4 Professional Phone Etiquette Tips for Real Estate Agents

By Jacqueline Smith

Jacqueline Smith started in real estate in 2015 and sold 52 homes her first year in the business as a solo agent. After considering growing her own team, and exploring different team models, she decided to partner with Place in 2017. The partnership allowed her to fast track her growth, and provide better systems and models to her agent partners. Her and her team in Vancouver Washington now close over $165M in annual sales volume, while keeping the quality of the agent and client experience at the forefront.

As a real estate agent, are you answering calls effectively? Phone etiquette is one of the most basic things you need to know if you’re in the real estate business. That’s why today, I’m sharing some tips that will benefit you, whether you’re a seasoned agent or just starting out.

Tip No. 1: Have a professional voicemail recorded on your phone. When someone reaches your voicemail, it should include your name, that you’re a local real estate professional, your brokerage, and any personal message you want to include. I call a lot of agents and am surprised when their messages aren’t professional. So, make sure callers know you’re a real estate agent.

Tip No. 2: Answer your phone in a professional manner. When you answer the phone, I suggest saying, “Hi, this is (your name) with (your brokerage).” Feel free to create your own greeting, but make sure to identify yourself as a real estate professional when you answer.

Tip No. 3: Actually answer your phone. This is obvious, but I’d like to reiterate that we are in the business of building relationships, and speed to lead is so important. When someone calls, make sure to answer your phone quickly. In your first few years, being prompt and professional will set you apart from other agents. It’s a simple action that will take you further than you may think.

Tip No. 4: Do not be rude. When I was a new agent, someone told me, “Jacqueline, you’re now a professional friend-maker.” So, no matter who calls, always respond gracefully and maintain your professionalism throughout the call. You never know when you might work with that person later, maybe on their listing or at an open house.

You want to build a great reputation in the real estate community, including with lenders and title affiliates who may call you with sales inquiries. Remember that you might work with them on future transactions.

Don’t burn bridges; instead, be seen as positive and professional. It will benefit your business more than you think.

I hope these four tips help you. I know they’re foundational for many of you, but I also recognize that some people who are new in the business may not have the experience in a professional setting.

Go record those new voicemail messages, and let me know if I can assist you with anything. You can always reach out to me at (360) 560-1156 or send an email to jacqueline@evergreenrealestatepartners.com. I’m happy to help in any way I can.