How to prospect leads to build your real estate business

Prospecting Leads For Your Real Estate Business
Getting quality property leads
 for your real estate business is no easy task. And you know that developing a strong lead prospecting strategy can set up your sales pipeline and generate some serious business growth, but how do you actually do that? Here are some methods you can use to hit the ground running and attract a host of quality leads.

1. Leverage your network of influence
As a real estate professional, you know how important your network of influence is for your real estate business. The first initial targets will include family members, friends, organisations, groups and club memberships. Anyone you have transacted with and anyone who has done business with you is also a candidate in your network, so here are some more ideas to help you build your prospect list:
Extended family members
College friends and work friends
Your spouse’s friends, family, and connections
Children’s friends parents, teachers, and principal
Medical providers (doctor, dentist, optometrist, nurse)
Beauty providers (hair stylist, manicurist)
Make sure you gather good data from each member in your network (first name, last name, email address, and phone number) and remember to keep a well organised contact list in your
real estate CRM
!
2. Request for referrals
One of your most powerful prospecting tools is referrals. Many
real estate marketing solutions
 have modules that automate referral outreach. There are basically three types of referrals – personal referrals, client referrals and professional referrals.
Personal referrals come from friends, family and acquaintances. These are people who know you and are willing to send lead prospects to you. Let your network know that you are in the real estate business and (most importantly) keep reminding them to share referrals to you.
Client referrals come from people you have already helped buy or sell a home. The important task here is developing a systematic process to ask for referrals after closing the sale, and to keep in touch regularly so they think of you when any of their friends or family need your property expertise.
Professional referrals come from your colleagues in the real estate and other industries. Form a good relationship with others in the field and become a helpful resource to other professionals who will be working with potential property buyers.
3. Schedule a minimum of 2-hours a day for phone calling
It’s common knowledge in Real Estate that follow-up is crucial, persistence is key. The trouble is getting caught up in your day to day and not allocate the time to consistently reach out and contact your leads. Here are some tips to make sure you do it:
Make your phone calls in the morning while you and your referrals are both fresh and alert.
Treat your follow up time with the same respect you would give to any other important appointment.
Avoid the temptation to get too pushy. The goal for each prospecting call is to engage your prospect, gather information and make an appointment. If your prospect asks you a question, get in the habit of going for an appointment rather than giving a quick response.
Write a phone script! It’s important to use a phone script and not just wing it, so you don’t miss out any key information. Role-play your script over the phone with others so you know you’ll be confident and professional.
For the majority of real estate consultants, prospecting for new business is without a doubt the most challenging and stressful aspect of the selling process. But it doesn’t have to be. By integrating these powerful lead prospecting tips into your daily business routine, you’ll be able to keep your viewings calendar packed with qualified leads!
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Questions You Need To Ask Before Purchasing A Property

If you are thinking about
purchasing a property
 right now, you are probably getting a lot of advice from many people. Though your friends and family have your best interests at heart, they may not be fully aware of your actual needs and what is currently happening in the real estate market.
You will need to ask yourself the following three questions to help determine if now is the best time for you to buy in today’s property market.
1. Why am I buying a property in the first place?
This is really the most important question to answer. Forget the home budget for a second. Why did you even begin to consider purchasing a property? For most people, the reason has nothing to do with finances.
The actual reasons might be:
A good place to raise your children and provide them with a good education
A place where you and your family feel safe and secure
More space for you and your family
Moving up in the world
So what does owning a property mean to you? What non-financial benefits will you and your family gain from buying a new home? The answer to that question should be the biggest reason you decide to purchase a property or not.
2. Where are home values headed?
Last year was a tough one for almost all property sectors. According to data from the National Property Information Centre (Napic), in 1H2020, Malaysia’s property market transaction volume and value decreased 27.9% and 31.5% respectively compared with the previous year. While most property consultants believe there should be some recovery this year, it will depend on the Covid-19 vaccine as well as the performance of the job market and economy.  So keep this in mind when thinking about buying a property.
What does that mean to you?
Simply put, with prices decreasing, it may save you more if you wait until prices stabilize to buy. But also note that your down payment will also need to be higher if prices start to increase across the board.
3. Where are home loan interest rates headed?
A buyer must be concerned about more than just prices. The ‘long-term cost’ of installments on a home can be dramatically impacted by even a small increase in
mortgage rates
.
In Summary
Only you and your family will know for sure if now is the right time to purchase a property. But answering these questions will help you make that decision easier.
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Real estate agents guide to social media

real estate social media

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realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Real Estate Brand Consistency – Real Estate Branding Series

Your real estate brand is shaped every day by the thousand small gestures clients get from your company and staff. A gesture might be an interaction with one of your agents, a post on your real estate agency’s Facebook page, or a direct mail postcard received.
Since all these elements contribute to building your
real estate brand
, it’s vital to be consistent with the brand message that each gesture is communicating.
So what impact does real estate brand consistency (or inconsistency) have on your property business? Here are the main areas to think about when considering your brand consistency:

Brand Compliance
Nearly 90% of property professionals agree that it’s important to present their personal property brands consistently in all the places clients might encounter them, but less than half of property agents are actually doing it.
An alarming figure, is that less than 10% of property agents say that their real estate brand presentation is very consistent.
Almost all property companies have branding guidelines, but only a quarter have brand guidelines that are consistently enforced.
Over 60% report that materials are always, often or sometimes created that don’t conform to real estate brand guidelines.

Brand Impact
Real estate companies with brand consistency issues estimate, on average, a 18% increase in revenue if their property brand was always presented consistently.
Consistent property brands are more visible, and highly visible property brands act like magnets, attracting clients while conveying the agency brand promises, reinforcing value, and encouraging loyalty. Careless or inconsistent presentation of your real estate brand robs it of these powers, and as a result, you miss out on clients, sales and revenue.
Managing a real estate brand well by presenting it consistently has a real impact on growth. Imagine driving a 18% lift in revenue just by enforcing real estate brand compliance. This metrics alone should compel any real estate agency to make brand consistency a high priority for their company and staff.
But before your property agency can improve its brand consistency, you have to understand where you are at today with your property brand. And when it comes to creating branded content, most agencies tend to fall into one of two traps: The Wild West and the Brand Prison.

1. The Wild West of Brand Consistency
This is what happens when there’s no formalised system of property brand guidelines for agency or team, but even if those brand guidelines do exist, they’re not actively practiced or being enforced. If your property agency doesn’t have a designated agency brand champion, then it’s up to each agent to make sure the real estate brand is represented consistently to clients.
In other words : If it becomes everyone’s job, it becomes no one’s job. This is the perfect recipe for disaster and poor brand consistency. Is your property agency going through the Wild West? If so, you’ll notice these characteristics:
No real estate brand guidelines (or brand guidelines are not enforced)
Everyone creates their own content without guidance or direction from leaders
Brand presentation is highly inconsistent and different from peers.
It time to change this mindset ASAP, because if it continues it will be detrimental to your brand in the long run.

2. The Brand Prison
On the other side of the coin, the brand prison is complete and total lockdown on your agency. You have to leave your pens and papers at the door, because in the brand prison, only the guards have the right to be creative. Hope you didn’t have any big creative ideas.
This is what happens when no one can create real estate branded content except for principles or design teams. And while that might have worked in the old day, and for certain types of brands, today it’s a real burden for modern real estate brands. Which agent has time to wait 1 week or more for an updated brochure design, property flyer, or Facebook image? Not only that, but agents usually enjoy adding some personal flair to their marketing collateral. Unfortunately, the company has decided that it’s too risky to trust its agents with any branding whatsoever.
Is your property agency a brand prison? If so, you’ll notice these characteristics:
Principles creates all content (bottleneck)
Designers/admin are overloaded and stressed
Agents often go rogue and create their own content

Now, in contrast to the wild west and brand prison, imagine a world where all property agents, admin, partners & vendors are empowered to create customised and beautifully branded materials all on their own.
These are the agencies that have escaped the Wild West and the brand prison. They’ve recognised and embraced the world of modern branding by empowering their teams with the tools and processes needed to create consistent, on-brand real estate content.

Please stay tuned to the next part of the series where will explore in detail on how to properly manage your real estate brand consistency.  Here are the next topics in the series:

Sales Enablement
Print Collateral
Digital Collateral


Real Estate Brand Identity Design – Real Estate Branding Series

Real estate marketing expert
Ben Liau
 once defined a brand as “A consumer’s perception, expectations, memories, stories and relationship with a company, person, product or service.
This is a great, all-encompassing definition that acknowledges the intangible aspects of what defines a brand.
But with
real estate branding
 there are also physical/tangible assets that play an important role in communicating what your actual brand is about: like your logo, or design. These assets are categorised in branding as
Brand Identity Design
.
Brand identity is the face of the brand. It’s the visual component of the brand that represents the larger emotional and philosophical traits. It includes how you present yourself, your logos, your colours, your typography, and messaging, and it also complements and reinforces the existing reputation of your brand.
You real estate brand identity can attract new clients while making existing clients feel content. Your brand identify is both outward facing and inward facing.
Why it is vital that your real estate brand identity be kept consistent?
It is vital because it represents and reinforces the emotions of your personal brand, the image portrayed by brand identity design needs to be clear, and it need to be a brand that your clients can trust with their life-changing property purchase decisions. When clients encounter an inconsistent brand, it sends them a mixed message, and not a good one. It tells them that this brand/person doesn’t take itself seriously enough to tell the same story. They will wonder what other inconsistencies lie beneath the surface. How can they trust you and your agency to follow through on what has been promised when your brand identity keeps shifting and changing?
To manage their brand identity, agents and agencies need a system that helps them stay consistent while still having the speed and flexibility to succeed in today’s volatile market. Components of this system might include a style guide, presentation guide, branding guide, and even employee personal training.
Lets look at the main components of good brand identity design. As you read, take inventory of your own brand’s assets and make note of any gaps and opportunities you will discover.

INTERNAL BRAND IDENTITY
These five assets aren’t usually shared with the public, but they should be evident in all that you do as a property agent. These are the core values and mission that drive you and your agency toward success, and they set the tone for how all agents, partners and customers should be treated.

Brand promise
Positioning statement
Value proposition
Client Perception
Key messaging

BRAND PROMISE
What are you and your agency here to do? The brand promise aligns you, your team, your agency behind the same vision. It should express the values and goals of the agency, which may evolve over time. This single sentence should remain relevant for around 10 years.
Here is an example:
To enable real estate professionals to make more money in less time while exceeding the expectations of home buyers and sellers.

POSITIONING STATEMENT
Your positioning statement is an expression that defines your brand’s most compelling benefit. Unlike the brand promise, a positioning statement is made within the context of the market and your competitors. Because of this, it’ll likely remain relevant for only about 24 months.

VALUEPROPOSITION
What are the key features and benefits of your brand, products and services? How does you and your agency differ from the rest of the market, and what makes you the better choice for clients?
These are tough questions, but the answers are invaluable. In markets where properties and services are similar, your brand offers one way to be unique.

CLIENT PERCEPTION
What message do you want to send to your clients when they meet you and see you, how do you want to make them feel?
Here are some good traits:
Comfortable
Trusting
Loyal

KEY MESSAGING
What language resonates most with your audience? How can you communicate your brand identity to make them trust you?

Here are some branding elements to get right:
NAME & LOGO
The brand vitals. Good ones stand out because they are meaningful and memorable. Because logos are the asset that gets used and shared the most, it is very critical to make sure everyone has access to current, approved versions.
SLOGANS & TAGLINES
Slogans and taglines are  mostly used in advertising. Good ones are impactful and easy for clients to recall. After all the effort put into refining these short phrases to perfection, it would be a waste not to use them properly.
COLOR PALETTES
According to a report titled Impact of Colour on Marketing, up to 90% of a customers’ judge a brand or product is based solely on colour. Your brand’s colour palette is an essential part of its story and visual identity. They set the tone for your audience/clients.
TYPOGRAPHY
Typography plays a unique role in your brand identity, and nearly no part of design causes more controversy than font choice. Also the size, shape & placement of different fonts will enhance your message and direct the focus to where you want it to be.
TONE & VOICE
Brand voice is the conduit through which you communicate who you are, what you do, and what you can offer. It’s the medium that your clients use to get to know you, and developing a strong voice will increase real estate brand recognition and loyalty. Getting it wrong, on the other hand, can turn your branding into a constant uphill struggle.

Conclusion
All of these brand identity elements work together to build a holistic picture of your brand. Every piece of your real estate business should align with your branding to deliver a familiar experience to your clients every time they interact with you. The strongest property brands, essentially, are the ones who learn to tell their story compellingly and consistently over time.

So please stay tuned to the next part of the series where will explore in detail on how to properly manage your real estate brand.
  Here are the next topics in the series:

Brand Management
Brand Consistency
Sales Enablement
Print Collateral
Digital Collateral


Real Estate Brand Management – Real Estate Branding Series

WHAT IS REAL ESTATE BRAND MANAGEMENT?
This term may be slightly misleading. Brands aren’t managed or they? They are shaped, guided and moulded over time. Although you can’t actually control every single experience a client has with your real estate brand, you can drive and influence their perception of your brand. Brand management will help you establish, position and maintain your brand’s image in the eyes of your clients.
To make this process easier to understand lets break it down into phases: 1. establishing, 2. positioning and 3. maintaining your real estate brand.

1. ESTABLISH YOUR REAL ESTATE BRAND
This is the brand creation phase, where all the assets outlined in the previous series chapters are drafted, iterated and finalised. It includes the big ideas about your real estate brand as well as the tiny details like logos, fonts and colours. In this phase you should have a definitive beginning and end, with a strong brand idea.
If you join an existing agency after the brand has been established, you probably won’t participate in this phase, unless their brand has lost appeal and you are faced with the challenge of assisting with rebranding.

2. POSITION YOUR REAL ESTATE BRAND
This is really the communication phase, where the sales and marketing help to spread the word and build expectations around your
real estate brand
. All your communication needs to be aligned with the brand identity established in the creation phase, which means every brand player you work with, needs easy and direct access to all your current real estate brand assets.
No one in your team should have to waste their time trying to tracking down assets or creating their own versions of the brand. This is the perfect time to make sure your assets are widely available to anyone who uses them . Otherwise, your efforts to create a strong brand identity and culture will be severely diminished.

3. MAINTAIN YOUR REAL ESTATE BRAND
Once your real estate brand has been established in the market and is resonating well with your client base, it’s time to move into the brand maintenance phase. You should monitor what’s said about your real estate brand online, including social media posts and reviews, so that you can jump on any negative sentiment and to turn them positive. This includes brand hygiene, which is making sure that assets are updated and available for new channels and mediums.
Positioning and maintaining your real estate brand are phases without distinct conclusions. Most brands will move back and forth between them as they execute marketing campaigns to make sure their brand is still on the right track. You should visualise them as a cycle, where positioning is proactive and maintenance is reactive. These two phases complement each other to deliver a consistent, compelling real estate brand message.
REAL ESTATE BRAND MANAGEMENT IN THE DIGITAL WORLD
In this day and age the internet has transformed real estate brand management, and it’s much more involved today than it was a few decades ago. Brands have a large number of digital channels to deliver their message and clients have the ability to voice their opinions and feedback much more powerfully than ever before.
Considering that: 93% of customers read online reviews regularly, and 80%of them say they’re influenced by their online research.
Here’s another one: 88% of customers would be less likely to buy from a brand that has unanswered complaints on social media channel.
If you brand isn’t participating and driving these conversations online, your silence could be a major killer to your real estate brand. But it’s not just the response that matters, It’s the story your responses tell about your brand. Your
real estate website
 and social media channels are extensions of your real estate brand, and consistency matters online just as much as it does in the offline world. A lack of brand consistency will make your brand less memorable and less trustworthy to your clients.
We find that empowering your property agents with a strong brand identity and the tools to represent the brand well is a cornerstone of success and future growth for a real estate brand.

DIGITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT
The biggest impact the internet has had on real estate brand management is the way we organise and share branding assets across a variety of digital channels.
When brand management was popularised in the 1960s, a company’s marketing was handled by a tiny group of trained brand experts. Brand copy and art were produced to very strict specifications, delivered to printing presses, then shared with a mass audience on billboards, print ads and television. Controlling consistency wasn’t very difficult back then because all the marketing passed through the same few hands.
Even a decade or so ago, online brand management was much more simple. If you launched an online advertising campaign in 2000, you basically had three channels to worry about: your website, your emails, and banner ads. There was no Facebook, no Instagram, no Linkedin and no collection of digital services and social media that we have today.
Web 3.0 with all its multiple of different segmented channels. So rather than just a tiny group of marketing experts, you have a whole network of people producing content for your real estate brand. Think about it: marketing, sales, public relations, human resources, vendors, partners, agencies. Today, nearly everyone in the network is a marketer.
The problem is, not everyone knows how to create content that is on-brand. One way to combat this problem is digital asset management. DAM software acts as a repository for branded files. (Like Google Drive.) By collecting these resources all in one place, anyone who needs to use a brand logo or a letterhead can access them . Team member just access the database, download the files they need, and go on their way promoting the brand.

Even though this is so much better than sending files via email or driving across town to deliver a logo on film like in the old days, it still leaves the problem semi-solved. Property agents can download logos, fonts and documents, but do they know how to use them in the correct way that 1) demonstrates good design, and 2) maintains brand compliance, If you have ever witnessed stretched logos and clashing colour palettes, you know that this does happen with property agents who don’t follow the brand guidelines.
 So you might be thinking, So what if sometimes a property agent uses the wrong brand colours or logos in the wrong format. What’s the big problem? Well It might seem like small issues and is there really any harm in having an inconsistent branding?
Well, that’s a good question and we will answer it in the next part of this branding series.
So please stay tuned to the next part of the series where will explore in detail on how to properly manage your real estate brand consistency. Here are the next topics in the series:
• Brand Consistency

• Sales Enablement

• Print Collateral

• Digital Collateral


Real estate content marketing guide

Real estate
content marketing
 guide
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Real Estate Digital Collateral – Real Estate Branding Series

In the previous part of the series about
real estate print collateral
, we reviewed some of the print collateral you can use to market your real estate business in the real world. In this part of the series, we will quickly cover real estate digital collateral, and the materials you will use online to promote your real estate brand and services. For example:
Social media graphics
Videos
Infographics
Banner ads
Property Reports
Location Reports
Sales proposals
Slide presentations

Whether you’re in residential real estate, commercial real estate or industrial real estate, your online presence plays an important role in how your property brand is perceived. Digital real estate collateral can help you quickly deliver key messages that influence your client’s perception . Let’s explore a few ways to use digital real estate collateral on two of your most prominent online platforms: your real estate website and your social media profiles.

ON YOUR REAL ESTATE WEBSITE

Your
property website
 is the headquarters of your online presence, because you have full control over your real estate website’s design and presentation, it’s also the perfect place to showcase your digital real estate collateral. From your website home page to services pages and other landing pages, all these pages offer opportunities for you to share relevant content with your audience. You already know that your image is one of your most valuable real estate assets. Spend a little more on professional photography and designs and skip the common stock photos. It might take a little more investment, but your property brand will stand out and look better for it.

As an example, you can share property slide presentations, project flyers, home owner tip sheets, or even eBook downloads with your visitors. A flyer could advertise upcoming projects or events, such as a new project launch. An informational property report can make an impressive free gift for visitors to download and review. Printable property checklists are also a valuable resource for potential clients. You need to get creative and think about what content might resonate with your client base. Every client interaction is a chance to build your real estate brand and leave a stronger impression on your potential clients.

ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Increasingly, real estate professionals are expected to be present and relevant on all social media channels, and be experts at
real estate social media marketing
. This trend is reflective of today’s digital consumers who are your potential clients. These potential clients, who now have an average of 5 different social media accounts, expect to find all their favourite brands, products & services on their favourite social media platforms.
But sometime social media can be tricky, as each platform has its own culture, and property agency brands need to be fluent in a platform’s culture to be really understood and appreciated. For example, the way you speak to clients on Twitter could be very different from how you speak to them on LinkedIn.
Of course, we now know that successful brand marketing is deeply rooted in consistency. So how can your real estate brand speak differently across multiple platforms while still maintaining your brand identity? Well you will have to use elements like colour palette, fonts, images and voice to set the right tone. Tailored to the platform , but never lose the integral pieces of your real estate brand’s identity.

Let’s take a look at five major social media sites and how you can best use them to reach your audience.

Facebook
With a stunning 1.5 billion users, Facebook is the heavyweight of social platforms. It offers great organic reach, as well as detailed targeting for paid advertisements. You can drive traffic to your website by sharing links, but don’t stop there. Great images are key to attracting attention, and video often performs even better. You can host live streams to interact with your followers in real time, like hosting a question-and-answer session or a virtual open house.

Twitter
Did you know that the majority of world leaders have a Twitter account? More than any other platform in this list, Twitter thrives on news. It gives you a snapshot of what’s happening around the world at any given moment. Thanks to hashtags, it’s easy for your brand to jump into trending conversations as they unfold? just make sure to do your research first.

Instagram
Over 40 billion photos have been shared on Instagram . It’s a rapidly growing platform for visual content, which makes it a perfect match for real estate. Instagram is a great place to show off beautiful homes, both inside and out. The platform lends itself well to inspirational content, so you could easily showcase home interior design ideas, luxurious homes, and happy clients.

Pinterest
Although this social media platform is popular among females, don’t let its reputation fool you, because 40% of new signups come from males. If you’re looking to connect with millennials, they use Pinterest as much as they use Instagram . Interestingly, it’s also a highly visual platform . Users create boards dedicated to different topics, then they collect pins to populate those boards. It’s a hub for wishes and ideas, making it the perfect place to show off your collection of properties.

LinkedIn
In real estate, building relationships with clients is critical, but it’s also important to network with your real estate colleagues. LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network, which makes it a valuable channel for building thought leadership in real estate. One advantage to advertising on LinkedIn is that you can segment your audience by industry and job title, which is great if you’re targeting a certain income level or looking to grow your team.

Remember that each social media site requires different post formats and sizes. To make your visuals effective, you’ll have to create custom images to fit each one. Don’t worry, you don’t have to memorise a list of measurements. If you start with social media templates, you can create pixel-perfect posts in no time using your brand’s fonts, colours & images.
You might not jump onto all these social platforms at once, but each one offers important benefits for your brand. Determine which ones would be the best fit for your property brand right now, then add more as you feel comfortable. There are plenty of others outside this list that you could consider, too, like Youtube or Tiktok.

Congratulations
.
You have made it through our complete guide to
real estate branding
. We hope this blog series has given you a great foundation of branding principles and an illustrative variety of real-world examples.
Now it’s time to incorporate what you’ve learned into the day-to-day management of your real estate brand. Whether your property agency’s biggest opportunities lie in brand consistency, sales enablement, or another aspect of branding, you can use your leadership to drive positive change and help your property agents & teams recognise the power and impact of a well-executed real estate brand.


Real estate digital marketing strategy during Covid-19

With the corona virus crisis changing the real estate industry, its time to embrace a “new normal”. Real estate agents will need to get creative with their
property marketing
 strategies.
Here are the three most important functions for real estate agent or property developer during covid-19:
1. Prospecting for new property leads,
2. Nurturing your existing database
3. Closing transactions.
Closing property transactions are going to be much more difficult for the near term. Transactions likely will slow down and face-to-face, in-person interactions will change.
But the upside is that prospecting for new
property leads
 and nurturing your database can still be done well.
And these two things that will help you prepare for when things bounce back once things the crisis has passed.
What should I do about my Digital Marketing Strategy?
Many agents will be thinking of pausing their
real estate digital marketing campaigns
, thinking that nobody is looking for property at the moment. But you might be surprised at the actual data from our digital marketing experts at RealestateMY:
Lead volume MoM was only 1.7% lower in March than in February 2021.
Cost-Per-Lead was actually down 3.6% in March vs. February 2021.
This means that people are still looking at property online, and with all the competition stopping their marketing, there is more opportunity for you to generate more leads.
During the lockdown more people are at home and they’re glued to their devices. They’re reading the news, they are working remotely, and they are browsing for great property deals. These people are looking now, will convert on your
property website
, and then transact a few months down the road. So now is the best time to capture these leads in your CRM database and start nurturing them as soon as possible so they are ready when the crisis is over.
Should I be doing more Facebook ads?
Facebook usage has spiked during the COVID-19 crisis because of the lockdown. With the recent spike in usage, the average Cost-Per-Click for Facebook ads for real estate, has gone down alot.
Facebook data from our RealestateMY Digital Marketing Team
27.6% more impressions in March than February 2021
5.1% more leads secured in March than February 2021
Real estate demand is going to slow down, that is true, but it’s not going to disappear entirely.
Now is the time to explore as many property lead generation tactics as possible. At RealestateMY, our number one goal is to make real estate professionals are successful. Now, more than ever, we are listening to our clients’ needs and wants, and are innovating with technology as quickly as possible to help them thrive in the face of these challenges. So do let us know your thoughts and feedback on how you think we can improve the real estate industry with the current situation.
There’s no denying that there may be some tough times in the coming months. But by embracing and researching new tactics, technology and strategies for evolving your business, you’re already one step ahead of many other real estate professionals. We recommend being patient, staying focused, staying calm, and leaning on your existing networks to help stay positive and assure that your real estate business is set up for success as we navigate our way through these new normals.
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


6 Tips For Effective Real Estate Sales Emails

Effective
Real Estate Sales
 Emails

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realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Real Estate Inbound Marketing Guide

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 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


How Great Photography Helps Real Estate Agents Sell More Properties

Great photography helps
real estate agents sell
 more properties

Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Real Estate Print Collateral – Real Estate Branding Series

The real estate industry has always been an extremely competitive industry. Only the most eye-catching , original, & beautiful advertisements get any attention at all from people, and it seems like property print media often plays second runner up to the digital world. But this is not always the case.
The reality is that exhibitions, trade shows, and open houses are just a few areas where print collateral is vital to engaging with potential clients, showcase your projects and properties, and promote your property services. Yes, doing direct mail can be lucrative, but successful
real estate marketing
 thrives on the actual combination of print media and digital exposure. This is why it’s very important to use the right software that integrates your print and digital marketing initiatives.

Design Features you should look for:
 On-Demand, Ready-to-use, customisable designer templates
You need an easy-to-use platform that supports in-house design and publishing, from initial content creation to content approval & printing.
You need advanced features to secure your content and lock down assets so your brand is never compromised.
You need a one-step print & publish integration with delivery to your office, clients, and social media.

Here is a step-by-step overview of how this type of software would support print marketing for real estate agencies

STEP 1:
Choose or create content templates that can be used as online and print marketing
To optimise your integrated print & digital marketing strategy, first identify the contents you want to include in your media campaigns and how you can best repurpose these assets .
Printed postcards can be put into the mail, displayed visually at appropriate venues, and even used as giant business cards at exhibitions or on billboards. Digital versions can be posted on social media sites like Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin.

Traditional printed real estate business cards are not just calling cards, but really miniature advertisements for your business and agency. Attach a digital copy of your card to your email signature and upload a copy to Linkedin. You can quickly create a fresh social media content every day, at an agency event, a new project release, or even giving advice on buying real estate.

Brochures and booklets printed on luxurious, glossy paper can showcase your agency’s portfolio most elegantly. Also remember to publish digital versions on business networks like LinkedIn. Combine one with a personalised post about your real estate agency’s success stories.

You can also create property flyers and real estate posters to display at business/real estate networking events, community ventures, festivals, markets, and open house promotions. Even people on Pinterest can be mobilised to spread the word about new home listings.

All your printed stationery should always include a agency letterhead. Use it for PDFs, as well, or attach it to digital correspondence as a signature file.

STEP 2: Personalise or
customise your selected templates
Find the perfect content templates to customise with your agency logo, fonts, brand colours, images & text. Some examples to inspire you would be: a business card, a postcard, a newsletter, a Twitter post, a Linkedin post, a Pinterest post or a Facebook post.
You will have to ensure your agency brand consistency with the same colours across print media & digital campaigns. This will require both RGB colours (optimal for computers) and CMYK (optimal for print) colours.
Create an content image gallery that you and your agents/team all have access to in the cloud. To make it easy to find relevant images, you can have a naming convention for files (e.g. title.date.team). You should also use high quality images of at least 300 dpi.
Always preview your designs for correct font size, readability, visual clarity and orientation so the final print job will be perfect.

STEP 3:
Share the creative vision with your whole property agency
Team collaboration should be easy, especially with cloud-based online software. You can share your contents, invite your team to give feedback. With the right permissions, only the people you approve will have access to view or edit content.

STEP 4:
Lock down valuable content & brand assets
One great advantage of
TALGIC
 is that your agency’s corporate designers can lock down the core elements of your brand e.g. logos, fonts & colours, But anyone at the real estate agency can still add their own special touch to a content presentation or campaign. This way, the agency brand stays consistent, but your property sales team gets to include their own personality into their content marketing.

STEP 5:

Prints being delivered
Property agents can reduce cost and improve their productivity by using online integrated printing services. If you design and order prints from the same platform, you know they’re going to look exactly as you want them to look. Your online software should print and ship to all location, whether you are receiving a stack of business cards at your agency office or distributing direct mail postcards in a local area.
If you follow these steps, your property sales team should feel confident in their ability to design and deliver professional real estate marketing materials. But, what about digital marketing? how does the process change? stay tuned to the next part of the series where will explore in detail on how to properly manage your real estate brand digital collateral.  Here is the last topic in the series:

Digital Collateral


Real Estate Sales Enablement – Real Estate Branding Series

WHAT IS REAL ESTATE SALES ENABLEMENT?
For the real estate industry, sales enablement is the process of providing your brokers, negotiators and agents with the vital information and tools they need to market, sell and rent out property more effectively to their clients.
This important process involves creating internal systems and branding materials that will empower your property sales teams to take advantage of the data, tools and information available to them. This results in your team operating in a more time and cost effective approach.
In the present, in many real estate agencies, agents, negotiators and brokers have relied on a small team of admin staff or graphic designers (either internal or outsourced) who struggle to produce mass creative requests as quickly as needed. This creates a severe bottleneck, where overworked admin staff and designers build up a large backlog and leave desperate property agents waiting for the right materials.

At the same time, many property agents end up creating their own branded content, often misusing the logos, colours and imagery that makeup the
property agency’s brand
. This practice is simply poor brand management, and it’s becoming harder for real estate agency principle and managers to monitor and manage.
With agency internal staff and property agents using a range of different software, from professional graphic software like Photoshop to something with basic design capabilities like Microsoft Word, consistency become totally impossible. Also with so many different files stored across the agency office network, keeping track of the various documents/content and their many versions is a difficult challenge.
But with today’s technology and software, it shouldn’t be so difficult to manage. There are web-based platforms that can serve as a graphic design tool, a central template library, and an easy-to-use designer all in one. But switching to such a system would likely be a drastic change to the way your agents and teams are used to working, and as with all big changes, it requires an internal advocate to lead the way for the teams.
If you’re prepared to be that advocate for your agency, here is how you can help them.

GIVE PROPERTY AGENTS & TEAMS TEMPLATES THAT LOCK DOWN THE BRAND ASSETS
In the previous article, we discussed
real estate brand consistency
, and it’s important you keep that in mind when you’re looking for online software that will power your sales enablement program .
The key is to find a piece of online software that will let you (or your designers) create lockable branded templates. These brand templates will be customisable to a certain degree, but they will also have certain elements locked down (like logos, agency details, key data and messaging).
With sales templates that are already on-brand, you’re making the internal compliance much easier for your property agents. They can access these brand templates on-demand and easily personalise them to meet their needs. But most importantly you are still retaining total control over the way the agency brand is presented.

DECREASE DEPENDENCY ON INTERNAL ADMIN STAFF & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
By introducing an effective sales enablement process and you will be giving your property agents the autonomy they need to produce good content themselves. With a smarter content system that involves lockable templates, you’ll be able to decrease the dependency on your internal staff and designers.
An internal real estate agency system that depends on design requests being submitted at least two weeks in advance is a failing system . In a fast-paced property environment where things need to move quickly, this kind of timeline just doesn’t work. Rather than failing to provide each property agent with the right content materials, at the right time, and in the right format, your goal should be to put internal processes in place that will allow them to act independently.

If you switch to an internal system where designers, and admin staff can create branded templates with locked brand assets, you will be reducing the amount of time each design task takes. No longer will they have to coordinate with teams of property agents to gather the specifics of a property, event or promotion. Instead, they can simply create the branded property template and make it available to the property agents who will fill in those details themselves.
Here is the thing: your property agents are likely already creating content anyway, but it’s probably taking them a lot longer than they would like. By providing them with branded templates and an easy-to-use internal system that lets them make customisations, you’re letting them keep their independence they’ve become accustomed to, while also speeding up the design process for content.

STREAMLINE THE PROPERTY SALES PIPELINE
In taking the right steps to implement lockable content templates and decrease dependency on internal admin staff and graphic designers, it is worthwhile to consider other ways to maximise a change like this and stream line other real estate processes for better efficiency.
An empowered and supported property agent is a productive one, so by giving your team a quick and easy access to the tools they need, you are increasing their overall chances of success in making sales.
You can also further reduce internal bottlenecks by implementing a sales enablement system that includes one online central content library. Consider how much time is wasted each day, week, month or even year across an entire team of property agents who are constantly having to search through email chains or unorganised file folders for the latest version of a document or content.

Now instead imagine one central online library where the latest version of a document or content can be updated, automatically saved and then accessed by all property agent teams. That’s much better, correct?
Similarly, another great feature you should build into your sales enablement program is a cloud-based storage system . Storing files online in the cloud means they can be accessed from any device at any time, as long as the property agent has access to the internet and the correct login credentials, a valuable feature for all property agents who are always on the move.
Overall, a successful real estate sales enablement strategy that uses templates held in one central online, cloud-based library will both reduce dependency on your internal staff and designers and empower your property agent teams. Ultimately, it will mean your property agents and brokers will have what they need, when and where they need it.
Please stay tuned to the next part of the series where will explore in detail on how to properly manage your real estate brand consistency.  Here are the next topics in the series:

Print Collateral
Digital Collateral


The Secret Life Of A Real Estate Agent

the secret life of a real estate agent

Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


The secret life of a real estate professional


How to settle into your new real estate career in Malaysia

Settle into your new real estate career
So you have decided to embark on a career in real estate, you have found a
real estate agency to join
 and are now getting prepare and setting yourself up in your new working environment. Starting a new career is never easy, to help you get started here are a few important steps you should take to get up and running and getting started working.
1. Read The Agency Manual
Not all agencies have this, but if your agency provides an employee manual or guide, you should read it. Some of the contents may seem quite obvious, but every real estate company is different, and you’ll have to know your new agency inside and out if you want to be a
successful real estate negotiator
. Knowing your company policies will ensure that you start your relationship with your new agency and new real estate colleagues the best and correct way. By learning your negotiator obligations and responsibilities, you’ll also minimize potential issues and errors and know how to respond to a bad situation, whether it’s with a client or your agency, or with your colleagues.
2. Do Your Training
Whether you have real estate sales experience or not, you will want to take advantage of as much real estate sales training opportunities as possible to give yourself the strongest start possible in the real estate industry. Property selling takes a lot of personality, but it’s also a skill like any other, which is meant to be properly studied and learnt in detail. If you assume you’ll make it on your good looks and charm alone, your first few months will be very challenging.
3. Get To Know The Technology
The same goes for
real estate technology
. Even if you are technologically savvy, it’s worth noting that company software doesn’t have a reputation for being easy to use. A 2-hour class may sound tedious, but it beats dozens of hours puzzling over your company’s user- unfriendly
client relationship management (CRM)
 system.
4. Introduce Yourself To Your Colleagues
As a real estate negotiator, you’re technically an independent contractor. That doesn’t mean, however, that you don’t benefit from your relationships with fellow real estate negotiators in your office. Introduce yourself to everyone in your office, from fellow property negotiators to administrative and support staff. The friendlier you are, the more willing they will be to help you when you need it. Your real estate colleagues will give you insight on the real estate agency culture and what’s expected of you as the new negotiator in the company.
You’ll also learn which negotiators to keep clear of, and which negotiators to follow and learn from. Ask who the in-house agency expert is on a subject you want to learn more about, whether it be:
real estate digital marketing
, tenant contracts, property auctions, etc. Ask each of your colleagues for their one piece of advice for someone starting out in the real estate business. Their answers might surprise you. Once you have learnt the ropes you should pay it forward and also be helpful to other new real estate negotiators, that begin their property career after you have.
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Should You Buy Existing Property or New Project Developments?

Finding the right home to purchase today is one of the biggest challenges for potential buyers. With many homes on the market and construction of newly built projects ramping up, you may be wondering if you should consider
new development projects
 in your search process. It’s a great question to ask, and one to think about the pros and cons of what it means to buy a new property vs an existing one. Here are a few things to consider when making the decision of which one to buy.
New Property Development
When buying a new property you can often choose more energy-efficient options, plus you will get new appliances, new windows, etc. These can all help lower your energy costs, which can add up to significant savings for you over time. With programs like the ENERGY STAR RATING, your home also helps protect the environment and reduces your carbon footprint.
Less maintenance comes with a newer property and its a great benefit. When you have a new home, you likely won’t have as many little repairs to tackle, like leaky sink, walls to paint, and other odd jobs around the house. With new construction, you’ll also have warranty options that may cover portions of your investment for the first few years.
Another great benefit to new construction is customisation. Do you want special mirrors in your bathroom, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, hardwood floors, an office, or a multipurpose room to homeschool your children? These items can be customised to your specific needs during the design phase. With an existing property you’re buying something that’s already completed, so if you want to make any changes, you may need to hire a contractor to help get your home ready for you and your family.
Existing Property
When buying an existing home, you can negotiate with the current seller on price, which is something you generally don’t get to do with a new development. Developers know their material and construction costs, and they have a price set for the property you’re buying. So, if you want to negotiate price, then maybe an existing home will be a better choice.
For most families, having an established neighborhood is also important. Some buyers like to know who their neighbors are, if it’s family-friendly, and the traffic situation before making a commitment. When you buy a new construction, you won’t have a full view of some of those details until all the units around you are sold.
Finally, timing is important. With an existing home, you can move in based on the timeline you agree to with the sellers. With new development, you need to wait for the project to be completed. Depending on the time of the year you’re buying and the location you’re in, the weather can also be a factor in the timeframe. This is something really important to keep in mind, especially if you need to move sooner rather than later. Over the past few months with COVID-19 and social distancing regulations, many areas for new projects have been delayed.
In Summary
Whether you want to buy a new property development or one that’s already established, both are great options. They each have their pros and cons, and every family will have different reasons driving their decision. If you have questions and want to know more about the options in your area, contact a
local real estate professional
 today so you can feel confident making a decision about your next property purchase.
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


The Best City In Malaysia

Looking for the best city in Malaysia, look no further. We have curated and listed the best cities in Malaysia for you reference. Whether you are looking to
buy a property
 to live in or
rent a house
 temporality, here are the top 10 cities in Malaysia.
Top 10 Cities In Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur
 is a federal territory and the capital city of Malaysia. It is the largest city in Malaysia, covering an area of 243 km with an estimated population of 1.73 million as of 2016. Greater Kuala Lumpur, also known as the Klang Valley, is an urban agglomeration of 7.564 million people as of 2018. It is among the fastest growing metropolitan regions in Southeast Asia, in both population and economic development.
Kuala Lumpur is the cultural, financial and economic centre of Malaysia. It is also home to the Parliament of Malaysia and the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Istana Negara. The city was once the seat of the executive and judicial branches of the federal government, but these were relocated to Putrajaya in early 1999. However, some sections of the political bodies still remain in Kuala Lumpur.
Petaling Jaya
Petaling Jaya is a city in Petaling District, Selangor, Malaysia. It has an approximate area of 97.2 square kilometres . Petaling Jaya was granted city status on 20 June 2006. It was originally developed as a satellite township for Kuala Lumpur.
Petaling Jaya is surrounded by the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur to the east, Sungai Buloh to the north, Shah Alam , the capital of Selangor and Subang Jaya to the west and Bandar Kinrara (Puchong) to the south.
The city was developed during post-war British Malaya on a piece of 1,200 acres (486 ha) rubber estate, the Effingham Estate, around Old Klang Road to address the overpopulation of the capital Kuala Lumpur in the 1950s. Since 1952, PJ witnessed a dramatic growth in terms of population size and geographical importance. The development of Petaling Jaya commenced in 1952 with the construction of 800 houses centred on the area known as “Old Town” today.
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is the state capital of Sabah, Malaysia. It is also the capital of the Kota Kinabalu District as well as the West Coast Division of Sabah. The city is located on the northwest coast of Borneo facing the South China Sea. The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park lies to its west and Mount Kinabalu, which gave the city its name, is located to its east. Kota Kinabalu has a population of 452,058 according to the 2010 census; when the adjacent Penampang and Putatan districts are included, the metro area has a combined population of 628,725.
In the 15th century, the area of Kota Kinabalu was under the influence of Bruneian Empire. In the 19th century, the British North Borneo Company (BNBC) first set up a settlement near the Gaya Island. However, it was destroyed by fire in 1897 by a local leader named Mat Salleh. In July 1899, the place located opposite to the Gaya Island was identified as a suitable place for settlements. Development in the area was started soon after that; and the place was named “Api-api” before it was renamed after the vice-chairman of BNBC as “Jesselton”. Jesselton became a major trading port in the area, and was connected to the North Borneo Railway. Jesselton was largely destroyed during World War II. The Japanese occupation of Jesselton provoked several local uprisings notably the Jesselton Revolt but they were eventually defeated by the Japanese.
 After the war, BNBC was unable to finance the high cost of reconstructions and the place was ceded to the British Crown Colony. The British Crown declared Jesselton as the new capital of North Borneo in 1946 and started to rebuild the town. After the formation of Malaysia, North Borneo was renamed as Sabah. In 1967, Jesselton was renamed as Kota Kinabalu, Kota being the Malay word for Fort and Kinabalu after the nearby Mount Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu was granted city status in 2000.
Malacca City
Malacca City is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Malacca. As of 2010 it has a population of 484,885.[3] It is the oldest Malaysian city on the Straits of Malacca, having become a successful entrepôt in the era of the Malacca Sultanate. The present-day city was founded by Parameswara, a Sumatran prince who escaped to the Malay Peninsula when Srivijaya fell to the Majapahit.
Following the establishment of the Malacca Sultanate, the city drew the attention of traders from the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia, as well as the Portuguese, who intended to dominate the trade route in Asia. After Malacca was conquered by Portugal, the city became an area of conflict when the sultanates of Aceh and Johor attempted to take control from the Portuguese.
George Town
George Town is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang. George Town is Malaysia’s third most populous city with 708,127 inhabitants as of 2010, while Greater Penang is the nation’s second largest conurbation with a population of 2,412,616. The historical core of George Town has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
Established as an entrepôt by Francis Light of the British East India Company in 1786, George Town was the first British settlement in Southeast Asia. Together with Singapore and Malacca, George Town formed part of the Straits Settlements, which became a British crown colony in 1867. It was subjugated by Japan during World War II, before being recaptured by the British at war’s end. Shortly before Malaya attained independence from the British in 1957, George Town was declared a city by Queen Elizabeth II, making it the first city in the country’s modern history.
Due to the intermingling of the various ethnicities and religions that arrived on its shores, George Town acquired a large eclectic assortment of colonial and Asian architectural styles. It also gained a reputation as Malaysia’s gastronomic capital for its distinct and ubiquitous street food. Moreover, the city hosts unique cultural heritage, such as the Peranakans whose legacies are still visible on Penang’s architecture and cuisine.
Ipoh
Ipoh is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Perak. Located by the Kinta River, it is nearly 180 km (110 mi) north of Kuala Lumpur and 123 km (76 mi) southeast of George Town in neighbouring Penang. As of 2010, Ipoh had a population of 657,892, making it the third largest city in Malaysia by population.
Originally a village, Ipoh began to grow rapidly in the 1880s after huge deposits of tin were discovered within its vicinity. By 1895, it was the second largest town within the Federated Malay States, which also consisted of Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang. Ipoh was declared a city in 1988. However, following the depletion of its tin deposits and the collapse of tin prices in the 1970s, the city suffered decades of decline and neglect.
In recent years, Ipoh’s popularity as a tourist destination has been significantly boosted by efforts to conserve its British colonial-era architecture. The city is also well known for its cuisine and natural attractions, such as its limestone hills and caves within which Buddhist temples were built. In addition, Ipoh has managed to maintain its reputation as one of the cleanest cities in Malaysia.
Seremban
Seremban is a city and the capital of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, located within Seremban District. The city’s administration is run by the Seremban City Council. On 9 September 2009, Seremban was to be declared as a city, but it was later deferred due to technical reasons. However, the idea of granting city status has been brought up again and Seremban is expected to become a city in 2020. Seremban officially gained city status on 20 January 2020.
Seremban was founded as Sungei Ujong (or Sungai Ujong), named after a nearby river of the same name. While the town was renamed Seremban thereafter, the Sungai Ujong name most prominently persists as a street name for a road adjoining the southern side of town (Sungai Ujong Road, or Jalan Sungai Ujong).
The town is also referred alternately as “Fu Rong” in Mandarin or “Fu Yong” in Cantonese among the Chinese-speaking community.
Kuching
Kuching, officially the City of Kuching, is the capital and the most populous city in the state of Sarawak in Malaysia. It is also the capital of Kuching Division. The city is situated on the Sarawak River at the southwest tip of the state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo and covers an area of 431 square kilometres (166 sq mi) with a population about 165,642 in the Kuching North administrative region and 159,490 in the Kuching South administrative region total of 325,132 people.
Kuching was the third capital of Sarawak in 1827 during the administration of the Bruneian Empire. In 1841, Kuching became the capital of the Kingdom of Sarawak after the territory in the area was ceded to James Brooke for helping the Bruneian empire in crushing a rebellion particularly by the interior Borneo dweller Land Dayak people who later became his loyal followers after most of them being pardoned by him and joining his side. The town continued to receive attention and development during the rule of Charles Brooke such as the construction of a sanitation system, hospital, prison, fort, and a bazaar.
In 1941, the Brooke administration had a Centenary Celebration in Kuching. During World War II, Kuching was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. The Japanese government set up a Batu Lintang camp near Kuching to hold prisoners of war and civilian internees. After the war, the town survived intact. However, the last Rajah of Sarawak, Sir Charles Vyner Brooke decided to cede Sarawak as part of British Crown Colony in 1946. Kuching remained as capital during the Crown Colony period. After the formation of Malaysia in 1963, Kuching retained its status as state capital and was granted city status in 1988. Since then, the Kuching city is divided into two administrative regions managed by two separate local authorities. The administrative centre of Sarawak state government is located at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, Kuching.
Putrajaya
Putrajaya, officially the Federal Territory of Putrajaya, is a planned city and the federal administrative centre of the Malaysian capital. The seat of government was shifted in 1999 from Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya because of overcrowding and congestion in the former. Kuala Lumpur remains Malaysia’s national capital and is the seat of the King, the Parliament, and all the foreign embassies, and the country’s commercial and financial centre. Putrajaya was the idea of the then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. It became Malaysia’s third Federal Territory, after Kuala Lumpur and Labuan, in 2001.
Named after the first Malaysian Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, the territory is entirely enclaved within the Sepang District of the state of Selangor. Putrajaya is also a part of MSC Malaysia, a special economic zone that covers Klang Valley.
Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru  is the capital of the state of Johor, Malaysia. It is located along the Straits of Johor at the southern end of Peninsular Malaysia. The city has a population of 497,097 within an area of 220 km. Johor Bahru is adjacent to the city of Iskandar Puteri, both anchoring Malaysia’s third largest urban agglomeration, Iskandar Malaysia, with a population of 1,638,219.
Johor Bahru was founded in 1855 as Tanjung Puteri when the Sultanate of Johor came under the influence of Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim. The area was renamed “Johore Bahru” in 1862 and became the capital of the Sultanate when the Sultanate administration centre was moved there from Telok Blangah.
During the reign of Sultan Abu Bakar, there was development and modernisation within the city; with the construction of administrative buildings, schools, religious buildings, and railways connecting to Woodlands in Singapore. Johor Bahru was occupied by the Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. Johor Bahru became the cradle of Malay nationalism after the war and gave birth to a political party named United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) in 1946. After the formation of Malaysia in 1963, Johor Bahru retained its status as state capital and was granted city status in 1994.

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The best real estate agent tools in 2023

As a real estate agent, it’s important to stay on top of the latest tools and technologies to help you succeed in your job. With the constant evolution of the real estate industry, it’s more important than ever to stay up to date and be able to adapt to new tools as they become available. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best real estate agent tools that are expected to make a big impact in 2023.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
One of the biggest trends in real estate right now is the use of virtual and augmented reality to showcase properties to potential buyers. With VR and AR, agents can give clients an immersive
3D tour of a property
 without the need for them to physically be there. This not only saves time for both the agent and the client, but it also allows for a more interactive and engaging experience.
There are a few different VR and AR tools that real estate agents can use, including Matterport’s 3D Showcase. These tools allow agents to create realistic 3D models of properties and then share them with clients through a VR headset or on a smartphone or tablet using AR. This can be especially useful for agents who are working with clients remotely or who are unable to physically access a property.

2. CRM Systems
Customer relationship management (CRM) systems are an essential tool for any real estate agent. A
CRM system
 helps agents keep track of all their clients, leads, and deals in one place, making it easier to stay organised and manage their workload.
There are a number of different CRM systems available, each with its own unique features and capabilities. One of the top CRM systems for real estate agents is Fresh Sales by Freshworks. This system allow agents to track and manage their clients, schedule appointments, and keep track of their deals in progress.

3. Marketing Automation Tools
Marketing automation tools are another important tool for real estate agents. These tools allow agents to automate their marketing efforts, which can save a significant amount of time and effort.
There are a number of different marketing automation tools available, including Freshmarketer and Drip. These tools allow agents to automate tasks such as email marketing, social media marketing, and lead generation, freeing up more time for them to focus on other aspects of their business.

4. Transaction Management Systems
Transaction management systems are designed to help agents streamline the process of closing deals. These systems provide a central location for all the documents and information related to a deal, making it easier for agents to stay organised and manage their transactions.
Some of the top transaction management systems for real estate agents include dotloop, DocuSign, and Skyslope. These systems allow agents to securely store and manage documents, track the status of a deal, and collaborate with clients and other agents.

5. Property Websites
Real estate listing websites
 are an important tool for real estate agents who want to showcase their listings online. Property websites allow agents to display their listings on their own website, making it easier for potential buyers to browse and search for properties.
These websites are essential for real estate agents because they offer a variety of different features and options, including customisable search tools, lead capture forms, and integration with other real estate tools.

6. Social Media Management Tools
Social media is an important platform for real estate agents to connect with potential clients and showcase their listings. However, managing multiple social media channels can be quite challenging. To help you with managing your social media channels, you can use tools like Buffer, or Hootsuite. these tools help you save time managing social media so you can focus on making more sales.
Stay tuned with the
realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


The Transformative Power of Proptech in Real Estate

 In the last few years, the real estate industry has undergone a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and the rise of proptech or property technology. Proptech, an umbrella term encompassing various technologies and digital innovations tailored for the real estate sector, has disrupted traditional practices, challenging the status quo and creating new opportunities for industry players. Today we will explore some of the most transformative proptech that has had a profound impact on the real estate industry.
Enhanced Property Search and Virtual Tours
Proptech has revolutionised the way potential buyers search for properties. Online platforms and mobile apps provide comprehensive databases of property listings, allowing users to filter results based on their preferences. Additionally, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies offer
immersive virtual tours
, enabling prospective buyers to explore properties remotely. This not only saves time and effort but also opens up opportunities for international investors and buyers to participate in the market with ease.
Empowering Data-Driven Decision Making
Data analytics
 and artificial intelligence (AI) have revolutionised decision-making in the real estate industry. Proptech leverages vast amounts of data to provide insights on market trends, property valuations, and investment opportunities. Advanced algorithms analyse historical data, enabling more accurate predictions and risk assessments. Real estate professionals can now make informed decisions backed by data, mitigating uncertainties and maximising returns.
Enhanced Property Management
Proptech has revolutionised property management, simplifying tasks for property owners, managers, and tenants. Internet of Things (IoT) devices enable remote monitoring and control of property systems, optimising energy efficiency and reducing maintenance costs. Property management platforms streamline communication between landlords and tenants, facilitating rent collection, maintenance requests, and lease agreements.
The Emergence of Smart Cities
Proptech plays a pivotal role in the development of smart cities. Connected infrastructure, sensor networks, and IoT-enabled devices create a network of interlinked urban systems. This integration enhances efficiency, sustainability, and liveability. Smart buildings equipped with proptech solutions contribute to energy conservation, waste reduction, and improved urban planning.
Fostering Collaborative Ecosystems
Proptech has fostered collaborative ecosystems, bringing together stakeholders across the real estate value chain. Open platforms and marketplaces connect buyers, sellers, investors, and service providers, facilitating seamless transactions and fostering innovation. Crowdfunding platforms have democratised real estate investment, allowing smaller investors to participate in lucrative opportunities.
Addressing Sustainability Challenges
Proptech is at the forefront of addressing sustainability challenges in the real estate industry. Green technologies, such as solar panels and smart energy management systems, promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. Innovative solutions in waste management, water conservation, and sustainable materials contribute to building a more environmentally conscious sector.
Conclusion

Proptech has ushered in a new era of possibilities, transforming the real estate industry in profound ways. From revolutionising property transactions and empowering data-driven decision-making to enhancing property management and fostering sustainable practices, proptech has become an indispensable force. As we move forward, embracing and harnessing the potential of proptech will be vital for real estate professionals and stakeholders to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.

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Tips For Finding A Property To Rent In Malaysia

Here are 7 tips for finding your next property to rent in Malaysia
Start your search as early as possible
The best rentals, in terms of price, location and amenities, go earlier in the month, so don’t wait until mid-month to look for a new place to live. It’s best to start searching 60 days before you need to move, especially if you are looking for a rental property where there isn’t as much available. The second and third weekends of the month tend to be the busiest. If you start your search the first weekend of the month, there will be less competition and the
best properties
 will still be available.
Use a professional real estate negotiator
Real estate agents
 are available to help renters find properties free of charge. The key is to find a negotiator who specializes in rental properties in that location. Make sure you are talking with an agent who has knowledge on the apartment buildings and neighbourhoods where you want to rent.
Determine Your Affordability
Create your budget with a simple excel sheet. Detail your income and expenses down to the cent, from fixed obligations such as phone bills, student loans, and car payments, to variable month-to-month costs such as groceries, entertainment, and clothing. You can lower your food bills by using coupons, and save money on your astro, smartphone, and Internet by bundling all three services under one provider. These small moves can really add up, giving you the funds you need for your future housing.
Gather Your Down Payment
All landlords require a rental deposit, which usually includes 2 month’s rent, along with a utilities deposit which is 1/2 month’s rent. Therefore, if you’re spending RM800 per month for a new place, you need RM2,000 ready to go when you actually sign your lease. Your rental deposit is generally returned if you leave the property in the condition you found it. Otherwise, it can be applied to maintenance, repairs, and cleaning.
While you won’t need to give a landlord a rental deposit until you sign the lease, it’s always a good idea to have the amount saved up in your bank account. That way, you won’t lose out on a potentially perfect apartment to a better-prepared renter simply because you didn’t have the money.

Prepare Documentation
Landlords take a substantial financial risk if they don’t thoroughly check out each applicant, so in addition to credit and background checks, some may require extra documentation. Gather the following papers and keep them on file in advance of your search:
Letter of Employment
A landlord needs to know you’re gainfully employed and able to make monthly payments based on your salary. This letter should be printed on company letterhead and include an affirmation that you work there, the duration of your employment to date, and your monthly or yearly salary. It should be signed by a supervisor.
Pay Slips
These corroborate the information in the letter of employment.
Reference Letters
A landlord wants to know that you’re a great tenant. If you’ve rented before, ask for reference letters from past landlords explaining that you paid your rent on time and cared for the property. If you’ve never rented before, ask for letters from previous employers or acquaintances who can confirm that you’re responsible and honest. Just make sure they’re from people not related to you – glowing recommendations from your mom won’t do the trick.

Do a Walk-Through
Don’t sign that lease just yet. After everything checks out and you’re happy with the apartment, location, and landlord, you should do a final walk-through before signing on the dotted line. Because previous tenants may have caused damage or maintenance issues, you need to be sure that you won’t be responsible for any issues that weren’t your fault.
Read Over and Sign the Lease
Lease agreements vary depending on time frame and contract terms. A Fixed-Term Lease Is Most Common. Contract with your landlord to stay in the apartment for a specific period of time –a year, maybe even two years. In many cases, if you choose to move out, you’re still responsible to pay for the time left on your lease, whether you live in the apartment or not. This can mean locking in a lower rate, though, which is ideal for longer-term living situations. Occasionally, landlords let renters out of their lease if a penalty is paid, so be sure to discuss contingencies before you sign. If renting a property is not the best option for you, you can always consider a
RTO / Rent to own scheme
.
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Tips To Know When Buying a Newly Developed Property

The surge of new project developments in the real estate market has many homebuyers starting to focus on new construction properties. When you buy a newly constructed property instead of a sub-sale home, there are many extra steps that must take place.
To ensure an issue free process, here are 5 tips to know if you are considering buying a new project development:
1. Buy from a reputable developer
Despite the fact that most
property developers
 must comply with state and city regulations, you need to buy from a developer with a good reputation! When buying new construction, you will have peace of mind knowing a reputable developer wont leave the development half way completed.
2. Maintain good communication with your developer
Starting with the pre-construction discussion (where you will go over all the details of your property with your project developer), establish a line of communication. For example, will the developer email or whatsapp you regularly with progress updates.  If you are an out-of-state buyer, will you receive weekly photos of the progress via email or whatsapp? Can you call the developer and if so, how often? How often can you visit the site?
3. Look for developer’s incentives
The good thing about buying a new property is that you can add the renovations you need, the bathroom you want, or other upgrades to your home! However, there is always a price for such additions, and they add up quickly! So make sure you manage your budget well.
Some developers’ offer additional incentives that can help reduce the amount you spend on your home. Do your homework and see what sort of incentives the developers in your area are offering.
4. Expect extra time in the development process
There are many things that can impact the progress on your project development. One of these things is the weather, especially if you are entering monsoon season. Rain can delay the pouring of a foundation as well as other necessary steps at the beginning of construction, while floods can cause issues and slow your timeline.
Most developers already have extra time buffer added into their timelines, but if you are also in the process of selling your current home, you must keep that in mind! Nobody wants to be stuck between two homes homes for months or weeks.
5. Visit the project site often
As we mentioned earlier, be sure to schedule time with your project development manager regularly to see the progress on your project. It’s easy for your project developer to report everything is going well, but if the site has not even commenced building, then you know to be asking more questions about what is going on.
In summary
Waiting for your new property to come to life is a wonderful experience that can sometimes come with hassles. To avoid some of these headaches, keep these tips in mind!
If you are ready to put your current property up for sale and find out what new construction is available in your area, we can recommend a qualified real estate agent who can help you with the sale of your current home and the search for your new one.
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realestatemy.com/blog
 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Top 10 Property Developers in Singapore 2023

Singapore is home to some of the most prominent and innovative property developers in the world. These developers have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of the city-state, and have contributed to the growth and development of Singapore as a global business and financial hub. From luxury high-rise condominiums to sprawling commercial complexes, Singapore’s top property developers have a wide range of projects under their belt, all designed to meet the ever-changing needs of the modern city.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 property developers in Singapore. Whether you’re a real estate investor, a business owner, or a resident of Singapore, these developers are worth keeping an eye on as they continue to shape the future of this dynamic city-state. Here are the top 10 property developers in Singapore:

CapitaLand Limited

CapitaLand Group (CapitaLand)
 is one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups. Headquartered in Singapore, CapitaLand’s portfolio focuses on real estate investment management and real estate development, and spans across more than 260 cities in over 40 countries.
Within its ecosystem, CapitaLand has developed an integrated suite of investment management and operating capabilities that supports its real estate businesses and platforms in building core competencies across the real estate value chain. With this full stack of capabilities, CapitaLand can optimise the strategies of its listed real estate investment management business CapitaLand Investment, and its privately held property development arm CapitaLand Development; to drive competitive advantage for its businesses.
City Developments Limited

City Developments Limited (CDL)
 is a leading global real estate company with a network spanning 104 locations in 29 countries and regions.
Listed on the Singapore Exchange, the Group is one of the largest companies by market capitalisation. Its income-stable and geographically diverse portfolio comprises residences, offices, hotels, serviced apartments, retail malls and integrated developments.
With a proven track record of 60 years in real estate development, investment and management, the Group has developed over 48,000 homes and owns around 23 million square feet of gross floor area in residential for lease, commercial and hospitality assets globally.

UOL Group Limited

UOL Group Limited
 is a Singaporean headquartered company focusing on investment, development and management of real estate across the Asia-Pacific region. The Wee Family, significant shareholders of United Overseas Bank are the largest shareholders of the company.
The company is a constituent member of the Straits Times Index.
The company was founded in 1963 as Faber Union Limited, a subsidiary of Faber Union (HK) Limited.
Singapore Exchange It became a publicly traded company in 1964.

Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd

Headquartered in Singapore, Mapletree is a global real estate development, investment, capital and property management company committed to sustainability.
Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd (Mapletree) focuses on delivering value to its stakeholders through its business model that maximises capital efficiency. In executing a business strategy that combines the roles of real estate development, investment, capital and property management, Mapletree has generated consistently good returns to its stakeholders, and established a track record for building award-winning development projects across various real estate classes.
The Group manages three Singapore-listed real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) and seven private equity real estate funds, which hold a diverse portfolio of assets in Asia Pacific, Europe, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US). As at 31 March 2022, Mapletree owns and manages S$78.7 billion of office, retail, logistics, industrial, data centre, residential and student accommodation properties.
Keppel Land Limited
Keppel Land is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Keppel Corporation, a Singapore flagship multinational company providing solutions for sustainable urbanisation, focusing on energy & environment, urban development, connectivity and asset management.
Keppel Land is an innovative urban space solutions provider that leverages technology to deliver sustainable and customer-centric solutions that enrich people and communities. It is focused in the areas of sustainable urban renewal, senior living, urban living, retail and large-scale integrated developments.
Its award-winning portfolio comprises investment-grade commercial properties, residential developments and integrated townships. It is geographically diversified in Asia, with China, Singapore and Vietnam as its key markets, while it continues to scale up in India as well as other developed markets globally.

Oxley Holdings Limited

Oxley Holdings Limited (“Oxley” or “the Group”) is a home-grown property developer with a diversified portfolio including property development, property investment and project management. Oxley is listed on the Main Board of the SGX-ST.
The Group currently has a business presence across seven geographical markets including Singapore, the United Kingdom (the “UK”), Ireland, Cyprus, Cambodia, Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”). The Group specialises in the development of quality residential, commercial, industrial and hospitality projects.
Since Oxley’s incorporation in March 2010, the Group has launched a portfolio of 51 projects, and completed 40 projects across various countries, demonstrating its comprehensive execution capabilities.

GuocoLand Limited

GuocoLand Limited (“GuocoLand”) is a public company listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited since 1978. Headquartered in Singapore, the principal business activities of GuocoLand and its subsidiaries (“the Group”) are property development, property investment, property management and hotel operations.
The Group has established property operations in the geographical markets of Singapore, China and Malaysia, through a portfolio of quality integrated mixed-use developments as well as other premium residential, commercial, retail and hospitality developments. As a premier real estate group, GuocoLand is focused on achieving scalability, sustainability and growth in its core markets through its property development, investment and management businesses.
In recognition of its portfolio of quality, innovative developments and commitment to business excellence, the Group has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades both in Singapore and internationally.

Hong Leong Holdings Limited
Hong Leong Holdings Limited (HLHL) was established in 1968 as the privately-held property development and investment arm of the Hong Leong Group
.
 As one of the pioneers of the real estate scene in Singapore, HLHL has since emerged as a major player in the property market, making it one of the most sought-after providers of a comfortable home. To date, it manages 8 commercial projects and has developed close to 100 residential properties, including a range of mid to
 high-end residential projects in some of the country’s most coveted neighbourhoods.
Looking forward, HLHL continues to seek improvement and expansion in its business while maintaining its distinct level in design, sustainability and customer service.

Bukit Sembawang Estates Limited

Bukit Sembawang Estates Limited (BSEL) is a public-listed company incorporated in Singapore in 1967 with a focus on property development, investment and other property-related activities. As one of Singapore’s pioneer residential property developers, BSEL has established a reputation in delivering fine quality landed homes, private condominiums and apartments.
Bukit Sembawang Estates Limited’s widely acclaimed portfolio includes completed projects such as 8 St Thomas, The Vermont on Cairnhill, Skyline Residences, Nim Collection, Luxus Hills and Mimosa Terrace. Awarded the BCI Asia “Singapore Top Ten Developers” in 2017, BSEL is committed to designing and building distinctive homes of the highest standards that satisfy the aspirations and lifestyles of their customers, for generation after generation.

Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd.

Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd (“
the

Group”), listed on the Mainboard of Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”), is a multinational conglomerate company with businesses in construction, civil infrastructure, precast technology, environmental, property development and investment, hospitality, as well as education.

Founded in the 1960s,
the Group
 started its business as a building subcontractor for
conventional
and
landed properties
,
 and was appointed as main contractor for its first Housing & Development Board (“HDB”) project in 1982. Over the years, it grew from strength to strength and diversified into the construction of private condominium projects

and engaged in p
recast technology.

Leveraging on its accumulated experience and know-how, the
Group
 scaled up the property value chain to undertake property development and investment in the 1990s.
Its property development and investment portfolio spans shophouses, residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use development projects. To further diversify its business, the Group made its foray into the hospitality industry in 2015 and the education sector in 2018.

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 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.


Top 10 Property Developers In Malaysia 2023

   The recent years have been tough on the property industry in Malaysia, but while conditions haven’t been great there are quite a few property developers who are still performing quite well.   With that i would like to introduce
Malaysia’s Top 10 Property Developers of 2023
  Today, we will unveil the top 10 property developers who have been making waves in the Malaysian property landscape in 2023. With their innovative designs, sustainable practices, and commitment to quality, these developers have consistently pushed the boundaries of excellence in the industry. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the exciting world of Malaysian real estate:
LBS Bina Group Berhad
   LBS Bina Group is known for its affordable housing initiatives and integrated developments. With a vision of providing quality homes for all, they prioritise affordability, accessibility, and community development, making homeownership a reality for many Malaysians.
UEM Sunrise Berhad

 UEM Sunrise is known for its iconic developments that redefine urban living. Their portfolio includes high-end residences, commercial properties, and integrated developments. Emphasising innovation and sustainability, they consistently deliver exceptional living experiences.
IJM Land Berhad
   IJM Land has a strong presence in both Malaysia and international markets. Their diverse portfolio spans residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects, all crafted with a deep understanding of customer needs and an unwavering commitment to quality.
S P Setia Berhad Group

     Renowned for its iconic developments, S P Setia has established a solid reputation both locally and internationally. With a commitment to sustainable living, they have created award-winning residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects that redefine urban living.
IOI Properties Group Berhad

 IOI Properties is recognized for its exceptional track record in developing integrated townships, commercial properties, and high-rise residences. Their focus on quality and community development has earned them a strong following among property buyers and investors.
Gamuda Land

   A name synonymous with innovation and sustainability, Gamuda Land is known for its master-planned townships and infrastructure projects. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to green spaces, they create harmonious living environments that seamlessly blend with nature.
Sunway Property

 Sunway Property has made its mark with its vibrant mixed-use developments, including residential, commercial, and retail components. They prioritize the integration of amenities, connectivity, and sustainability, offering residents an enriching and convenient lifestyle.
Mah Sing Group Berhad
 Mah Sing Group is a dynamic developer that excels in residential, commercial, and industrial projects. With a focus on affordability and contemporary design, they cater to a wide range of homebuyers, making quality living accessible to many.
EcoWorld Development Group Berhad
 EcoWorld is dedicated to creating sustainable, eco-friendly communities that prioritize green living. Their developments emphasise open spaces, connectivity, and smart technologies, offering residents a wholesome and balanced lifestyle.
Sime Darby Property

   Sime Darby Property is recognised for its large-scale integrated developments and townships. They focus on sustainable living, incorporating green features and amenities that enhance the well-being of residents, while also fostering a sense of community.
These
top 10 property developers of 2023
 represent the best of the Malaysian real estate development industry. With their diverse portfolios, commitment to sustainability, and innovative designs, they continue to shape the urban landscape and provide exceptional living experiences for Malaysians. Whether you’re a prospective homeowner, investor, or simply intrigued by the world of property development, these developers offer a glimpse into the future of Malaysian real estate. Stay tuned for more updates on their exciting projects and groundbreaking initiatives! Click here for the
Top 10 Property Developers In Malaysia 2022

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 for more up-to-date tips and guides for real estate marketing professionals.