Realtors vs. Politicians

Securing One's "Base"

No, I'm not going to weigh in on the Massachusetts Senate race (at least not on this blog).

But I am going to note -- as I have before -- the surprising parallels between politics and real estate.

Politicians have a core group of supporters, called their "base."

Realtors have a core group of clients and prospects, called their "sphere."

In both cases, the key to success is to secure one's base while at the same time expanding one's appeal to the broader public.

Realtor's "Sphere"

While Realtor "spheres" can be professional, social, interest-based, etc., a tried-and-true sphere is still geographic: where you live.

One of the most gratifying things for a Realtor is to establish a reputation as the "go-to" Realtor for their immediate neighborhood.

Surprise! Realtors are competitive animals with (at least) average-sized egos.

Conversely, one of the most discouraging things is to see a rival "hoist their flag" (a For Sale sign with their company's logo) in your own backyard (or, more accurately, across the street).

Fortunately, I've had more of the former experiences than the latter!