Prefab Lab

Is hiring a realtor effective for modular home sales?

For many modular factory owners, partnering with realtors seems like a logical step to boost sales. But is it truly the most effective approach? Let’s break it down.

Why Realtors May Not Be the Best Fit

  1. The Show-and-Tell Mindset
  2. Realtors often focus on presenting rather than truly selling, leaving potential buyers without a full understanding of your product's value.
  3. Limited Product Knowledge
  4. Most realtors rarely invest the time to learn about manufacturing processes, custom options, or the long-term benefits modular homes provide. This lack of understanding limits their ability to effectively advocate for your homes.
  5. Motivation Misalignment
  6. Realtors prioritize sales over specific properties. If a quicker, easier commission opportunity arises—say, selling a used home—they're more likely to redirect their efforts elsewhere, even if the initial inquiry came through your project.
  7. Buyer Loyalty Dynamics
  8. Realtors often position themselves as allies of the buyer, not the seller. While this builds trust with their clients, it may not align with your sales goals, especially when a buyer’s expectations diverge from your offerings.

Why Social Media Can Be More Effective

If you’re starting out, social media offers a direct and cost-effective way to promote your modular homes. By showcasing your projects, sharing success stories, and engaging with potential customers, you can build a strong online presence and even make your first few sales without paying hefty realtor fees.

When Realtors Make Sense

Realtors can play an important role in modular home sales when:
  • You have multiple properties available in diverse locations.
  • You’ve partnered with agents who understand your product and are invested in its success.
  • You need support with market research or accessing specific customer segments.

Key Takeaways

Hiring a realtor isn’t always the best initial step for modular home sales. Instead:
  • Invest in educating your target audience through direct channels like social media or your website.
  • Build relationships with realtors selectively, ensuring they align with your brand and understand the unique value of your product.
  • Focus on creating a streamlined, engaging sales process that allows buyers to fully appreciate the benefits of modular homes.
At Prefab Lab, we believe modular home sales require a tailored approach, grounded in knowledge and trust. Realtors can be part of the equation, but only when their goals align with your long-term vision. So before hiring, take a moment to weigh the pros and cons—and always prioritize strategies that position your homes as the standout choice in the market.