
A real estate CRM is one of the most important marketing tools for realtors. But if you’re still missing follow-ups, losing leads, or feeling disorganized, you’re not alone. The truth is that most agents have a real estate CRM but few are using it effectively and strategically. Whether you’ve been relying on the same tools for years or recently adopted a shiny new system, here’s how to fix what’s broken and get real results from your real estate CRM.
Your Real Estate CRM Isn’t Customized to How You Work
Most out-of-the-box CRMs offer features you’ll never use and lack what you actually need. If your platform doesn’t reflect how you organize leads, prioritize follow-ups, or track deals, it’s time to reconfigure. Set up pipelines tailored to real estate stages (like hot, warm, cold leads), automate your reminders, and create tags or segments that align with your unique workflow. A personalized setup can turn a bloated system into a streamlined powerhouse.
Want to jump-start your CRM process? Read this. Your Real Estate CRM Is a Gold Mine. Here’s How to Use It

You’re Not Automating Follow-Ups in Your Real Estate CRM
Manual follow-ups lead to missed opportunities. The fix? Automation. Most real estate CRMs allow you to build email sequences, task reminders, and even SMS follow-ups that trigger based on client behavior.
Whether someone downloads a home valuation guide or books an open house visit, automation ensures no one slips through the cracks—without you having to babysit the process.
Want more client referrals? Automation is just one of many effective strategies. Here’s How Agents Can Get More Real Estate Referrals in 2025

You’re Not Using Data to Guide Your Outreach
If your real estate CRM isn’t showing you who’s most engaged—or who’s gone cold—then you’re operating blind. Check for features like engagement scoring, open rate tracking, or activity timelines.
These data points help you focus on high-intent leads and avoid wasting time chasing the wrong prospects. Bonus: you’ll start to see patterns in what messaging works (and what doesn’t), improving your marketing overall.
CRM too cluttered to find any useful data? Organize Your Real Estate CRM in Minutes: A Realtor’s Quick-Start Guide

It’s Time to Rethink Your Real Estate CRM Strategy
If your CRM isn’t actively helping you close deals, it’s time for a refresh. With a few strategic adjustments—like custom pipelines, automation, and data tracking—you can turn your CRM into the most valuable member of your team.
Need help setting it up right? Ollin One can configure, organize, and optimize your CRM so you never miss a lead again—and never waste time chasing cold ones.