9 Real Estate Goals to Help Agents & Investors Achieve Success

In real estate, whether you’re flipping houses, landing new clients, or facing your first bidding war, having clear real estate goals is a game-changer.

This article explores:

  • How to set clear financial and professional goals that drive success
  • Strategies for continuous improvement
  • The importance of building a strong professional network and developing a personal brand
Written by: Deirdre Paige
Deirdre Paige

Deirdre Paige

Content Writer

Deirdre Paige is a content writer at Wise Pelican with nearly a decade of experience, specializing in data-driven content and social media campaigns for the real estate industry.

Published: February 2, 2022
A writing board showcasing different Real Estate goals for success.

Set SMART Real Estate Goals for Business Growth

Want to see real progress in achieving your real estate goals?

Use the SMART goals framework to create goals that get results.

Make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

It’s like giving your ambitions a GPS—clear directions that guide you exactly where you want to go.

The framework for setting the right goals every single time

Here is a framework that you can use that meets every single SMART acronym of the SMART goal:

[I want to achieve x] within [time] by doing [y]

Examples:

1. I want to sell ten houses within the next ten months by sending out 500 postcards per month.

2. I want to hire two more real estate professionals within the next four weeks by posting on job boards.

If you review the goals set above, you’ll notice that they all align with the SMART goal acronyms.

– Specific (S) – Get clear on what exactly you want to achieve.

– Measurable (M) – Make sure you can track your progress.

– Achievable (A) – Set goals that stretch you but are still within reach.

– Relevant (R ) – Align your goals with your bigger vision.

– Time-bound (T) – Every goal needs a deadline; otherwise, it’s just a wish.

Get started with goals like these:

  • Increase your sales: Aim to close five more deals than last year by focusing on high-growth neighborhoods.
  • Expand your reach: Commit to adding 100 new leads to your database every month by using social media and participating in community events.
  • Grow your investment portfolio: Within the next 12 months, plan to invest in one new property type, such as commercial spaces or vacation rentals.
  • Improve Your Listing Presentations: Commit to refining your real estate listing presentations to attract high-value clients and secure more listings. A polished presentation can significantly boost your conversion rate and leave a lasting impression.

Pro Tip: Write down your SMART goals and review them regularly to track your progress and stay focused.

1. Define Clear Financial Targets

Let’s talk numbers.

Often times we wonder “can a real estate agent become a millionaire?”

And the answer is “yes”.

But like any business, it will only happen if you put the work and effort in.

When you start out, aim to save a slice of your income every month, or focus on achieving a healthy profit margin for each property flip.

Once you are more established, shift your focus to those bigger goals. Whether it’s hitting that dream net worth number or building a substantial cushion for your future self (hello, retirement fund!), put a number on it and let that guide your next move.

Consider setting specific goals like these:

  • Aim for a profit margin: For investors, set a target to achieve a 20% profit margin on every property flip by tightening your renovation budget and negotiating better deals with contractors.
  • Increase monthly savings: Decide to save 15% of your monthly real estate earnings in a high-yield savings account to build a solid safety net for future investments or emergencies.
  • Boost quarterly commissions: Set a goal to increase your total commissions by $10,000 next quarter by focusing on higher-value listings or focusing more on your marketing strategies.

Pro Tip: Break down larger financial goals into smaller, manageable milestones.

2. Commit to Continuous Skill Improvement

In real estate, the only constant is change—markets shift, trends evolve, and new tools pop up faster than you can say “closing costs.”

To stay ahead of the curve, prioritize ongoing education and set goals to keep your skills razor-sharp and ready for anything. This could include learning video conferencing tips to elevate your virtual client meetings and property tours, making interactions more professional and engaging.

Maybe it’s time to master deal analysis so you can spot a winner from a mile away or join a local workshop to learn the latest negotiation tactics.

The more you learn, the more you’ll feel like a pro, whether you’re sealing the deal or scouting your next big investment.

Try setting goals like these:

  • Complete real estate ce requirements early: Stay ahead by finishing your required real estate ce courses months before the deadline. Use this time to dive deeper into specialized courses that will set you apart in the market.
  • Attend one workshop a month: Join a monthly workshop or seminar focused on new strategies, whether it’s mastering real estate tech or honing your sales skills.
  • Earn a new certification: Set a target to earn a certification like the Certified Real Estate Negotiator (CREN) within six months to level up your expertise and marketability.

Pro Tip: Create a personal development plan with a list of specific skills you want to improve, along with deadlines and resources to help you achieve them.

3. Diversify Your Real Estate Portfolio

If you’re an investor, achieving your real estate goals isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about diversifying.

A well-rounded portfolio isn’t just innovative; it’s essential.

Why?

Because spreading your investments across different types of properties reduces risk and increases your chances of steady returns.

Set goals to mix things up. Think single-family homes, multi-family units, commercial spaces, or even REITs.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Find an investment strategy that matches your financial goals and comfort with risk.

Maybe you aim to add a new property type to your portfolio each year.

Or take a leap and invest in a market outside your comfort zone.

Consider goals like these:

  • Add variety to your portfolio: Set a target to invest in at least one new property type, like a commercial space or a vacation rental, within the next 12 months.
  • Expand geographically: Choose a goal to invest in a different city or even state to spread out your risk and tap into emerging markets.
  • Diversify by property size: Start small with a single-family home, then scale up to multi-family units or commercial properties over the next few years.

 

Pro Tip: Research emerging markets and property types that align with your goals and consider partnering with other investors to spread risk.

4. Expand and Strengthen Your Professional Network

Building a strong real estate network isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for long-term success.

The more people you know, the more opportunities come your way.

Real estate agents’ goals should include growing their sphere of influence with the right players: agents, brokers, contractors, and investors.

Make it a point to show up.

Attend networking events, jump into webinars, or join local meetups.

Don’t forget about the power of social media.

Use platforms like LinkedIn to find and connect with other professionals who can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Set a goal for how many new contacts you want to add each month. Then, create a game plan for nurturing those relationships.

A simple message, a coffee meeting, or sharing valuable insights can go a long way in reaching your real estate goals.

Try setting goals like these:

  • Attend two networking events monthly: Make it a priority to join at least two events, whether virtual or in-person, to meet new people and expand your circle.
  • Grow your LinkedIn connections: Set a goal to add ten new industry contacts each month and engage with them regularly by commenting on posts or sharing helpful content.
  • Host your own event: Organize a local meetup or webinar to position yourself as a connector in your market and build meaningful relationships.

Pro Tip: Don’t just focus on quantity; aim for quality connections. Engage in meaningful conversations, offer value, and build relationships that are mutually beneficial.

5. Earn Key Certifications and Advance Your Career

In real estate, the right credentials can give you an edge.
Look for certifications that fit your career goals.

Focus on areas like your real estate marketing goals, luxury homes, or commercial properties. Choose a designation that will set you apart.

Set a deadline and make a plan.

You might aim to become a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR).

Give yourself a set amount of time.

Create a study schedule, and stick to it. The key is to keep moving forward.

Set goals like these:

Pick a certification: Choose a designation that aligns with your focus and commit to earning it by a specific date, like finishing your CRS by December.

Plan your study time: Block out regular hours each week for studying or taking prep courses. Make it non-negotiable.

Promote your new expertise: Once certified, use it to enhance your brand. Add it to your business cards, email signatures, and marketing materials to highlight your specialized skills.

Pro Tip: Use certifications to build credibility and trust with clients and to command higher fees or commissions.

6. Use Technology to Elevate Your Operations

In this industry, technology has become the secret weapon for achieving your real estate goals and finding success.

Set goals to adopt or make better use of tech tools that help you streamline tasks, manage your leads more effectively, and keep a close eye on market trends.

Setting these smart goals for real estate agents can create a big impact on productivity and client management, freeing up more time for what you do best—closing deals and growing your business.

Try goals like these:

  • Adopt a CRM system: Choose a CRM platform that fits your needs and commit to learning its features within a month. Use it to track leads, manage follow-ups, and stay organized.
  • Automate your marketing: Set up automated email campaigns that target specific client groups, such as past clients or new prospects, by the end of the quarter.
  • Stay ahead of market trends: Dedicate time each week to explore new tech tools or apps that can improve your efficiency, whether it’s for data analysis, virtual tours, or digital marketing.

Pro Tip: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your tools and upgrade or replace them as needed.

7. Building Your Personal Brand Through Real Estate Marketing Goals

Your brand is your business. Create real estate marketing goals that focus on building a strong personal brand.

This could include increasing your social media presence, starting a blog, or launching a new marketing campaign.

Set specific targets that will help establish your authority in the market and attract more leads.

Give these goals a try:

  • Grow your social media: Make a goal to grow your Facebook following by 15% over the next three months.
  • Publish content: Publish one blog post per week to attract new clients.
  • Put time into marketing: Launch a targeted marketing campaign within the next 60 days to increase brand visibility.

Pro Tip: Consistency is key. Make sure your brand message is clear and consistent across all platforms and marketing materials.

8. Enhance Client Relationship Management

Your clients are your greatest assets—treat them like it.

Set goals to build stronger connections by following up with past clients, asking for referrals, and sending personalized mailers after every transaction.

Make it a habit to reach out.

Aim for a certain amount of calls each week or set a target to secure new referrals every month.

When you nurture your relationships, you’re not just closing deals; you’re building loyalty, repeat business, and a network that keeps talking about you—in a good way!

Try goals like these:

  • Weekly follow-ups: Call at least five past clients each week to check in and keep the relationship alive.
  • Monthly referral targets: Aim for three new client referrals each month by actively asking satisfied clients to recommend you.
  • Personal touches: Send handwritten thank-you notes or small gifts after each transaction to make clients feel valued and appreciated.

Pro Tip: Use a CRM tool to keep track of client interactions and set reminders for follow-ups to ensure no one slips through the cracks.

9. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Goals

Setting goals is just the beginning; the real magic happens when you keep them in check.

Make it a habit to track your progress toward your real estate goals and set regular times to review what’s working and what isn’t.

Create a system that works for you.

Use these moments to see how your plans are aligning with the market, your growth, or any surprises that come your way.

If something’s off, don’t be afraid to tweak your approach and stay on the path to success.

Try goals like these:

  • Quarterly progress check: Schedule a review every three months to assess your achievements and adjust your strategy as needed.
  • Monthly reflection: Dedicate time at the end of each month to evaluate which goals you’ve met and which need a new approach.
  • Stay flexible: Be ready to pivot your goals when market conditions change or new opportunities arise.

 

Pro Tip: Be flexible and willing to adapt your goals. Sometimes, even the best-laid plans need tweaking.

Bottom Line

Clear real estate goals are the key to thriving!

Start with these 9 goals, make them your own, and keep pushing forward.

With the right strategy and mindset, success is within reach.

 

Achieve your real estate goals faster with Wise Pelican’s direct mail marketing solutions.

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