Get Your First Real Estate Client: 7 Genius Tactics for New Agents
Breaking into the real estate industry can feel overwhelming. You’ve studied for your license, joined a brokerage, and set up your business cards — but now comes the hardest part: landing your first client. In 2025, competition is fierce, but the opportunities are just as big. If you’re a new agent wondering how to get your first real estate client, here are seven genius tactics that will set you apart and build momentum fast.
1) Start with Your Sphere of Influence
Your first clients often come from people who already know and trust you. Reach out to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. Let them know you’re licensed and ready to help with buying or selling. Post consistently on social media so your network sees you as their go-to real estate resource.
2) Host Open Houses for Other Agents
Even if you don’t have your own listings yet, you can host open houses for more experienced agents in your office. This puts you face-to-face with active buyers in the market. Collect contact info, follow up quickly, and offer value by sharing neighborhood insights or setting up property alerts.
3) Leverage Social Media Marketing
In 2025, buyers and sellers are glued to social media. Create educational posts, short videos, and market updates. Use Instagram Reels, TikTok, and Facebook groups to reach local audiences. Position yourself as a resource, not just a salesperson. Consistency builds credibility.
4) Partner with Local Businesses
Form relationships with local coffee shops, gyms, and small businesses. Offer to co-host events, sponsor community activities, or provide homebuyer workshops. This puts your face in front of potential clients and associates you with trusted local brands.
5) Use Online Lead Platforms Strategically
Platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Facebook ads can generate leads, but be selective. Set a modest budget and focus on niches — such as first-time buyers or specific zip codes. Respond to leads instantly; in real estate, speed often determines who wins the client.
6) Volunteer in Your Community
Community involvement builds relationships and goodwill. Volunteer at neighborhood cleanups, schools, or charity events. Wear your name badge and be approachable. People prefer to work with agents they know and trust — volunteering creates those organic connections.
7) Build a Referral Network with Professionals
Connect with mortgage lenders, insurance agents, and financial advisors. These professionals often know when clients are preparing to buy or sell. A strong referral pipeline can bring in clients consistently, even as a new agent. Make sure your partnerships are built on mutual value.
Example: Turning an Open House Into Clients
Imagine you host an open house for a colleague’s listing. Ten groups of buyers walk through. You chat, answer questions, and offer to send more listings. By following up within 24 hours, you convert two into buyer consultations. One ends up purchasing a $400,000 home with you. A single open house becomes your first big win.
Pro Tips for Landing Your First Client
- Follow up fast: Most leads hire the first agent who responds.
- Invest in presentation: Professional headshots, business cards, and a clean website build trust.
- Educate, don’t just sell: Share tips and market knowledge freely.
- Track your activity: Use a CRM to manage contacts and follow-ups systematically.
FAQs About Getting First Real Estate Clients
Q: How long does it usually take to get a first client?
A: Many agents secure their first client within 60–90 days if they consistently market and network.
Q: Do I need a big budget for leads?
A: Not at all. Your sphere of influence and open houses are low-cost, high-return tactics for beginners.
Q: Should I focus on buyers or sellers first?
A: Buyers are often easier for new agents to land. Sellers typically want experienced agents, but a strong network can still lead to early listings.
Q: How important is social media?
A: Critical. In 2025, clients expect agents to have an online presence. It’s often where they’ll discover and vet you.
Q: Can I partner with other new agents?
A: Yes. Co-marketing, co-hosting events, or even co-listing can expand your reach and help you learn faster.
Bottom Line
In 2025, getting your first real estate client requires hustle, creativity, and persistence. Start with your sphere, leverage open houses, and embrace social media. Layer in local partnerships, community involvement, and referral networks to build momentum. The key is consistency: the more visible and valuable you are, the faster clients will trust you with their biggest financial decision.
Next step: Explore more real estate strategies on our Resources page. Related reads: First-Time Investor Playbook, Build a Real Estate Portfolio, and Get Your First Real Estate Client.