Without the right strategy, securing your first 10 real estate clients in Nigeria can feel nearly impossible.
Fortunately, with the right approach and some tried-and-tested methods, it’s easier than it sounds.
Starting out as a real estate agent in Nigeria can be tough, especially when you’re working to attract those all-important first clients.
Here, I’ll walk you through 7 critical steps to attract and secure your first 10 clients in Nigerian real estate.
From branding to social media to follow-ups, these methods have helped countless agents break into the market.
If you’re serious about getting ahead, you might also want to explore resources like “CLOSE OR LOSE”.
The book has been a game-changer for countless agents worldwide—helping them turn leads into loyal clients and grow their businesses with a smart, modern approach to real estate.
7 Steps to Win Your First 10 Real Estate Clients in Nigeria
The following steps provide actionable techniques designed to help you attract and secure your first 10 clients.
Follow these steps closely to kickstart your journey to success in Nigeria’s competitive real estate market.
1. Strengthen Your Personal Brand
First things first: Who are you as a real estate agent?
In real estate, your personal brand is everything.
Buyers and sellers need someone they trust, and a strong personal brand is the foundation of trust.
Start by identifying what sets you apart from other agents: your niche, area of expertise, or the unique value you bring to clients.
Ways to Strengthen Your Brand
Define Your Niche: Focus on a specific area of real estate (e.g., residential, luxury, or commercial) to target your efforts effectively.
Build a Professional Online Presence: Start with a website and active social media profiles to share valuable content, market trends, and client success stories.
Position Yourself as an Expert: Regularly post insights, tips, and advice on topics that matter to Nigerian property buyers and sellers. The more knowledgeable and accessible you appear, the more trust you build.
2. Use Your Network and Leverage Referrals
Your Network is Your Net Worth.
In Nigeria, referrals are one of the best ways to gain clients.
Reach out to your existing network (friends, family, colleagues) and let them know you’re open for business.
These connections are likely to refer you to people who need real estate services, especially if they see you as a professional, well-informed agent.
How to Make It Work
Inform Your Network: Make sure everyone in your circle knows you’re in real estate. Use social media, WhatsApp groups, and even casual gatherings to keep your name top-of-mind.
Leverage Existing Clients: Every time you close a deal, ask for referrals. Satisfied clients are usually happy to recommend you.
Expand Beyond Friends and Family: Join local real estate events, professional organizations, or business groups to meet potential clients or find people who can refer clients to you.
3. Master Social Media Marketing
Social media is a powerful way to reach potential clients, especially in Nigeria, where platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok are highly popular.
Social media helps you connect directly with your audience, showcase properties, and build your brand image.
How to Use Social Media Effectively
Showcase Properties: Post high-quality photos and videos of available properties to catch the attention of potential buyers.
Create Engaging Content: Share useful tips, client testimonials, or live walkthroughs of properties to build engagement.
Run Targeted Ads: Consider using Facebook or Instagram ads targeted by location, age, and interests. It’s an efficient way to reach new clients who may not have come across your profile otherwise.
4. Host Open Houses and Tours
Hosting open houses and property tours (whether in-person or virtual) lets clients experience properties before they buy.
This can help attract serious buyers and provide you with a chance to build relationships.
How to Host Successful Open Houses
Promote the Event: Advertise on social media, real estate platforms, or even in local newspapers.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Make sure the property is clean, staged, and presentable. Small touches like refreshments and friendly introductions can make a big difference.
Collect Contact Details: Ask everyone who attends to leave their contact information so you can follow up.
5. Optimize Your Listings
Your listings are often the first thing clients see.
When clients search online, they’re looking for detailed and engaging listings that stand out.
High-quality listings are crucial for getting noticed, especially in competitive Nigerian real estate markets.
How to Optimize Listings
Use Professional Photos and Videos: Quality visuals make a lasting impression and help listings stand out.
Write Compelling Descriptions: Go beyond basic information. Highlight the unique features, nearby amenities, and potential benefits of the property.
Include All Relevant Details: From property size to location and nearby landmarks, the more information, the better.
6. Collaborate with Other Agents
Two heads are better than one.
In real estate, teaming up with other agents can open doors to new opportunities and client referrals.
Collaboration expands your network and lets you benefit from each other’s contacts and expertise.
Ways to Collaborate
Look for Complementary Agents: Connect with agents who focus on different areas, such as commercial properties if you focus on residential.
Set Clear Agreements: Make sure your collaboration terms are clear and mutually beneficial.
Share Leads and Co-List Properties: By sharing leads, you increase your chances of finding the right buyers for each listing.
7. Invest in Continuous Education
Stay ahead with knowledge.
Real estate trends, market demands, and client needs are constantly evolving.
Staying informed and educated on industry updates is one of the best investments you can make as a real estate agent.
Ways to Upgrade Your Skills
Take Courses or Attend Seminars: Attend training sessions, real estate expos, or online courses to expand your expertise.
Stay Updated on Real Estate Laws: Familiarize yourself with Nigerian real estate laws, which impact your business directly.
Read Books and Articles: Books like “CLOSE OR LOSE”, and “FOLLOW UP OR FOLD UP,” are great resources for actionable advice on client acquisition, client follow up, and closing deals.
FAQs on Steps to Win Your First 10 Real Estate Clients
1. How long does it take to get your first real estate client?
It depends, but if you consistently follow these steps, you could start seeing interest within 1-3 months.
2. What’s the best way to start gaining clients in Nigerian real estate?
Building a strong brand and leveraging referrals are both effective. Social media and networking are also critical to attracting your first clients.
3. Do I need to invest in ads to get clients?
Ads can help, especially on social media, but they aren’t the only way to attract clients. Strong branding and networking can be just as effective.
4. Why is continuous learning important in real estate?
The market is constantly changing, and staying updated allows you to offer the best advice to clients and stand out as an expert.
Conclusion of Steps to Win Your First 10 Real Estate Clients
Getting your first 10 clients in real estate doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication, strategy, and consistent follow-up, it’s entirely achievable.
By focusing on your brand, utilizing social media, and collaborating with others, you can grow your client base and start making a real impact in Nigeria’s real estate industry.
If you’re serious about excelling, consider investing in resources like “CLOSE OR LOSE,” and “FOLLOW UP OR FOLD UP,”—these books provide invaluable insights on everything from client acquisition to effective closing tactics.
With the right approach and resources, securing your first 10 clients is only the beginning of your success in Nigerian real estate.
7 Steps to Win Your First 10 Real Estate Clients in Nigeria by DIYLanzy.
