If you ask around, you will probably find that the average consumer knows more than one real estate agent. And, for the most part, I’d say that real estate professionals are not always seen in the most positive light. In fact, many are aligned with ambulance chasers and the stereotypical used car salesman. But, if you have sold more than one or two properties, then you know that there is a ginormous misconception about what we do.

In the state of California, the average real estate transaction requires almost 55 different contractual documents. To know your product, to understand the platform, and to have the finesse to navigate dicey negotiations and challenging situations (mold in the bathroom, a lower appraised value, a difficult seller) is not for the faint of heart.

To that end, several years ago, I accidentally happened upon the single easiest way to set yourself apart from every other agent in your territory (and even in your own brokerage or office).

Q: What is the single best way to set yourself apart from all of the other agents in your area?

A: Answer your phone.

If you respond to every call, every single day and you respond to every email or text message every single day, you will be miles and miles ahead of your competitors. To that end, I would add that you should use the communication that your client or customer prefers, and not the one that you prefer. So, if you are a millennial and prefer texting, it does not matter. When you come across someone who prefers a phone call or face-to-face meeting, then you should adapt.

I’ve had countless people say that they love working with me and that I have such great communication skills. I just laugh and think to myself that I am doing nothing so great. I am simply responding quickly, efficiently, and professionally. You can do the same… you can level up your game in the easiest way possible—just answer your phone.