Key Takeaways:
Referrals > Cold Leads: A strong referral network brings warm leads, builds trust, and reduces the need for pushy sales tactics.
Marketing Matters: Applying the 7 Ps of marketing helps position new agents in BC’s competitive market through innovative branding and service delivery.
Stay Compliant: Always follow BCFSA rules for referral fees—only licensed individuals should receive them, with all terms documented.
Starting as a new real estate agent in British Columbia is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You’ve passed your real estate exam and maybe joined a brokerage, but now comes the real challenge: finding clients, building trust, and making a name in a competitive market.
Cold calling feels awkward, online ads are costly, and standing out isn’t easy. That’s where a referral network comes in.
Instead of chasing strangers, you work with people who already trust you, or were referred by someone who does.
Here, we’ll show you how to build those valuable connections right from the beginning.
9 Steps To Build A Referral Network As A New Real Estate Agent
1. Identify the Right Referral Partners
Start by building connections with professionals like:
Real estate lawyers
Insurance advisors
Home inspectors
Make sure they’re licensed in BC and familiar with the local market.
2. Connect with Local Businesses & Service Providers
Think beyond real estate. Partner with:
Interior designers in Vancouver
Staging experts in Surrey
Movers in Kelowna
Photographers in Victoria
Cross-promote services and exchange referrals in your community.
3. Join Industry Events and Online Communities
Look for local networking opportunities such as:
Real estate meetups in Burnaby
Workshops hosted by real estate boards
Community business mixers
Online, join active forums like:
LinkedIn real estate groups
Reddit’s r/realtors
BC Facebook networking groups
4. Increase Online Presence With Social Media
Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to:
Share local success stories
Post client testimonials
Tag locations to increase visibility.
5. Set Clear Referral Agreements
When entering referral partnerships, clearly outline:
Commission structure
Client communication protocols
Always document the agreement to avoid misunderstandings.
6. Provide Value First
Position yourself as a helpful resource by sharing:
BC market updates
Home-buying checklists
Local event calendars
Tips like “5 Hidden Gems in Surrey for First-Time Buyers”
Helping others build their business often brings referrals in return.
7. Stay Consistent and Follow Up
Consistency builds trust. Create a schedule to:
Check in with contacts quarterly
Send email updates
Comment on partner posts on LinkedIn or Instagram
8. Create a Referral Program
Incentivize your network to refer you by:
Offering thank-you gifts
Using tracking tools like CRM systems
Sending automated follow-ups and updates
Keep it simple and transparent.
9. Show Appreciation and Build Loyalty
Recognize your referral sources by:
Sending thank-you cards
Giving small gifts (e.g., coffee cards)
Shouting them out in newsletters or social posts
Even a personal message goes a long way.
What Are the 7 Ps of Marketing in Real Estate?
In British Columbia’s dynamic real estate industry, understanding the 7 P’s of marketing is essential, especially for agents building their brand and referral network.
The 7 P’s mean-
Product
Price
Place
Promotion
People
Process
Physical Evidence
Let’s explore how each of these can be applied to real estate in BC, specifically from a referral marketing and agent branding perspective.
1. Product
Your product is your real estate service. In BC, this could mean specializing in condo resales in Burnaby or heritage homes in Victoria. Your brand should reflect your niche.
Action tip: Clearly define your product (your expertise + value proposition) on your website and in listing presentations.
2. Price
This refers to the value you provide, not just your commission. Highlight what clients and referrers gain from working with you—trust, service, speed, or local insight.
Action tip: Offer a referral guide showing how collaborators (like mortgage brokers or past clients) benefit—financially or through shared visibility.
3. Place
‘Place’ in real estate covers your service area, but in referral marketing, it also includes where your name appears—both online and in the community.
Action tip: Join hyperlocal Facebook groups (e.g., “North Vancouver Parents”) or sponsor a school event to stay visible.
4. Promotion
Promotion isn’t just about listings—it’s about promoting your reputation. Use social proof, such as Google reviews or client testimonials from actual BC buyers and sellers.
Action tip: Post a short reel with a satisfied client at the property handover. Tag local neighbourhoods for extra reach.
5. People
Your network is your net worth. In BC, that might mean cultivating relationships with mortgage advisors, builders, or notaries. Referrals often come from trusted professionals.
Action tip: Set a monthly goal to have coffee chats with two industry peers. Don’t pitch—just connect and share insights.
6. Process
Make your process easy for both clients and referrers. A smooth handoff increases the chances of someone recommending you again.
Action tip: Create a “Referring Me is Easy” PDF that outlines the next steps after a warm introduction, including your response time.
7. Physical Evidence
This includes all the tangible signals of your professionalism—your website, listing photos, signage, or even how you show up to appointments.
Action tip: Print branded referral cards and leave them at partner locations (law firms, coffee shops, staging companies) in your area.
What You Need To Know About Referrals In Bc
BCFSA has strict guidelines for making and receiving referrals:
Do:
Provide a list of at least three qualified service providers.
Disclose any personal connection or potential conflict.
Put referral suggestions in writing.
Check if referred professionals are licensed and accredited.
Always disclose referral fees—anticipated or not.
Don’t:
Guarantee the quality of service providers.
Refer to unlicensed individuals or companies who are soliciting clients.
Accept leads from unlicensed lead generation services.
Key Legal Rules from BCFSA:
Only pay referral fees to unlicensed parties if:
They don’t actively ask real estate clients.
Referrals are incidental to their primary business.
Keep detailed records of all referral fees.
Managing brokers must verify that referral fee recipients are legally eligible.
Case Highlight: A licensee was penalized for paying 90% commissions to an unlicensed company that solicited clients, violating multiple sections of RESA.
Networking Tips For New Real Estate Agents In Bc
Attend open houses—even if you're not the listing agent.
Introduce yourself at neighbourhood or community events.
Volunteer at local fundraisers or drives
Get to know BC strata managers, brokers, and leasing offices.
Be approachable, consistent, and genuinely helpful.
Pro Tips: What Successful Agents Are Doing in BC
Below are the opinions of people talking about a successful real estate career:
https://www.reddit.com/r/realtors/comments/17l35sq/ways_to_generate_leads/
https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-do-real-estate-lead-generation-as-a-beginner
https://realestatemarketinvestments.quora.com/What-are-the-ways-to-build-a-network-in-Real-estate
Conclusion:
Building a strong referral network in BC helps new agents get trusted leads, build lasting relationships, and grow faster. Focus on value, consistency, and following local rules. Start small, stay genuine, and watch your business thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for New Agents
Q1: How do you handle referrals to other agents?
Confirm the agent’s availability first. Agree on a commission split upfront. Communicate clearly with both parties. Keep records and follow BCFSA rules to stay compliant and professional.
Q2: How did you generate leads as a new realtor?
Attend open houses, local events, and volunteer. Post helpful content online, especially in BC groups. Build genuine connections and follow up regularly—it works better than just buying leads.
Q3: Can I pay a referral fee to a non-realtor in Canada?
In BC, you can’t pay referral fees to unlicensed people unless it’s incidental to their business and they don’t solicit. Always check BCFSA rules and document everything.
