With numbers like these, is it any wonder that agents are trying to promote themselves and their listings on these social media sites? We learned recently that some of these sites may not be as open to the advances of today’s modern Realtors as we once assumed (see Inman News-Future of Real Estate Blog). Well, to be fair Facebook will gladly let you advertise your listings as long as you pay!
So, what does this all mean to an agent sitting in their PJ’s late at night while surfing the net and looking to jump into social media advertising? Here are some tips:
- Keep your expectations low. Social media advertising is not likely to drastically change the way you do your business overnight.
- You might be asked to pay. As evidenced by the above mentioned Facebook story.
- Be professional. The social media world is certainly more relaxed and operates by a less formal protocol. However, keep in mind you are representing yourself and your clients.
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Consider legacy. “Things” live in the online world forever. How we portray ourselves online will become a measure of our character for years to come. The line between “professional life” and “personal life” is nonexistent.
- Keep current. If you are advertising listings, it becomes your responsibility to keep the information current. Remember those postings and update them as the status of the listings change.
As you delve into social media sites, don’t forget about your local online advertising sites. According to the Borrell Accosicates report 2008 Outlook: Local Online Advertising, a 48{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} increase in local online ad spending is expected in 2008. Find out what sites are popular in your local market and consider how you can utilize them in your online marketing strategies.
As for the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate team, check out our contributor’s profiles on Facebook and LinkedIn.
