Chuck Honabach
Success Doesn’t Show Up—You Do: Lessons from Chuck Honabach
What if being unforgettable in real estate wasn’t about gimmicks or ads—but about real connection, persistence, and espresso martinis?
In this episode of Outside the Box, we sit down with Chuck Honabach, a top-producing Realtor with Realty One Group Unlimited in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. With over 400 homes sold and $150M+ in sales, Chuck shares candid advice and entertaining stories about building a rock-solid referral and repeat business.
Set Yourself Apart in Every Way You Can
From working out of coffee shops to throwing an epic Christmas bash at a baseball stadium, Chuck is all about connection and consistency. He doesn’t wait for business to show up—he shows up first.
“Referrals don't happen by accident. They happen on purpose.”
Chuck’s Tips for Building a Referral-Based Business
- Work your CRM: Chuck relies heavily on his CRM to trigger outreach and track touchpoints.
- Be present—physically: Get out of the house. Go to an office. Work from a coffee shop. Be seen.
- Join a team when you're starting: Learn the ropes with support, structure, and accountability.
- Host client events: Chuck throws high-end appreciation parties that double as marketing gold.
- Get personal with gifts: A cheese basket won’t cut it. Personal touches make you memorable.
Biggest Mistakes Agents Make
According to Chuck? Not spending money. Not following up. Giving up too soon. Operating like it’s a hobby instead of a business.
“Once it becomes about your paycheck, you’re out of business.”
How Chuck Turns One-Time Clients into Lifelong Referrals
Chuck sees every transaction as a relationship starter, not a one-and-done. He stays connected, shows up to every closing, and keeps his clients’ lives on his radar. Birthday? Graduation? Loss of a pet? Chuck is there with a card or call.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ditch the Clown Gift
Chuck’s rule: no generic baskets. Instead, he delivers personalized gifts after the closing—never at the table. Whether it’s bourbon, Build-A-Bear cards, or a candle with a handwritten note, he makes sure his clients know he knows them.
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and practical strategies. Whether you’re new to real estate or looking to up your referral game, Chuck’s stories will hit home.
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April 11, 2025
How Chuck Honabach Built a Local Brand—One Espresso Martini at a Time
What’s the secret to becoming the go-to Realtor in your community?
According to Chuck Honabach, it’s not a billboard, not a social media hack, and definitely not a cold pitch. It’s something much simpler—and more powerful: showing up consistently where your people are.
Chuck is living proof that real estate is still a people business. And in his words, people refer to the agents they know.
The “Chucktini” Strategy: Relationship Marketing, One Espresso at a Time
Chuck doesn’t flash business cards or pitch himself as a Realtor every time he steps into a local business. He simply becomes a regular. He chats with staff, builds relationships with owners, and supports their establishments. Over time, those casual visits turn into real recognition—and trust.
“I’m known around town as the espresso martini person—they even named it after me. They call it the ‘Chucktini.’”
Why Local Presence Beats Mass Advertising
In a world where
