Why would a selling real estate agent need exposure on the internet? You might as well ask why an NBA star needs a stadium court to play – because that’s where the people go to see it happen.
Real estate agents used to work on the paradigm of “pounding the pavement.” There was much driving, walking, and handing out of brochures and business cards in order to drum up business and make a sale. However, the internet changed how real estate professionals get exposure and ultimately get listings.
Here are a few reasons internet exposure is essential:
Buyers are shopping online – Home buyers are shopping for homes online now more than ever. 87% of home buyers start with internet listings, up from about 70% in 2005. Will they find your listings?
Web Site – A professional web site with your realty background and listed properties is mandatory. This works not only as your online business card, but also as a digital brochure for each of your listed properties. This is the place where a property seller may choose you as their listing agent, and a home buyer will call you for a home viewing.
Agent SEO – Home buyers (and sellers) will most likely find you from a query performed through a major search engine. Will your name be among the search results? The more you practice and perform optimization of your website and your services online, the better chance you will be at or near the top of search results.
Internet advertising – SEO is part of a successful internet exposure strategy, but paid advertising will help get even more exposure. Real estate agents can use pay per click advertising, banner ads, and other paid advertising on other websites to drum up leads,
Gather leads – Selling agents don’t sit by the phone waiting for a home seller to call them. An agent must find leads and convince a seller that he or she is the agent for them. Through the internet you will be able to drum up leads from sellers who are shopping around for a selling agent.
