CAMPUS VISITING HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 2 PM - 5PM, M-F | DAILY TEACHING & HOURS OF OPERATION: 9 AM - 9:45 PM, M - F

WE OFFER OVER

25+

PROGRAMS

WE HAVE SERVED

12000+

STUDENTS

VETERAN STAFF

40+ Years

INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

PROUDLY PROVIDING

23+ Years

OF EDUCATION

CHECK OUT OUR MONTHLY SPECIALS

WHY DO WE STAND OUT ABOVE THE REST?

We are a fully licensed Real Estate School within Illinois, that offers quality, student-centered on-ground (live in person or live webinar), home-study, or online (computer-based reading) real estate classes for real estate brokers, managing brokers, post license and continuing education (CE) throughout the state of Illinois and nationwide online.

We also partner with affiliated schools that provide nationwide education for mortgage brokers and appraisers. In addition, our various affiliates can provide real estate education to assist you in securing licensing in additional states. All of the courses, whether directly through Inland Real Estate School or our affiliates are proven successful and are the best prep resources available to further your career aspirations.

There are a number of real estate school choices capable of helping you to start your new career, however your future is important enough that you’d should not leave the choice to chance. Select a proven provider of quality education and trust only the best real estate school in Illinois.

Read More

You can expect:

Higher than average pass rate on the Illinois state licensed examination

Over 60+ years of combined staff experience providing education and training to the Illinois real estate market

Our school isn’t run by brokers or investors, our team possesses formal educational degrees plus practical real-life experience educating our students.

Our instructors respond to our student’s questions and inquiries in a timely manner and are available via the phone or email

Our updated flexible course options provide our students with the flexibility of selecting a program that meets their schedule and time availability.

Our programs are available through live classroom presentation, live webinar & home study formats.

Our passionate experienced, dedicated faculty has over 40 years of experience in residential and commercial real estate as a broker & managing broker

We have developed programs and effective methods of presentation that are proven to work

Available 1-on-1 tutoring should the student need additional assistance

Whether you are in Inland Real Estate School student or coming to us from another school, we provide real customer service, backed by the guidance you need to get through the program as well as the State exam

The best reading material available in the industry designed to help you understand the concepts to further enhance your understanding in preparation for the state exam

Having a school run and owned by 2 proven successful educators with actual market experience makes all the difference in your learning and passing the state exam; our results and referrals show it

WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT?

Welcome to Inland Real Estate School, Inc. When you invest in us, we will invest 110% in you!

As a new real estate broker, you will need to create your own identity. This will include determining what area you wish to specialize in. Part of that can include referencing your experiences from the school you attended.

Few schools have earned a reputation for supporting their students beyond the completion of their pre-licensing course and inland is the most credited Illinois real estate school when it comes to that stake. Inland Real Estate School has developed a reputation for supporting our students long after they’ve completed their education by providing consulting services focused on helping you develop your reputation and identity in order to enhance your future career.

Welcome to Inland Real Estate School, Inc. When you invest in us, we will invest 110% in you!

As a new real estate broker, you will need to create your own identity. This will include determining what area you wish to specialize in. Part of that can include referencing your experiences from the school you attended.

Few schools have earned a reputation for supporting their students beyond the completion of their pre-licensing course and inland is the most credited Illinois real estate school when it comes to that stake. Inland Real Estate School has developed a reputation for supporting our students long after they’ve completed their education by providing consulting services focused on helping you develop your reputation and identity in order to enhance your future career.

Read More

Our passionate experienced, dedicated faculty has over 40 years of experience in residential and commercial real estate as a broker & managing broker

We have developed programs and effective methods of presentation that are proven to work

Available 1-on-1 tutoring should the student need additional assistance

Whether you are in Inland Real Estate School student or coming to us from another school, we provide real customer service, backed by the guidance you need to get through the program as well as the State exam

The best reading material available in the industry designed to help you understand the concepts to further enhance your understanding in preparation for the state exam

Having a school run and owned by 2 proven successful educators with actual market experience makes all the difference in your learning and passing the state exam; our results and referrals show it

COURSE OFFERINGS

A BRIGHTER FUTURE AWAITS

Illinois Broker
Pre-License

75-HOUR PROGRAM
HOME STUDY

LIVE ONLINE

ILLINOIS MANAGING BROKER

PRE-LICENSE
PROGRAM HOME
HOME STUDY
LIVE ONLINE/CLASSROOM

Illinois Broker
Post License

30-HOUR PROGRAM HOME STUDY LIVE ONLINE/ CLASSROOM COMBINATION

TUTORING STUDY AIDES AND ADDITIONAL SERVICES

ONE ON ONE & GROUP EXAM PREPARATIONS IN-PERSON & WEBINAR

REAL ESTATE INVESTING COURSES

FUNDAMENTALS OF ANALYZING REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

COURSE OFFERINGS

A BRIGHTER FUTURE AWAITS

ILLINOIS BROKER PRE-LICENSE

75-HOUR PROGRAM

LIVE ONLINE

ILLINOIS MANAGING BROKER

PRE-LICENSE

45 HOUR PROGRAM

HOME STUDY

LIVEONLINE/CLASSROOM

ILLINOIS BROKER POST LICENSE

30-HOUR PROGRAM HOME STUDY OR

45 HOUR ONLINE/ CLASSROOM COMBINATION

TUTORING STUDY AIDES

ONE ON ONE & GROUP EXAM PREPARATIONS IN-PERSON & WEBINAR

REAL ESTATE INVESTING COURSES

FUNDAMENTALS OF ANALYZING REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

NATIONWIDE PRE-LICENSING & CONTINUING EDUCATION

INCREASE YOUR MARKETING EFFORTS, SECURE A LICENSE IN OTHER STATES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE BROKER PRE-LICENSE

CONTINUING EDUCATION NMLS APPROVED VENDOR, MLO ONLINE WEBINARS

NATIONWIDE APPRAISAL & CE

ADD A NEW PHASE AND BECOME A PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE APPRAISER

LICENSE RECIPROCITY

ADD AN ADDITIONAL LICENSE TO EXPAND YOUR MARKETING WORLD

SCHOOL PARTNER PAGE FOR INLAND STUDENTS AND FRIENDS

NETWORKING CRITICAL ELEMENT TO BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FIND A PROFESSIONAL PARTNER TO HELP FILL THE NEEDS OF YOUR CLIENT

ILLINOIS CONTINUING EDUCATION

12 & 24 HOUR

PROGRAM LIVE ONLINE/CLASSROOM, WEBINAR & HOMESTUDY

NEW BUSINESS SERVICES

START YOUR NEW BUSINESS WITH A LINKEDIN PROFILE, TWITTER, BUSINESS FACEBOOK

MORE COURSES COMING SOON

CHECK BACK OFTEN FOR NEW COURSE OFFERINGS HERE AT INLAND REAL ESTATE SCHOOL

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR REAL ESTATE CLASSES?

  • 24/7 Online Course Access
  • Practice Online Exam Questions
  • Automated Reminders

  • Preparation to Pass the State Exam on First Attempt
  • Progressive Tracking Notification
  • Live Instructor Assistance

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTION

You have options to choose from to pay your tuition

  • CREDIT CARD
  • CHECK
  • MANY CREDIT UNIONS OFFER LIFESTYLE LOANS THAT CAN BE USED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
  • PAY WITH AFFIRM-OPPORTUNITY TO QUALIFY FOR 0% INTEREST AND/OR PAYMENT PLAN

  • CASH
  • PAYPAL
  • PAYPAL 6-MONTH NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLAN ONCE QUALIFIED
  • STRIPE

What clients say about us

''By far the best class I have taken. I tried to get my broker license before but gave up because I was not given much instruction not did I have anyone to ask questions to.''

~ Carol F.

''Dave is a very effective teacher! He Makes the information easier to remember with his stories and experience. He teaches at a a good pace and is very accommodating to his students!''

~ Krystle B.

Become Our Next Success Story

Click The Button Below And Get Registered Today!

LATEST BLOGS

LATEST BLOG

real estate agent discovered how to build a strong real estate referral base

Creative Networking Techniques That Build A Strong Real Estate Referral Base

February 09, 20265 min read

Referrals create stability in real estate, even when markets shift. When you build a strong real estate referral base, your business grows through trust, not constant selling. People choose agents recommended by someone they already trust. Because of this, creative networking matters more than chasing cold leads. You need genuine relationships that last beyond one transaction. Let's explore practical networking techniques you can use daily. Each idea focuses on connection, value, and consistency. These methods work whether you are new or experienced. When people remember how you helped them, they talk about it. That is how referrals begin and continue to grow over time.

Why Real Connections Beat Transactional Networking

Transactional networking feels forced and forgettable. Real connections feel natural and human. People refer agents they like, trust, and remember. Start by showing interest in others before talking about yourself. Ask questions about their work, family, or plans. Listen carefully and respond with curiosity. Over time, these conversations build familiarity. Familiarity builds comfort. Comfort leads to trust. Trust leads to referrals. Focus on being helpful instead of impressive. Share useful local insights or simple advice when it fits naturally. Avoid turning every conversation into a pitch. When people feel relaxed around you, they think of you when real estate topics come up.

Understand What Relocating Buyers Expect

Relocation clients often generate strong referral chains. Serving them well requires empathy and clarity. Many agents sharpen this skill by learning what buyers moving to a new city want from an agent during transitions. These buyers value guidance, honesty, and local insight. They want simple explanations and fewer surprises. When you meet these expectations, clients share their experience. Their referrals often come from employers, family members, or friends facing similar moves. Understanding these needs helps you communicate better with both clients and your network. Clear service leads to confident recommendations.

Simple Habits That Help You Build a Strong Real Estate Referral Base

You do not need complex systems to stay visible. You need habits you can repeat. Keep a short list of people you check in with regularly. Rotate short messages, calls, or casual meetups. Mention something personal you remember about them. This shows attention and care. Share quick updates that help, not sell. A local market shift or neighborhood change works well. Host small gatherings like coffee chats or walking meetups. These feel friendly and low-pressure. Over time, these habits help you build a strong real estate referral base without awkward requests or scripted follow-ups. Consistency matters more than scale.

couple looking around a house with a real estate agent

Education Makes You Trustworthy

People refer to professionals who sound confident and informed. Staying sharp helps every conversation feel easier. Many agents grow stronger networks when they choose to stay competitive with professional real estate education over time. Learning helps you explain ideas clearly and answer questions calmly. This confidence shows up in everyday talks, not just client meetings. When people hear you speak with clarity, they trust your guidance. They feel comfortable attaching their name to yours through referrals. Education does not need to feel heavy or time-consuming. Short courses and focused learning often deliver quick value you can naturally share with your network.

Be There During the Whole Moving Process

Networking often breaks down when agents feel overwhelmed. Too many tasks pull attention away from relationships. Missed follow-ups and slow responses cost referrals. Some agents ease that pressure by working with Four Winds KSA, a moving company that helps manage client relocations smoothly. When moves run well, agents spend less time fixing logistics and more time supporting people. This creates better conversations and a stronger presence. Clients remember who helped reduce stress during a move. Reliable partners make agents look dependable, too. Support does not replace effort. It removes friction so your strengths show consistently.

 professional movers carrying a sofa

Stay Present After the Deal Is Done

Many agents disappear after closing. That silence ends referral momentum. Strong networks grow when you stay present after the clients are settled in and remain involved beyond the transaction. A simple check-in after moving day builds goodwill. Sharing local tips or trusted service contacts adds value. These small actions feel thoughtful and memorable. Clients often mention them to friends and coworkers. Staying present shows you care about outcomes, not just closings. That mindset turns one-time clients into long-term referral sources.

Use Everyday Conversations as Networking Opportunities

Networking does not require formal events. Daily life offers constant chances. Talk with neighbors, parents, or local business owners. Mention your work when it fits the conversation naturally. Avoid rehearsed lines. Curiosity works better than scripts. Ask about changes in the area or community needs. These talks build familiarity over time. When someone needs an agent, they think of the person who felt approachable and helpful. Follow up casually when interest appears. A simple message keeps the connection alive. Small interactions add up faster than you expect.

woman talking on the phone and taking notes

Traits That Drive Referrals

These traits often shape whether people feel comfortable recommending you.

● Understand the buyer’s needs through active listening
● Have local expertise that supports confident decisions
● Have clear and open communication
● Be trustworthy through honest guidance
● Offer virtual tours and useful online resources
● Offer guidance through local regulations and processes

Conclusion: Creative Networking Techniques That Build A Strong Real Estate Referral Base

Strong referral networks grow from daily actions, not one-time efforts. When you build a strong real estate referral base, you rely less on chasing leads and more on trust. Creative networking focuses on people, presence, and value. Education sharpens your voice. Support systems protect your time. Follow-through builds memory. Over time, your name travels through conversations you never hear. That quiet momentum creates lasting stability. Show up consistently, and referrals become a natural part of your business.

Back to Blog

LATEST PODCAST

COMING SOON!

LATEST RADIO

COMING SOON!

I'm so glad I chose Inland! Dave McGowan is the best instructor I've ever had in my entire educational career. The amount of knowledge he has about real estate is unbelievable!


David Becker

Had a wonderful experience and Dave is always available to help and answer questions. Great instructor! We had a great class too!


Rebecca

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Student Have To Say

I really enjoyed my time at Inland, and i would recommend the school to anybody that i know looking for a school to study real estate license courses.


Fadilah Salim

Dave is a very effective teacher! He Makes the information easier to remember with his stories and experience. He teaches at a a good pace and is very accommodating to his students!


Krystle B.

By far the best class I have taken. I tried to get my broker license before but gave up because I was not given much instruction not did I have anyone to ask questions to.


Carol F.

Find Us

2901 Butterfield Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, USA

CLASSROOM LOCATION

2901 Butterfield Rd

Oak Brook IL 60523

Toll Free 877-990-8409

Campus Visiting Hours by appointment only:

2 pm – 5:00 pm, M-F

Email:

[email protected],

to request a time above or limited AM and PM times available!

Daily Teaching & Hours of operation:

9 am – 9:45 pm, M-F

Sign Up for latest News & Offers

INLAND REAL ESTATE SCHOOL, INC. SUPPORTS

CAMPUS VISITING HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 2 PM – 5:00 PM, M-F

DAILY TEACHING & HOURS OF OPERATION: 9 AM – 9:45 PM, M-F

OAK BROOK, ILLINOIS 60523. © INLAND REAL ESTATE SCHOOL, INC. A PROFESSIONAL STUDIES INSTITUTE, INC. COMPANY, 2010. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE INLAND REAL ESTATE GROUP OF COMPANIES, INC. THE INLAND NAME IS USED UNDER LICENSE. Privacy Policy