Early in my career, I underestimated the power of networking. I thought if I just focused on marketing and real estate lead generation, the business would come.
But I quickly realized that real estate is a relationship-driven industry. The agents who consistently closed the most deals weren’t necessarily just the best marketers—they were the ones who also built strong connections and relationships and stayed top of mind with the right people.
Networking is not just about handing out business cards at events or making small talk at open houses. It’s about building real relationships with people who can refer business to you, collaborate with you, or help you grow in the industry. Over the years, I have refined my networking strategy, and I can tell you this—done right, networking can lead to a steady stream of referrals, valuable business partnerships, and long-term success.
I also know that for many agents, networking feels uncomfortable. You might not know where to start, what to say, or how to follow up effectively. That’s exactly why I put together this guide. I’ll walk you through:
- How to network as a real estate agent in a way that feels natural and productive
- The best real estate networking events to attend and how to get the most out of them
- How to use social media and digital platforms for networking
- How to build a long-term networking plan that generates consistent referrals
If you’ve ever struggled with networking or felt like you were wasting time on the wrong events and conversations, this guide will give you a clear, actionable strategy to build valuable connections and grow your business.
Why Real Estate Networking Matters
When I was a new agent, I spent most of my time chasing online leads, running ads, and trying every marketing trick I could find. Some of it worked, but it felt exhausting and unpredictable. Then I met an agent in my office who was consistently closing deals without spending much on advertising. His secret? He had a strong network that kept sending him business.
That was when I realized something that completely changed the way I approached real estate: The most successful agents don’t just generate leads—they build relationships.
If you want a business that grows steadily year after year, networking is one of the most important skills you can develop.
Most real estate transactions don’t come from cold leads—they come from referrals and personal connections. According to NAR, over 85% of homebuyers and sellers choose their agent through referrals or past relationships.
Think about your own past clients. How many came from:
- A friend or family member who recommended you?
- A past client who referred someone?
- A lender, attorney, or contractor who sent you a lead?
For me, once I started focusing on relationships instead of just transactions, my business became much more predictable. Instead of constantly chasing new leads, I had people coming to me, ready to work together.
How Real Estate Networking Helps Agents Grow
When you build a strong network, you:
- Get More Referrals – Happy clients and industry professionals send you new business.
- Gain Credibility and Trust – People prefer working with someone they know or who comes highly recommended.
- Expand Your Business Beyond Buyers and Sellers – Partnerships with lenders, attorneys, investors, and developers can open new opportunities.
- Increase Your Visibility in the Market – The more people you connect with, the more they think of you when they need a real estate agent.
I once closed a $1.2 million deal simply because I stayed in touch with a local builder I met at a networking event. He had a client relocating from another state and needed an agent to handle the sale. I wasn’t the only agent he knew, but because I had built a relationship with him, I was the first person he called.
How to Network as a Real Estate Agent
When I first started networking, I made a huge mistake—I treated it like lead generation. I would go to events, hand out business cards, and hope someone would call me. But that approach never worked. What I learned over time is that networking is not about collecting contacts—it’s about building real relationships.
If you approach networking with the mindset of “How can I help others?” instead of “How can I get leads?”, you will build a strong network that consistently sends business your way. Here’s how to do it.
Where to Start Networking as a Real Estate Agent
One of the biggest challenges agents face is not knowing where to network. The good news? Opportunities are everywhere—you just have to know where to look.
1. Local Community Events
Many agents focus only on real estate events, but some of the best networking happens in everyday community gatherings. Consider attending:
- Chamber of Commerce meetings
- Local business networking groups
- Charity events and fundraisers
- School and PTA meetings
- Neighborhood association gatherings
I once met a local business owner at a charity auction. We had a great conversation—nothing about real estate at first. A few months later, he referred me to a friend who was selling a $900,000 home. That referral turned into a long-term partnership where he regularly sends me clients.
2. Real Estate Industry Events
While community networking is valuable, real estate-specific events can connect you with potential referral partners and mentors. Look for:
- Local and national real estate conferences (like NAR and Inman Connect)
- Real estate investor meetups
- Mortgage lender and title company networking events
- Mastermind groups with other top agents
Attending an industry event helped me land a referral partner in another state who has sent me multiple high-end buyer leads. Sometimes, the best connections come from outside your immediate market.
3. Social and Professional Networking Groups
Networking doesn’t always have to be formal. Some of the best connections come from groups you’re already involved in. If you have hobbies or interests outside of real estate, leverage them for networking. Consider:
- Golf or tennis clubs
- Business mastermind groups
- Alumni associations
- Fitness classes or running clubs
I joined a local business mastermind group and, over time, became the go-to real estate agent for many of the members. The key was building trust first rather than immediately talking about real estate.
Effective Networking Strategies for Agents
Once you’re in the right places, the next step is knowing how to network effectively. Many agents struggle with what to say, how to start conversations, and how to follow up. Here are some strategies that have worked for me.
1. The 3-2-1 Rule for Networking
Whenever you attend a networking event, set a simple goal:
- Meet 3 new people
- Follow up with 2 of them
- Set 1 coffee or lunch meeting
This keeps networking intentional and prevents you from just “collecting contacts” without building relationships.
2. The Right Way to Introduce Yourself
Many agents introduce themselves by saying, “I’m a real estate agent.” But that’s forgettable. Instead, try:
“I help growing families find their dream home in [city] without the stress of the buying process.”
“I work with first-time homebuyers to help them navigate the market and build wealth through real estate.”
This makes it clear who you help and how, making it easier for people to refer you.
3. The Conversation Formula That Works Every Time
If you’re not sure how to start a conversation at a networking event, use this simple structure:
- Ask about them first – “What do you do?” or “How did you get started in your industry?”
- Find common ground – Relate to something they say.
- Offer value – Share a resource, make an introduction, or give helpful advice.
- Mention real estate naturally – If the conversation flows, talk about how you help clients.
I once met a financial advisor at a networking event. Instead of pitching myself, I asked about his business. We talked about market trends, and I sent him an article about real estate investment. A few months later, he referred me to a client who needed an investment property.
The Importance of Following Up
Most agents lose opportunities not because they don’t meet the right people, but because they don’t follow up.
Ways to stay in touch after networking:
- Send a quick email or text – “Great meeting you at [event]. Would love to stay in touch!”
- Connect on LinkedIn – Send a message with a personalized note.
- Send a handwritten note – A simple way to stand out.
- Add them to your CRM – Keep track of contacts and set reminders to check in.
- Follow up with value – Share an article, invite them to an event, or introduce them to someone they’d benefit from knowing.
One of my best referral partners came from a simple LinkedIn follow-up. We met at a networking event, and I sent a quick message saying, “Great meeting you! Let me know if I can ever connect you with anyone in my network.” That small gesture led to multiple referrals over time.
The Best Real Estate Networking Events to Attend
Not all networking events are worth your time. Early in my career, I made the mistake of attending every event I could find, thinking that more networking meant more business. But I quickly realized that some events were full of the wrong people—agents who weren’t serious about growth, or professionals outside of real estate with no real connection to the industry.
The key to successful networking is choosing the right events—ones where you can meet potential clients, referral partners, and industry leaders who can help you grow. Here’s where to focus your efforts.
Top Real Estate Networking Events to Consider
If you want to grow your business through networking, these are the best types of events to attend.
1. National and Regional Real Estate Conferences
Industry conferences bring together top-performing agents, brokers, investors, and industry professionals in one place. They offer not just networking opportunities but also valuable training and insights into market trends and business strategies.
Some of the best real estate conferences include:
- National Association of Realtors (NAR) Annual Conference – One of the largest real estate events, great for networking with top agents across the country.
- Inman Connect – Focused on industry trends, tech, and innovation in real estate.
- Tom Ferry’s Success Summit – A must-attend event for agents looking to scale their business.
- Real Estate Wealth Expo – Connects agents with investors, developers, and financial professionals.
I met one of my best referral partners at Inman Connect. He was an agent in another state who regularly had buyers moving to my market. Over the years, he has sent me multiple high-value referrals—all because of one conversation at a networking event.
2. Local Real Estate Investor Meetups
Many agents overlook investor meetups, but they can be a goldmine for referrals. Investors constantly buy, sell, and refer deals—and they are always looking for knowledgeable agents to work with.
Look for:
- REIA (Real Estate Investors Association) meetings – Found in most cities, these groups connect real estate professionals with investors.
- Meetup.com real estate groups – Search for investor-focused meetups in your area.
- BiggerPockets events – A great way to meet serious real estate investors.
I started attending local investor meetups and, over time, became the go-to agent for several investors. Instead of chasing one-off deals, I built relationships with people who bought multiple properties a year and referred me to others in their network.
3. Networking Events for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Many real estate agents only network with other agents, but some of the best referrals come from business owners and entrepreneurs outside the industry.
Consider attending:
- Chamber of Commerce meetings – Great for meeting local business owners who can refer you to employees or clients.
- Rotary Club or BNI (Business Networking International) groups – Structured networking with professionals in various industries.
- Small business networking events – Local co-working spaces and business incubators often host networking sessions.
I once got a referral from a mortgage broker I met at a Chamber of Commerce event. That one introduction led to multiple deals because he kept referring his clients to me. The key was building a genuine relationship, not just pitching my services.
4. Mastermind Groups and Real Estate Coaching Events
If you want to build relationships with high-level agents and team leaders, masterminds and coaching events are the best places to network.
Some of the top real estate coaching organizations that host networking events include:
- Tom Ferry Coaching Events
- Brian Buffini’s Mastermind Summit
- Craig Proctor Real Estate Conferences
I met one of my best referral partners at a mastermind event. Unlike typical networking events, masterminds allow you to form deeper connections because you’re working together on business challenges, not just exchanging business cards.
5. Luxury Real Estate and High-Net-Worth Networking Events
If you specialize in high-end properties, you need to be where high-net-worth individuals and luxury real estate professionals network.
Some great options include:
- Luxury real estate expos – Events that connect luxury agents with developers and buyers.
- High-end charity galas and fundraisers – Many luxury clients and professionals attend these events.
- Yacht clubs, country clubs, and private business groups – Exclusive spaces where high-net-worth individuals network.
One of my biggest sales came from a conversation at a high-end charity auction. A guest casually mentioned they were thinking about upgrading to a larger home. Because I was there and positioned as an expert, I became their agent.
6. National Brokerage & Brand Conferences
Every major real estate brand hosts an annual conference where agents can connect, learn best practices, and build referral relationships within their network. If you’re affiliated with a brokerage, attending your brand’s national conference is a great way to expand your network.
Some of the top brokerage and brand conferences include:
- Keller Williams Family Reunion
- RE/MAX R4 Convention
- eXp Shareholder Summit & EXPCON
- Coldwell Banker Gen Blue Experience
- Century 21 One21 Experience
- Real Broker ASCEND Conference
- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention
- Sotheby’s International Realty Global Networking Event
- Compass REtreat
- ERA Real Estate Fuel Conference
- Better Homes and Gardens Fusion Conference
- Corcoran Annual Summit
Attending your brokerage’s annual conference allows you to connect with agents across different markets and create strong referral partnerships within your brand.
7. Local Association & MLS Conferences
In addition to national events, your local real estate association or MLS (Multiple Listing Service) likely hosts regular networking opportunities. These events connect you with agents, brokers, and industry professionals in your market.
Some examples include:
- State REALTOR® Conferences – Nearly every state has an annual real estate conference hosted by its REALTOR® association (e.g., California Association of REALTORS® (CAR) Expo, Texas REALTORS® Conference, Florida REALTORS® Convention & Trade Expo).
- Local MLS Networking Events – Many MLS boards host in-person meetups, training sessions, and social gatherings where you can connect with other local agents.
- Association Happy Hours & Mixers – Your local real estate association or board of REALTORS® may host informal events designed to foster relationships among agents and industry partners.
Regional Real Estate Summits – Some areas hold multi-state real estate summits, bringing together professionals from neighboring markets.
How to Get the Most Out of Networking Events
Attending the right events is just the first step. How you show up and engage will determine whether networking actually leads to new business.
Strategy | Why It Matters | How to Implement It |
Set Clear Goals Before Attending | Going in with a plan helps you focus on valuable connections. | Ask yourself: – Who do I want to meet? (Investors, buyers, sellers, referral partners?) – How many new connections do I want to make? – What’s my follow-up plan after the event? |
Have a Simple, Engaging Introduction | A clear introduction makes it easier for people to remember and refer you. | Instead of saying, “I’m a real estate agent,” say: – “I help first-time buyers navigate the market stress-free.” – “I work with investors to find profitable rental properties.” |
Focus on Relationships, Not Just Business Cards | Meaningful connections lead to more referrals than a stack of business cards. | Engage in deeper conversations instead of trying to meet everyone in the room. Listen more than you talk. |
Follow Up Within 48 Hours | Most agents fail at networking because they don’t follow up. | After the event, send a: – Personalized email mentioning something specific you discussed. – LinkedIn connection request to stay in their professional circle. – Invitation for coffee or a Zoom meeting to strengthen the connection. |
Expand Your Network Through Highnote’s Real Estate Webinars
Not all networking happens in person. Some of the best connections can be made online through high-quality real estate webinars.
- Meet industry experts and top agents from across the country.
- Learn cutting-edge marketing, negotiation, and business growth strategies.
- Ask questions, share insights, and build relationships in live Q&A sessions.
- Follow up with attendees and speakers to create new referral opportunities.
How Highnote’s Real Estate Webinars Can Help You Grow
Highnote offers exclusive real estate webinars designed to help agents:
- Master listing presentations and buyer presentations with real-world examples.
- Learn advanced negotiation tactics to win more deals.
- Connect with top agents, brokers, and industry leaders in interactive sessions.
- Discover Highnote’s innovative digital tools to enhance client presentations and stand out from the competition.
How to Make the Most of Highnote’s Webinars
- Attend live whenever possible to engage with speakers and ask questions.
- Take notes on key takeaways and actionable strategies.
- Connect with attendees on LinkedIn and continue the conversation.
- Apply what you learn immediately in your business to see results.
Want to level up your networking and presentation skills?
Check out Highnote’s latest real estate webinars.
Digital Networking for Real Estate Agents
Some of the best real estate relationships I’ve built started with a simple LinkedIn message or a comment on a Facebook post. If you’re not leveraging digital networking, you’re missing out on massive opportunities.
Where to Network Online
Platform | Best For | How to Use It Effectively |
Connecting with industry professionals and referral partners. | – Send personalized connection requests. – Engage with posts and share insights. – Join real estate and business networking groups. | |
Facebook Groups | Engaging with local homeowners, investors, and industry experts. | – Provide valuable insights, not just promotions. – Start conversations and answer questions. – Join investor and referral-based groups. |
Building your personal brand and staying top-of-mind. | – Post valuable real estate tips. – Engage with local businesses and community influencers. – Use stories and reels to showcase expertise. | |
BiggerPockets | Connecting with real estate investors. | – Contribute to discussions on investing and market trends. – Offer insights to establish credibility. – Connect with potential investor clients. |
How to Make Online Real Estate Networking Work
Strategy | What to Do | Why It Works |
Be Consistent | Engage on social platforms daily by commenting, posting, and messaging. | The more active you are, the more people remember you. |
Lead With Value | Share insights, introduce connections, and offer advice without expecting immediate returns. | People trust and remember those who genuinely help them. |
Personalize Your Outreach | When sending messages, mention something specific about their work or interests. | A personalized touch increases the chances of a response. |
Follow Up | After engaging online, move conversations to a call or in-person meeting. | Digital connections become real business relationships when you follow through. |
One of my best referral partnerships started because I commented on an investor’s LinkedIn post. We had a short back-and-forth in the comments, then moved to direct messages. A few weeks later, I helped him buy an investment property, and he has referred multiple clients to me since.
