Consumers are beginning to change their views regarding moving. The motivation for consumers to move is shifting from the financial aspect to the needs of the consumer. A significant segment of the population has moved to take advantage of the low interest rates that have been available. These consumers have moved to achieve a higher quality of life without the higher monthly payment that usually accompanies it. They move because it makes financial sense to do so.

According to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive:

25% of Americans in the market for a new home cite a life change as the reason for their move. Consumers are citing retirement location, new baby, divorce, or a new job as their primary motivation for moving.

As Agents, we can find out about these people through our past clients and sphere. These people in our database hold the key to accessing a larger segment of new business.

The best way to more effectively find out about moving trends and increas e referrals from our past clients and sphere is to ask more specifically. Most Agents have been trained by sales trainers to ask for referrals globally. They use techniques like “Oh, by the way” or “Do you know of anyone who needs my services?”. These techniques all work slightly to generate referrals, but they are not very effective.

To really achieve the Championship level in referrals, you have to ask specifically. We have to ask our past clients and sphere about the people they know: those who are expecting a new baby, someone who has gotten a job promotion or job transfer. We must position ourselves well ahead of the transaction, not just in the transaction.

Teaching and mobilizing your past clients and sphere takes you beyond the gimmick technique referral process. You can contact and interact with the prospect at the earliest stage possible. You can become a resource when they need help making the decision, rather than just being there once the decision is made. With this approach, you provide a higher level of service to the prospect and future client.

In the survey:

18% wanted a larger home or more property.
16% want a home as an investment.
12% want to rid themselves of the conditions that come with renting.

7% want to receive the tax benefits home ownership brings.

All these key reasons the consumers are using to make their purchase can be discovered with a more in-depth relationship and in-depth questions of your sphere and past clients. We need to move beyond the surface level of our relationship with our past clients and sphere.

Finally, interest rates seem to be the secondary driving factor in moving. Focus on the primary reasons outlined above. This will ensure a strong finish to your year.