In our recent agent meet-up, we shared real stories. Not just theory — actual wins and painful mistakes we’ve seen or made ourselves. And what stood out were these 7 common mistakes that keep agents from closing deals and building a solid career.
Let’s break them down — with practical lessons you can apply immediately.
1. Failing to Do Proper Due Diligence
It often starts with trust.
You get a property from a “trusted friend.” You skip verification because “they wouldn’t lie.” Then a serious client shows up — and you realize things don’t add up.
👉 One agent shared how a promised JV deal turned into a disaster when the seller started ghosting — right when the client and their agent were at the site.
Lesson: Trust, but verify.
Before showing any property, make sure documents are in order, ownership is clear, and the seller is serious. If not for your reputation — then for your sanity.
2. Poor Time Management
You show up late.
Your client has been waiting at the gate for 20 minutes. You fumble through the showing. You don’t know which house is which.
👉 Result? The client quietly deletes your number.
Lesson: Respect people’s time. Arrive 30 minutes early if you can. Visit the property beforehand. Being early shows professionalism — and builds trust fast.
3. Overpricing Properties Without Research
Many agents simply accept the seller’s price — even when it’s way off market.
Why?
To protect a big commission cut.
👉 One example: A 5-bedroom home on half an acre priced at Ksh190M. But it lacked key features like a pool, and similar homes were going for 120M.
Lesson: Always do a price comparison. Advise your client truthfully. If they insist, suggest getting a professional valuer involved.
4. Poor Communication
Silence breeds mistrust.
Failing to update fellow agents, buyers, or sellers leads to confusion — and lost deals.
Lesson: Communicate clearly, even when there’s “no update.” Share next steps. Follow up. People respect transparency and consistency.
5. Neglecting Continued Education
The industry is changing fast — from Ardhisasa reforms to digital marketing tools.
Yet, many agents feel “too busy” to learn.
Lesson: Stay sharp. Attend meetups, webinars, and courses. Learning is not a cost — it’s an investment in your professionalism.
6. Ignoring Technology
Many agents still rely on WhatsApp status and word-of-mouth alone.
They ignore tools that help with listing, CRM, lead follow-up, and marketing automation.
Lesson: Start small. Use tools like Google Calendar, Canva, or property listing websites like Property254.co.ke. Leverage tech to work smarter, not harder.
7. Taking on Properties Outside Your Niche
Yes, we all want deals. But saying yes to every property — even those far from your area or outside your specialty — just adds stress and hurts your reputation.
Lesson: Focus. Become known for a specific area or property type. This builds expertise — and trust.
Final Thought: Learn From Each Other
These weren’t just tips from a textbook.
They came from real agents sharing real stories — and we’ll be doing more of that in our weekly sessions.
If you’re in the industry, don’t walk alone.
Join our growing agent community every Thursday as we share leads, insights, and strategies.
👉 Watch the full video recap here
👉 Ready to be part of our in-person meetup this July? Text Simon at 0726 982 982 to reserve a spot.
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