Business cards are a classic tool for networking, especially for real estate agents. A well-designed card can be the key to establishing your brand and opening doors.
But, like anything, there’s a right and wrong way to use them. If you’re not careful, your realtor business cards could actually work against you! Here are fifteen mistakes to avoid and tips on how to get it right so you don't hurt your brand.
1. Outdated Information
One of the worst mistakes you can make is handing out business cards with incorrect or outdated information. If your phone number, email, or even brokerage has changed, update your cards immediately.
Tip: Always review your real estate agent business cards before a major event or open house to ensure accuracy.
2. Too Much Clutter
Overloading your business card with information will make it hard to read. While it’s tempting to include everything about your real estate services, less is more.
Tip: Stick to the essentials: your name, phone number, email, and a link to your website or social media. Let your personality and services come through when you meet clients in person.
3. Cheap Materials
Using thin, low-quality paper for your business cards can send the wrong message about your brand. If your card looks and feels flimsy, potential clients might think the same about your work ethic.
Tip: Invest in premium materials. A thick, matte finish or even a unique texture can make a lasting impression.
4. No Logo or Branding
Your business card should reflect your brand. Not including your brokerage’s logo or having no cohesive branding at all can make your card forgettable.
Tip: Work with a designer to ensure your real estate agent business cards match your personal brand and brokerage.
5. Unprofessional Photos
Including your photo on a real estate business card is common practice, but the wrong photo can hurt your credibility. Avoid overly casual or poorly lit images.
Tip: Use a professional headshot that aligns with the image you want to project—friendly, approachable, but also capable.
6. Forgetting a Call to Action
A business card without a clear purpose can be quickly tossed aside. If it doesn’t prompt the recipient to take action, you’re missing an opportunity.
Tip: Add a subtle but effective call to action, like "Call for a free market analysis" or "Visit my website to view new listings."
7. Using Small, Hard-to-Read Fonts
Tiny text can be frustrating for the person trying to read your card. Don’t force your potential clients to squint or guess at your contact information.
Tip: Stick to clean, legible fonts and ensure your text size is readable at a glance. Bold the most important information, like your name and phone number.
8. Not Handing Them Out
Having a stack of real estate business cards in your desk drawer won’t do much good. Some real estate agents forget to bring them to open houses, networking events, or even casual meetings.
Tip: Always carry a few cards with you, and don’t hesitate to hand them out! Every encounter is a potential lead.
9. Ignoring Digital Integration
In today’s world, everything is digital. If your business card doesn’t direct potential clients to your website, social media, or online listings, you’re missing out on opportunities.
Tip: Include a QR code that links directly to your real estate website or a virtual business card that’s easy to save on a phone.
10. Not Following Up
A great real estate agent business card can only take you so far. If you hand it out but don’t follow up, you’re leaving business on the table.
Tip: After exchanging cards, follow up with a quick message or email to reinforce the connection and remind the person of your services.
11. Handing Out Cards Without a Conversation
No one appreciates being handed a business card before there’s been any meaningful interaction. It can come across as pushy or insincere, making the recipient feel like just another number on your list.
Tip: Focus on building rapport first. Have a genuine conversation and exchange cards only when it feels appropriate.
12. Forcing Your Card on Everyone
Shoving your business card into everyone’s hand at an event, regardless of their interest, is a big no-no. It makes you seem more interested in self-promotion than building a relationship.
Tip: Be selective. Hand out your real estate agent business cards only when there’s a clear opportunity or when someone expresses interest in your services.
13. Giving Out Damaged or Dirty Cards
Imagine pulling out a bent or stained business card to give someone—it immediately tarnishes your professional image. If your cards look unprofessional, people might assume the same about your services.
Tip: Keep your cards in a proper cardholder to ensure they stay clean and crisp. It shows you value your materials, which reflects positively on you.
14. Failing to Personalize the Exchange
Throwing your card at someone without any personal touch or context will make your card (and you) forgettable. It's important to connect the card with the conversation you've had.
Tip: Personalize the exchange by mentioning something from your conversation before handing over your card. It will help the recipient remember who you are and why your services matter.
15. Overwhelming People with Too Many Cards
Giving multiple cards to one person in hopes they'll pass them on can come off as desperate or overbearing. It puts pressure on them to do your marketing for you.
Tip: Only offer an extra card if someone requests it. Focus on making a strong enough impression that they’ll naturally want to share your information.
Realty Printing
Using your real estate business cards the right way can help you build meaningful connections, but using them the wrong way can quickly hurt your image. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on authenticity, you’ll leave a more positive and lasting impression with everyone you meet.
At Realty Printing, we’re committed to helping you market yourself the right way. Whether you’re designing new cards or looking for advice on how to use them effectively, we’re here to support you. Let us help you create real estate business cards that reflect your professionalism and brand perfectly.