Get Your Mortgage Phil: Real Estate Dinosaurs Of San Mateo County: We Are Going To Drive You Into Extinction!

I was in a meeting last month and one of 'our' dinosaurs was talking about how his office spent x amount of dollars (it was like 300 or so) for the advertising it takes to get one client into his office.

I kept my mouth shut but inside I was giggling. Because I don't want them in my office tire kicking or shooting the bull. I want them in a title company signing escrow documents. :)

And it doesn't take anywhere near that much to get them there. Sometimes it's zero dollars and a few moments of my time.

Candice - good for you - I hope you're slaying lots of those dinosaurs in Arizona!

I don't plan to go the way of the dinosaurs!  Thanks for helping me along the way!

Lottie,

Let's go slay some of those dinosaurs!

Phil - good ninja post!  I would have thought it would get more comments though!

Phil, I'm with Drew... I would have thought this would have gotten more exposure. This should be featured! I'm flagging it!

Drew and Ruth - I thought it would have received more comments also.

Phil, thanks for the good post. This week I have been threatened by two different brokers with over 78 years of experience. When will they realize that their 78 years of experience is almost irrelevant today?

One of my favorite quotes is from one of my real estate licensing teachers - "Don't be intimidated by agents who say they have 20 years of experience. More often than not, they have 1 year of experience - 20 times."

The dinosaur may just teach you a thing or two about sales. The busiest person in my office has the office secretary put his listings into the MLS, has no web site and does not answer his voice mail on his cell phone. His advice to the rest of us; "get off the computer and start selling."

Love the assertiveness, but tend to echo Greg's sentiments above.  There is always a new looming meteor that is to mark the extinction of the Real Estate dinosaurs, but they tend to waltz right through its shadow and into the path of whatever doomsday scenario unfolds next.  Shoot, you don't get to be a dinosaur of 30-40+ years in this industry without having a few more aces up your sleeve than the next guy.  While I pound away with the latest technology, the biggest hitter in my office still uses a typewriter.  He's not going out to pasture until he decides it's time.  That said, I tip my cap and wish you success in your quest for market domination.  I have aspirations for the same.

Well put Phil.  I'm more of the sneaky ninja that they never see coming.  I keep my bag of tricks close to the vest, but I keep the information flowing to the customers and make sure I'm easily accessible 7 days a week from sun up to sun down (and then some).  Keep up the good work, you may soon be known as "Phil the Dinasour Slayer".

I can see both sides of the coin!  I think it will take new and innovative skills to stay ahead of the game in real estate.  However, I am still finding that most of my clientele come from doing things the old fashioned way.  Folks out there still like plucking agents out of their community they have had face to face exposure with.  I continue to be amazed at how many clients come from past client referral. 

I also agree with Gregory, I am amazed at how much skill and real estate traffic our office secretaries handle!

I also remember a great broker that would chastise us about hanging around the office at our desks and cubicles.  He'd chastise us into getting out there and becoming involved in the community. 

I suspect we will reach a time when everything OLD, will be NEW again!

Phil, great post!  If you were to recommend one book or one blog to a dinosaur that they could learn your three step social media warfare  strategy from, what would it be?

Phil, I think you just took the words out of my mouth.  I serve on several committees at my local board I've been known to politely tell someone, "if you don't start using social media in your business, you will soon be out of business." 

Pretty funny read, I hope that works out for you. Loan officer and part time assasin. By the way, what is a ninja post???

Hmmmm...Dinosaurs can be quite useful...their decomposed remains are what fuel our transportation these days...just sayin...

Anyway...

While I agree that those of us who are blogging will eventually be the ones controlling a dominant share of the market, there is something to be said about old fashioned methods. I am meeting a ready, willing and able buyer on Sunday who was referred to me from a neighbor I just met at our neighborhood association meeting, who I simply asked if she knew anyone who could use my help, if she would mind referring me...and I have a potential listing from a co-worker of mine in the school system, pending the outcome of some probate issues...sometimes the old ways work wonders, and I wouldn't totally discount them as effective tools for new agents to adopt.

Sounds like several agents in our area! I'm with you, give them valuable content, not just advertising myself. I've had 2 calls this week from people who liked what I wrote and thought "this lady knows her stuff"! No $$$ this week, but it will turn into that as time goes by, and the dinsoaurs are becoming extinct.

Great post, love the tone. Fits my Friday mood.

Phil, I guess that makes me an alligator. Been around millions of years and still adapting. I am staying tuned in to watch your progress and maybe pickupa thing or two!

Hmmm...funny in a cocky, wet behind the ears sort of way...just remember that even some of us dinosaurs get up every day and go to work with an open mind to engage our business with social media too, things have changed many times over the years and those that don't keep up are left behind! Of course some skills are consistent over time so it might be a good idea to master those too. ;-D

Though I only have 20 years in the business, I completely agree with the words of the incredibly bright Mr. Slaybaugh above, "Shoot, you don't get to be a dinosaur of 30-40+ years in this industry without having a few more aces up your sleeve than the next guy."  

Funny post and really well written. I bet you the RE dinosaur is really really scared now.

Well it wouldn't be the first time a youngster tried to put the dinosaur out of business. I am a huge fan of social media. BUT if that is all someone does I don't expect them to be in business very long. How many loans did you do from facebook year to date?

Success in tihs current market requires multiple streams of lead generation. Social media is certainly one aspect of it.

I like the post though. Very well written.

I'm not sure if I consider this funny or arrogant. Will be inteesting to see market share stats in San Mateo County 1-2 years from now and see if anything has really changed.

Phil - Good attititude, but... there are many ways to generate business.  The traditional advertiser has a market that likes him... you will have one that likes you. 

Interesting post. There's days I feel the same, and days where I can "actually learn something" from the dinosaurs. Go figure.

EXCELLENT!!!!!!! Written in a direct and humorous way that had me laughing. Many tools have to be utilized to be successful so I guess that's why this ole dinosaur learned this blogging stuff.

 As far as extinction for me it will be a cold day in Hell but maybe we can ice skate together. LMAO!!!!!

The flaw in most of these assumptions is that the "Dinosaur Brokers" are standing still. They aren't. I agree with John...let's look back in a couple of years and I'd be willing to take a bet that not much has changed.

I am no dinosaur and am newer to this than many are. But I do use the internet to my advantage. But if you are staking your future solely to the social media like Twitter and FaceBook you will find them about as effective as the local Moose, Elk or other social club. People do not specifically go there to look for an agent. If they happen to find one and happen to be also selling a property, great. But most, when they want to buy or sell a property, will go to a real estate brokerage or look for one on the net. Even the data supports that. There may be tarpits with dinosaur bones in them in California, but none here in Florida. Liked the bravado though Even the weakest of lions can roar a bit. :)

Amazing the wide gulf of perspectives in this industry.  I think many non-online agents think: if it's not broke, don't fix it. 

Our office is different, we value the "old dinosaurs" and they are a necessary resource for those of us who have been in the business a few short years.  I agree with Greg.

Phil:

Love the moxie. But I wouldn't get too cocky yet. Sales is a funny business, and even if you master the technology of today, you still have to develop the skill to create compelling content to get customers.

The old school top producers are probably not going to lose much market share for several years, but I doubt anybody new to the business would be able to go old school and win.

Thanks for all of the comments! I wrote this post for a couple of reasons. Selfishly, I wrote this to let San Mateo county agents know that I know how to use this stuff to build their business. I know that there are "dinosaur" agents out there who are very successful that would say "stay away, I don't want to get sick" if I asked them if they would like to get viral. Different strokes for different folks!

The other reason is that I wanted to present the use of social media in real estate marketing in a humorous sort of way. I enjoyed writing it - I hope all of you enjoyed reading it!

I have nothing against the dinasaurs - as long as they do their jobs and properly market the properties they list.  This is where many of them fall short IMO - they don't recognize the importance of web exposure and short-change listings as a result.  the dinosaurs that irritate me are the ones who "buy " listings and do nothing to help their clients sell their homes.

A true "Real estate ninja," would never have announced this.  It blows any chance for the sneak attack.

It's usually the braggarts that cry like this end up being in the same cubicle a year from now.

Tsk. Tsk. We'll see.

-- bartman

Personally, I am using several different aspects of social media in my business, but I have nothing but respect for the ol' timers that paved the way.  Many of these so called dinosaurs have passed down useful knowledge and wisdom to me that I still use today.  You may call them dinosaurs, but I like to refer to them as mentors, and friends.  -Cory

Social media is really an important strategy to use in the current market, but I'm not discounting the seasoned agent either. Many of them have plenty of "smarts" and can adapt to new technology just fine.

I think there could be a middle ground, but well said!

Phil I believe change is inevitable and those who don't embrace it are likely to miss out on the fruits born of change.  On the flip side, there will always be those who don't adapt well and I'm okay with that particularly if I can benefit from it without hurting anyone.  But people who operate from their time tested comfort zone will divert potential new business to those of us who welcome change.

Your words create.  Choose carefully.

Fun post ... evolution vs. extinction that's really the question ... who will evolve and adapt to the new world and who will become extinct?

Dude, you have played way too many video games. Time to grow up, learn to respect your elders and realize that they too were once the innovators. They may have an arrow or two left in their quiver.

Phil.. It is the age of David and Goliath... and we are going to take them down.  Great blog.  Congrats on the FEATURE.

Phil, I Googled 'real estate social media marketing' and did not see you on the first page

Your post is on a great topic, i would like to see some more of your ideas though. how are you taking advantage of these new media opportunities?

lets hope the out patients(potential clients) have the same drive to engage us with their time as the time we spend wanting to engage. Time savings is the main sales tool.. but most sales-people don't quite get it.

Phil....you are a bit cocky.....but that comes with youth.... I blog everyday....yes, I'm old and from the "old school"....32 years of it....but I know that other methods are necessary and cannot be eliminated....not every buyer and seller are computer literate....believe it or not!!  my direct mail marketing produces business....my google ranking is just fine....I'm on the first page for a ton of searches....I also blog on wordpress everyday.....yup, I'm that big ole dinasaur that you are trying to kill....with your cockiness, you'll be shooting yourself in the foot before I'm extinct.

Everything about the technology agent is true except for, "Are you a good agent?" Do you get things closed? Do you do what you say you are going to do? Are you a good negotiator? I know guys who are too busy blogging and not talking to people...real people. They aren't doing well. I have gotten business from facebook and my website but not as much as buliding relationships doing volunteer work and meeting friends of friends face to face. Its more fun too! I have beaten out the guy with the super website because I can communicate face to face and the client sees that I am an expert at selling in their neighborhood or price range. I agree, but you aren't putting a guy out of business who has 200 A+ clients who refer others in person AND on facebook. By the way facebook won't be around in 5 years it will be something else by then. LOL Great post!-Gary

The dinosaur's work hard and do business the way they like. All of us are self employed and are self directed. If you go after the top 1% that is a great goal. I admire both types of agents but the proffis in the closings. I am one of those satisfied agents who does his 40 closings per year and is perfectly happy. Wish you the best and get your point.

Many will soon retire having saved millions since real estate was their life.  They can all stop anytime they would like as they no longer have to do this.

LOL<<<<<<<<<<<<<<LOL

Still the number one thing to keep you in this business is LISTINGS,, You get out from behind your

screen, and go look someone in the face. And as far as marketing, No matter how many internet

sites you have the listing on. If it is not priced right, for the location it is in ,It will NOT sell within

a timely manner

Written by a old dinosore, that knows that what you did last year is just that. Last year. You have

to work to make it in this business. And I do not mean work 80 hours a week, I work maybe 30 hours.

and sell about a listing a week, Enough for me. Well time to hook up the boat, I am going fishing

Good luck in trying to put us out to pasture

Phil, I appreciate the spirit of your post, but many of my mentors/dinosaurs have kept me out of the tar pits. I'm glad they're still here sharing their knowledge and experience.

I really envy your knowledge and expertise.  Thanks for sharing.  You have definitely caught the wave!

Really there is so much more to selling real estate than leads and speed, you have to be able to connect (not just online), follow through, relate, handle problems.  I don't see much of that in this post, though maybe it is in other posts you have written.  Once our country relied too much on remote intelligence and gave scant resources to people on the ground creating a gap.  We can't just rely on technology for our career.  In fact technology can be a threat.   If technology savvy-individuals find their own houses what do they need us for?  Exactly those skills that dinosaurs have. 

I'd like to here what RE agents role is/should be assuming all the technology is in place.  Do we follow the R*df*n model?  Lower comissions?  Sorry I'm new let me know if I'm not following etiquette.

Love it Phil - great blog... Lots of dinos out there.

Quite enjoyed reading all the comments!  Definitely not a neutral post, people either hated it or loved it.  You've definitely got the ovaries to push people around a bit!  :)))

I think you need a blend of both marketing methods, but there are certainly lots of traditional agents doing just fine, and there are newbies with nothing but a diet of web 2.0 that are crushing it. 

Probably has more to do with the person... their attitude, vibrational state, focus, skill...

How do you find the jumbo loan market to be these days?  That's where a lot of the deals seem to be falling apart unless the seller is willing to do a massive price reduction.  I'd be interested to chat with you when you come across buyers you can't qualify... we're doing things a little differently, but getting them the benefits they're looking for and helping sellers preserve equity that seems to be evaporating.

Thanks for making me laugh.

I agree with some of what you said but not all. Social media and SEO enhancement on one's website are very important, I think it's only one leg of a business. In the current market,  we know that email marketing has more of a return on investment than the old fashioned postcard mailing. However, very targeted postcard mailing can be effective if sent quarterly to your sphere of influence. 

Of course, I'm interested learning all of the nuances of SEO enhancements, but I also feel that in the long run, relationship building is the key: getting out there and meeting people and learning how to relate to all personality types. There should be several branches of one's business:referrals from happy past clients, sphere of influence, and also internet. However, with an internet lead, you still have to have the people skills to transform them into a warm contact and eventual client. In other words, you have to be warm and friendly so that they feel you are person that they would trust and would like to work with in making one of the largest and most personal purchases of their lives.

With all clients, you also have to find out how they prefer to communicate with you be it telephone, email, text etc. 

Lastly, when you've captured the attention of people through your blog or website, the most important thing is to have a system that captures the leads-giving something of value to them so they are willing to give you their (valid) email address and name. 

I've been an agent for 5 years and always feel that there is something to learn from everyone--new and "seasoned". Also, I don't want to wish ill thoughts on others because what goes around comes around. Helping others will help yourself. They may need your help in getting up to speed, and then in gratitude may give you a referral. 

I'm glad to see the dissenters come out.  I've been at this for 26 years.  My best year ever was 2007 when 80% of my business came from my website (I didn't have a Facebook or Twitter account yet).  With the economy I've had to scramble since that 80% flew out the window in 2008 and most of 2009, although I'm seeing more clients from my site again (and the site has gone up in the serps since it produced so well in '07).

I have reviewed sales from 2 dinosaur friends (one I used to work with in my old office and the other is a friend from way back).  They have remained heavy hitters and they don't have websites and do not know what social networking is.  They will only become extinct if banks take over (or other players) and our business ends up turning agents into paid employees.  But at that point they'll be ready to retire and probably won't care much.

I've remained successful with new technology because I love and embrace it - it is like a hobby to me that helps with my business.  But my two friends show me that it isn't always necessary to be cutting edge, just hard work and handshaking.

I'm as upbeat about the internet and new tools as anybody, but I think the dinosaurs will be with us for awhile. As long as personal relationships matter in this world, referrals and networking are going to be effective tools. A great, provocative post.

Love it!

Phil - I work with dinosaurs who are quite clever and adapt well.  I have learned a lot from some of them.  A lot of their dinosaur tricks work on-line too.  Keep in mind present thinking is that birds are direct descendants of dinos.  Maybe T-Rex and the Brontosaurus aren't here anymore, but adaptive, clever dinosaurs are EVERYWHERE.

Tweet tweet.

Good post! But dinosaur are good for the business! as long as there are dinosaur clients - there will be place for dinosaur agents! Maybe we all should focus on the goal of helping people move instead of destruction of the ailing competition? Although, I like this idea, being a competitive tennis player!

Phil, I appreciate your post, and the banter it has created.  I think every Realtor who has managed to carve out a place for himself should be commended and pat himself/herself on the back for their success, especially during these down times.  How about we all respect, support, and share in each other's victories?!!  Yay, team! 

Loved your blog Phil, definitely caught my attention. Read all the remarks and agree with some. I think the OLD and the NEW together will keep this Dinosaur and the web savvy ( social media expert)  going! Combine both ingredients and like food it will be GREAT!

Would love to hear more from you!

Interesting post.  I think you can argue both sides of this and win.  I do think there are still people out there impressed with the dinosaurs.  It's rather generational if you ask me.  Some babyboomers and older like the dinosaurs.  The younger generation...not important to them. 

You are right on and I'm doing the same thing in Hilliard, OH. I did the corp. climb for 22 years and have been in real estate for 7years and a broker for 3 years.  I was just amazed that when I started in real estate the old mind set or the dinosaurs just won't do business any other way, they keep there business wide open for this kind of take over. And if you talk about the new way of doing business they look at you like you are some type nut. Their failure to change is our success!

Anyone who has managed to succed in our crazy industry long enough to be called a Dinosaur has my total respect and admiration - they must be doing something right!

Adapting to changing times and using technology is important for sure, but it will never replace the old-fashioned face-to-face contact that Real Estate Sales is all about - this is, after all, a "People" buisness.

This Blog struck a big nerve called our "idenity"    We all need to be careful that we don't set ourselves up as "social media" idenity or we will be the new dinasours.

I have been selling real estate for 24 years and sometimes I have to admit that get tired of all the change.  Real Estate is a business of massive change and time consuming learning.  We need to sometimes pause and catch our breaths and just enjoy selling in this business.  Everyone is at a different place at a different time and we are all different expressions of our creator. 

We need to be careful about categorizing anyone since we are all very different.  Social Media is no different for us older agents, we have been doing networking for years outside of the internet and we will catch up with the new social media people in our own time.  Having a book of business that is 24 years old also gives us both the social media as a new avenue of business and for the saavy networkers who were networking before the internet. We have the one on one social skills and large network already established.  We also have a weapon called grandchildren who are teaching us the new social media and helping us get our networks established!!!  Best wishes to all in setting up thier marketing in a way that serves both them and their clients and I hope all the Active Rain bloggers are here on the other side of this.

Dear Agent Down the Hall;

While I appreciate your humor, you are a bit arrogant. If you truly want to be a Ninja, you must first learn respect and that most times the old, traditional ways are the best ways.  Put your own spin on what has historically worked, but to turn history upside down because you want to blaze trails will leave you at the end of a burned-out road. 

Here is what makes a good Realtor and sells Real-Estate:  Caring about your clients. Doing a good job, always. Remaining ethical, especially when it's difficult to do so. Experience. Keeping up on industry changes. Continued learning in areas that are relevant to what we do. Meeting people. Making sure that every effort is our best. Improving skills constantly. Communicating. Working well with cooperating agents. Stepping away from the computer, facebook, and your i-phone to work for your clients and get transactions to closing.

Don't forget, young one, that the "Dinosaurs" have won many a war, and still have something to offer. Don't be surprised when you find yourself unable to compete with those who have battle experience.

Phil

This is an interesting post that obviously ruffled some feathers! I believe we all bring value and can learn from each other.

Phil,

there is nore to the whole of social media than just the internet, the blog, etc.  Behind it has to be an expert individual in all things real estate, and a kind human who somethimes has to hold the hand of their seller/buyer.  We have seen internet jockeys armed with the latest and greatest who knew very very little about real estate disappoint people and they turned to the odl fashioned dinosaur for service and expertise.   Balance is key.

The true dinosaurs are the franchise brokerages.

Agreed to a point, more so 10-20 yrs from now. As long as there are dinosaur clients roaming this planet there will be business for the dinosaur agents. In my neck of the woods the dinosaur clients have the big bucks and I like em. "I like em a lot"

I thought the internet was going to make realtors extinct? Top producers always adapt and they are not intimidated by the arrogance of others who have an attitude. If you think blogging on an AR blog is going to be your answer to make successful realtors extinct, then you have not figured out what works. Who would want to work with you with your attitude?

OMG!!!  I too am the agent down the hall!  I LOVE THIS!! Great post!

This is my 50th year as a real estate broker. I encourage the new generation of agents to take advantage of every available technology to gain their market advantage. And, I am always available to offer advice and encouragement. ActiveRain produces calls from prospective clients. Best wishes for continued success.

Yes, some days I feel like I am still in the stone age.

 Spring is blooming for Maryland home buyers.

Social media and networking is great; however, they are not the magic pill for advertising needs.  Offline marketing is an essential part of business.  If it is ignored, a business cannot survive. 

Aaron 

Hey Phil, I like the idea of your post but feel you missed out on the most important point which is that many of these so called dinosaurs can quickly adapt to social media and blogging in just a few weeks and continue their domination of a market.  These agents got to their position in the business because they have the ability to work quickly and know how to close deals.  Also, I dont know if anyone has mentioned this yet but you kinda look like Howie Long.  Anyways good overall post and you should do a part 2 that gives examples of new agent that was able to capture a old skoll agents market share using your tactics. 

There is a Realtor in our area who blogs like crazy!  Every time I turn around I see his blog come up. So I looked up his MLS stats to see just how effective blogging can be in our area and I am sad to say the poor guy is starving.

There are 3 full time agents in my office. I am the newbie and the others have 10-25 years experience. Since I am younger, I have more computer savy and I have taught them a few things in regards to online tools available to them. But the bottom line is they are getting business all the time, just from past clients and referrals.  I on the other hand, am working hard to build my base and quite frankly, in this slow market I am very discouraged. Yet these girls give me hope..Knowing that if I can stick it out long enough, I too will be one of those agents who business just naturally flows to me because I did a good job for someone is the past.

And to Cookie #70...Well said!

Funny!  Nothing like a good Challenge to fire up a sales force!  

Look out Camarillo, I am on the move! :)

The one thing(and others) that ninjas will never get is the fact that FACE TO FACE NEGOTIATIONS and demeanor,learned from your so called "dinosurs" will always trump you.  You seem to think that getting web exposure is all there is to it. I take it you have learned all you need to learn? I use a combination of old school(newspapers,weekly paper listings) and new school as I use newspapers ONLINE and the various net ad such as here on Active Rain. My broker was born and raisded here and it is unwise if one does not hang on tomost every word he says.

While social media can certainly be one method of staying in touch, don't be so quick to write off the so called dinosaurs. These are the agents who know how to use a telephone, how to meet, greet and develop relationships in the real world. They will beat you out almost every time. My suggestion is to hone your skills in the non electronic media. My brokerage is consistently in the top national rankings for Coldwell Banker and that comes from individuals who do not spend countless hours in front of the computer--rather they will have a phone on their ear or be out and about developing and maintaining relationships. When clients start sending wall posts to order up that new house--perhaps then I'll change my outlook. Until then, good luck with "slaying the dinosaurs."

As a 16 year Mortgage professional who read this just as he was waking up on a Saturday morning. My first thought was mild amusement, and then I remembered the statistic's to a pole from a Linked-In conference I attended the day before. The question's were in a series that were being asked by the webinar host. Then the host would show the results. Of the 887 people attending the event, one question asked how many are using some form of social marketing in thier business? The answer was close to 78%. The next question was, "how many have had sales they can track back to their social networking?" The answer was a big, fat zero! Of coarse the moderator knew this in advance, and it was the answer he was hoping for because that allowed him to bridge into his closing sequence. If we would only sign up for Linked In's personnel marketing coach for .......... You get the picture. I forgot to mention that before the pole he had set it up by announcing how many hit's Linked In obtained per day.It all seemed like mana from heaven.

In my humble opinion as someone who is busting his hiney on this social networking thing and have been since last October, I haven't generated one sale from it. It's a heck of a lot easier, cheaper, and certainly more satisfying to walk into my local realtor office and have one of my Dinosaur agents hand me a scrap of paper with the name and number of someone they want me to call.

This social online networking will most likely be a tool that Realtor's and Loan Officers use in the future but it is certainly not going to responsible for driving the top producing dinosaur into extinction. After all, they have many interpersonnel relationships and contacts. This is what it's all about

Well, I thought this post was pretty mean spirited...even if it was in a "tongue and cheek" sort of way. I know agents you would call dinosaurs and they just work hard everyday and generate a ton of business. They hire someone to "do their website", and they spend all day on the phone, out and about, and emailing. Don't doubt for one minute these dinosaurs. They know how to work it!

Here's a quick video about someone we can all learn a thing or two from - the oldest licensed agent in America...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqqnDIj1Ris&feature=player_embedded

Cool post, the "I am top 1% of sales in Orange Co blah blah" is something I always found pretty funny, do buyers really give a crap? I don't think so, I think this is more self serving for the ego 

Extinct?  Me?  I don't think so Phil, guess again!

I'm one of those dinosaurs that understands the value of the interent but I totally agree with Greg, I don't sell a thing sitting looking at my computer waiting for someone to respond to my content. This is for the generation that wants to hide in dark rooms thinking that they can sell without turning a wheel. Doesn't work that way. Yeah for the internet and a even bigger yeah for hard work.

If you were in my area, you would probably be using this ole dinosaur! Would love to see the "young uns' learn this business and be successful. Just remember there may be a lot you can gain from knowing a dinossaur who is also using all the latest tools.

You have to know what you are doing. If you can't close a sale with a pen and paper, you are not going to be able to do it with a fancy machine.

Margaret

Seriously, one of the dumbest posts Ihave seen in awhile. I guess this was meant to appeal to all the new agents out there who are bloated with self importance, 96% of them will be out of business in one year. Twitter, Facebook? Get a grip....The only thing you have assassinated is your own business...

Well, let me see, where do I begin? This dinosaur of 30 years and 3 months in this wonderful people business HAS kept up with technology AND social media. I was the first agent in Houston to own a computer and they thought I was nuts and guess what? Now, I have ONE Sale that came from my Facebook acct when it was in effect for one month. However, my 20 closed sales so far this year and the 18 closings I have this month in May are ALL from my "farm" area AND previous very happy satified customers over the last 30 years. IT'S ABOUT GREAT SERVICE,  Numbskull. I note you are one of those mortgage loan officers who didn't make it and went into selling real estate too. Good luck, see ya at the soup kitchen (I'm serving) and oh yes, as a parting thought "REAL ESTATE IS A CONTACT SPORT". sitting and hiding behind a PC screen will not show that buyer the home of his dreams. Kinda of like "boots on the ground", Ninja.

One has to ask -- why are you announcing this -- would it not be better to just sneak up and not tell them??? Our 2 cents.

Phil,

Wow you really touched a nerve.  I am suprised at the number of people who posted that they have not secured any business from social media yet.  It is in the tool belt and will grow over time for sure.  Marketing comes in many methods and what works is different for everyone.

Michael

Thank you Grant for the only sensible reply.  We agree with you 100%. 

To the agent in the small cubicle:  There is no humor in arrogance.  You have alot to learn from the dinosaurs.

Phil:

If you had survived three recessions in 31 years in this business, as I have, perhaps you wouldn't be inclined to be so arrogant. I appreciate your attempt at humor, but it shows little wisdom. The technology is great, but this is still a people business, not a computer game. You know, face to face? It is about excellent service, friendship, professionalism and referrals. You can blog all you want, but I would place more value on lunch with a former client than spending two hours in front of the computer. Wanna bet as to which is more effective?

I am also a fellow real estate agent and I am embarrassed to say you share the same license!  What an errogant ass!  There are other ways to express you opinions.  I hope to see you on TV in the unemployment line.  Wait, that would mean "I" am supporting you.  We are suppose to be PROFESSIONALS supporting each other.   We may not like the work ethics of our co-workers but posting a nasty, negative, threatening blog shows you immaturity level and LACK OF ANY PROFESSIONALISM

When you boil it down, we're in the people business, not the computer business.  The 'puter is a tool to communicate with people, but it's only one of many tools.  Too much time on the web can be valuable time away from building relationships.  Relationships build a referral base.  Referral bases build good business.

Great Post!  I have learned over the last 12 years in real estate (30 yrs in sales) that I get to take what I like and leave the rest.  I truly believe that we have to be well balanced in all areas.  Short Sales vs Standard Sales, cash vs. loan and yes......live vs internet.  Thank you for reminding me that there is a generation upon us that like to text, tweet and fb more that talking on the phone or face to face.  It is all relevent these days! 

The best of all worlds for the consumer is a tech-savvy agent with years of experience.  You might be surprised to learn that social media skills are not reserved for the young and/or inexperienced to compensate for years in the business.  Beware those of us who have it all!

Really onoxious post IMO. I don't see what any of you find humerous.

Good luck with becoming the top 1%. You have gall and chutzpah to criticize someone who is in the top 1%. Do you think they got there by accident? Tell me about it AFTER you have made it to the top 1%.

Phil, interesting article and on balance I agree with you that social media is here and here to stay. I have to say however that some of the dinasours still have some staying power. An important piece of social media is in creating a COI and if someone has been in the business for 30 years, they have created an incredible COI. Could they be more proactive in dealing with that COI through the use of social media? Absolutely. My partner has been an agent for 30 years but has agressively embraced social media and even contacts some of her client base through Facebook etc. I on the other hand changed career recently and joined her in the r/e business. For me to create the customer base she has will take a very long time but with social media I can accelerate the process. But, there is still no substitution for the good old walk and knock and pressing the flesh. thanks for posting this article, I love the interaction of this business.

Do a great job for your customers.  Exceed their expectations, stay in touch after the sale, then watch the referrals roll in.  This is something that the dinosaurs do very well.  Don't expect them to disappear anytime soon.

There's no question that down the road agents who refuse to embrace any aspect of SM will find themselves with a decreasing share of the market - regardless of their past successes.

Having said that, I think the agent who ONLY uses SM will never be the dominant force in his market.

No matter how many followers you have on Twitter or friends on FB and how many readers you have on your blog, how many podcasts and videos you do, the best source of business will ALWAYS be your happy, satisfied clients. 

The SM stuff is easy for those who embrace it. I am one of them.  I can blog with my eyes closed.  I Tweet while watching TV at night - and on.

The goal of my SM plan is not self-contained.  I currently have 600 followers on Twitter. That's not a particuarly high number.   I could have many more - there are lots of tools to increase followers.  The thing that I feel good about what I'm doing is that more than half of those followers are based within 30 or 40 miles of me. These are my target clients. I use the SM programs to build the number of people that  meet in Real Life.  Business is done in RL.

My second observation is that your post is kind of contradictory.  Social Media, if done properly should not require you to boast about how good you are at it.  If you're good at it, it should work on it's own without tooting your horn about how great you are.

I'm a little confused about why you find it necessary to trash people.   I don't think that you are going to insult them into going away.  If your way is really the better way, then you will surpass them without insulting them.

You mentioned that your partner has called some your targets and not had his call returned.  Was he calling to sell them something?  Obviously they did not feel that he had a compelling message or they would have called back.

I've been in sales for many years and when you are calling prospects and they don't respond it's either that you are calling the wrong prospects or your sales skills need some work.

One other thing confuses me.  You say that you have "teamed up with Phil Caldwell" - yet the post seems to have been written by Phil Caldwell.  Identity crisis?

I respect all the dinosaurs, but have only one problem and that is when they expect someone else to do all their data work while they visit on the phone instead of watching and learning how it is done. Maybe that is their trick to keep the techies busy while they sell. hmmmm.

Great Post! Dinosours had their place in time, but not today. You have to keep up with whats going on in regards Socialnomics.

Great article!  Keep at it!

Interesting post. But there seems to be one thng I don't see. That is a unique service proposition.

Marketing is certainly important, but real estate is a people business and the dinosaur may have a lot of people who know him and trust him.

If you don't have a unique service proposition you may be the one headed to extinction! (But we hope not.)

Thanks for the article.

This is a great post and very funny. But it is also very very true. The new agents, or experienced agents, who want to step up their game can do so very easily and inexpensively. That is why I like Exit's Promo Shop and E-Listings programs. It does not cost very much to present myself, my listings, or my services like I have been in the business for 10 years making millions of dollars. I have dealt with many dinosaurs here in Vegas, and I am looking forward to showing them where I am after just a couple of short years in the business, as compared to their 15, 20, 30 years.

Social media / blogging is important. So is getting out face to face with the public.

Wow! Good fodder Phil. I for one thought it was funny.

Phil,

Good post. Funny. Time will tell, I see them dinosaurs on a daily basis. Good story! Entertaining.

To Tami, Post #81 the newbie (hate that phrase, it has a demeaning tone to it). Your post helps confirm what I have suspected. This Social Online Networking will never replace the dinosaur's (another demeaning phrase). I remember not to long ago that the Internet was going to replace Realtor's all together. The same thing with Redfin & Zillow.com, and I forgot to mention the discount brokerages. IT WILL NOT HAPPEN! The Internet turned into a tool that allowed the great agents to become even better. As far as Redfin & Zillow, well lets just come back and visit that question again in 24 months, if they are still here to visit. The discount brokerages make me cringe. The old adage, "you get what you pay for, or in this case don't pay for." applies.

Man-- Leisa, try going back to bed and getting up on the other side!--

Phil-- what you do on the media is a lead-generation thing. As with all lead-generating schemes, it brings you names and contact information-- and then the hard work starts.

Converting those leads to loyal clients who buy and sell with you, and recommend you to others, is the tougher part. That's where the dinasaurs shine.

Good luck with that.

I respect your opinion, but this kind of reminds of the commercials where a guy is talking about how much gold he is investing in...and why you should too!  If it's such a good investment, why are they telling everyone about it?  Likewise, if your marketing tactics are so great, why are sharing them with all of your competitors?  You're just that caring of a guy?

I enjoyed the comments more than the Post. I didn't know dinosaurs could whine.

Dear Phil, so your a little eccentric...we forgive you...but are you a Realtor or a lender?  I think your a lender and the dinosaurs are feeding you.  Take a walk in our shoes.  I commend all our dinos for their commitment and embracing the new e-networking programs. Hey...didn't the dinos survive 50 billion years or something...they adapt & rule!

Making someone less than does nothing to make oneself more than. Social media is a tool, but not a replacement for relationship on a profound personal level. The axiom that these so called "dinosaurs" live by is not what you know eg. social media, but who you know. Wisdom is something earned and not bleated out like a goat in the herd.

phil, phil, phil, you cannot build yourself up by tearing someone else down. 

those dinosaurs have built the business you are working in...you are standing on their shoulders.  take what you can from  them...most will offer it gladly and for free.

to all my dinosaur friends...thanks for everything.   not a time goes by when i speak with you that i don't learn something.

Very Funny post and a fair warning to the uninformed !!!! Here's a quote from 1997 !!! :

AUTOMATION WILL NOT REPLACE REALTORS !!! It will be REALTORS using automation that replace REALTORS !!!!!!!!!!!! *L*

Sometimes better not to announce your coming!

But, if the dinosaurs evolve and engage the tools of technology, what then!  As others have said, building relationships counts also, 1 today, 2 tomorrow, 4.... and so on!

I do believe Social Media and the Web changes much of the way we do lead generation.  My business has been a testament to that, however those who network, work hard and do a good job will always get more referrals then they can handle, in fact their clients will likely be posting on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Yelp how good their agent is/was...

Many agents are at the end of their careers, rather then at the beginning...  If they are then the value of Social Media is rather limited.

For those at the beginning of their career, Social Media is important, but it won't pay the bills in the short run...  For that it takes hussle.  No amount of Social Media in the short run will replace hussle...  It will enhance it, but it won't replace it... IMHO

Phil-

This post was really funny! I don't think you meant to trash anyone, it was just a humorous take on a "paradigm shift" in the Real Estate industry.   Everyone should lighten up!

There is a place for everyone - different clients have different needs. Thank goodness.

I have mixed feelings about this blog!  It's cleverly written, but I thing the content is a bit offensive.  We all have a place in this business.  The "old" have the knowledge to keep the "young" away from the R.E. commission and the "young" can teach the "old" the technology!  Let's work TOGETHER!

I think the point was well taken and has garnered much attention, whether its pro or con.  It doesn't appear to be a tongue-in-cheek blog, so to that extent, the content may have been received as offensive to some, while to others, it was merely entertaining, enlightening, empowering or informative.  In any case, I think all perspectives should be respected and duly noted.

Social media has it place, and the average buyer or seller is on the web (87%) looking for the latest market data and real estate info.  So with my limited resources and budget, I tend to maximize any social media or internet marketing strategy to give clients what they want, timely, accurate, up-to-the-minute information, an honest approach and professional, trustworthy services.

We can agree to disagree without insulting or offending anyone.  I am somewhat of a newcomer in that I've been in the business less than 10 years, but I have an old soul, some would say, and I'd rather hang around someone who is wise, knowledgeable and intelligent, someone whom I can learn from to avoid certain pitfalls, someone who has 'been there done that', to share knowledge and best practices, learn how to break through certain barriers or maximize successful strategies with limited resources.  By the same token, I enjoy sharing my knowledge, enthusiasm and level of expertise to educate and empower others.

Learning is a lifelong journey to be enjoyed and mutually beneficial. There are some older agents in my office who think I'm some sort of tech genius because I can upload photos or transmit electronic docs to a specific platform or website in a matter of seconds, or because I can set up their facebook and twitter pages.  What might take me a few minutes could take them an hour or two, so I'm able to save them some time and money in the long run, or maybe they don't have the time to do all that stuff because they're meeting with clients and selling real estate.  The relationships that they have with their clients is priceless. I cannot hold a candle to their enormous level of experience, influence, wisdom and large client base that they've built over the years.  It is now up to me to take the reins, or take the bull by the horns, so to speak, and start building my own empire. 

I would image that 10, 20 or 30 years from now, the new agents might consider me a dinosaur, and I might use their energy, brain and talents in exchange for my wisdom, expertise and knowledge, or whatever we define as valuable, exchangeable commodities and resources.  I guess the point is that we should enjoy the social media tools while they last, because one day they too will become extinct, and I've learned that nothing replaces or is more valuable than personal relationships, client management, communication and trustworthiness. 

Yes, I've lost listings to a few dinosaurs, but I've also gained new business from internet/tech savvy clients.  So, in conclusion,  FIND YOUR NICHE AND GET IN WHERE YOU FIT IN!  Ya heard?!

The dinosaurs aren't going to see the post.  They are NOT internet savvy and don't plan to do anything differently than they always have.  They can't check their E-mail, don't know what a blog is, don't know anything about Facebook much less Twitter or LinkedIn. 

They can still talk a good game with a client though.  I just sent a potential client my marketing plan and asked that she check my on-line presence out before our meeting.  I provided valuable market information when we met.  She still listed with the oldest dinosaur in our market--solely because of the name recognition I'm sure.  Yet just today I got an internet lead from Trulia after finishing adding pictures of the listing last night.

I lost a client a few months back, only to have them come back in less than three months saying that this dinosaur wasn't giving the listing half the exposure I was!

           What was it the man said ? " Better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt ". There's more than one way to skin a cat. Or sell real estate. The person(s) you disrespect today will no doubt be your counterpart on the other side of a deal tomorrow. Nice going.

None of the Real Estate Dinosaurs I know in my town even use social media!!! LOL!!!!  I guess that is why they are dinos!!!!  I love your post!!!! 

Hehe Fun post!

Too bad Facebook, will never replace a Handshake!

That would save a-lot of gas!

I like T-Rex the best by the way!

Got to go- Jurassic Park is on.

I'm less than 2 years in this business and I love social media. Blogging comes natural to me as I'm from a publishing background. I love Facebook, my community page has almost 2000 fans. I have profiles on all the usual sites and some not so usual. I'm active in the Chamber of Commerce, I've done seminars, I'm in networking groups. I'm sure all of that is a good idea. But you want to know the truth? The agents that I know who are getting business are doing old fashioned prospecting. It took me a while to admit it; but I'm learning a lot from the agents who make cold calls on a regular basis. The other stuff is great; I'm sure I'm planting seeds, but for more immediate results, you can't beat prospecting.

I was speaking to one of the agents in my office who suggested that I was wrong about certain activities required of REO listing agents.  When I wouldn't give in, because I knew I was right, he suggested that his decades of experience vs my year and a half made him right and me wrong.  I was a little taken aback, because I like this agent and would like to stay on friendly terms so I resisted the comeback suggesting that those years of experience only made him a dinosaur.  After all, in my year and a half of time as an agent, I've closed 9 REO's and he's closed none.  

Great post Phil, I like your style.  I may look like an old dinosaur, but I'm new to this business and have embraced the SEO way of the new world.  I'm always amazed at how many Realtors® still do all their advertising in print magazines and nothing on the Internet.

I enjoyed what I assume is somewhat tongue in cheek. However,  I will say I have seen some "real estate dinosaurs" here on AR who are fighting extinction and are some of the strongest in social networking around.

I find this post very funny.  Perhaps if the old dinosaurs were more willing to share with the newbies, then the battle would be a little less bloody.  Good luck!

this post.....ugh.  

Wow - I am overwhelmed by the response! I think many have taken this post to mean I was trashing older real estate agents - that is not what I was doing. I was trashing dinosaur marketing methods. Let me point one out for you. I leaf through the local homes for sale magazine and see an ad for Joe Blow - top 1% real estate agent with a bunch of pictures of homes for sale. It seems to me that "top 1%" is awfully large, by the way, who is not in the top 1%? Along with a bunch of pictures of houses, how does this ad stand out? Personally, I think there's more cost effective ways to market. I consider this to be a "dinosaur" marketing method. I'm trashing the method, not the person.

You want a marketing method, that might be more effective? How about writing blog posts about your listings, and/or certain areas. Use the search engine optimization methods you have learned here at ActiveRain to get these blog posts on page 1 of Google. In the post, your call to action is "here are the latest homes for sale in (your area) . The underlined portion is a hyperlink to your IDX website. The hyperlink raises your Google ranking for that search term. In addition, you have people looking at all of the homes for sale in your area.

By the way, I am no spring chicken - I'm 47. I have been in this business since I got out of college 25 years ago.

Phil Caulfield - Top 37% Loan Officer

Active Rain Blog should not be your first weapon. If you do you going down.

Pick the one that pay the most unless EVERYONE IN YOUR MARKET thinks ACTIVE RAIN IS THE BOMB you can not out spend big boys in any market you have to out move

ACTIVE RAIN REALLY ARE YOU PULLING PAPER FROM THIS PLACE?

Every area is different. Yes, you need your 2.5 hours a day on the computer, but the agents around here that are killin it, don't sit in front of a computer all day. They are out and about sellin it, just like always.

Dinosaurs did not become extinct by choice. Real estate as it practiced today may be following in the same footsteps if one does not choose to conduct business fifferently.

Ty

Phil I like your attitude and approach.  One thing the big "teams" are always talking about is number of sales.  I wonder how many sales my Active Rain "Team" has had.

If those fricking dinosaurs  would just learn how to use EMAIL AND A DIGITAL CAMERA..I would be happy!! My mother is 87 years old and scans, emails, chats and has a FB page....now, really, if she can do it.....don't you think that any agent should be able to??

Ty, post 137. you couldn't be more correct. I am a mortgage Lender and have been since 10/1993. I am telling you that the big banks are out to make all of us extinct. The independent mortgage Banker/Broker that is available to his or her business partners at the ring of a cellphone. We have lower over head, obtain our rates wholesale and are able to best match the buyers needs with the bank that best fits their circumstances. There are bills on the House and Senate floor right now that will put us out of business. If not the legislation, then the Federal Reserves, Paul Mondor who wants to eliminate loan officers (not lenders as in big banks) from being paid based on anything having to do with the size or type of the loan. Another wards, you Realtor's will have to deal with the clerks at the big banks because we will be history. Speaking of history, I understand now these very banks are taking aim at what you Realtor's can earn on selling their bank owned properties. At least you have NAR working for you keeping you safe. Unfortunately our PAC was no where near as strong as the pockets of the banks were deep and it will be the consumer that ultimately pays the price.

A little over the top here. It seems that your plan of attack is indeed worthy of going forward to begin the battle. You are assuming that the dinosaur will just sit back and let you run 'her' over. Even an old tyrannosaurus can bite you in the ass!

All I can say is  . . .   I love it!!!  I feel like I will have a real big advantage very soon in my area.  I am quietly working hard on the social media and positioning myself.  I know it is going to pay off eventually.  I do have some work to do though, it's a constant learning, things are changing so fast and new technologies evolve so quick.  I love AR for helpng me keep up with a lot of it.  Now, that I read almost daily, my learning is increasing and the ideas are flowing more!!!

A small touch to add to the debate.  I saw at least two or three people on here who are frequent and active posters, who took offense and called them old school.  By your very nature of being here on AR and commenting indicates that you are not old school.

You may of been doing this business 30 years ago.  You may still be using those tried and true methods today.  If you have adapted then you are not a dinosaur and will survive the evolution.

Awesome post!! Quite creative and quite true. We are in the middle of a huge change in the real estate industry, and those of us that are willing to accept it and change with it, are the ones that will be around for the long haul.

There is no magic bullet to replace referrals and the power of relationship building.  I don't care if you do print ads or like writting blogs..................

As I read I just find it all, well laughable.  Our office has had hard charging facebook, myspace, blogging wonder children.  Where are they now?  Not in Real Estate.  I find that many of today's younger generation (that includes me I'm 29) have no people skills, they can't relate to people whenever they get them across the desk.  I have had agents at our office that where tech guru's (key words "have had").

Do I think all the tech stuff is "Bad" absolutely not.  But many don't understand that if you're using let's just say Facebook for business, well then your potential clients don't need to know that you're "at home bored" at 2:00 pm on a Wednesday, or that you think your Broker is mean.  It's all about being professional.

Matthew, Real Estate goes through changes all the time, yes the smart adapt.  But the "Old Dinasour" didn't get to be an "Old Dinasour" by mistake.  The Russian Billionare that just bought the New Jersey Nets doesn't use a computer....just food for thought.

What I see personally is people relying on tech to do their jobs for them, sorry Real Estate is about people and personal connections, nothing can beat some good ole face to face time with potential clients.

I really like this blog!! It funny how this topic is very common in Real Estate offices everywhere- "Dinosaurs" vs. "New Blood".  There is alot to learn from both sides!! I have been in the industry for only 6yrs, however my mentor is a "Dinosaur". She has taught me the value of good old fashion hand shaking and face to face communication! Nothing beats that!! But just like with everything else in life you have to progress and use certain tools to make your job and time more effective. Social media is a good way to cover more ground and get to more people in a shorter amount of time vs. hitting the pavement and spending lots of money on advertising. Social media is just smart advertising!! You would be a fool not to use those tools for business!!

So there is a benefit to both!

Real Estate Dinosaurs are here now.

 With the exodus of Realtors® leaving there local boards do to market conditions these past years and  competition from 100% realty brokerages the extinction  is under way and will continue for some time .

Expect a increase in board dues soon  New Extinction Poster

It seems to me that you guys need more confidence. :>)

He He He, I'm laughing because 90% of my business comes from the internet. When the "dinosaurs" ask what I am doing to generate business, I say "website, blogs, activerain, facebook, cragislist, backpage...". By then their eyes have glazed over, and they walk away....

he he he, even when we tell all our "secrets" the competition doesn't listen...