Where In The World Is {Your Name Here}?
On my way to work this morning, I drove by one of those recycling/garbage bins that provide advertising space. I noticed that there was a big sign for a local agent that contained his picture, name, job role, and phone number, mainly because I am conditioned to do so...kind of like being conditioned to notice sale signs, scrapbooking stores, and posters for movies with George Clooney.
But I digress.
Seeing the sign on a busy street on an item that everyone uses was really impressive. What was alarming, though, was the fact that the sign was missing the agent's website address.
Considering that studies indicate that over 90% of buyers start their real estate search online, providing only a phone number limits this agent to the 10% of the market that might pick up the phone or wander into a real estate office. Now, of that 10%, how many could potentially see that sign, remember that agent, and phone that number? While the agent had a great idea for a great advertising feature, the number of leads could drastically be reduced.
Even after being conditioned to see the sign and having been impressed with it, I don't remember the agent's name. I'll admit with a blush that I actually looked for a website address, as I like to go online and take a look at the houses listed in the local area. I'll be the first to admit that I'm a tad strange, but how many others will disregard the sign in the same manner?
Your website is a marketing asset, just like your name, just like your phone number, just like your business cards, and just like the listings themselves. When investing money on advertising, include it as part of the overall message. Being able to reach that 90% going online, being able to provide that online resource, and being able to show those listings will help you not only increase the number of leads you receive, but also the number of listings you sell.
When all else fails, put a picture of you with George Clooney. I'll be sure to notice it! :)
Tanya
~ Tanya Spilchak, Education Coordinator