Struggling to secure listings as a new realtor? You’re not alone — but the right strategy can help you succeed fast.
Getting those first few listings can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re competing with seasoned agents who already have an established client base. But the truth is, even the most successful realtors had to start somewhere — and the key to securing more listings lies in the right strategy, persistence, and support.
At Pemberton Holmes, we’ve helped countless new agents quickly grow their listing portfolios. In this post, we’ll share 7 proven tactics to get more listings and build a thriving real estate business.
1. Start with Your Sphere of Influence
Your sphere of influence (SOI) includes your friends, family, colleagues, and social connections. Most new agents overlook the power of their existing network — but this is where your first few listings are most likely to come from.
How to tap into your SOI:
- Let everyone know you’re a realtor. A quick post on social media or a casual conversation can lead to referrals.
- Ask for introductions. If someone you know isn’t selling, they probably know someone who is.
- Keep your SOI updated. Regular newsletters, social media updates, and market insights keep you top of mind when someone is ready to sell.
Pemberton Holmes agents benefit from personalized marketing materials and CRM tools that make staying in touch with your network easy and professional.
2. Master the Art of Door-Knocking
It may feel old-school, but door-knocking is still one of the fastest ways to build relationships in a neighbourhood. Many homeowners aren’t thinking about selling until the right opportunity arises — and a face-to-face conversation can spark that decision.
How to approach door-knocking:
- Focus on a specific neighbourhood where you want to build business.
- Offer value — share a market update or recent sale prices in the area.
- Keep it conversational, not pushy. If they’re not interested now, they might remember you when they are.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re a Pemberton Holmes agent, mention that you’re part of our company — a trusted name in BC real estate since 1887 — to establish credibility immediately.
3. Leverage Social Media for Listings
Social media isn’t just for connecting with friends — it’s a powerful tool for generating leads and securing listings.
How to use social media to get more listings:
- Post local market updates — homeowners love knowing what their property is worth.
- Showcase your success — post about your open houses, closings, and client testimonials.
- Engage with your audience — reply to comments and messages to build trust.
- Use targeted ads — Facebook and Instagram allow you to target homeowners in specific neighborhoods.
At Pemberton Holmes, we offer social media training and resources to help our agents stand out online.
4. Target Expired and FSBO Listings
Many homeowners who tried to sell but failed are still motivated to move — they just need the right realtor to guide them through the process.
How to approach expired and FSBO listings:
- Reach out politely with an offer to help (not a sales pitch).
- Explain why their property didn’t sell and how you can change that.
- Offer a free home valuation or market analysis to open the conversation.
🔥 Pemberton Holmes provides market insights you can use to help convert expired and FSBO listings into successful sales.
5. Build Relationships with Local Builders and Investors
New construction and investment properties offer consistent listing opportunities — but you need to build relationships first.
How to connect with builders and investors:
- Attend local real estate networking events.
- Offer insights on market trends and potential resale values.
- Partner with builders to market their properties exclusively.
⭐ Pemberton Holmes agents benefit from established relationships with local builders — giving you a direct path to potential listings.
6. Host Open Houses – Even for Other Agents’ Listings
Hosting open houses is a great way to meet motivated buyers and sellers — even if it’s not your listing.
How to maximize open house opportunities:
- Provide professional flyers and brochures (Pemberton Holmes will handle this for you).
- Collect visitor information and follow up promptly.
- Ask if they need help selling their current home before buying.
🔑 At Pemberton Holmes, we provide open house materials and training to ensure you make the most of every opportunity.
7. Build a Strong Local Presence
Realtors who succeed in securing listings are often the ones who have the most visibility in their target neighbourhoods.
How to build local recognition:
- Sponsor local events and charity drives.
- Advertise in local newspapers and community boards.
- Create “Just Listed” and “Just Sold” postcards to mail to nearby homeowners.
📢 Pemberton Holmes agents have access to high-quality marketing materials that make local advertising easy and effective.
How Pemberton Holmes Helps New Agents Succeed
At Pemberton Holmes, we know that getting more listings as a new realtor is challenging — but you don’t have to do it alone. Our agents benefit from:
✔️ Comprehensive training on lead generation and client acquisition
✔️ Professional marketing support, including branded materials and social media guidance
✔️ Competitive commission structures that reward your hard work
✔️ Access to a network of experienced agents for guidance and mentorship
Ready to Start Building Your Listing Portfolio?
If you’re ready to secure more listings and build a thriving real estate career, Pemberton Holmes is here to help.
📲 Schedule a free consultation with Pemberton Holmes and start securing more listings today!
