Season 5 - Episode 7: Lead Generation w/ Karmen Quakenbush

Most agents struggle with consistent lead generation, bouncing between expensive paid leads and sporadic networking efforts. Karmen Quakenbush faced the ultimate test - starting her real estate business twice, including once while going through a difficult divorce with no salary safety net. Her approach to combining authentic social media presence with strategic sphere nurturing proves that sustainable lead generation doesn't require massive budgets or perfect content - it requires genuine relationship building and professional consistency.

Featured Quote: "You have to talk to people. You have to get out there. The biggest thing, like I said, when I came and started over here, I went through my phone. I was taking a break from social media at the time because of life. And so I went through my contact list and anybody, didn't matter how long I hadn't spoken to them. I called them. I called. I didn't text. I gave them a phone call."

What You Will Learn:

- The Strategic Integration Approach - How to use social media as a complement to sphere nurturing rather than a replacement, creating multiple touchpoints that keep you top of mind

- Authentic Content Creation Without Perfect Strategy - Karmen's approach to documenting real estate activities, client stories, and personal moments that build trust and demonstrate expertise

- The Full-Time Commitment Reality - Why part-time real estate practice creates a disservice to clients and how complete professional focus transforms both service quality and business growth

- Practical Sphere Expansion Beyond Clients - How to identify and nurture business partners, local vendors, and community connections as referral sources

- Event-Based Relationship Building - Karmen's systematic approach to client events, including spring gatherings and fall Thanksgiving pie distributions that strengthen relationships

- The Power of Direct Communication - Why phone calls still outperform text messages and social media for meaningful business conversations

- Budget Allocation for Relationship Investment - How Karmen spends marketing dollars on people rather than leads, including sponsorships and appreciation gestures

- Consistency Through Automation - Strategic use of monthly postcards and automated systems while maintaining personal touch points

- The Vulnerability Factor - How sharing personal challenges and authentic moments creates deeper client connections and referral opportunities

The opinions on this podcast are Mark and Brian’s and not in any way a reflection of RE/MAX or anyone else in the industry.

Social Media and Contact Information

Website: https://www.raisingrealestatestandards.com
Link Tree:  https://linktr.ee/raisingrealestatestanda