Summer is often seen as a time to relax, travel, and take things at a slower pace. But for the savvy real estate professional, summer offers something even more valuable, a golden opportunity to connect. While many agents go quiet during the warmer months, those who stay active and visible in their communities gain a significant advantage come fall. Whether it’s touching base with past clients, engaging with your neighbours, or nurturing relationships with referral partners, staying in touch this summer can help you build a strong, steady flow of business as the busy autumn market approaches.
In real estate, relationships are everything. People list and buy with agents they know, like, and trust. Summer is the perfect time to strengthen those bonds. Think of it as the groundwork season, when you’re not necessarily looking to close a record number of deals, but instead planting the seeds that will bloom later in the year. By making intentional, friendly, and value-driven contact throughout the summer months, you remain top of mind and position yourself as the go-to agent when the market picks up again in September.
Start with your past clients. These are your warmest contacts and often your best source of repeat business and referrals. A quick phone call or a handwritten note to check in and say hello can go a long way. Even something as simple as a “thinking of you” summer postcard or a quick text with a market update can reignite the relationship. Offer them something of value, maybe a complimentary home valuation, insight into their neighbourhood’s current trends, or tips on maintaining curb appeal during the hot months. Remind them that you’re still in the business, still invested in their success, and still available to help their friends and family.
Don’t forget your neighbours. Summer is when people are out walking dogs, tending gardens, or chatting over fences. This is your chance to engage casually and build authentic connections. You don’t need a pitch, just presence and knowledge of current happenings in the area because the question ‘ How’s the market? ‘ always comes up. Hosting or attending local events, neighbourhood BBQs, or community garage sales is a great way to stay visible. Consider sponsoring a local summer event or dropping off branded goodies like sunscreen, bottled water, or seasonal home tips. The goal is to stay relevant without being overly promotional.
Your referral partners also deserve attention this summer. Mortgage brokers, home inspectors, lawyers, stagers, and contractors are all part of your extended network. A quick coffee, lunch, or even a shared social media post can help keep the relationship strong. Send them business if you can, or simply check in to ask how things are going. Show them you value the relationship, not just the referrals. Those genuine connections will come back to you when the fall market heats up and everyone’s looking to team up with professionals they trust.
Of course, potential clients, those warm leads who weren’t quite ready to make a move this spring, should also be part of your summer strategy. Don’t let them go cold. Follow up with helpful market updates, relevant property alerts, or a friendly email offering to touch base again when they’re ready. Stay casual, but consistent. Position yourself as a resource, not just a salesperson. When they’re ready, you’ll be the one they remember.
One of the best tools to stay connected is your email newsletter or CRM. Segment your audience, past clients, leads, vendors, neighbours, and create light, engaging content that adds value. Summer market snapshots, homeowner tips, or even lifestyle content like local event guides or patio recommendations can help keep your communications fresh and fun. People are more likely to engage with you when the message feels personal and relevant.
Social media also plays a key role. Summer content should reflect the season, be authentic, be visible, and have a little fun. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your day, feature local businesses, highlight neighbourhood amenities, or even show off listings with great outdoor spaces. Engagement breeds familiarity, and familiarity breeds trust.
Lastly, remember that timing is everything in real estate. Fall is one of the busiest times of year, and the agents who have stayed connected all summer will be the first ones people call when they’re ready to list. Those who disappear in July and August often find themselves scrambling in September, while the agents who kept in touch are already booking listing appointments, receiving referrals, and writing offers.
So, don’t go silent this summer. Be active, be consistent, and above all, be present. The relationships you strengthen now will fuel your business through the fall and beyond. Real estate isn’t just about transactions, it’s about trust, connection, and staying top of mind. If you want a strong, referral-based business this autumn, now is the time to build the buzz.
