Real estate networking is an effective way to find new clients and stay in touch with people you already know. It may seem scary at first, but it’s really very simple. Build relationships, look for opportunities to help people and show your value in every conversation with those you meet. With enough conversations (and keeping in touch, of course), you’ll see your business grow.
We’ll share 10 places to meet new clients, plus in-person and online networking strategies, helpful conversation starters and the secrets to successful networking for introverts. Let’s dive in!
Why real estate networking matters
Real estate is a people business first, and a property business second. You can have all the market knowledge in the world, but if no one knows you, or trusts you, you’ll struggle to get traction in this business. Networking helps to bridge that gap. It’s how agents build credibility. They find mentors, share listings and uncover referral opportunities that may never even hit the MLS.
Strong relationships don’t just generate leads; they create a safety net of professionals you can rely on – from lenders and inspectors to fellow agents who respect you. When you show up consistently, both online and in person, people will remember you. In an industry where reputation carries more weight than advertising, being remembered for the right reasons can make all the difference.
In-person networking strategies
Real estate networking can take many forms – from a casual chat at a neighborhood barbecue to a full-on speed networking event (think speed dating for business pros). Some events might connect you with future clients, while others help you build referral relationships with other professionals.
Whatever the setting, treat every encounter as an opportunity to connect, share how you help your clients and find a natural way to stay in touch. Staying top of mind is where the real magic happens, and thoughtful follow-up turns small conversations into lasting relationships.
Let’s take a look at some of the most effective in-person networking strategies agents use to grow their business and build genuine, long-term connections.
1. Business networking groups
Business Networking International (BNI) is a great place to start if you’re looking for structured, referral-driven networking. You can also check out your local Chamber of Commerce or young professionals groups. These tend to attract people who are serious about building business relationships.
The upside? Everyone’s there to talk shop. The downside? You’ll probably run into plenty of other real estate agents, so you’ll need to find ways to stand out and offer real value in your conversations.
2. Professional organizations
Joining professional groups is an easy way to meet people who take their careers seriously. Start with your local Realtor association or a small business group in your area. After you’ve been to a few meetings, you’ll start recognizing faces and having real conversations instead of just trading cards.
SCORE is another good option. It’s a national group that matches new business owners with experienced mentors. Depending on where you are in your career, you could either learn from someone who’s been there or volunteer to guide someone who’s just getting started. It’s not specific to real estate, but it’s full of smart, business-minded people who are usually happy to share advice.
3. Social clubs
Some of the best connections happen in the places you already spend your time. College alumni groups, religious organizations or local hobby clubs like gardening or book clubs are great examples. Having something in common gives you an easy way to start a conversation and makes it easier to build trust naturally. Fitness groups like yoga studios, hiking clubs or weekend sports leagues can work the same way—doing something active together helps you connect without the pressure of “networking.”
Branch out to community expos that attract people making big life changes, like home and garden shows or wedding fairs. Whether you go as a participant or set up a booth, these events draw homeowners, soon-to-be sellers and couples ready to buy their first home—all great opportunities to meet people who may need an agent down the road.
4. Community events and workshops
Getting involved in local events is an easy way to meet people without feeling like you’re “networking.” Think neighborhood festivals, school fundraisers or volunteer days – anywhere people gather to support something local. When folks see you out there helping or participating, they start to connect your name with being part of the community, not just selling houses.
If you’re comfortable speaking, host something simple like a first-time buyer class or a “what’s my home worth” night at a local coffee shop. Remember to keep it friendly and conversational. People respond best when they feel you’re just there to share what you know – not to sell them anything.
5. Broker open house
Broker opens are one of the easiest ways to build relationships with other agents in your area. Even if you don’t have a listing, stop by when you can. It’s a chance to preview inventory, get to know how other agents present their listings and have a few genuine conversations without the pressure of a client watching.
Bring a few cards, ask questions about the property and stay long enough to connect—but not so long that it feels forced. The more consistently you show up, the more familiar your face becomes, and that’s how other agents start remembering your name when they’re looking for someone to partner with on deals or referrals.
6. Investor meetups
Working with investors is a completely different ballgame from working with typical homeowners, but it can also be one of the most rewarding parts of the business. Homeowners might buy or sell once every few years, while some investors pick up multiple properties each year – sometimes even each quarter. That means more transactions, repeat business and steady relationships that can last for years.
You can find investor groups on Meetup.com, Eventbrite or Facebook. Most are free or low-cost to attend and welcome both seasoned investors and curious newcomers. These meetings run on word of mouth, so they’re full of people actively looking to connect and make deals. Just remember, some investors are cautious about working with agents, so focus on adding value and proving you understand the numbers before you pitch your services.
7. Real estate conferences
I’ve always found conferences to be worth the trip. They’re packed with people who live and breathe real estate, and it’s hard not to walk away with a few new ideas or connections. Events like Inman Connect or the NAR Conference pull together agents, brokers and vendors from all over, giving you a real look at what’s working in different markets. You might pick up a strategy, meet a potential partner or just get re-energized about the business.
If you decide to attend, go in with a plan. Look at the schedule ahead of time and pick a few sessions or networking mixers you really want to hit. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to the speakers or other attendees. They’re there for the same reason you are. A quick chat in a hallway or over coffee can sometimes turn into a referral partner or even a mentor down the road.
If you’re looking for upcoming industry events to add to your calendar, HousingWire hosts and highlights a variety of events throughout the year focused on real estate, mortgage and housing innovation – both in-person and virtual events. They’re great places to learn, connect and hear from some of the top voices in the industry.
Online real estate networking strategies
Once you’ve been networking in real estate for a while, you’ll start to notice how in-person networking starts to pay off. People remember your face, your name and the kind of energy you bring into a room. Still, not every relationship will start that way. Some of the best connections happen online through social media, virtual events or even a quick message that turns into a real conversation.
Let’s look at a few ways you can build those same kinds of relationships online.
8. Social media
People spend a ton of time online scrolling through listings, local pages or Facebook groups, which makes social media an easy place to meet people where they already are. Nearly every town has a few active real estate or community groups you can join. Get involved by answering questions or sharing helpful information – not by pitching yourself. When you consistently show up as someone who knows their stuff and genuinely wants to help, people start to remember your name.
If you’re looking for a place to connect with other agents, Lab Coat Agents is one of the most active real estate communities online. The LCA Facebook group has thousands of agents sharing ideas, asking questions and learning from each other every day. All you have to do is submit a request to join. Beyond the group, they also offer training, webinars and marketing tools designed to help agents stay current and grow their business.
9. Referral and mastermind groups
Mastermind or referral groups are smaller circles of people who meet to trade ideas and business. They’re usually more structured than social media groups, but a lot more personal. You’ll find agents, lenders and small business owners who meet regularly to talk about what’s working and share referrals. It’s less about selling and more about helping each other grow and learn.
A good place to start is Sold.com. It’s free to join, and you only pay a referral fee when you close a deal. The site connects you with buyers and sellers who are already looking for an agent, so you’re not wasting time on cold leads. It’s a simple way to keep your pipeline active without adding more prospecting to your plate.
10. Virtual conferences and webinars
Virtual conferences make it easy to learn and connect without getting on a plane. You can find sessions on almost any topic, like marketing, investing and team building. Most sessions include live chats where you can meet other agents and chat with industry pros. Don’t just watch quietly, get involved and ask questions to join the conversation. It’s a simple way to get noticed and build connections from anywhere.
Networking tips every agent should know
Whether you’re meeting people face to face or logging into a virtual event, how you show up makes a big difference. Here are a few things to keep in mind for both situations.
In-person tips
- Dress comfortably yet professionally, in keeping with your own personal style and brand
- Maintain eye contact and show active listening using head nods, smiles and affirmative language
- Keep the conversation focused on the person you’re talking to
- Ask open-ended questions
- Always ask for someone’s business card or contact information, and only hand out your card if someone asks for it
Online tips
- Keep your camera on
- You’ll still need to dress appropriately if you’re on camera
- Ensure your background is appropriate
- Use the chat function to connect with individuals or comment to the entire group
- Remember to save the chat (if using Zoom) towards the end of the meeting to review conversations and reach out to whoever needs assistance
- If you’re the one hosting the event, require attendees to register in advance – this will allow you to know your headcount ahead of time and capture their contact information
No matter which route you go, the key is follow-up. Staying in touch is what turns introductions into real relationships.
If you need a simple system to help you keep track of it all, Real Geeks is a good choice. It’s designed specifically for agents, so it fits the way you actually work. Keep notes on your conversations, track where each lead came from and set reminders for when it’s time to reach back out. It also includes follow-up tools like email and text drip campaigns, which help you stay top of mind without adding more to your daily workload. If you’re looking for an innovative solution, give Real Geeks a try.
The full picture: Real estate networking
At the end of the day, networking isn’t about handing out cards or adding people on LinkedIn. It’s about staying connected and showing up both online and in person. When you make the effort to build genuine relationships, the business follows. Start small. Pick one or two ways to get out there and stick with them. The more you stay in touch, the more people remember your name and that’s what will keep your phone ringing.