As a real estate agent, the relationships you have with others in your community are among your most important assets. One reason why Homesale Realty professionals are so successful is because of their dedication to building and sustaining those relationships over the long term.

As a real estate agent, your ability to bring a personal touch to your relationships is one way you can stand out. With that in mind, all real estate agents should get familiar with a classic, powerful tool for relationship management: The "thank you" letter.

Thank you letters, of course, are nothing new. Research has shown that job applicants who send a thank you letter to their interviewers are more likely than others to get the job. However, very few people will actually take the time to do it. This is where you have the opportunity to make a difference.

After all, you never know when someone you met might need to buy or sell a home!

With that in mind, let's look at some of the best recipients for a thank you note:

1. Potential Buyers You Just Met
   Early on in the relationship, it might not be a good time to go straight to SMS text. Instead, you can send a personal note with your hopes to work together and encouragement to continue the process. You can also include other helpful printed material, such as a report on the local real estate market.
   
   
2. Buyers You've Just Shown a Home
   You might have more face-time with buyers by the time you show them a home, but the attention and care of a personal note is still impressive. Encourage the buyers to get in contact with any questions or comments and reassure them you're still out there looking for great properties on their behalf.
   
   
3. Buyers You Just Helped Close
   Many buyers, even those who are most satisfied with your help, will quickly forget your name within a few months after closing. Sending a thank you note within a week of closing day is one way to stay in mind. An occasional postcard on holidays and big anniversaries will help, too.
   
   
4. Sellers You've Just Listed
   Sellers are often anxious about the process and wonder just how much attention they'll get from their real estate agent once the listing is active. A thank you note helps build trust and gives you a meaningful opportunity to explain exactly how you'll be helping "behind the scenes."
   
   
5. Sellers Who've Closed Successfully
   Closing day is often a sincere relief to sellers, many of whom have pressing personal or financial reasons to sell when they do. Leverage that big moment with a simple thank you letter that might brighten their day and bring you to mind when they need real estate help in the future.
   
   
6. Title Companies, Lenders, Real Estate Lawyers, and Other Vendors
   First-time buyers are often stunned to learn just how many people are involved in the process of selling a home. As a real estate pro, you'll work closely with experts throughout the value chain, so be sure they know how you appreciate their hard work and insight.
   
   
7. Buyers One Year After Closing Day
   After a year, buyers have settled into their new home and started making the kind of memories that will last for a lifetime. Cheer on their accomplishment during this big milestone! With some luck, they might already know a friend or family member who could use your services.

Thank you letters represent one more little touch that helps you go from "good" to "great" in your real estate practice. To find out more, contact BHHS Homesale Realty.