How to Build a 99% Referral-Based Real Estate Business with Steph Furfaro

In this episode of Better Your Business, Cher sits down with Steph Furfaro, Realtor and founder of Referral-First. Steph shares how she built her real estate business almost entirely through referrals and why she believes relationship-driven businesses are the most sustainable path for realtors. The conversation explores how client experience, organization, mindset, and intentional relationship building contribute to a strong referral network. Steph also walks through the pillars of her referral-first framework and how agents can begin implementing these principles in their own businesses.

In this episode you will hear:

• [02:09] Steph shares how her interest in real estate began at age 12 after being included in the process of her parents buying and selling her childhood home.
• [07:18] The experience with an early client that motivated Steph to build a business focused on referrals and aligned relationships.
• [12:04] How Steph defines an ideal client based on personality,alignment, and energy rather than overly detailed demographics.
• [14:34] A simple onboarding strategy Steph uses with clients, including asking about their favourite holiday as a way to personalize future touchpoints.
• [23:07] Steph outlines the importance of strong organizational systems, including using a CRM and maintaining structured records of client information.
• [30:50] Examples of creating “wow” moments for clients by anticipating needs and making the moving process easier.
• [35:10] Non-negotiables in a referral-based business, including serving clients first, being proactive, and setting expectations clearly.
• [39:15] The mindset shift from focusing on transaction volume to focusing on value and building a business that supports personal lifestyle goals.
• [43:57] Why tracking referrals and intentionally thanking clients who refer business is essential for strengthening relationships and encouraging future referrals.
• [52:12] Steph explains how exploring her human design helped her understand her strengths and approach business in a way that feels more aligned.

Visit Steph’s website to grab her free masterclass and join her e-mail list!

Connect with Steph:

Instagram: @stephfurfarorealtor

@referralfirstrealtor

Website: stephaniefurfaro.ca

Meet Cheryl 'Cher' Goetz:

Cheryl Goetz has been a Realtor since 2016 and knows firsthand what it feels like to build a business filled with anxiety, confusion, and constant pressure. After raising two kids, navigating a transition from new construction to resale, and adapting through shifting markets, she transformed her career into one that now feels intentional, joyful, and ease-filled. Today, Cheryl helps women in real estate do the same — creating businesses that reflect their authentic selves, attract aligned clients, and grow sustainably. Her mission is simple: to help women drop the industry “shoulds” and build businesses that fuel their lives.

Let's Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chergoetz_?igsh=MWZrY2Rlem9ua3RrdA==
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/bybpodcast
Contact: [e-mail]

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Staci Millard @ Thrive Accounting

Instagram: @thriveaccounting

Website: https://thriveaccounting.co

EFV Legal

Instagram: @elenafavaroviana

Website: efvlegal.ca