The benefits of in-house control
When you have someone in-house, they are fully dedicated to your brand. They are on-site to capture the small, authentic moments that an agency might miss. They understand your culture and your agents. If you are building a boutique brand that relies on a specific vibe, an in-house hire can be a great asset. They are an extension of your own team, and they work at your pace.
When an agency makes more sense
Agencies bring a wider range of skills. They have a team that covers everything from graphic design to video editing and ad management. If you don't want to manage a single person, or if you don't have the time to train a hire in the nuances of social media marketing, an agency provides a more turn-key solution. You pay for their collective expertise, which is usually higher than a single junior hire.
Managing your founder's time
As a founder, you have to choose what you want to spend your time on. Managing a marketing hire is a commitment. You have to be involved in the strategy and the mentorship. If you prefer to be involved, a hire is great. If you want to focus on growth, partnerships, and high-level strategy, then outsourcing to a team that can execute is often more efficient for your firm.
The risk of the wrong hire
A bad hire in luxury real estate can damage your reputation. You need someone who is as professional as your agents. If you aren't sure you can find that person and train them effectively, don't risk it. Stick to professionals who have a track record of handling high-end brands. Your brand is your most valuable asset, and it should not be treated as a learning project.
Hire in-house only if you have the time and desire to lead a team, otherwise leverage an agency for better consistency and expertise.
See your network before you hire.
Tell us what your luxury real estate agency already makes and how you get customers today. We'll show you a real network running live and tell you honestly whether it fits. It costs about the same as one marketing hire.
Follow-up questions
What if we have a small team?
If your team is small, an agency is usually better. It adds a whole team of experts without adding the complexity of a new hire.
Can I do a trial period?
Yes, but it is better to hire on a contract basis first to see if they fit your brand's standards and work ethic.
What is the best way to start?
Start by defining your goals. If you just need reach, a network or agency is better. If you need brand voice and depth, a hire might be better.