Interview with Dan Oneil – Broker

Quickly becoming one of Long Islands Top Teams at the age of 27 through the use of social media, funny and unique listing videos- social media marketing.

East Setauket, NY

Signature Premier Properties

Dan Oneil (Dan Oneil) | danoneil_ | Dan O’neil | danoneilrealestate.com

What inspired you to start in real estate and how did you motivate yourself to keep going?

Becoming my own boss truly was the inspiration for getting into real estate. That and the desire to help people. Knowing that I could work as hard as I want and be in control of my own success was a major factor. And knowing that I could potentially help aid in the buying / selling process which is usually people’s biggest investment in their life was an idea I loved as well. Once I started to see the success and results and what we were able to do for people ( wether it be sell their home for a new record, help them in a tough situation, help a first time home buyer, beat out multiple offers etc ) and also make it as easy and stress free and even fun as possible – that is what continued to motivate me. I wanted and do want to continue to help as many people as possible.

Comparing your business from back then to now, what has been the main thing that allowed you to expand your business?

I would say a mix between doing the right thing, Working harder than my competition, and setting myself apart through social media and listing videos.

What’s the most profitable aspect of your business, why do you think this is and how can others apply this to what they are doing?

I would say social media. My business really is 50 percent referrals, 50 percent social media. It is actually incredible the amount of unpaid leads I generate through Instagram and Facebook without spending a single dollar. Just being myself really.

When did you realize you were successful/made it and how did you feel/celebrate?

I do not feel that I have made it yet. I am starving for success! We are now officially one of the top teams on Long Island in just 3 years. We are expanding to different markets, we have grown to a team of 15 – I have not celebrated anything – But I will say the most rewarding feeling in the world is a) being able to help the agents on my team succeed and do well in their own business, and b ) having the ability to give back to my community. They both give me great joy and allow me to realize how far we have come in such a short amount of time.

What should other real estate entrepreneurs reading this be focusing on to expand their own business?

Helping others! Being a good person. Being easy to work with. Being the most educated and knowledgeable agent you can be. Marketing and branding yourself. Giving back

How has social media and online marketing affected your real estate business? How much more success have you had now after implementing social media and online marketing efforts?

My business really took off from social media. After my first year of doing, maybe, 15/20 transactions, I was putting out videos and making content. Once my second year started these videos really started to take off – at which point we did north of 100 transactions and I started building my team. Our videos were getting 10/20 organic views, our listings were selling in days, and I was getting calls left and right for leads. I stopped having to sell myself on listing appointments, people felt as if they already knew me, I was recognized around town, and most importantly I was able to generate the best possible results for my clients. I would say my business really took off once I fully committed to social media and online marketing efforts.

How did you build your team?

Organically! I started by myself and organically had agents reach out to join with me. I am grateful for them all each and every single day and more than anything I would say my most proud accomplishment is seeing them all succeed.

How did you become a good leader?

I am still working on this! I believe this is always something I will work on. From my past experiences in sports, and prior career – I have always felt I was a strong leader. I feel as though I have built the best atmosphere and culture for my team – I think it really comes down to leading by example, and not being greedy. No one is going to listen to you if you do not or are not willing to do what you ask of someone. No one is going to want to work with you if you are greedy. Those are what’s most important.

Did You Experience Failures? If So, What Did You Learn From Them?

Of course! There are always going to be failures. I just turned 27 years old, In three years I went from bartending to doing over $1,000,000 in GCI. I am learning every day, Maturing every day, Making mistakes every day. In business and life. No one is perfect. I just try to always keep a positive mindset and try to learn from each mistake so it never happens again. Mistakes are meant to be learned from. So so long as we continue to learn from our mistakes and never let them happen again – everything will be alright!

What do you consider the main differences between those people who have been successful in your industry and those who have failed?

Mental toughness and drive! This is not an easy business. There are trials and tribulations each and every single day. But you cannot give up – it is also sacrifice and work ethic. A lot of people aren’t willing to put in the work and sacrifice some of their social life. You get what you put into this business.

What’s Your Approach To Marketing?

Social Media!! Be yourself. Be unique. Be different. Get eyes on yourself and your product. Create a brand. Treat it as if it is a major company or brand ( Amazon, Walmart, etc. )