Not all listings are created equal. Some are ready to move, while others require more finesse to close. Understanding the different types of listings can help you strategise more effectively and prioritise your efforts. Let’s break them down into three categories: Green-Amber-Red listings.
1. Green Listings: Destined to Sell
Think of green listings as your surefire deals. These are the properties that have two critical factors: motivation and price. The sellers are genuinely motivated, and the price is right for the market. In other words, these homes are positioned to move quickly.
For the first time in a while, it’s okay to have a second-around listing in this category. If a listing didn’t sell with the first agent, but now the pricing and motivation align, it can turn into a successful sale. Smart agents recognise that sometimes, being the second agent on a listing can be a winning strategy.
2. Amber Listings: Potential, But Needs Work
Amber listings sit in a tricky middle ground. These are homes that could sell, but something is holding them back—either the seller’s motivation isn’t high enough, or the pricing isn’t quite right.
For agents, the key here is education and strategy. It’s important to guide the seller toward a more realistic price or find ways to boost their motivation. Maybe the market conditions have changed, or they need a better understanding of buyer expectations. Either way, amber listings require extra attention to shift them into the green category.
3. Red Listings: A Tough Sell
Then, there are red listings. These are the ones that, realistically, are not going to sell in their current state. The seller might not be motivated at all, or they could be holding out for an unrealistic price. This can drain your time and resources with little to no return.
A smart agent knows when to walk away or set clear expectations. If a seller refuses to budge on price and shows no real intent to sell, it may not be worth your effort. Sometimes, these listings do eventually turn into opportunities, but only after the seller has a shift in mindset.
Why This Matters
By colour-coding your listings into green-amber-red, you can prioritise your time and energy effectively. Green listings should be your main focus, amber listings need strategic work, and red listings should be approached with caution.
At the end of the day, success in real estate is more than taking on listings—it’s about working smarter to close deals. Knowing where to invest your effort will help you maximise your sales and keep your business moving forward.
What do you think? Do you use a Green-Amber-Red system to categorise your listings?
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