Today my blog turns 15 years old. And blog years are sort of like dog years, so my blog is basically super old and wearing Depends now. Anyway, today I want to share some things I’ve learned along the way about content and life. And I know it sounds cheesy, but the best thing to come out of this blog has been the relationships I’ve built with people.
UPCOMING SPEAKING GIGS:
3/8/24 Redfin (private)
3/11/24 Yolo Association of Realtors (YAR only)
3/19/24 WCR Gold Country (details TBA)
3/21/24 2024 Market Update for Brent Gove Team (big event free)
3/26/24 Orangevale MLS meeting 9am
3/27/24 SAFE Credit Union Lunch & Learn (TBA)
4/11/24 Lindsay Carlisle Event (private)
4/25/24 HomeSmart iCare Realty (details TBA)
4/26/24 Prime Real Estate (private)
5/9/24 Empire Home Loans (details TBA)
5/15/24 Investor Meetup (details TBA)
6/11/24 Elk Grove Regional MLS Meeting 8:30am
6/13/24 Sacramento Realtist Association (details TBA)
THINGS I’VE LEARNED ABOUT CONTENT:
1) There’s no such thing as perfect content: I don’t believe the perfect post exists, or maybe I just haven’t written it. Honestly, perfection isn’t something I strive for because I know how content works. Some stuff surprisingly does well without as much effort, and other times I work really hard on something that just doesn’t hit. Haha. Can you relate?
2) The best content answers questions: If you want to know what to write or record, consider what questions people are asking you (or theoretically asking). Look to your sent folder for emails, texts, and DMs. What questions are you being asked? Chances are, that’s good content since other people are likely asking the same questions.
3) Nothing replaces getting in front of people: I love writing something once a week and pushing out lot of stats too, but there is nothing like getting face time. Building an online brand is critical today, but we have to get in front of actual humans. The online world and in-person world need to coexist.
4) It’s all about getting on base: Don’t try to hit a grand slam. Just get on base with content each week. It’s easier to strike out if swinging too hard anyway. Okay, I don’t even play baseball, so this is getting awkward. In truth, I played three years as a kid, and they always stuck me in right field on purpose.
5) Just be yourself: I wonder sometimes if I’m pushing things too far with memes, or maybe I’m just revealing I’m a middle schooler trapped in a dad bod. But one thing I’m trying to learn is being comfortable in my own skin. This is me. This is my humor. This is how I think. And it’s how I want to explain housing trends. Speaking of being yourself, have you seen Brad the Unprofessional Realtor in Texas? This isn’t how I do it, but he is a case study in being yourself. Whether you like him or not, I am guessing the strategy is working. Anyway, be yourself, don’t copy anyone, and keep your clothes on.
6) People help you grow: No joke. I learn something new about the housing market every single week because people ask me questions in the comments. I find real estate data is like an onion because there are always more layers to pull back. Friends, thanks for the questions. It prods me to learn, and it challenges me to figure out ways to describe the market.
7) Chat GPT is good, but an authentic voice is a must: So many people just copy what others are doing, or these days they want AI to do the hard work of creating something. Look, AI is incredibly good at times, but it doesn’t replace your voice (which is your brand).
8) It’s impossible to please everyone: Some people will love you. And some people won’t. The truth is people come and go too. The thing I’ve learned is I can’t worry about what people think about me or try to impress certain people that I really wish liked me.
9) Expertise doesn’t happen in a vacuum: You might be the best at what you do, but if people don’t know about you, then it’s hard to be seen as an expert. Another way to say this is expertise is something recognized by others, so it’s important to consistently stay in front of people to be seen as someone who knows stuff. I always appreciate when people start asking me questions because it’s a sign they are starting to maybe view me as an expert – or at least a dude who might know the answer. By the way, a quick plug. It’s always cool to text me questions – just not at 2am. (916)595-3735.
10) Some people only critique: I welcome critique, and there have been a handful of people through the years who have helped me correct grammatical errors especially. I’m so grateful for those emails that were probably not easy to write. “Bro, I love you, but you need to get effect vs affect right.” Haha. If only that was my worst flaw… But there are some people who only exude negativity, or they say nasty stuff that isn’t coming from a place to uplift. Look, those just aren’t my people, so it’s a good thing when we figure out we’re not a fit for each other. On a related note, I think it’s easier to be overly critical of people who are doing stuff rather than creating something original. Know what I’m saying?
11) Always put the audience first: This goes without saying, but people come first. Always honor the audience, don’t reek of an agenda to sell, and be good to people who are giving you their time each week on a blog or on social media. Always be cool to people, whether in person or online. And never hand the keys of your content over to someone who isn’t going to care about the audience just as much as you.
12) Being consistent is the key: No matter how busy we get, we have to stay in front of people with our content on a regular basis. I think that’s likely one of the hardest things for many people because life gets so full. My advice? Choose something, commit to it, and do that well. You don’t have to do everything either.
13) The written word isn’t enough: It’s challenging to get people to open email, watch videos, look at graphs, etc… You name it. And algorithms change too, so sometimes that changes the way we approach different platforms. This is why I actually started pushing out video content last year on Instagram. Look, I am embarrassingly late to the party, but words aren’t enough, and I need to push out some of my content on video. But backing up, it’s never about blasting content out to people, but trying to build relationships on different platforms.
14) Unexpected things happen: I look back and wonder what would have happened if I didn’t write that first lame post. Or the second lame post. Or the third. In truth, I might not be here today as an appraiser or housing analyst. I probably would’ve become an exotic dancer (just seeing if anyone is reading). I could never have imagined the opportunities that have opened up for me for both appraisal work and speaking. Last year I was hired to speak 44 times, and that’s mind-blowing to me. I can’t believe it.
15) You find your people: When I began this thing, I had no idea the network it would build. I was just thinking I might find some isolated individuals online who wanted to hire an appraiser. I had no clue the rich relationships and friendships that would happen as a result of this. I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot in relationships. Friends, you’ve made this so much fun, and I am truly thankful for all the blessing you have sent my way.
Thanks for being here.
Questions: What have you learned about sharing content? What number resonates with you the most?
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15 years? Congratulations!
I hit the Wayback Machine to see the first time your blog was saved and because I forgot what it looked like back in the day. Yes, I’d say you evolved.
https://web.archive.org/web/20100116183854/https://sacramentoappraisalblog.com/
Great job on the speaking engagements. Your hard work is paying off. Looking forward to seeing you next month in Davis.
Oh no, I’m scared to look at that. Haha. Thanks so much Joe. I really appreciate your constant support too. Yes, looking forward to that presentation and grabbing a tea afterward. And for any onlookers, I only post once a week now. When I first started, I posted nearly every day (big mistake).
Really good insight here Ryan! Thank you!
Thanks Geoff. I appreciate the kind words. And keep up the great work on your weekly email.
Whew you scared me for a moment with the “Brad” comment. Had to reread it and then realized, whew you were talking about an RE agent and not an appraiser. LOL. As to 15 years, man what a ride. If you hadn’t been blogging, I wouldn’t have had the honor to get to know you and meet you. You and your blog has made me think and figure out how to do my business better and how to get in front of the agents in my area and try to give them what little is in my brain. Think I have made a difference, know you have made a huge difference. Keep up the good work young man. PS don’t want to think how old I am in dog years. Take good care and keep up blogging, teaching and providing good data for all to consider.
Haha. Yeah, you are a far different Brad than that other guy too. He is very colorful with his language. You my friend are my favorite cowboy appraiser. I’m grateful we know each other. Thank you Brad.
Happy Birthday, Sacramento Appraisal Blog! ???
Thanks Johnny. Appreciate you so much. Looking forward to the big presentation next month too.
Congratulations, Ryan! Keep doing what you’re doing and providing us all with your real estate expertise! Thank you!
Toodles Lyon Real Estate
PS. I’m
Sure you would have made a hit at being an exotic dancer too! ?
Haha. Thank you for reading the post carefully. I appreciate you Toodles. And I think the world appreciates me more as a non-dancer. 🙂
You’re an inspiration! Blogging is high on my 2024 goals and, yet, I haven’t started yet. This post is timely AND exactly what I needed to hear. Done is better than perfect! Time to get going! Thank you for your incredible stats and willingness to talk through data and what it means.
Shannon, thanks for the kind words. And yes, go get it!! If you feel blogging is for you, you just have to begin. I think the hardest part sometimes is stepping out in confidence and just starting. Granted, it’s not for everyone either. Keep me posted if you have any questions. And please feel free to use any of my visuals in future blog posts. My blog posts are honestly longer than I would recommend, but I try to break them up with headings and photos and such. For you, just start small and keep it simple. Consider me an ally. Not trying to mansplain blogging. Haha. 🙂
“Mainsplaining blogging” LOL I adore you!! ? will take you up on your offer of advice!
Congratulations on 15 years. That’s an incredible accomplishment and it’s even bigger when you realize that you’re always bringing something new. I did quit blogging and become an exotic dancer. True story.
When you hot, you hot. I can see you going very far as a dancer. Haha. Thanks Gary. I appreciate all your support.
Happy 15 Years! Great Blog!!! Best Ever!!! : )
Thank you so much Pat. I appreciate you.
You’ve got my vote for Professor of the Decade (and a half 😉 !!!
Haha. Love it.
Congratulations on 15 years, Ryan! I always find your content spot-on and your humor is an added bonus. I often send your blogs to my clients to reinforce messages or conversations we are having in the field. Keep up the good work and never say never on the exotic dancing – ha!
P.S. – my husband and I have been married 31 years today, so cheers to February 20 being an auspicious day for us both.
Okay, you’ve convinced me. I just need to get back into dancing shape. Haha. Thanks Stephanie. And congratulations on 31 years. That is awesome news. Jenny and I are rookies at 24 years coming soon. Enjoy your day, and I hope you get to do something fun to celebrate!!
I love and appreciate all of your thoughts and knowledge about the local real estate market. Thank you!
Sheila
Thank you sincerely Sheila. I appreciate you. And I always know it’s a Sheila Van Noy listing by the photos alone. The collage is always a giveaway, and It makes me smile when I see. 🙂
Honesty…. Yes– that… and a sharp graphic eye, a touch of humor, and good dose of Honesty….
Honest content presented Honestly wins the “moment” … that is what separates the Ryan Lundquist from the rest of the REAL ESTATE content world…
Congratulations on 15 large… I continue to spread the word about your blog / website … Honestly.
thanks –
b/
Bruce J. Ford
32 yrs CA. Certified Appraiser
Bruce, you are too kind. And you’re such a wordsmith. Thank you sincerely.
Congratulations Ryan! That is awesome! You’ve always been an inspiration to me! I appreciate your hard work over the years in sharing great information with us! Thank you also for your support and friendship! Here’s to 15 more years of blogging and appraisal work!
Thanks Jamie. I guess we first met due to blogging. I always appreciate hearing from the CAB too (not sure you do an abbreviation for Cleveland Appraisal Blog). 🙂
Thanks, my man! I have not used an abbreviation in the past, but I think it’s kind of catchy! It may stick!
Definitely better than SAB, my abbreviation. 🙂
I love the CAB! along the lines of SAB, I think DWAB certainly doesn’t work either! ?
It sounds like some sort of an offensive putdown from a younger generation. Haha. But you know, it could actually work for branding on a t-shirt.
Think of the iterations of this. So Cal Appraisal Blog-SCAB. Florida Appraisal Blog FLAB. It’s a good thing you dont live in Central Roseville 😉
Haha. Too good.
I actually started blogging this year due to what I saw you doing so successfully. Thanks for advice and all you do to inspire others appraiser nerds to let the public know about all we do and reveal what’s going on behind the scenes. And I totally agree, it’s more about always showing up more than trying to hit a touchdown or kick a home run every time.
That’s so great, Bob. I need to read more of your posts. Congratulations. And I love the touchdown word picture especially.
Ryan, I first learned about you through a Brent Gove team meeting several years ago. I have appreciated your expertise which has helped me not only with advising my clients but also through your advice on staying in front of them with my authentic self. I’m early in that journey, but I sharpen my tools each time I open your email. Thank you for all you do!
Noel, that is so cool to hear. That’s such a powerful statement too about staying in front of people with your authentic self. It’s just more fun that way. And nobody wants to feel like they’re being targeted or a part of some campaign. I’ll be speaking at a big Brent Gove event soon. Hope to see you.
I’ll be sure to introduce myself! Thanks, and keep up the great work!
Love this post! I tried visualizing you as an exotic dancer and I just couldn’t do it…you and a pole…nope!
I haven’t blogged recently, but when I see a post on Next Door that is so off from facts, I have been known to gently share what the facts truly are. From there, I have learned some comments are worth responding to…, and others are there just for attention. I have been much more discerning about what I respond to.
Haha. Oh, I’m so sorry for the visual. And very smart. It takes real skill and tact to respond gracefully in a way that promotes the truth while not saying, “YOU ARE BLATANTLY WRONG.” And yeah, sometimes best to pass on by. Isn’t that the truth with social media in general? I think false narratives are actually a great place to get content ideas. In real estate data circles, it’s amazing to see rampant sensationalism that is disconnected from reality. Thanks for everything Paula. I think I’m speaking in your office this next week. Looking forward to it.
Congratulations on 15 years! You have definitely paved the way for real estate appraisal blogging! Well done!!! Oh, and I can’t believe blogging kept you from being an exotic dancer!! ? (yes I read your blog all the way through!!)
Yep, it was either blogging or the pole. My wife is happy about blogging. In truth, she doesn’t read my blog, so I’ll have to tell her about this today. Haha. Thanks for reading Shannon. And keep up the great work putting out content for DFW.
Thank you! I always appreciate your support.
Congradulations to you & all of your readers!!
We are all so blessed to be on the receiving end of your knowledge and attitude. Thank you & here’s to many more years!!!
Thank you Charllis. I appreciate the encouragement.
I always look forward to reading your informational input, even though I am now either “retired, fired or laid off”, as my late wife used to classify me , and enjoying my first week living in Portlandia! Hopefully I will be able to conrect with Mr. Malik here in my new location !! Glad to see agents like Charliss availing themselves of your valuable insights!!
Truett, wow, I didn’t know you moved. That sounds like an exciting new adventure, and I’m happy for you. I’ve been thinking about Portland lately with all the rain we’ve been getting in Sacramento. Thanks for the kind words. And blessings to you in the new city. Happy to here you’re retired too. 🙂
Haha, thanks for the reference to Brad the unprofessional realtor! I hadn’t seen him but am following now for the laughs. 44 speaking engagements is awesome! We’re lucky to have you in this market. And I’m lucky to have become friends with you now. Maybe you’ll beat me at pool next time. Double or nothing! 😀
Steve, next time we play pool, we need to be very clear about double or nothing. Haha. Thanks. And yeah, Brad the Realtor is something else.
Congratulations on 15 blogged years, Ryan, with many more years to come (or selfishly at least until I retire) because your blog is so very informational and helpful plus a great read each time with your sense of humor. Keep up the good work, you are definitely knocking it out of the park!
Matt, you are too kind. Thank you so much for the support. I’ll do my best to hang around until you retire. Haha.
Happy Birthday to your blog. When is the quincinera party? You are inspiration to all of us. Your consistency is admirable. Thank you for all that you do and most of all for being a solid human being. A ray of light and positivity in a sometimes negative business. Proud of you and proud to call you a friend
Thanks, Mark. Glad to be friends. We really need to get out on the water again too. Great minds think alike. I actually made a quincinera joke the other day at a presentation, but I also said my blog identifies as a man, so then it just got awkward. Haha.
I love your stuff and this is so true, “real estate data is like an onion because there are always more layers to pull back”.
Thank you John. I appreciate you stopping by. And yes, it’s just true. I see that in the comments all the time when I post a visual. But what about this? What about that? That’s the good stuff. Stats always lead to conversation about…. more stats. 🙂
Fifteen years of exceptionally high quality work, that’s quite an accomplishment, Ryan — congratulations!
Love your blog all though not in real estate myself. Have been reading for years now but only commented once (actually earlier this year, on affordability today vs. back in the ’80s based on my experience here in Vermont).
First came across your site when wanted to learn more about comps during a refinance of my home. Why do I keep reading every week?
I think it’s because it’s so refreshing and inspiring to see the comments of someone (no matter the topic discussed) who is so clearly “old school” in their character — caring, encouraging, positive, honest, kind — in a world which has become so much less so.
My all-time favorite among your posts is the one about how your mom made sure you and your brother had a Merry Christmas even when she had only $10 to spend, and how truly important things are not those which come with a price tag. She clearly did a wonderful job of passing her values on to you, and I hope you will share that with her — coming from an oldtimer who knows what “old school” is all about.
How about you other regular readers? Would be very interested in hearing about which is your pick for best of the best Ryan blog posts — there sure are a lot to choose from.
Wow, Willie. Thank you so much. I never know who is out there at times, and I’m so thankful for you. That post is a really old one. I appreciate your kind words and support. I thank you for the email you sent me recently also. You are very thoughtful.
Great post, Ryan. I probably would not be blogging today if it were not for you and Bill Cobb. I remember when we did “Trust Agents” together, that was really cool. That book really helped me have the mindset about being a trusted resource to people. I agree that blogging has helped me meet people that I probably would never have met. Last thing I want to comment on is your #1 comment about content. I don’t know how many times I have written something that I was so proud of and thought others would love it but it got little or no comments while other stuff I didn’t think would resonate much got loads of comments. Keep up the awesome work, you are making a big difference in people’s lives by providing them with great information and helping them look at data in new and different ways.
Tom, it’s been good to share the journey. Trust Agents is a blast from the past. You know, that book was formative for me. The idea of being a resource is simply good for business. It’s sort of like Gary V. Just give and give, and it comes back to you. Man, I feel your pain with content. That’s 100% how it works. It’s like I can have a really thoughtful graph that doesn’t get any notice, but then a meme gets all the traffic. Haha. I appreciate the encouragement. Keep up the great work on your end too.