2026 Real Estate Trends & Tips | Top 10 Things Every Real Estate Agent MUST Know in 2026

2026 Real Estate: The Top 10 Things Every Agent Must Know (with Bob Thompson)
If you’re a new or seasoned real estate agent gearing up for 2026, this episode is your competitive edge. Bob Thompson—a top 3% Realtor and respected real estate mentor/coach from Hampton Roads, Virginia—breaks down the 10 must-know strategies to grow your pipeline, protect your profit, and lead your market.

What you’ll learn (fast):

Find a mentor – how to choose a coach who shortens your learning curve and keeps you accountable

Know your market – hyperlocal data, absorption rates, and pricing strategy that wins listings

Continue learning – the exact skills to level up in 2026 (contracts, negotiations, marketing, tech)

Lean into your gifts – double down on what you do best and build systems around your strengths

Compare brokerages – splits, fees, training, culture, tech, and lead flow (what actually matters)

REO & short sale education – why distressed property knowledge will set you apart in shifting markets

Network like your business depends on it – because it does (introductions, follow-ups, events, DMs)

Listing & buyer lead-gen basics that still work in 2026 (and what to stop doing)

Marketing that converts – offers, hooks, shorts, and community positioning for agents

Mindset & cadence – daily habits of top producers (consistency beats intensity)

Who is Bob Thompson?
Bob is a top 3% real estate agent, mentor, and coach serving the Hampton Roads region. He’s known for practical training, ethical leadership, and systems that help agents win listings, negotiate smarter, and scale sustainably.

About Nicole’s Business Notebook
Host Nicole Banks sits down with world-class operators, mentors, and founders to give you playbooks you can implement today. If you’re focused on real estate success, referral partnerships, and business growth, you’re in the right place.

CHAPTERS (timestamps added after upload)

Intro & why 2026 is different
Meet Bob Thompson (Top 3% Realtor)#entrepreneurmindset #1 Find the right mentor
#2 Know your market (hyperlocal data)
#3 Keep learning (skills that matter in 2026)
#4 Lean into your gifts
#5 Compare your brokerage options
#6 REO & short sale education
#7 Network like your business depends on it
Lead generation & marketing that convert in 2026
Mindset, cadence, and next steps
Final takeaways & calls to action

Calls to Action

👍 If this helped, like the video to help other agents find it.

💬 Comment your market + #1 takeaway so we can tailor future episodes.

🔔 Subscribe for weekly tactics on real estate, leadership, and growth.

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Connect & Resources
• Connect with Bob Thompson (mentor/coach): Comment Bob
• Connect with Nicole Banks / The NICHEwork: Comment Nicole
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Hashtags

#RealEstateAgent #RealtorTips #RealEstateCoaching #RealEstateMentor #2026RealEstate #RealEstateMarketing #LeadGeneration #REO #ShortSale #HamptonRoads #RealEstateTraining #Brokerage

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