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Let’s be honest — most new agents don’t enter this business with a ready-made client list. There’s no magic database waiting for you the day you get your license. And that’s OK.
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What matters is how you build from zero — because this business is about relationships, not shortcuts. A strong sphere of influence doesn’t come from luck or who your parents know. It comes from intention, effort and consistency. And yes, anyone can build one from scratch.
Here’s how.
1. Start with the obvious: Who’s already in your world?
New agents tend to overthink this part. They look for leads before they look around. Your sphere starts with people you already know — even if it doesn’t feel like much.
Go through your phone, social media, past jobs, school contacts, family, neighbors, your barber, your dogwalker, your building’s super. Anyone who knows your name should know what you do for a living. They’re not all going to buy or sell tomorrow, but that’s not the point. Your goal is awareness, not pressure.
Start a spreadsheet. Organize by category. Make contact. Stay in touch.
2. Get loud — without being annoying
People can’t refer you if they forget what you do. New agents need to get loud — but with value and intention.
Post about your real estate journey on social media. Talk about what you’re learning. Show behind-the-scenes moments at open houses. Share tips about buying, selling or just living well in your city. The content doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to feel real. You’re not selling a house every time you post. You’re building trust.
Offline? Same idea. Talk about what you do with confidence. Not as a pitch — but as a statement. “I’m in real estate now, let me know if you ever need a resource,” and say it with your chest.
3. Get involved with your community
You don’t build a sphere by staying home refreshing Zillow. Get out there.
Join community groups. Volunteer. Attend school events. Go to local business openings. Get to know the people behind your neighborhood — the real players, not just the property owners.
Talk to small business owners, local developers, even coffee shop regulars. If you show up consistently, people start to remember your face. Relationships happen naturally.
You’re not networking — you’re integrating.
4. Build systems early
If you wait until you’re busy to get organized, you’re already behind.
Set up a CRM now. Use it even when your list is small. Tag people, log conversations, and set reminders to follow up. Create a simple newsletter or check-in email that goes out monthly. Build that muscle early — it’ll serve you later.
Your sphere isn’t just about relationships — it’s about systems that help you stay in touch and stay top of mind.
5. Play the long game (but keep showing up daily)
A lot of new agents quit too early because they expect fast results from slow-building strategies. But spheres are like gardens: They don’t grow because you planted something once. They grow because you water it every day.
Check in with people. Send thoughtful texts. Share helpful articles. Celebrate their wins. Be a consistent, positive presence — even when you’re not “selling.”
The goal isn’t to get a listing tomorrow. The goal is to become the first person they think of when the real estate conversation comes up.
6. Create your own content and conversation
Don’t wait for the perfect marketing strategy. Just start talking.
Write a weekly market update for your neighborhood. Interview a local business owner. Record short videos about the buying process. Use Instagram stories, TikTok or LinkedIn — wherever your people are. You don’t need thousands of followers. You need the right 20 people paying attention.
Be the person who adds value, not noise.
7. Stay consistent — even when it feels quiet
This part is where most new agents drop the ball. The slow seasons. The quiet inbox. The people who ghost you after asking for advice.
Keep going.
Stay visible. Stay active. Keep reaching out without expectation. Because the truth is, most of your early efforts will feel like you’re talking into the void — until one day, they won’t. Someone will call and say, “Hey, I’ve been following you. I think I’m ready to make a move.” And just like that, your business shifts.
Building a sphere from scratch isn’t easy — but it’s completely possible. And it’s the most important thing you can do as a new agent.
Forget the shiny tools and the hype. What you really need is human connection, a clear message and the discipline to show up before the results come.
Because in this business, relationships are your real equity. Build them wisely — and they’ll build your career.
Kevelyn Guzman serves as regional vice president at Coldwell Banker Warburg. Connect with her on Instagram and Linkedin.
