Becoming a real estate agent takes a lot of work and dedication. It is a profession you take home, not a 9-5 job that you won't think about during the off hours. However, the real question is whether you wish to separate the two. Do real estate agents need a physical office or are they better off handling their obligations from home? Although a complex subject, we're here to look at some facts that will hopefully help you reach a satisfying decision.
Whether real estate agents need a physical office is subjective
The first thing you should know before asking yourself whether RE agents need a physical office or not is whether this matters. Of course, you should do your research and come up with a decision that's reasonable and right. However, just as you become a real estate agent not only because of the statistics and objectively positive sides of this profession but because you enjoy it, you need to do the same here. All this to say that you should look at all the pros and cons and weigh in both sides, but make your final decision based on what you feel is best for you.
The most critical RE work happens far from the office
Not many people outside this line of work realize that a lot of what we as agents do happens outside the four walls of our offices. Of course, there's quite a bit of paperwork and dull obligations we need to do daily. However, communication with clients and connections with professionals in our line of work make us great and decide whether the job is done well or not. Most clients never even make it to the office of their RE agent. Nowadays, most deals are done over the phone, over a cup of coffee, or, ideally, over the internet. Of course, the most critical part of any RE transaction happens inside the property at hand. It all makes you wonder whether real estate agents need a physical office.
Accessibility is key
Being accessible to your clients is a great part of any real estate agent's job. In fact, this is one of the essential qualities clients look for while searching for a real estate agent. It means that you need to be as easy to reach as possible, whether you own an office or not.
Are digital signatures a real thing?
Many RE agents, especially those that have been in the game for a while and like to keep things traditional, wonder whether digital signatures have real value. This would be something that would genuinely make working from home rather than in an office easier. It's also something that could open doors for you if you wish to sell long-distance. You'll be happy to know that digital documents are perfectly valid and legally binding.
Finding common ground
If you haven't made up your mind about whether real estate agents need a physical office and wish to relocate your office to your home, that's perfectly fine. It's a great in-between option. You'll still have a place that you go to for work, but it won't be as obviously limiting and confining. But make sure to plan the office relocation properly to do it with ease. If you organize well and hire the necessary help, you will do it in no time and without sacrificing your work.
You can work remotely during this time
While your office is being moved, it's an excellent opportunity to see how well you'll work from home. Pick any room in your house that's quiet and isolated, and try to work from there. It may not go smoothly in the beginning, but you'll get used to it.
Find reliable movers
Look for a good moving company that'll help you achieve this in a short timeframe so that you can start your work as soon as possible. If you need advice on finding movers, experts at simplifystorage.com suggest beginning your search online. Check online databases, pay attention to the reviews, and visit the company websites. This search will help you weed out all the sketchy companies. When you narrow down your options to a few reliable companies, ask them to provide you with a moving quote. Then compare the estimates and the services they offer and pick the company that will give the best value for your money.
Advantages of having an office
There are certain advantages of having an office as an RE agent that you need to consider.
● Separate work from home
You'll be able to separate work from home more easily if you own a physical office that's detached from your home.
● More productivity and motivation
Having a physical place that you know is meant only for work is proven to help us concentrate and do what we need.
● More privacy
If you have a large family with small children, working from your home can be stressful. By having a physical office, you won't have this type of distraction.
Advantages of working wherever you feel like it
Of course, a good real estate agent knows what works for them. Here are some positive sides of working from home or any other place.
● No commute-related stress
Stressing out over commuting to work is a prevalent problem. It not only wastes your time, but it can also cost quite a bit. If you were to work remotely, this wouldn't be an issue.
● You'll save some money
As we've mentioned, you'll save money on commuting. However, that isn't all. When you work from wherever is convenient, you won't have to spend a lot on eating out, fancy clothes, childcare, coffee, etc.
● More time for family
If you decide to work from home, you can have more time for your kids and loved ones. Especially if you don't mind taking some calls during a family day, your options are endless.
Always think about your clients
Before you make your final decision about whether real estate agents need a physical office or not, there's one more thing to mention. Although you should always put your needs first, think about what's good for the business. What will be the best thing for your clients?
Written by: Lisa Robert with US Home Experts