Holiday Marketing TipsThe hustle and bustle of the season is in full swing but that doesn’t mean you should take a holiday from marketing your real estate business. In fact, this time of year can be a great time connect with potential clients.

REALTOR® Sam Zakarian, sales manager of Century 21 Universal Real Estate in Chicago, says agents should take every opportunity to promote themselves and their listings. One way to build contacts: attend as many holiday parties during the season as possible.

“Holiday parties and events allow agents to meet new people and remind existing contacts that you are in the real estate business,” Zakarian says. And since December is a big month for job transfers he also recommends contacting relocation companies in your area and giving them an inventory of all of your listings.

Homes that are tastefully decorated for the holidays show well to potential buyers. Take advantage of the warm and inviting atmosphere by hosting open houses and make them even more festive by hosting wine and cheese opens, says REALTOR® Judy Fruth-Long, a sales associate with Strano & Associates in Waterloo.

Check out the new Illinois REALTOR® Digital Extra where you’ll find more holiday marketing tips from agents including REALTOR® Phoebe Co, of Koenig and Strey Real Living, and REALTOR® Matt Laricy of Americorp Real Estate.