The way agents succeed is undergoing a profound transformation, broker Nick Schlekeway writes. Are you adapting and adopting new tools fast enough to keep up?
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The real estate market is always evolving, and the agents who succeed aren’t waiting for conditions to improve — they’re adapting, learning, and taking action right now.
Whether it’s new technology, shifting consumer behaviors, or changing market conditions, one thing is sure: If you’re not growing, you’re falling behind. The agents who are thriving in today’s market understand that sticking to old strategies won’t cut it anymore.
The question is: Are you keeping up, or are you getting left behind?
Why adaptability is the new competitive edge
The most successful agents don’t rely on what worked last year. They stay ahead by leveraging new tools, refining their approach, and moving with urgency.
Take AI, for example. Technology, like ChatGPT and predictive analytics, is transforming how agents operate. Those who embrace these tools streamline their workflows, enhance client interactions, and save time. Meanwhile, agents who resist technology are stuck playing catch-up.
But here’s the thing — technology alone won’t make you successful. You have to pair it with action.
The biggest mistake agents make is hesitating. Waiting for the market to “settle” or for opportunities to come to you is a guaranteed way to lose ground. The agents at the top aren’t passive — they’re proactive, consistent, and always looking for the next opportunity.
These agents are:
- Making the calls
- Following up with leads daily
- Staying in front of their audience with content and marketing
- Sharpening their skills through training and coaching
They don’t sit around waiting for business to come to them. They go out and create it.
Momentum is everything
You can’t afford to slow down if you want to win in real estate. Your activity today determines your success six months from now. This is where most agents fall short. They coast when things are “good” and then panic when their pipeline dries up. But momentum doesn’t just happen — it’s built.
Think of your business like a train. It takes massive energy to get it moving, but once it’s rolling, it’s nearly unstoppable. If you stop, you have to start from scratch all over again. The best agents understand this. Even when deals aren’t coming together and the market feels uncertain, they keep pushing forward.
These agents are:
- Staying visible to their network
- Engaging with past clients
- Showing up daily and put in the work
Because they know that activity breeds results.
What’s your next move?
The market is shifting, and the way agents succeed is changing. The question is: Are you adapting fast enough? You’re already falling behind if you’re not actively learning, leveraging new tools, and staying ahead of the curve. The agents who will dominate in the next year are those who refuse to slow down, who take action, and who understand that there’s no room for hesitation in this business.
Nick Schlekeway is the founder of Amherst Madison, a Boise, Idaho-based real estate brokerage. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
