Despite the economy, it seems strange to me that in a slow economy attendance at real estate courses and conferences is lower than usual. This is a great time (more time on our hands) to learn, and the market means that we should be pursuing new niches as well as perfecting our basis skills. Much of the market is really Back to the Basics - but with new knowledge.
Aren't slow times when we should be learning new things?
10 comments • Sharon Simms St Pete FL - CRS CIPS CLHMS RSPS • August 08 2008 09:34PMComments
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Interesting. Here in Missouri, classes have been filling up quickly. In fact, Bruce Aydt is teaching a two day class here next week - there is a waiting list in case some one bails!
Do you think attendance is down because of the cost or because agents being afraid to be away from their business for a few days at a time?
Sharon, during the slow time last year is when I discovered Active Rain and blogging. The end of summer this year is the busiest I have ever been at this time of year, all because I took the time to learn something new and didn't just goof off.
You're right, Sharon but it really is amazing that more agents don't feel the same way. I spoke with a professional speaker yesterday who pretty much told me that several real estate boards who had previously booked him had cancelled because they couldn't get the classes filled enough. Instead of using the slow times as an opportunity to get more skills under their belts, it seems as though many agents are opting to hold tight to the money they have. They don't want to spend it on anything that is not absolutely necessary - so classes seem to be dumped to the backburner for most.
~Ren ae
Sharon,
That what I did when I felt it getting quiet...I concentrated on some extra education...when I started my CRS I was a little quiet so I figured it was a good time to focus and get as much done as I can...but wouldn't you know it then I get busy and had to put it on hold for a bit but thankfully I was able to juggle both and get it done.
Morning Sharon,
Funny you should post on this topic. I attended a couple of courses this past month and found very few attendees. In busier times the classes would be filled weeks in advance. Guess some folks think and work better when things are at a more hectic pace.
Debbie - what's Bruce's topic? Are all the classes in Missouri that full? I think it's a cost issue for most agents.
Lisa - you're proof of the pudding.
Renae - some of the folks in Atlanta said that CRS had been cancelling classes there for lack of students. I think back on the story of sharpening your ax blade.
Neal - glad you accomplished the juggle. But perhaps it was getting out there first that led to your busy time.
Hal - unfortunately for many, when they get busy and "have the money" they may no longer have the time.
I agree. This is a great time, while we unfortunately have too much on our hands, to educate yourself
I couldn't agree more. If agents are finding things a little slow they should be taking classes and increasing their marketing efforts.
I definitely couldn't agree more. This is perfect timing for us to polish our skills and take more classes to enhance our knowledge in Real Estate. Great post.
James - it's also a great time to expand into another niche.
Randy - how's the chess going?
Lanre - I think the survivors and the non-survivors will show the difference.