To be a successful and profitable real estate agent, you must build a strong network from the start. In fact, savvy agents begin networking even before they have taken their final exam in real estate school. Generating leads and networking are no doubt two of the most important factors to build and maintain a successful real estate business.

As part of your networking plan, you’ll want to connect with real estate developers/builders. The relationships you have with home builders in your region can help take your business to the next level. Be selective, though. You don’t want to connect with any and every developer because some have a terrible reputation! Choose wisely and go from there.

Research the real estate developers in your area

Even if you’re new to the real estate industry, you’ve likely already figured out that word-of-mouth is a key marketing tool. This is why your reputation as an agent is so important. You want clients to recommend your services to others. The same is true for developers. If a client has an awful experience with a particular builder, not only will the builder not get referrals, but the client might also go so far as to tell others to steer clear of the company.

Therefore, when your goal is to start networking with developers, do some research. Find out how many houses they’ve built in your area, how long they’ve been in business and whether they have a good reputation among clientele, as well as in the real estate industry and among other builders.

Put your skills to use in model homes

Another way for real estate agents to connect with developers is to offer marketing services for their model homes. This is a great way to showcase your skills, which might then compel a particular developer to want to establish a partnership with you.

Let your reputation precede you

If you want a developer to bring you on as a listing agent, you must first establish a notable/trustable reputation in your community. To do this, you must, of course, sell homes and get referrals. You can also become “a familiar name” in your town by attending lots of community events, both real estate-related and otherwise. Volunteer your services wherever you can.

Attend events where there will be a lot of builders. Get to know people. Let them get to know you. The more established you are as a real estate agent, the more a developer will want to work with you. After all, having a listing agent with a household name in the community is great for business.