Do If You’re New or Slow”) and Episode 9 (“Your Database”) for even more resources.
ratethispodcast.com/hustlehumbly
