Do you sometimes think that your Real Estate website does nothing more than float around the internet being stuck in purgatory?
This is because websites are not magic. The same way no one will see your postcards if you do not mail them, no one will see your website if you do not promote it. Getting the top spot on Google is a luxury afforded to just one, and let's face it, with thousands of other Real Estate agents in your area the chances of you getting that money making spot are about as high as you finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
So then, how do you make your website work for you? I will show you a few simple techniques that you may be overlooking.
1. Is your web address in ALL of your print ads?
I go through nearly all of the local real estate publications on a regular basis and you know what? Every issue I find agents who pay for a whole page ad to display their listings and they do not advertise their website.
A website is a quick and easy way for a potential client to connect with you, learn more about you, see other properties available and ultimately make them choose you as their agent.
I also see brokerages that list their agents but do not list any of their agent's websites. This is both bad for the brokerage and bad for the agents. Giving potential clients more useful information can only help. Why not give it to them? If you do not, the agents on page three may be the ones with a large commission check
2. Do you give potential clients a reason to go to your website?
At the very least you should have your web address on your business card. However, this generally is not enough to get someone to visit your website. Many times the card just ends up in that stack of 57 other business cards in their desk drawer.
Luckily there are a few things you can do to save your card from business card purgatory.
If you have a great looking website you can always have its image printed on the back of your card. If people take a shine to it they are much more likely to visit it.
You could also list on it some of the valuable features. Maybe you have a unique MLS search. Or maybe you have tips and tricks to increase your home value. This could be that extra little bump to help them remember to go to your website.
And be sure to TELL THEM about these features when you hand them your card. Flip the card over when you hand it to them so they are sure to see them.
3. Do your clients feel like Ray Charles when they try to read your web address?
You are using your business card to help stand out from other agents and to give your potential client some more information about yourself. So make sure they can take full advantage of this by being able to READ YOUR WEB ADDRESS!
I cannot count the number of cards I have where the web address is so small you do not even realize it is there. That or it is the same front, color, and size as all of the other information on the card.
Is your fax number really more important than your web address? Sure, maybe if they are faxing over a purchase agreement. But in order for them to send you a purchase agreement they must first know who you are and utilize your skills. They will never know what sets you apart from agents #462 or #948 if you do not give them the opportunity to find out.
These are just a few tips that every agent should use to promote their website. Promoting your website is not a one and done type of scenario. If you put in the time and effort to effectively promote your site it will be one of the best things you could do for your business.