Your brand isn't just what you say about yourself, but also what others say about you. The importance of personal branding as an agent is twofold:

• First, it gives you the opportunity to define your value and find your ideal clients.
• Second, it protects your reputation from misinformation in a fast-paced digital age.

Why Homesale Realty? The real estate industry is busier than ever before. No matter where you're based, odds are there are dozens of agencies at work in your local area. Homesale Realty helps you stand out and increase the odds that customers will seek you out when they want to buy or sell a home.

Personal Branding is the Gold Standard for Real Estate Agents

"Personal" branding is different from regular old branding because it puts you at the center. What makes personal branding different is that you've distinguished the value you bring to the table. Leads and customers will come to know you, recognize you, and seek you out.

A balanced approach to personal branding means people know they're getting help from a true expert, but they still feel they can trust their transaction to any member of the team. Think of a brand like Apple—so closely associated with founder Steve Jobs—or Tesla and Elon Musk.

Just as importantly, personal branding recognizes that most of your customers will be looking for a one-on-one connection. It's normal for them to be drawn to a personality they find trustworthy.

That personality might be authoritative, warm, or fun, but it has to be authentic.

How Real Estate Agents Can Get Started with Personal Branding

Many different moving parts go into a brand. Your brand isn't just what you say, it's also what you deliver over time and become known for, plus the buzz your brand generates about its value.

Here's how to get off to a great start:

1. Determine Who You Want to Serve
   Many real estate agents start off as generalists, but this means their brand is hard to tell apart from all the rest. Once you gain some experience, drill down to decide who your ideal customer is. Millennials, retirees, families, and real estate investors all respond to different brand elements.
   
   
2. Stand Behind Your Values
   Many companies tout their "corporate values" to humanize what their business does. You have an advantage: You live your values every day! Pick three to five values that are important to you. How will you make them part of the promised experience you offer customers?
   
   
3. Tell Your (Authentic) Story
   Real estate is one of the most popular second careers in America. Virtually everyone has a story about coming to the decision to practice real estate. Many customers go looking for this right away so they know who they're dealing with. Tell your story in your own words and get their attention.
   
   
4. Put Your Face Out There
   Digital marketing is essential in today's real estate world, but you should still add the personal touch to everything you do. One of the best ways is to ensure you're posting helpful, informative video content that will show you in action. This makes your other content come alive.

Personal branding situates you in a busy market and helps you develop your unique vision for your business. Contact BHHS Homesale Realty for personalized advice on starting your career in real estate or taking it to the next level.