Spring Clean Your Finances

Hey there all you Lucky Leprechauns! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Luck might be on your side—but why rely on luck alone when we can tidy up your business for guaranteed gains?

This week, we’re tackling financial file decluttering, exploring fresh leads in a brand-new “farming area,” and sharing tips on tackling stress like a pro—especially when the market heats up. We’ll also continue our deep dive into Unreasonable Hospitality, showing you how memorable touches can boost your reputation.

Ready to sweep away the clutter and find your pot of gold (commissions)? Let’s jump in!

— Steve

ACCOUNTANT ANGLE

Decluttering Your Financial Files

If your office is drowning in year-old receipts, random closing documents, and outdated spreadsheets, it’s time for a financial spring cleaning.

Start by gathering everything into one spot—digital or physical—and be ruthless about what needs to stay. Old utility bills from five years ago? Probably safe to toss or archive.

Next, invest in a cloud storage solution like Google Drive or Dropbox. Scan crucial items and label them with a consistent naming system (something like “2025_Transaction1_Expense”). This way, you can retrieve documents with a quick search instead of a half-hour rummage fest.

Finally, set up a monthly or quarterly “file purge” reminder so clutter doesn’t pile up again. Trust me, streamlined records aren’t just about less mess—they also mean less stress when you need to pull up a statement at a moment’s notice.

BUSINESS BOOSTER

Launching a New Farming Area

Expanding into an untapped neighborhood can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. But with a bit of homework, you can uncover gold mines of eager sellers or buyers.

Begin by researching local market data: are prices trending up? Has inventory been tight, indicating strong demand? Then, make your presence known—send out a friendly postcard introducing yourself as the “go-to agent” for that area, or host a neighborhood meet-and-greet at a local café.

Don’t forget to align with community events; sponsoring a charity run or school fundraiser can do wonders for your visibility. As you gather leads, log them in your CRM and follow up consistently.

By showing genuine interest in the neighborhood’s vibe and concerns, you’ll establish trust quickly and position yourself as the expert who’s in it for the long haul.

COACHES CORNER

Dealing with Stress Head-On

Real estate (or any small business) can feel like riding a roller coaster—one moment you’re on top of the world with multiple closings, the next you’re juggling emergencies and demanding clients.

The key is to tackle stress before it snowballs.

First, set boundaries: carve out blocks of time each day for critical tasks (like lead follow-ups) and stick to them, no matter how many texts flood your phone.

Second, practice quick “resets”: a five-minute walk around the block or a simple breathing exercise can clear mental clutter fast.

Third, remind yourself of the bigger picture—your wins, your goals, and why you got into this business in the first place.

When you see stress as a signal rather than a stopper, you’ll stay composed, focused, and ready to handle whatever curveballs come your way.

BOOK OF THE MONTH

“Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara

We’re still championing Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara, and for good reason: it’s a masterclass in delighting people beyond what’s expected.

If you’re looking to elevate your reputation—both in and out of real estate—consider crafting small but unforgettable gestures. Think of sending a personalized “anniversary of your closing” note to clients, or surprising a new buyer with a local bakery gift card for their first morning in the home.

The magic is in the personal touch. Guidara shows how investing a bit of creativity (and genuine care) can transform a routine transaction into a talking-point event.

People remember how you make them feel more than the details of any deal. If you want to stand out from the crowd and earn those 5-star reviews, this book’s insights are pure gold.

☝️ Go ahead and click the image to order the book from Amazon (the link was broken in the last edition but should work now) ☝️ 

NEWS YOU CAN USE

“Things Are Looking Up” — National Association of Realtors

Why You Should Read: Positive economic signals can boost buyer confidence, potentially speeding up your listings’ time on market.

“AI Assistants Are Here to Stay, But They Won’t Take Your Job” — Real Estate News

Why You Should Read: Understanding how AI can streamline tasks without replacing the human touch keeps you one step ahead.

“Real Estate Statistics” — HousingWire

Why You Should Read: Staying on top of the latest data ensures you’re pricing right and advising clients with confidence.

TO-DO LIST

Your Next Move — Turn Insights into Action

✅ Purge Your Files. Schedule time this week to scan, label, and archive old docs.

✅ Research a New Neighborhood. Check market data and draft a quick intro postcard or email campaign.

✅ Plan a Stress-Busting Ritual. Whether it’s a daily walk or a five-minute breathing exercise, commit to it.

✅ Add a Personal Touch. Surprise one client with a thoughtful gesture inspired by Unreasonable Hospitality.

✅ Scan the Headlines. Read the latest articles to stay ahead on economic trends, AI innovations, and market stats.