In Business Builder Episode 47, Kristen Westbrooks of Old Republic Home Protection shares powerful strategies for real estate agents to protect their business long after the deal is done. Her focus? Using home warranties as a tool to boost repeat business and increase referrals. If you’re a realtor looking to strengthen client relationships and stay top of mind, here are three major takeaways from her talk:
🔑 1. Post-Closing Problems Hurt Your Referrals
Kristen drops a startling stat: 56% of clients don’t return to their original agent or refer them—often because of issues that arise after closing. Whether it’s a broken HVAC or appliance failure, clients typically call their agent first. If you don’t have a solution, you risk losing their trust and their future business.
🔧 2. Home Warranties Offer Peace of Mind (and Protection for You)
77% of new homeowners experience a system failure within the first year. Offering a home warranty (even as a closing gift) helps you provide solutions before problems arise. Old Republic’s plans cover a wide range of systems and appliances—many with no age limits and generous coverage caps—making it easy to set your clients up for success.
Kristen shares stories of top-producing agents who include warranties in nearly every transaction. Why? Because it shows clients you care beyond the sale. Warranties can even be promoted in MLS listings or used to protect sellers’ proceeds. Agents who go the extra mile with post-sale support tend to get more word-of-mouth referrals—and build stronger, more loyal client relationships.
Bottom Line: Adding a home warranty to your transaction is more than a nice touch—it’s a smart business strategy. Want to increase referrals and future sales? Start by protecting your clients after they move in.