How to work efficiently in the real estate industry

Set clear and measurable goals

Having well-defined goals is the starting point for any successful strategy. An efficient professional knows exactly what they want to achieve and sets deadlines to reach their targets. It’s important to create an action plan with weekly, monthly, and quarterly goals, including:

• Number of viewings scheduled;

• New properties listed;

• Lead-to-client conversion rate;

• Volume of completed sales.

These indicators not only help assess your performance but also identify areas for improvement. Moreover, they serve as motivational tools that help keep you focused and ambitious.

Manage your time like a true professional

One of the greatest challenges of being a real estate agent is effective time management. The flexible schedule, often cited as a benefit, can become a trap for those who lack discipline. That’s why having a well-structured routine is essential.

Start by organising your workday into time blocks dedicated to specific tasks: prospecting, client meetings, viewings, online updates, market research, etc. Using tools such as CRMs allows you to track every contact, log appointments, and set follow-up reminders.

It’s equally important to prioritise tasks. Not all tasks have the same impact on your business. Focus on high-value activities like meeting qualified clients or managing active leads to ensure your time is being used effectively.

List properties methodically and consistently

Property listings are the foundation of every consultant’s work. Without properties to promote, there’s no business. Working efficiently in this area means having a systematic, results-oriented approach. Choosing specific areas, proactive outreach to owners, and professional presentations make a real difference.

Clear and objective communication, combined with market knowledge, builds trust with property owners and increases your conversion rates. If you're looking for practical strategies, it's worth exploring these tips for listing properties for sale, which can significantly improve your success rate.

Consistency is also key. Listing properties shouldn't be occasional—it should be a regular activity integrated into your weekly routine.

Invest in training and keep up with industry trends

The real estate sector is constantly evolving. Changes in legislation, new technologies, shifts in consumer behaviour and market trends all make continuous learning essential.

Participating in training sessions, webinars, and specialised courses helps you gain new knowledge and techniques that can be applied daily. Topics such as digital marketing, real estate photography, negotiation techniques, and property valuation are increasingly relevant.

Working with a company that values training, such as Engel & Völkers, gives you a competitive edge. The company offers structured programmes from day one, ensuring that its agents are prepared for the current market challenges.

Build trust-based relationships with your clients

One of the secrets to long-term success in real estate is the ability to build trust-based relationships with clients. Selling properties is only part of the job; the most important part is listening, understanding, and offering solutions that match each person’s real needs.

Empathy, active listening, and transparent communication are essential qualities. A satisfied client is the best advertisement an agent can have and often becomes a source of new opportunities through referrals.

If you're just starting out, know that you can stand out as a real estate agent even without prior experience—as long as you demonstrate professionalism, ethics, and a genuine desire to help.

Choose the right partner to grow

Although it’s possible to work independently, joining a recognised brand can significantly accelerate your progress. Access to advanced technological tools, marketing support, a network of contacts, and a strong market image are advantages that make a real difference in daily work.

Engel & Völkers is a market reference thanks to its professional approach, international structure, and strong training component. Consultants benefit from constant support and access to innovative platforms that make listing, promoting, and selling properties easier.

If you're thinking about making a professional change, this could be the ideal opportunity to take a new direction in your life.

Adapt to market demands with resilience

Real estate is a dynamic activity subject to seasonal and economic fluctuations. Not every month brings the same results, and success depends on adaptability. Being resilient means staying focused even when results are slow to appear and knowing how to reinvent yourself in the face of difficulties.

Those who thrive are the ones who tackle challenges with professionalism, optimism, and a willingness to learn. Experience shows that the most difficult periods can also be moments of great growth and strategic evolution.

Change careers with confidence and structure

Many successful real estate professionals come from completely different backgrounds. Autonomy, high earning potential, and personal fulfilment are some of the reasons behind this shift.

If you feel ready for a new challenge, it may be time to change careers and explore your potential as a real estate consultant. What matters most is having the support of a brand that offers training, mentorship, and a solid foundation for growth.

Success starts with the right decisions

Working efficiently in real estate is not just about talent—it’s the result of consistent habits, planning, and a willingness to learn. From setting clear goals and managing time smartly to choosing the right partner, everything contributes to building a solid and successful career.

If you're starting or want to advance in this profession, becoming a real estate consultant with a company like Engel & Völkers may be the ideal step. The structure, training, and prestige of the brand provide the perfect environment for those who want to make a difference.

The Portuguese real estate market remains dynamic and full of opportunities. Now it's your turn to decide if you're ready to take the next step—with efficiency, strategy, and ambition.