Time is a funny thing. When you have a lot of it, it’s easy to do nothing. But when every minute is scheduled, you somehow manage to conquer the world.
On a mastermind call this morning, someone asked me, “Ashley, what’s your biggest struggle right now?”
My honest answer was simple: The market is slow, listings are sitting, and I have more time than usual but I’m struggling to use that time on the things that will pay off when the market shifts.
Sound familiar? Let’s talk about why this moment right now is the perfect time to build systems that create long-term success.
When You Have Time, Use It Wisely
When business slows, it’s tempting to relax, scroll, or focus on self-care instead of structure. We’ve all been there. It feels like there’s “time to catch up later.”
But that’s the trap.
At HART Realty Team, we know that real estate rewards consistency and preparation. The agents and professionals who use downtime to refine their systems, strengthen their processes, and reconnect with clients will thrive when the market rebounds.
Now is the time to get organized, update workflows, and design a business that can handle growth before the rush begins again. Because let’s be honest…if and when rates drop, millions of buyers will re-enter the market and we will be wishing we had the systems in place to handle it!
Building Systems Isn’t Glamorous — But It’s Powerful
Building systems isn’t fun.
It doesn’t bring in money right away, and it’s easy to think, “I’ll get to that later.”
But systems are what make future success sustainable. When leads come in, your follow-ups, scheduling, and communication should already in place. That breeds space to have more time for your clients, more time for your home life, and less stress.
Think of systems as the foundation for your next wave of growth. You don’t build a roof when the storm hits, you build it on a sunny day.
Challenge Yourself and Your Team
So here’s my challenge to myself, and to you. Use this time now to create the habits and systems that will make your future self proud.
Whether it’s refining your CRM, improving your client onboarding process, or simplifying your follow-up strategy, every step you take now will save time later.
Don’t waste slow seasons, build through them.
Client Testimonial — Your Voice, Your Story
“ So, we had just completed a foundation repair and were interested in selling our home. I knew Ashley because I bought a kitchen table from her about 6 months prior. There was just something about her that I trusted.
Our house required lots of work, including a roof, kitchen upgrade, paint throughout, and new floors. Ashley took the time to give us great advice which we promptly took.
The house turned out amazingly wonderful. She helped stage it and gave advice through the whole process. I have sold a few houses in the past, but I have never seen such a hardworking and caring agent. She gives everything to her clients. And that is why we truly love her.”
— John Welch
The Best Time to Build Is Now
If the market feels slow, that’s your sign to get ready. The work you do now, the structure you build, the systems you refine will create freedom later.
Your future self will thank you.
Start your joyful home journey today with HART Realty Team.




