YOUR  MAY CONTENT LIBRARY

Happy May, everyone! We are six weeks into the shelter-in-place here in Chicago and I hope you are all doing well and staying healthy where you are. This month our content is focused on navigating the real estate market through the pandemic, as well as the hopefulness and optimism that a lot of people are feeling (or...trying to convince ourselves!) with summer just a few weeks away. 

I will be releasing some more bonus content for you this month, including a couple more graphics for Memorial Day, plus, by request, Facebook cover templates and Instagram highlight cover templates.

In May I will be making an effort to go live in the Facebook group more frequently to bring you tips, training and coaching about all things social media so if there are any topics that you'd like me to cover for you, send me a DM on Instagram (@the.social.broker). 

As always, I am so glad that you're here and I look forward to seeing you rock social media this month! 

Now, here's the scoop: 
  • Your May content is below, in the recommended posting order. But, feel free to switch it up however you like! 
  • On each day there is one or more image that matches the day's post topic. Choose the image that best suits your brand!
  • Each image is accompanied by a suggested caption. Some can be copy and pasted right into your social media posts, others require some customization/personalization.  Next to the date are some instructions so that you'll know which captions need to be edited and which ones are good to go. Of course, you are always encouraged to personalize the captions in your own voice!
  • You can open the templates in Canva, click "Make a Copy" and modify the graphic designs in your brand colors, fonts, logo, etc. 
  • To save each image individually, right click and save to your desktop. Then, copy and paste the captions into FB or Instagram.
    • From your phone, tap and hold to save the photo to your camera roll. 
  • To download all of the content at once, click "Download Your Images" and the gallery will download in a Zip folder.
    • Important Note!  Some operating systems are not compatible with ZIP folders. If you open the folder and it is empty, it is recommended that you save each image individually.   
    • It is recommended that you work from the website whenever possible as some of the formatting (like emojis and line breaks) may not translate from the PDF/Excel page. 
​
Questions? Visit our FAQs! If you can't find your answer, email your questions to maris@thesocialbroker.com.

MAY 1 - FILL IN THE BLANK

"How is the market?" is one of the most common questions people ask me. The truth is, market activity has definitely been slower this year than in springs past.

This April, _____ [look up the number on your local MLS] homes went other contract in __________ [your city/neighborhood] compared to _____ [look up the number on your local MLS] in April 2019. Some sellers are withholding listings because they don't want to have strangers in their home, and some buyers are holding off on home searches because inventory is lower.

The good news is that once the stay-at-home restrictions are lifted, we have every reason to believe that things will bounce back quickly. ​So what does that mean?

Now is the time to prepare! If you're thinking about buying this year, then we can start with your virtual consultation now. If you're waiting to list, use this down time to get your home cleaned and staged so you'll be ready for that pent-up buyer demand.

 MAY 2 - PROMPT

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For some post ideas in place of listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. 

MAY 3 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Do you like to cook, or are you more of a "let's call the pizza man?" kind of host or hostess? When I entertain I __________ [am more of a cheese and crackers kind of gal/love to whip up a big batch of my famous chicken parmesan/almost always order takeout and my favorite spot is __________.]

I can't wait until we can have gatherings again, but until then, tag a friend in the comments that you would love to have over for a dinner party!
POST TIPS: If you talk about take-out, be sure to tag the business you like to order from. 

As people tag their friends in the comments, make sure you are following the commenter and start following the person they tag. Hopefully, they will follow back and your circle will grow.

MAY 4 - COPY/PASTE

Real estate showings look quite a bit different now than they did a few months ago. While I am still showings homes, these are a few of the precautions we are currently taking to protect our sellers:

✔️ Request that as few people as possible attend showings. Just the buyers and buyers' agent -- no kids, extended family, etc.
✔️ Prop open the doors before showings. Make sure to sanitize door knobs, just to be safe.
✔️ Leave open any cabinets, doors, or windows that buyers might want to see. 
✔️ Keep windows or doors open, if possible, to let plenty of fresh air into your home. 
✔️ Turn on any lights, including appliance lights, that the buyer might want to see.

If you have any questions, send me a DM any time! 
POST TIPS: Want to keep your feed post shorter?  Share the graphic to your Instagram or Facebook feed as a teaser, then use the tips as a short video "script" for your Story. ​

MAY 5 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Cinco de Mayo meets Taco Tuesday: the universe clearly wants us to have margaritas tonight! 🍹🍹 I love the  __________ [fish tacos/tacos al pastor/whatever dish you love] and the __________ [classic marg/spicy margarita/mango mojito/your favorite drink] at __________ [your favorite Mexican restaurant]. We just might have to order some take-out tonight!

​What is your favorite spot for tacos and margs? 
POST TIP:  Instead of just writing out the name of the restaurant you like, look up their Instagram profiles and tag them in your post. If they are open for delivery or pick-up right now, let people know! 

​​​MAY 6 - COPY/PASTE

Happy National Nurses Day to the amazing men and women who get up every day and risk their lives to help keep our communities healthy and safe. Tag your favorite nurse in the comments so we can all say thank you! 

​​​​MAY 7 - PROMPT

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For more tips about what to share if you don't have any listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. ​

​​​​MAY 8 - FILL IN THE BLANK

I think there are two types of people in this quarantine: the extroverted social butterflies who are feeling totally stir-crazy, and the introverted homebodies who are living their best lives right now. I'm an __________ [extrovert/introvert] and [I'm so ready to get back out and about/really loving this time at home with my family but looking forward to getting back to the office]. 

Are you an introvert or an extrovert!?

MAY 9 - COPY/PASTE

It's about that time, you guys: curb appeal season! The front of your house is the first impression buyers will have of your home, so you want to make it good. 

Whether you're planning to sell once the coronavirus crisis passes or you're simply using the extra time at home to spruce up your property, here are some of my tips to increase your curb appeal:

1. Plan on power washing. Dirt, grime and mold builds up on the outside of your home, but a pressure washer will make your siding, driveways, walkways, patios and decks look like new.
2. Add some greenery: if you don't have a lot of landscaping, a few potted or hanging plants can work wonders and make your home more inviting.  
3. Update fixtures: this is an inexpensive fix (and quick trip to Home Depot!) that will give your entrance more appeal. Replace your light fixture, door knocker, knob, mail box and house numbers. 
4. Refresh your door: it's the "gateway" to your home. Add a fresh coat of paint, wash any glass, and make sure there are no squeaks, creaks or dents. 

If you're thinking of selling, let's have a conversation and I'd be glad to drive by your house and give you some suggestions. Just DM me your address and your Starbucks order, and I'll be there! 
POST TIP: Want to keep your feed post shorter?  Share the graphic to your Instagram or Facebook feed as a teaser, then use the tips as a short video "script" for your Story. ​

ALTERNATE IDEA: Swap in a photo of one of your listings that you think has beautiful curb appeal! 

MAY 10 - COPY/PASTE

Wishing a happy mother's day to all of the moms, stepmoms, foster moms, pet moms, grandmoms, and special women out there! 💐
ALTERNATE IDEAS:
  • Post a photo of your mother and share a favorite memory. 
  • If you are a mom, post a photo of your own kids and tell us how you plan to celebrate the day.

MAY 11 - COPY/PASTE

As is the case for home sellers, real estate transactions are going to look a little bit different this year for home buyers, too. While I totally get that some people are going to hold off until after the pandemic, others need to move asap! 

Here are some of the steps we are taking to ensure your health and safety during your home search.  

✔️ We will view properties online before we go out to see homes in person to narrow down your search and minimize exposure.
✔️ As much as I would love to drive you around and catch up on life, we'll need to drive our own cars to the showings. 
✔️ We are asking buyers to try not to touch any surface during the showing. Either the seller or the listing agent will open all of the doors and closets so you can get a thorough look. 
✔️ Everyone should wear protective gear, including a mask or booties/shoe covers. 
✔️ Bring hand sanitizer along, but if you forget it I always have some in the car!

If you have any questions about starting your home search, just let me know and I'd be glad to help you plan. 
POST TIPS: Want to keep your feed post shorter?  Share the graphic to your Instagram or Facebook feed as a teaser, then use the tips as a short video "script" for your Story. 

MAY 12 - PROMPT

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For more tips about what to share if you don't have any listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. ​

MAY 13 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Be honest: how many times have you called for pizza delivery since this all started? We love to order Friday night pizza and usually rotate between  __________, __________ and __________. 

What are your favorite pizza spots that are open for pickup or delivery? Tag them in the comments so everyone can check them out!

OR 

You're going to think I'm totally weird, but I just don't love pizza. However my __________ [husband/wife/friends/kids/whoever you spend time with] loves it and we always order from __________ [your favorite pizza spot]. __________ loves the __________ and I always get the __________. 

What are your favorite pizza spots that are open for pickup or delivery? Tag them in the comments so everyone can check them out!
POST TIPS: Instead of just writing out the name of the restaurant you like, look up their Instagram profiles and tag them in your post.

​As people tag their favorite restaurants in the comments, make sure you are following the commenter and start following the person they tag. Hopefully, they will follow back and your circle will grow!

MAY 14 - FILL IN THE BLANK

When I have buyers moving in from out of town, I love giving them a list of places they must go and things they must do in our area.

Even though it will be awhile before our community is completely back to normal, I want to start updating my list!

​Tell me what you would add to a list of "must do" or "must go" (or....let's be honest, "must eat") places in __________."
POST TIPS: Remember, as people tag their ideas in the comments, make sure you are following the commenter and start following the place or business that they tag. Hopefully, they will follow back and your circle will grow!

​​​​​​​​MAY 15 - COPY/PASTE

Is it just me, or does happy hour start a little earlier for every day we're in quarantine? Tell me your go-to happy hour beverage in the comments!

MAY 16 - COPY/PASTE

I heard this idea and loved it so much I have to share it with you!

If your kids have a birthday during these times of social distancing, put balloons and a sign in your window that says "It's Kevin's 8th birthday. Yell for him!"

Then, their friends can stop by and celebrate from a distance, or families who are walking outside can cheer or sing happy birthday.

What is the best social distancing birthday celebration idea you've heard?

MAY 17 - PROMPT

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For some post ideas in place of listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. ​

 MAY 18 - COPY/PASTE

We might not know exactly what is going to happen to the housing market this year, but the one thing we do know is that if your house isn't on the market, we can't sell it!

If you are thinking about selling but now you're on the fence, let's do a virtual consultation -- no strings attached! I can pull a comparative market analysis get an accurate valuation of your property, you can give me a quick virtual tour of your home I can make some recommendations on things like staging to prepare you for market.

​I'll never try to pressure you into anything, but there is going to be a lot of pent-up buyer demand after this, so preparedness is key! DM me if you'd like to schedule that virtual chat and we can take it from there.

MAY 19 - FILL IN THE BLANK

What is one feature that is going to be absolutely non-negotiable in your next home? For me it's __________ [his-and-hers walk in closets/a home gym/a wine cellar/private outdoor space/etc] to __________ [give a quick sentence about why you'd love that!].
EXAMPLE: What is one feature that is going to be absolutely non-negotiable in your next home? For me, it's private outdoor space with room to garden. I'm no green thumb, but I've always wanted to grow my own herbs for cooking! 

MAY 20 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Have you been working from home during the pandemic?

All of this time at my desk definitely has me dreaming about redoing the home office. I'd __________ [upgrade to a standing desk/buy a comfier chair/paint the walls a bright, cheerful color/name a few things you would change about your workspace].

How about you? What is your home office like? Do you love it or are you ready for revamp too?
POST TIP:  Instead of using one of the provided images, snap a photo of your work space and share it on social media - yes, even if it's your dining room table. 

Head to our TIPS & TRAINING section for our iPhone photography tips.

MAY 21 - COPY/PASTE

I have been all about the motivational quotes lately and this saying inspires me to push through the hard stuff!

Tell me: is there a quote that motivates or inspires you? Share it in the comments!

 MAY 22 - COPY/PASTE

Time for an amazing home hack: if you want your throw pillows to look extra full, then buy throw pillow inserts that are two inches smaller than your pillow covers. So if you have 24-inch pillow covers, stuff them with 26-inch inserts.

Your bed will look extra-fluffy without those sagging pillow cases. Just add a fluffy throw to the bottom of your bed, find a binge-worthy TV show and you're all set!

MAY 23 - COPY/PASTE

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For some post ideas in place of listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. ​

MAY 24 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Summer is approaching quickly and so many of us had to cancel our spring break plans because of the pandemic.

Every summer, I usually go to __________ [a new city with the girlfriends/the family lake house in Door County/our beach house on the Cape/take the kids to Disney/wherever you normally like to go on trips].

We __________ [are thinking about postponing/decided to cancel/still have every intention of hitting the road if it's safe!].

How about you: are you planning to hit the road as soon as we get the "all clear" to travel?  

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​MAY 25 - COPY/PASTE

Today we honor those who gave their lives for our country and our freedom. Happy Memorial Day 💙❤️🤍

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​MAY 26 - COPY/PASTE

Moving can be stressful enough without adding a global pandemic into the mix. That's why I pulled together a few tips to help take the overwhelm out of your big day. 

1. If you're able, give yourself a few days between closing day and moving day to have utilities set up, clean and sanitize the home, and bring over any valuables that you don't want to leave to the movers.
2. Pack the essentials into your car instead of the moving truck. This way, when you arrive at your new home you'll know exactly where to find your linens, toiletries and valuables. 
3. Cover all of your upholstered furniture, rugs and mattresses with plastic or vacuum sealed bags. 
4. Speak directly with your moving company to ensure that they are following all of the recommended health guidelines, including sanitizing high-touch areas in their trucks, wearing face masks, and practicing social distancing.
5. After your movers leave, it is recommended by the professionals that you immediately pop a bottle of your favorite champagne, pour into the nearest available plastic cup, and toast to your accomplishment! 

Need any more moving tips? I'm pretty much a pro, so let me know if you need any help. I'm good at hauling boxes, organizing kitchens, and hand-delivering pizzas!
POST TIP: Tag each of the books (or authors) pictured in your post on Instagram! When you "tag" an account, their followers will see the post in their profile and the account owner may engage back with your posts!

@elementstyle
@aliwenzke
@dominomag

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​MAY 27 - FILL IN THE BLANK

If this health crisis has taught us anything, it's how much our communities need our local businesses to survive. I want to send a quick shout-out to a few of the neighborhood businesses that have been invaluable to me throughout this time: __________ for __________, __________ for __________, and __________ for __________. Let's all help each other out: tag a few of your favorite local businesses in the comments so I can follow them and show my support too! ​

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​MAY 28 - PROMPT

Share a listing or a recent client success story.

For some post ideas in place of listings, head to our TIPS & TRAINING section. 

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​MAY 29 - FILL IN THE BLANK

It has been a weird few months, but what helps me is having friends, family and clients who lift me up and help me see the positive in every day.

__________, __________ and __________ are just a few of the people who bring sunshine into my life! They _________ [are the best coworkers I could ask for/always pick up the phone when I need to vent/keep me laughing when they know I need it the most]. 

Now it's your turn: tag a friend in the comments who has helped you through these crazy times.

Better days are ahead and we will all enjoy them together! ☀️✨

​MAY 30 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Guess what? Today, I'm not going to talk about real estate. Instead, I want to tell you a few things that you might not know about me! 

For those of you who might be new here.  I’m __________,  originally from __________ but not I live and work in __________. 

I always start my day with __________ [a Peleton ride with Cody Rigsby / a double shot latte with soy milk/a dance party with my kids]. 

When I’m not working you’ll probably find me __________ or __________ [share details about your favorite hobbies, pets, family, interests, tv shows, etc].

I never miss my __________ [tell us about a favorite show, tradition, routine, etc. that you love]. 

Now, tell me about yourself! What do we have in common? 

MAY 31 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Even though this summer is shaping up to be a quieter one this year, there is still so much to look forward to! I love to __________, __________, __________ and __________ [share your favorite things about the summer - grill burgers and sip Pinot Noir, have my coffee on the deck every morning, go running by the lakefront, read at the beach].

What are you most looking forward to this summer? 

​​BONUS #1 - COPY/PASTE

A very common question in real estate right now is: "how is the housing market different now than it was in 2008?" 

In short: they are very, very different situations. Although a lot will depend on the length and severity of the pandemic, this is not a housing crisis.

In 2008, many homebuyers were able to obtain mortgages despite bad credit and homeowners wound up with no home equity. Today, homebuyers have plenty of equity and homeownership rates are lower than they were in 2008. 

Even though market activity has slowed, it has not stalled completely and there is still every reason to be optimistic that the rebound will be quick and strong.

I love talking about the market, even in times like these, so please feel free to ask me any questions!

​​​BONUS #2 - FILL IN THE BLANK

Let's talk home decor. I seriously miss __________ [browsing Joanna Gaines' collection at Target/wandering the aisles of Home Goods/getting my retail therapy fix at whatever your favorite store is]. 

Where are you most excited to shop once the stores reopen?

​​​BONUS #3 - COPY/PASTE

I am going to give you one of my top sanity-saving tips for every home seller. It's an obvious one, but I swear you'll thank me: hire professional cleaners.

If you're usually a DIY-er, it's well worth the cost to hire someone before we take listing photographs, before an open house and regularly when your house is on the market.

Even when we do our best to keep our own homes clean, the pros are going to spot streaks, stains and smudges that you might not notice because you live there.

Yes, it is a little bit of an investment, but when your home sparkles you'll almost definitely recoup the cost in the sale.

​​BONUS #4 - COPY/PASTE

Reminder: you've got this 🙌🏼

​​BONUS #5 - COPY/PASTE

A chandelier is like jewelry for your home: they come in many styles, shapes and materials but they almost always make a big impression.

According to @Lightology, chandeliers are sized by diameter and height. Your chandelier should should be 1/2 to 2/3 the width of your dining table and hang about 30"- 36" from the top of your table to the bottom of the fixture itself.

Now I am thinking I might need a new dining room chandelier...anyone else!?
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