87% of homebuyers purchase their homes through a licensed broker or realtor.
Yet while realtors may be in high demand, this doesn’t mean that they don’t need to rely on effective marketing campaigns.
Such demand makes advertising all the more urgent, particularly when it comes to building a local reputation and retaining client relationships.
It can be difficult identifying unique advertising ideas in an oversaturated market. That’s why we’ve put together this list of competitive marketing ideas for realtors. Don’t wait to implement these this 2018!
1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Google processes over 3 billion search queries every single day. Search engines are the ultimate resource for on-the-go information, and as a realtor, you can capitalize on this.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a digital marketing technique that businesses around the globe can use to appear more prominently in search results.
A typical searcher will pay most attention to the first page of listings, rarely navigating to second or third pages. SEO can ensure that your online content dominates the first page of listings for searches your clients are likely to enter into Google.
A simple SEO campaign merely involves optimizing your content for these trending keywords.
If you are looking for a way to get your website noticed, SEO is a must. You can implement it yourself or you can hire professionals to craft and launch a campaign suited to your needs.
2. Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual reality is making significant headway in marketing efforts and for good reason.
Virtual technology amps up a user’s digital experience of your site or content. The more positive a user’s experience is of your content, the more likely they will be to investigate your services.
Realtors can take advantage of cutting-edge VR by implementing virtual tours of available properties. These 3D visuals of existing homes can give clients the information they need without having to even drive to that location.
The more comprehensive you can be when presenting details about a property, the better. Clients are more likely to follow up about a property in person if it’s well-presented.
3. Webinars and Live Streams
Consumers love information. That’s why search engines are so popular: they deliver answers to pressing questions immediately, without discrimination.
Clients are also more likely to trust a realtor who can demonstrate they’re an authority in the field. You can put your authority on display by educating prospective clients about real estate.
Host a live webinar to answer community members’ questions about first-time homebuying, open houses, or current market data. If you aren’t able to broadcast a digital webinar or live stream on a platform such as Facebook, then consider holding a live information session at the local public library or community center.
Whatever the case, be sure to record a digital copy of this info session. You can use it as a “giveaway” to site visitors or as the basis for a social media campaign (discussed below).
Don’t try everything at once or you’ll get overwhelmed. Start small, stick to what works and remember that consistency is key.
4. Local Events and Sponsorships
The best realtors are fixtures of their communities, well-versed in a local area’s market and offerings. Some of the best marketing ideas for realtors involves leveraging this local reputation.
Host a local event, such as a charity drive, marathon, or art walk. Sponsor other local events if you don’t want to go through the challenge of organizing an event on your own.
Consider virtually partnering with other relevant businesses in town by co-sponsoring an event together. These businesses may include architecture firms, lenders, and property management companies.
5. Blogs
Blogs aren’t just for niche writers. Incorporating a blog into your real estate website can be a key component of your digital marketing strategy.
Blogs give you a chance to provide valuable, industry-specific information to prospective clients, home buyers, and home sellers. They also give you endless content to optimize for Search Engine Optimization (SEO) purposes.
Aim to produce at least one blog post per week, and share this post on social media platforms, in e-newsletters, and on your website itself. If you’re having trouble coming up topics, think about the subjects that are likely to interest your clients the most.
For example, a blog series about the types of mortgages available to consumers may be a great place to start.
6. Social Media
Social media isn’t dead, and it’s not likely to take a back burner for many years. 77% of the U.S. population currently has a social media profile.
If you haven’t done so already, create a business profile on a social media platform of your choice. Facebook is a go-to for many realtors, although you may consider another platform like Instagram, which is image-based.
When crafting these profiles, be sure to fill out all relevant information and upload clear images. Enable in-app messaging so that prospective clients can connect with you in real-time.
Use social media to share information about blog posts, upcoming events, and property listings. Social media campaigns can also be valuable for SEO and local event purposes.
7. Promotional Products & Print
Most real estate advertising these days is digital, yet it’s still possible to engage with your clients using non-digital means. A well-designed informational brochure, for example, can supplement a great consultation with a prospective home seller.
The same goes for flyers and other paper products. Consider hiring a freelance graphic designer (or us) to jazz up brochures and posters advertising listings, sponsored events or even Q&A sessions.
Some realtors invest in promotional products, branded items they can give away to prospective clients. You may be tempted to purchase a bunch of cheap notepads, but step up your game by buying promotional products your clients are likely to use, such as sleek phone cases, USB flash drives, eye-catching mugs, or fancy pens.
Final Thoughts: Marketing Ideas for Realtors
The good news about these marketing ideas for realtors is the fact that you can tackle most of these yourself–and see immediate results. Start a blog or host a webinar to educate your clients about real estate topics.
Implement SEO to take advantage of search engine traffic. Purchase promotional products to give away as freebies to prospective clients. Don’t forget about social media, either, or virtual reality!
At Bearhug Digital, we’re here to help you in your advertising journey, no matter where you’re at. Start a conversation now to learn more!
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About the Author:
Mike Carroll
Mike steers the overall strategy & direction at Bearhug Digital, promoting constant innovation and success.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘unicorn’, he has the ability to communicate and execute on big ideas effortlessly. Mike challenges his team to strive for excellence when crafting digital solutions. He leads from the front and is involved in every aspect of every project. With a passion for leveraging technology to solve business challenges, Mike’s eye for design and vision for scaleable solutions drives innovation and exponential results.
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