So, you’ve got your license, a fresh headshot, and a whole lot of ambition.. but now what? If you’re a new real estate agent wondering where your first client is going to come from, you’re not alone. Every successful agent once started right where you are: at zero.
Even though you may feel like you do, you don’t need a massive following or years of experience to start building your client base. What you do need is a clear plan, consistency, and a willingness to show up even when it feels like no one’s paying attention (yet). This guide breaks it down step by step, so you can get out there and start growing your business with confidence.
Start With Your Sphere
Your first step is tapping into your existing network, friends, family, neighbors, and former coworkers. These people already know you, trust you, and are most likely to refer you to others. The goal isn’t to “sell” to them, it’s to let them know you’re now in real estate and open for business.
Send out a simple message letting them know you’re available to help anyone who’s thinking of buying, selling, or just has questions about the market. You might be surprised how many people need guidance but don’t know who to ask.
Pro Tip: Post a friendly intro video on social media, send a text blast, or write a personal email. Keep it natural and don’t overthink it.
Establish an Online Presence
These days, having no online presence is like not existing at all. Even if you prefer in-person networking, most people will Google you before they decide to work with you. So, make sure they find something good.
Start with:
- A professional Instagram account that highlights your journey, behind-the-scenes content, and tips for buyers and sellers.
- A basic website or landing page with your contact info and services.
- A Google Business Profile so you show up in local searches.
You don’t need to be perfect or polished. Just be real, helpful, and consistent. Show your face. Share your process. Be someone people can relate to and trust.
Show Up in Your Community
These days, having no online presence is like not existing at all. Even if you prefer in-person networking, most people will Google you before they decide to work with you. So, make sure they find something good.
Start with:
- A professional Instagram account that highlights your journey, behind-the-scenes content, and tips for buyers and sellers.
- A basic website or landing page with your contact info and services.
- A Google Business Profile so you show up in local searches.
You don’t need to be perfect or polished. Just be real, helpful, and consistent. Show your face. Share your process. Be someone people can relate to and trust.
Create Value, Don’t Just Pitch
People don’t want to be sold to, they want to be helped. The best way to build your client base is to consistently offer value. Start sharing helpful tips, market updates, and answers to common questions across your platforms.
Think things like:
- “3 Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)”
- “What Does a Seller’s Market Actually Mean?”
- “How Much Money Do You Really Need to Buy a House?”
When you give away useful information, people remember you when it’s time to make a move, or when someone they know needs an agent.
Ask for Referrals (The Right Way)
Referrals will eventually become your biggest source of business, but you don’t need to wait years to get them. Start by asking the people who trust you the most.
But instead of saying, “Do you know anyone buying or selling?” try something more specific like:
- “If you hear of anyone getting ready to list their home this summer, would you mind passing along my info?”
- “If a friend’s thinking of buying their first place and needs help navigating the process, I’d love to support them.”
Make it about helping, not hunting. People want to help, they just need to be reminded how.
Follow Up Like a Pro
Building a client base is really about building relationships—and relationships need follow-up. If someone reaches out, follows you online, or downloads something from your website, don’t let that lead go cold.
Create a simple follow-up system. That could mean:
- A weekly check-in message
- A monthly newsletter
- A DM thanking someone for following and asking how you can support them
The agents who win are the ones who don’t just wait around—they reach out, follow up, and stay visible.
In Conclusion
Starting from scratch isn’t easy, but it is doable. Focus on building genuine relationships, staying consistent, and making yourself valuable to the people around you. You don’t need to have all the answers or close a hundred deals to build a name for yourself. You just need to show up, be helpful, and stay the course.
You’ve got this! Your future clients are out there, they just need to know you exist. And the good news is, you don’t have to completely start from scratch. Being a new real estate agent can feel overwhelming, but Agent Social Haus is here to help. Join our community where you can access the tools, resources, and support to jumpstart your business and grow your client base faster than you thought possible.
Let’s make this journey easier and more rewarding together!
