Sally and David, your question is incredibly timely.

Those who have been in the real estate business over ten years report that 80% or more of their business is referral based. As we all know a referral based business will serve you well. The agent needs to be adequate regarding tending the garden of their relationships to keep the business going.

There is something else taking place today. 

Projecting a Unique Selling Proposition simply won't float in the new economy and will become less effective as those of our age enter sunset.

I would encourage you to first read my current Active Rain blog regarding the sharing economy. I am currently composing a followup in an effort to alert those not asleep at the wheel, what dancing with the dark side is bringing.

This will compel real estate professionals to retool, or dance with the devil. Those currently asleep at the wheel think they will have a choice.

TODAY, in my area with lots of snowbirds, vacationers and dual home owners, I benefit from a great population that has no agent affiliation. Giving privileged access to the invisible inventory network does well to ignite initial contact. This translates into more options for a home seller.

Strength in being a good negotiator, knowledge of the market, ability to market properties.

H-m-m-m-m! I think I have seen this somewhere before -    ;-)