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What is the process for Relationship Building Allowance & Field Trips

Learn the guidelines for using the Relationship Building Allowance and conducting Field Trips effectively.

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to outline the expectations, compliance requirements, and best practices for team members utilising the Relationship Allowance and conducting Field Trips. These activities focus on strengthening agent relationships, expanding market knowledge, and enhancing professional credibility.

Field Trip Requirements & Structure

  • Each Property Acquisitions Analyst (PAA) must complete four field trips per year (one per quarter).
  • Field trips are ideally three days long and should ideally be scheduled from Tuesday to Thursday.
  • Analysts may fly or drive to their buying areas.
  • Travel should be planned to fly out Monday night and return Thursday night.
  • Start Date: November 1st, 2024.

Note: The process and allowance will be reviewed annually, and changes may be implemented as needed.

Field Trip Objectives

  • Build and strengthen relationships with agents and industry professionals.
  • Gain on-the-ground market knowledge.
  • Enhance due diligence capabilities by visiting key locations.
  • Capture valuable insights to support client interactions.
  • Generate social media, objection handling and marketing content.

Compliance & Licensing

  • If you hold a real estate license in the state you are visiting, you can conduct all professional activities.
  • If you are visiting a state where you are not licensed:
    • You cannot enter properties in a professional capacity.
    • You can visit agencies, attend meetings, and explore market conditions.
  • Always ensure compliance with local real estate regulations and company policies.

Expectations & Best Practices

Agent Meetings

  • Inform agents of your planned trip via email with the field trip template and InvestorKit Presentation,
  • Aim for at least two meetings per day (e.g., breakfast, lunch, office visits, dinner).
  • Prioritise relationship-building over sourcing or purchases.
  • Log key information about agents (interests, business details, family, etc.).
  • Complete the PAA Field Trip Checklist (link below) for each meeting at the end of each business day.

Content Creation

  • Record short, professional videos showcasing market insights, due diligence findings, and case studies.
  • Example video formats:
    • Market growth stories (e.g., "We bought this for X, now it's worth Y").
    • Off-market deal highlights.
    • Due diligence case studies (e.g., proximity to train tracks, flood zones).
  • Ensure content is concise (15-25 seconds) and aligned with company branding.
  • Do not disclose sensitive location or agent details in public content.
  • Submit all content to marketing for review before publishing.
  • Reference the InvestorKit Presentation and Script templates (link below) for guidance.

Professional Conduct

  • Maintain professionalism at all times, especially during work hours and while wearing company-branded attire.
  • Alcohol consumption during business meals should be kept minimal and responsible.
  • Avoid discussing confidential agent relationships publicly or on recorded content.

Relationship Allowance Usage

  • Monthly Allowance: $666 per month, paid via salary cycle.
  • Quarterly Allowance: $2,000 (non-taxable) available for relationship-building and field trips.
  • Allowance starts after: 6 months of employment, probation completion, and approval from the Head of Acquisitions.
  • Approved expenses include:
    • Travel and accommodation.
    • Meals and entertainment with agents.
    • Business-related activities (e.g., tickets for relevant networking events).
    • Local experiences that enhance knowledge of the market (e.g., visiting key amenities, infrastructure projects).
  • Maintain records for tax purposes.
  • If a reimbursement model is introduced, expenses must be recorded using the XeroMe App:
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Follow the XeroMe Expense Submission Guide outlined below.

Reporting & Follow-Up

  • Agent Data Recording
    • Capture agent details and meeting notes in Attio or designated spreadsheet.
    • Maintain a list of key contacts for future engagements and gifting opportunities.
  • Social Media & Content Review
    • Submit all video content to marketing@investorkit.com.au with Stephen CC’d for review and editing, before publishing.
    • Content should be informative, client-friendly, and maintain confidentiality.
    • Save any content in the Google Drive folder here under your name at Property Acquisition Analyst
  • Expense Tracking
    • Log all expenses daily to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.
    • If reimbursement applies, submit claims through XeroMe.
  • Post-Trip Review
    • Complete the PAA Field Trip Checklist (link below).
    • Submit the following to Stephen Bambury upon trip completion:

Additional Considerations

  • If visiting high-profile or sensitive locations, behave in a professional manner and avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
  • Use digital content as an objection-handling tool for client education.
  • If safety concerns arise during field visits, prioritise personal security and report any incidents to Stephen immediately.

Continuous Improvement & Feedback

  • The field trip process and expectations will be refined based on team feedback and results.
  • Any updates or changes will be communicated by management in advance.

Resources

 
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Final Notes

  • Field trips are a quarterly requirement.
  • Flexibility is allowed in terms of trip length and budgeting within the provided allowance.
  • Always uphold professionalism and company values while representing the business.
 

For any questions or clarifications, please contact your leader before your trip, Head of Acquisitions, Stephen Bambury.

 
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