Disclaimer: The contents of this article are industry best practices which were sourced from StreetEasy data and interviews with real estate agents, unless noted otherwise. Any scripts provided are only meant to act as examples and are not required. Nothing in this presentation is intended to be legal advice. For specific questions about any duties or obligations arising out of a real estate transaction, check your local and state licensing laws and regulations, contact your broker, or an attorney.

Congratulations on becoming a StreetEasy Expert! You’ve earned a spot among a select group of high-performing NYC agents and teams who connect with motivated buyers and sellers every day.

To make the most of this opportunity, it’s critical to start strong and build momentum from day one. In this article, we’ll walk you through your first steps as a new Expert, along with best practices to help you maximize the valuable connections you’ll make.

Your First 5 Steps as a StreetEasy Expert

Now that you’re officially an Expert, here are the first five things you should do to start making meaningful connections that grow your business.

1. Download the StreetEasy Agent Tools App

What it is: StreetEasy Agent Tools is a mobile app Experts can use to manage leads (also called “connections”) on the go. For instance, you can call, text, or email connections with a single tap or quickly update connection statuses.

Why it matters: Specifically designed for busy agents on the go, the app provides the fastest way to respond to new buyer and seller inquiries, especially if you’re away from your desk.

How: Download the Agent Tools app for iOS or Android.

2. Enable Push Notifications

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What it is: Opt in to receive push notifications from the Agent Tools app every time you receive a new connection.

Why it matters: Within 30 minutes of receiving a connection during business hours (9:00am – 6:30pm ET), Experts are expected to respond, pass on the connection, or if you’re a Team Lead, reassign it to a team member. If not, the connection will be passed on to the next eligible Expert, potentially affecting the number of future connections you receive.

For best conversion results, respond to inquiries within five minutes. Push notifications will help you achieve this goal and avoid missing the 30-minute deadline.

How: When you open the Agent Tools app for the first time, you’ll be given a brief tutorial that concludes with a prompt to allow notifications. Hit “Allow” in the box that pops up. Or, you can go to the My Account tab and opt into push notifications at any time.

3. Opt Into Buildings & Neighborhoods via Campaigns

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What it is: Campaigns allow you to choose which neighborhoods, buildings, and types of properties you want to receive connections from. 

Why it matters: The Campaigns and segments you opt into determine which connections StreetEasy sends to you. Start by choosing those you are experienced in, most familiar with, or eager to work in. For example, you can select a building if you’ve completed at least one transaction there in the last 10 years.

How: Go to the Campaigns tab on desktop or the Agent Tools app and toggle on your preferred buildings and segments. You can also pause all leads at any time on this page.

Tip: To avoid expired connections, be sure to use the Pause feature whenever you’re unable to respond to connections within 30 minutes during business hours.

4. Respond Quickly to New Connections

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What it is: When you receive a connection request, select either Respond Now or Pass on Connection (if applicable) within the 30-minute deadline. Not doing so can result in fewer connections from StreetEasy.

Why it matters: Did you know that Experts who respond within 30 minutes are around 40% more likely to set an appointment? Speed to lead is critical, and responding quickly has a big impact on conversion.

How: Hit Respond Now to send a direct message to a connection right from the StreetEasy platform. After responding, you’ll see their contact information so you can follow up later on.

You’ll get the best results by responding within five minutes of receiving a request. Then follow up with a call or text.

5. Keep Your Connection Statuses Updated

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What it is: You can track where each connection is in their buying or selling journey by updating their connection status. These statuses include:

  • New Connection: New connection in need of your response, not yet in communication
  • Attempted Contact: Responded to the connection
  • In Communication: Actively communicating with connection
  • Appointment Set: Confirmed a day and time for a showing
  • Showing Homes: Met with connection to tour properties
  • Submitting Offers: Preparing or submitting at least one offer
  • Contract Out: Offer accepted, waiting on counter-sign
  • In Contract: Contract counter-signed
  • Sale Closed: Closing complete
  • Nurture: Connection not ready to transact soon
  • Unresponsive: Connection hasn’t replied in seven or more days

Why it matters: Experts are expected to update their connection statuses at least once a week. Some, such as “In Contract” and “Sale Closed,” must be updated within 24 hours per program guidelines.

How: Go to the Connections tab and find the connection you’d like to update. You can use search, filtering, or sorting to easily locate a connection. Use the “Status” dropdown to update the connection status.

What Happens After Setup?

Great work completing your first five steps as a StreetEasy Expert! If you’re not sure what to do next, don’t worry: we’ll continue providing the support you need to build momentum and success.

To learn more about best practices for Experts, how to use the platform, or tips for growth and success, you can:

  • Connect with your Business Advisor for one-on-one coaching and accountability
  • Receive regular emails covering Expert tools and success strategies
  • Visit the Experts Resource Center for program updates, scripts, guides, and more

Helpful Resources

Need additional support or information? Bookmark the following for easy reference:

Becoming a StreetEasy Expert is an accomplishment worth celebrating. We’re excited to see what you’ll accomplish as you put your expertise to work and turn connections into closings.