60. Freedom Through Systems: Building a Scalable Real Estate Business with Tom Campone

In this episode of Life and Listings Podcast, we’re joined by Tom from Chicago, a seasoned real estate professional. Tom shares the critical role systems and processes play in building a sustainable and scalable business—an insight that became even more significant after a life-altering heart attack removed him from work unexpectedly. Learn how his engineering-inspired mindset helped him create a seamless operation, from automating repetitive tasks to planning email marketing campaigns for the entire year. Tom also discusses how tracking lead sources, setting clear goals, and fostering consistency in farming have allowed his team to thrive while freeing up time for what truly matters.

 

“I always think it's easier to look at what you're already doing and try to get better than it is to go and try to become competent in another lead source, it's going to take a lot more energy. You're going to have to figure things out. So, I am always on the side of building a simple business model that I can execute at a high level, because we've all seen those agents like you said, shiny object. They go start something, they do it for like, six weeks. It's not working. Let's stop. And then they spend all this money and this time implementing. So I want to make sure anything we're going to implement that we really believe in it, because that means we'll stick with it. Because anything works, literally anything works if you stick with it. But if you're not committed to it, it will not work. And so we make sure we're committed before we decide we're going to implement something.”- Tom Campone

 

Hear more about:

• The Importance of Systems for Business Sustainability
  Tom emphasizes building systems to create a sustainable business, which can operate effectively even in his absence, as demonstrated when his business thrived during his recovery from a heart attack.

• Strategic Business Planning
  Tom conducts annual business planning each fall, reviewing potential tools and strategies, and evaluating their long-term impact on efficiency and scalability. This allows him to implement only the most impactful solutions for the coming year.

• Leveraging Technology for Automation
  Tom's team uses a configurable CRM, automation tools like Zapier, and templates to streamline processes such as creating listing sheets, saving significant time and reducing manual effort.

• Tracking Metrics for Data-Driven Decisions
  The team meticulously tracks key metrics such as leads, conversions, and closed deals using tools like spreadsheets, CRM integrations, and a visual "big board," which fosters motivation and provides clear insights into business performance.

• Consistency and Focus in Farming and Lead Generation
  Tom highlights the importance of consistency in farming and lead generation efforts. Instead of chasing new methods, he focuses on improving existing lead sources to maximize their potential before exploring additional strategies.

• Building a Scalable and Flexible Business Model
  By thinking ahead and designing processes for scalability, Tom ensures his business can handle growth (e.g., from 60 to 100 deals annually) while maintaining flexibility for personal priorities like family time or pursuing other ventures.

 

About Tom Campone:

Meet Tom Campone, a dedicated real estate professional who understands firsthand the challenges of buying or selling a home. When Tom purchased his first home in the South Loop in 2003, he experienced the anxiety and confusion many people face during the process. Unsure of who to turn to or trust, Tom made it his mission to demystify real estate for others.

Today, Tom specializes in making your home-buying or selling journey stress-free. With his compassionate approach and a proven team by his side, he’s here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to take the first step? Book a call with Tom, and let him help you achieve your real estate goals.

 

Connect with Tom:

Website: https://www.tomcampone.com/

 

Connect with Jennifer Staats:

Website: staatssolutions.com

Staats Solution Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staatssolutions/

Jennifer Staats Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifertherealtor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/staatssolutions/