GRI 201 – Business Planning & Technology; Sales & Marketing with Rich Sands, MS, CRS

Business Planning & Technology

Participants will identify the components of a business plan and create the foundation to building your own focusing on how YOU want to operate your business. The class will review the latest and greatest technology and media tools you can utilize in your business to communicate with the consumer as well as becoming more effective and efficient.

Sales & Marketing

In this segment, participants will formulate new sources of business by understanding your business as well as consumer needs and cultural differences. The course reviews areas of specialization, expertise and resources while focusing on becoming more effective in dealing with buyers and sellers. Over the course, you will develop a marketing strategy for potential sources of business targeting specific consumer wants and needs. Participants will learn to develop effective counseling techniques to help the consumer identify and meet their needs. Upon conclusion of the class, participants will create a system to enhance the ability to receive repeat and referral business.

Instructor Bio

There isn’t a time when Rich Sands doesn’t remember leading a class full of students. For fifteen years he brought out the best in high school students. He took that leadership to the real estate industry where he rose to the position of Director of Education, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Colorado and revolutionized the company’s training services for more than 2,000 managers, agents and staff.

Now, an experienced international presenter, instructor, and keynote specialist, Rich specializes in helping people master their sales skills in any situation. His flagship presentations, “Why Your Grandparents Should Direct Your Marketing,” and “Your Peak Performance Edge” integrate the key practices needed to engage and impress consumers of all kinds.

Presently, he is President of Rich Sands Seminars and works closely with international real estate franchise systems, independent brokerages and companies in all industries that want to bring out the best in their people. As a NAR/REBAC and Certified CRS instructor, he conducts dozens of courses each year for the National Association of REALTORS® and Council of Residential Specialists.

While Peak Performance is Rich’s passion, it is not the only one. He began running in 1966, ran collegiately and continues to “pound the pavement and the trails” having competed in over 500 races including 17 marathons and logging over 111,000 miles. This years challenges are the Eugene and Chicago marathons. The link to Rich’s running blog, RunSpittle, is www.runspittle.blogspot.com

Rich and his wife, Linda, live near Denver, Colorado. She is a kitchen and closet designer and a runner and elliptical girl. He has two sons: Matt and Ryan and two step-daughters: Angela and Alicia.

FAQs

Why do I need the GRI designation?

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been in the business a while or are just starting out. If you’re hungry for more success, it’s time to raise your real estate career to a higher level by earning the most comprehensive real estate designation: Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI).

Just ask current GRI designees. In a recent survey, they indicated these top three reasons for earning the GRI:

1. Gain comprehensive knowledge — The coursework provides in-depth training on the most essential topics, including market knowledge, business skills, systems and tools, and risk management—substantially beyond what’s covered by licensing courses.
2. Build confidence — Past graduates consistently say they love their GRI because it gave them confidence in their own skills and credibility with clients—essential components for building a successful real estate career.
3. Impress consumers — With “Graduate, REALTOR® Institute” by their name, they stand out in their market as an agent who takes advanced real estate education seriously.

Not only do GRIs have a leg up on agents without the designation, the time required to earn your GRI goes a long way towards demonstrating your level of commitment to yourself, your clients, and the industry. It’s a true win-win-win proposition.

How is the GRI different?

Unlike most NAR designations, the GRI is managed independently by each state association of REALTORS®, with slightly different course requirements. This provides an optimal blend of state-specific content along with national perspectives. Also, GRI designees do not pay any annual dues to maintain their designation.

What are the added fees?

There are 2 types of convenience fees: 1. Eventbrite Service Fee & 2. Payment Processing fee of 3%.

How can I avoid the convenience fees?

Simply send a check payable for $250 to: Idaho REALTORS®. Address the envelope to Amanda Pannell at Idaho REALTORS® 10116 W. Overland Rd. Boise, ID 83709. Be sure to write “GRI 201” in the memo.

What are my parking options for the class?

Parking is available onsite at Western Magic Valley REALTORS®.

What can I bring into the classroom?

Feel free to bring snacks and drinks. There will be complimentary coffee and snacks as well. Lunch will not be provided. There will be a 1-hour lunch break for those who wish to go off-site. Feel free to bring your own lunch. Refrigeration is limited. Microwave is available.

What is prohibited during the class?

The use of any electronic devices is not permitted during class time, unless required as part of the course. This includes texting, checking messages, note taking, incoming and outgoing class, or any activities not related to the instruction of the course content.

What is the attendance policy?

According to IREC policy, “Regular attendance means 100% attendance at all sessions of a live prelicense or continuing education (CE) course.” A student who misses any portion (even a few minutes) of a course may not receive credit. The Commission obligates instructors and course providers to monitor student attendance and strictly enforce this attendance policy.

Can I bring my child?

No. Please arrange for childcare ahead of each class. No exceptions. You will be turned away.

What’s the refund policy?

30 days prior to the first class for a full refund.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please direct all questions to the Education Director, Amanda Pannell at (208) 342-3585 or email apannell@idahorealtors.com

Where can I find any additional information?

Please visit us at: IdahoRealtors.com