While personality profiles (and even the stars) can be useful in understanding an individual client's style, one of the best ways to predict a good working relationship is finding commonality with previous successful pairings. For example, you may prefer the youthful exuberance of a first-time homebuyer over the hard-nosed, dollars-and-cents orientation of an experienced investor — or vice versa.

Boundaries are important both to the health of the relationship and to your personal well-being. However, there are many moving parts in a real estate transaction, and sometimes even the best-laid plans can come unglued. Set healthy boundaries, but always leave yourself a little wiggle-room for the unexpected.

Difficult clients come along with the territory, but there's never any reason to subject yourself to abusive situations. Understand the difference between healthy disagreement and toxic behavior and don't allow yourself to become the victim of a bully when it comes to client relationships.

You may remember the Godfather dictum: "It's not personal; it's business." That's pretty good advice and can keep you from either giving in too much or staying too distant from both potential and current clients. The best policy is to stay professional and focus on creating great outcomes for your clients, rather than fearing them.

A client avatar allows you to conceptualize an ideal client to market to so that your marketing message is more focused and effective. When putting together your client avatar, ask yourself the following:

• What neighborhoods does your ideal client prefer?
• What social media platform might they use?
• Are they first-time homebuyers or experienced buyers sizing up or down?
• What type of budget are they working with?
• What are some of the challenges they face?

You may have heard the saying, "There's riches in the niches." That's because narrowing your focus allows you to be a big deal to a specific market segment rather than being a face in the crowd among all of the other generalists. Look for certifications and designations that can help you build your expertise and add authority when you're looking to niche down.

Nobody's good at everything and there's no shame in knowing your strengths (and your weaknesses). Rather than doing a mediocre job, pair up with someone who's great at the type of transaction your potential client is looking for. Look on the bright side: You're sure to learn something new, you'll walk away with a referral fee or half of the commission, and you'll expand your professional network. Sounds like a win.

Don't keep throwing marketing at the wall and seeing what sticks. Take a more systematic approach when you track your strategies over time and evaluate the things that provide a return on your investment of time and money.

So many people feel self-conscious and out of their depth when it comes to creating video content and engaging on social media. The good news? You don't have to be an IG model and influencer to be effective. Lean into your strengths, whether that means focusing on your neighborhood knowledge, market expertise, ability to crunch the numbers or anything else that makes you a great real estate professional.

A great client is a wonderful gift, so cherish them! Show your appreciation and stay in touch with them so that you can be there when they need you and they can recommend you to everyone they know!