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Articles

Serving Disabled Homebuyers: A Guide for Real Estate Agents
We have a unique opportunity to support individuals with disabilities in achieving the significant milestone of homeownership. By understanding the unique challenges these clients face and leveraging specialized resources, agents can facilitate a smoother and more effective home-buying process. Understanding the Challenges When working with disabled homebuyers, it's crucial to recognize that their primary concerns often extend beyond the standard financial considerations. Accessibility is a significant factor — finding properties that meet specific physical needs or can be easily modified is essential. Additionally, maintaining eligibility for necessary assistance programs while managing the financial implications of buying a home can complicate decisions for these buyers. Key Resources and Tools for Agents DO Audiotours Sometimes you may not recognize a person has a disability like hearing, or neurodiversity, which is where our software comes in. Utilize DO Audiotours to enhance how you communicate property features to your clients. This audio/visual tool includes Audio Description, Captions, Multi-Language support, and ADA-friendly components that bring properties to life. It capitalizes on your knowledge and personal insights, offering a competitive edge in your presentations. Specialize as a Housing Counselor Be the real estate professional who specializes in the intersection of disability and homeownership. You can provide valuable guidance on everything from the buying process to special accommodations and legal rights. Financial Planning Tools Introduce your clients to tools like ABLE accounts, which allow individuals with disabilities to save for their home without risking their benefits such as SSI or Medicaid. This can be crucial for accumulating a down payment or handling housing-related expenses. Government and Non-Profit Programs HUD's Housing Choice Voucher Program: Also known as Section 8, this program not only assists in renting but also in homeownership. It provides vouchers that can help with buying a home and managing monthly homeownership expenses. USDA and VA Loans: Inform your clients about the USDA's Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans for low-income applicants in rural areas, and the VA's home loan programs for veterans, including disabled veterans. These loans often offer favorable terms such as no down payment and no private mortgage insurance. Local Initiatives Explore local non-profits and governmental initiatives that provide additional support and financial assistance for disabled individuals buying a home. Many states and municipalities offer programs that assist with down payments, renovations to make homes accessible, and more. Overcoming Obstacles The challenges faced by disabled homebuyers are significant but not insurmountable. By leveraging these specialized resources and planning strategically, you can help your clients navigate the complexities of buying a home effectively. The key to success lies in preparation and seeking out the right support systems. Conclusion When planning to assist a disabled client in buying a home, consider how each of these resources might fit into their financial planning. From ABLE accounts to government loans and voucher programs, each tool offers unique benefits that can make homeownership more accessible. Always check for local resources and grants that might be available specifically in your area to provide additional support to your clients.
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Pre-Designed Canva Custom Pages Now Available in RPR
The ability to add custom pages to your RPR (Realtors Property Resource) reports is an astute way to insert your brand, your personality and your value into every printed or digital packet you deliver. Get your bio or business philosophy into a Neighborhood Report? Done. Showcase your awards and sales stats into a Market Activity Report? Easy-peasy. Prove your worth with customer testimonials in a Seller's Report? No problemo. It's easy to pull off and can really button up your reports and deliverables. However, perhaps you haven't gotten around to doing it because you thought, "I don't have the skills or the time to learn how to create a layout." Well, you're in luck. The marketing gurus at RPR have created a series of pre-designed Custom Pages layouts using Canva. The designs are professional-looking, the templates are easy to fill in, and best of all, they're absolutely free for all RPR users. Adding Custom Pages to RPR: free, easy and extremely valuable Before we dive into the new Canva Custom Pages, here's a quick primer and how to insert Custom Pages into any RPR Report. Luckily, adding custom pages to your RPR Reports is no problem: Simply select "Manage custom pages" from the Report section A window appears that allows you to add up to five PDF pages, and they can be no larger than 10MB Select the pages you want to add, and what order you want them to appear (beginning or end) You can also watch this just over one-minute video to see all of the above in action: How to access and edit RPR Canva Custom pages Now that we know why and how to use Custom Pages, here's how to take advantage of the RPR-Canva designs: Go to the RPR blog, using this link to the Canva Templates page. Towards the middle of this page, you'll see a navigation bar, and in blue lettering it says, "Custom Pages." Simply click that button to get started! You'll instantly see a library of designs that you can use to create your own Custom Pages. These templates allow you to fill in your own information, photos and logos. Just click on one of the thumbnails, and click "Edit Template" to get into the Canva editor system. You will need a free Canva account to access and edit these files. PRO TIP If you already have a Canva account and are signed in, you'll bypass the "Create an Account" step, but if not, choose how you want to create your free Canva account. Click on "Continue with Google," "Continue with Facebook," or "Continue with Email" to easily get going. Canva also offers a Pro or upgraded paid account, which gives more options within their designer and also the ability to directly share from Canva. The RPR templates, however, do not require you to use the Pro version to edit and download. A look at each Custom Pages Canva design… The Custom Pages Canva templates cover a wide range of topics, including: Open House Sign-in Sheets: When you want to collect names and contact information at your next open house, use this template. Add the home's address and your logo at the top to customize the document. Agent Bios: Build your own bio! These designs are agent biography inserts. Each one is professionally-designed and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Notice that your photo and name are large and eye-catching. All the copy and bullet points are fully customizable — you insert your information into the fields to build a truly unique leave-behind. Each one includes specific subheadings, allowing you to focus on what you think is important to communicate to clients and prospects. There are editable areas for "About Me," "Why Work With Me/Us," "Marketing Strategy," "Mission Statements," plus contact information, tag lines, logos, etc. Client Testimonials: These pages allow you to share the positive things your past clients are saying about you. Each design includes an area for the customer's quote, their photo, and a five-star ranking graphic. This is a great way to highlight your accomplishments, style of work, your strengths and your diverse client base. Of course, always be sure to get permission from the customer before using their name, picture and quote. Marketing Plan Sheets: This page puts an emphasis on your specific marketing tactics when you list a home for sale. Include what type of marketing mix you believe in and get results with, and why you believe it's the best plan of action. There is placeholder copy that you can use, but feel free to add your own language and your own voice. Buyer and Seller Checklists: The last of the designs are popular checklists. The buyer version includes what features buyers are looking for most, and would make a keen addition to any buyer tour. The seller list is a breakdown of what needs to be done by the owner (and the agent) before the home hits the market. Some may seem obvious, but sellers really appreciate seeing items in print that they can "knock out" and keep track of. Free RPR-Canva Custom Pages: add your brand and your value Now, inserting Custom Pages into your RPR Reports is easier than ever. These free Canva templates for RPR users are an opportunity for REALTORS® to communicate their strengths, their philosophies and their successes to clients and prospects. Pick your template, customize it with your information and brand voice, and insert it into your RPR Reports. And voilà! Now your reports are packed with your personal story, credentials and branding. To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.
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Dotloop Beginner Agent Training
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Leveraging Milestones: New Ways to 'Wow' Customers Throughout the Transaction
What if you could make your real estate clients feel like VIPs every step of the way without spending countless hours on personalized gestures? The secret lies in leveraging your transaction management system to commemorate your clients' milestones and show your unwavering support, helping you create an extraordinary client experience. As you know, a transaction management platform offers a myriad of benefits to streamline your business. It serves as a centralized hub for all deal-related information, providing you with a clear overview of each transaction's progress. Going digital means you can access critical documents anytime, anywhere, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. This saves you time, reduces stress, and allows you to provide prompt, accurate updates to your clients, instilling confidence in your ability to manage their transactions seamlessly. Moreover, a transaction management system enables you to collaborate effortlessly with all parties involved in the deal, from clients and co-agents to lenders and title companies. This streamlined communication ensures everyone stays informed and on the same page, minimizing misunderstandings and delays. By leveraging the power of a digital platform, you can create a transparent, efficient process that enhances your clients' trust in your expertise. What if you could take this a step further and use your transaction management system to celebrate your clients' journey at every milestone? By leveraging the power of timely, personalized communication, you can transform the client experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Commemorating the milestones Your transaction management system automatically tracks pivotal events as you navigate from contract to close. You can turn these events into milestones, as they represent significant moments in your client's home-buying or selling journey. Moreover, you can celebrate each one with a bit of special recognition. How you inform clients about reaching a milestone is not as important as when. Sending a timely communication – via email, phone, or even a personalized note sent via mail – is vital to acknowledging these achievements and sharing in their excitement. When you turn each of these events into a milestone to celebrate, you can "wow" your customers by exceeding their communications expectations: Offer accepted The moment an offer is accepted marks the beginning of your client's journey. Celebrate this milestone by sending a congratulatory message, expressing your enthusiasm for the road ahead. This simple gesture sets the tone for a positive, supportive relationship. Escrow deposit confirmed Let your clients know when the escrow deposit or transfer is confirmed. This milestone signifies a commitment to the process and reminds them that they're one step closer to their goal. Title review complete Upon receiving and reviewing the title, inform your clients of the progress. This milestone may seem minor, but it's essential to ensure a smooth transaction. Homeowners insurance secured Once your clients have secured homeowners insurance, take a moment to acknowledge this achievement. This milestone provides peace of mind and demonstrates their responsibility as future homeowners. HOA documents shared (if applicable) Sharing the HOA documents is crucial if your clients are purchasing a condo or a property within a homeowners association. When this milestone is reached, let your clients know and offer to review the documents together. Inspection reports received When the inspection reports come in, share the highlights with your clients. This milestone can be stressful, so provide context and offer guidance on any necessary steps moving forward. Appraisal confirmation Appraisal confirmation is a significant milestone, as it validates the property's value. Share the vital details with your clients and express your confidence in the transaction's progress. Loan approval or asset verification Whether your clients are financing their purchase or paying cash, the loan approval or asset verification milestone is cause for celebration. Let your clients know that they're getting closer to the finish line. Closing date set Share the exciting news with your clients when the closing date is set. This milestone signifies the beginning of the final stretch and allows your clients to plan accordingly. Final walkthrough complete After the final walkthrough, contact your clients to ensure they're satisfied with the property's condition. This milestone represents the last opportunity to address any concerns before closing. Closing confirmation When the closing is confirmed, celebrate with your clients. This milestone marks the end of their journey and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Creating raving fans for life Recognizing and commemorating each milestone demonstrates your commitment to your client's success. Your attention to detail and timely communication will set you apart from the competition and create a memorable, positive experience for your clients. Remember, the goal is not just to complete a transaction but to foster a lasting relationship built on trust, support, and expertise – and to illustrate that you genuinely care. By leveraging your transaction management system – like Form Simplicity – to help celebrate your clients' journey, you'll create raving fans who will praise your efforts and refer you to their friends and family, possibly for years to come. Embrace the power of milestones through your transaction management system and watch your client relationships flourish. Your transaction management system is more than just a tool – it's your key to unlocking an unparalleled client experience that will keep them coming back for more. Related reads From the Form Simplicity blog: 4 Ways Technology Can Help Real Estate Agents Achieve Work-Life Balance Improve the Customer Experience – 4 Ways Transaction Management Software Can Help 3 Surprising Advantages of a Digital Transaction Management Program Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns both Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.
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Products

CRS Data MLS Tax Suite
Empower your REALTORS® by adding the MLS Tax Suite as a membership benefit. Since 1989, CRS Data has provided you with a wealth of tax data. Our new, customized MLS Tax Suite by CRS Data integrates seamlessly into your MLS system and gives REALTORS® current tax data, detailed maps and robust features on all browsers and devices. Find listings and FSBOs quickly, evaluate them effectively and give clients professional
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Get.realtor
Get.realtor is your premier destination for revolutionizing your online presence in the real estate industry. We specialize in providing top-level domains such as .realtor™ and .realestate, coupled with cutting-edge website solutions tailored to elevate your business to new heights. At get.realtor we understand the significance of a strong online presence in today's competitive real estate market. Backed by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® our mission is to empower REALTORS®, real estate professionals and businesses by offering them the tools they need to establish a distinctive brand identity and excel in the digital
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RPR for Agents
Realtors Property Resource® (RPR) is a national property database from NAR® designed to provide REALTORS® with advanced technology tools and features needed to provide clients and customers with dynamic reports and analytics. These features assist in helping your clients and customers make informed decisions when buying or selling property. The Realtors Property Resource application: Is exclusive technology only for REALTORS Does not allow public or consumer access Is a NAR® member benefit provided at no additional charge With RPR, All REALTORS® can access: Tax assessment and public records on over 150 million parcels of propertyin the U.S. Mortgage and lien information Largest national database by county of foreclosure, pre-foreclosure, REO and default Nationwide school data, test scores and parent reviews  Dynamic mapping: School Zones, Neighborhoods, Zip Codes, Cities, FEMA etc. Geo-spatial data including aerial photography, street level and bird’s eye view Census, demographic and lifestyle data Neighborhood information Comprehensive property and neighborhood reporting If the local MLS has partnered with RPR to include MLS data in the system, REALTORS® will also have access to: MLS active, sold, pending, expired, withdrawn and canceled statuses Historic listing comparison tool Realtor Valuation Model® (RVM®) Refine property facts, comparables and RVM® for custom valuation report Charts and Graphs will include trends calculated from MLS data  RPR also offers Broker branding to help reinforce your brand as part of the Want to get started? Watch this video on creating an
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RPR for Commercial
RPR for Commercial For those specializing in commercial properties, this program providers users comprehensive market data on a single platform. You can search for data by demographic, psychographic, or spending information to identify areas of high concentration of the customers your client is looking to target.  RPR for Commercial also helps business owners find a location based on an analysis of spending data within drive time, radius, or general area. Commercial reports can also be put together in minutes for your client to show trade area, business opportunities chart, or property reports as well.
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Industry News

Center for REALTOR® Development Partners with Shaping Wealth to Empower Agents with Human-Centric Training Suite
WASHINGTON (May 2, 2024) – The Center for REALTOR® Development, a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Association of REALTORS®, today announced a strategic partnership with Shaping Wealth to offer training programs crafted to equip agents with the human-centric skills needed to thrive in today's real estate environment. The partnership provides NAR members exclusive access and discounted pricing on three upcoming virtual workshops. "At the Center for REALTOR® Development, we are committed to empowering agents who are REALTORS® with the tools necessary for success in the dynamic real estate market," said Marc Gould, NAR chief learning officer and CRD board member. "Partnering with Shaping Wealth enhances our members' ability to serve their clients with empathy, integrity and professionalism." The virtual workshops will be led by Dr. Joy Lere, a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of Shaping Wealth. Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate of completion and access to all course materials. "We are thrilled to partner with the Center for REALTOR® Development to empower their members to leverage the power of emotional intelligence, storytelling, and wellbeing to elevate their careers and pursue a life well lived," said Dr. Lere. "Participants will develop skills crucial for building strong client relationships, navigating complex situations in the workplace and achieving long-term success in today's competitive marketplace." To learn more and register for the workshops, visit wellbeing.crd.realtor. About the National Association of REALTORS® The National Association of REALTORS® is America's largest trade association, representing 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. About the Center for REALTOR® Development The Center for REALTOR® Development (CRD) is committed to fostering lifelong learning, facilitating career advancement, and providing specialized credentials for real estate professionals. With over 10 designations and certifications, a library of more than 100 microcourses, an acclaimed podcast, and in-person educational events, CRD ensures that there's a learning opportunity tailored to every real estate professional's needs. About Shaping Wealth Shaping Wealth is the global wealth industry's leading learning and coaching platform for human-first financial guidance. As experts in applied behavioral finance, emotional intelligence, neuroscience, and positive psychology, Shaping Wealth creates coaching and content experiences that inspire financial wellbeing among its worldwide clientele.
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Ben Caballero Crushes the World Record for Annual U.S. Home Sales
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New iGUIDE Lead Magnet Generates Real-Time Leads for Real Estate Professionals
The exclusive product feature lets buyers viewing iGUIDE's 3D Virtual Tours request additional property details providing agents with instant leads. WATERLOO, Ontario, April 30, 2024 – Planitar Inc., makers of iGUIDE, a proprietary camera and software platform for capturing and delivering 3D virtual tours and property data, today introduced iGUIDE Lead Magnet—an exclusive product feature designed to help real estate agents capture leads and get market feedback in real-time as prospective buyers view iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour property listings. iGUIDE Lead Magnet is an interactive pop-up element that appears in the iGUIDE. Viewer as potential buyers explore real estate listings. The feature allows buyers to request more details by providing their contact information in exchange for receiving access to additional visuals via an email or SMS from the listing agent. The agent now can engage with the qualified lead as they choose. "This new product feature is about forging relationships in real estate," said Alexander Likholyot, the CEO and co-founder of Planitar Inc. "Even after Covid-19, industrywide adoption of 3D tours in real estate has barely crossed into double digits, as listing agents haven't been able to capture feedback about a property or start a conversation with potential buyers within a 3D tour. The new iGUIDE Lead Magnet solves both problems by letting buyers share their contact information to get access to additional property visuals delivered in the detailed version of iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour while encouraging buyers to ask questions and provide feedback about the listing. This exchange gives agents a way to contact and engage with qualified, interested buyers and connect with potential future listing prospects." In addition to generating real-time leads 24/7, iGUIDE Lead Magnet empowers buyers to provide valuable feedback directly on the virtual listings, offering agents insights they can share with sellers. Real estate professionals have the flexibility to streamline their communication process by automatically responding to leads via email or SMS, saving time while still delivering personalized responses tailored to each potential buyer's inquiries. Here's how it works: A pop-up form appears in the iGUIDE Viewer after a prospective buyer explores the listing. A prospective buyer can elect to provide their contact information for access to additional property visuals delivered via the detailed iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour. The listing agent receives an alert, either by text or email, with the prospective buyer's contact information. If configured, an automatic email is sent at the same time to the prospective buyer with the detailed iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour link. The agent can choose to send an automatic or custom response, providing the buyer with the detailed iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour and engaging them into a conversation or arranging for a Virtual Showing if a curated agent-guided iGUIDE experience is desired. Key features and benefits of iGUIDE Lead Magnet include: Buyer lead data is sent in real-time via email notification or SMS. Prospective buyers are encouraged to provide valuable feedback that the listing agent can share with the sellers. Minimal effort is required by an agent to set up and maintain while retaining control over listing visuals, as well as client communications. iGUIDE Lead Magnet takes advantage of the unique way iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tours can hide and show visuals and/or rooms creating two unique iGUIDE versions. There is no additional cost above the iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tour. The exclusive, new product feature is available on all iGUIDE 3D Virtual Tours (Instant, Standard & Premium). For more information, visit: goiguide.com/get-iguide/iguide/lead-magnet About Planitar Founded in 2013 in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, Planitar Inc. is the maker of iGUIDE, a proprietary camera and software platform for capturing and delivering immersive 3D virtual tours and extensive property data. iGUIDE is the most efficient system to map interior spaces and features accurate floor plans, measurements and reliable property square footage. By integrating floor plans and visual data, iGUIDE provides an intuitive and practical way to navigate and explore built environments digitally. For more, visit goiguide.com.
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Utility Concierge Rebrands as Move Concierge
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Companies

Realtors Property Resource® (RPR)
This initiative is based on the collaborative efforts of REALTORS® and the real estate community, including Brokers, MLSs and Associations. RPR’s core mission is to reinforce the REALTOR’S® value in the market place by keeping them ahead of the technology curve and better able to serve today’s’ technology empowered
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Constant Contact
Constant Contact delivers for the real estate industry with powerful tools to simplify and amplify digital marketing. Whether you’re an agent or a growing firm, our platform is designed to help your business stand out, connect with your audience, and drive real results. Our best-in-class delivery (97%) means your email campaigns reach the inbox—not the spam folder—and our suite of tools allow you to streamline marketing across channels like SMS, social, ads, and events with one platform to accomplish your goals. See what brings thousands of real estate professionals to Constant Contact
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Dell Technologies
The tools and expertise you need to do incredible things Dell Technologies stands as an unparalleled technology provider for real estate professionals, whether you are an individual agent, a team leader, or an owner of a multi-office firm. We offer solutions specifically tailored to the unique demands of the real estate industry, Dell Technologies offers a distinctive array of benefits to empower small business owners and entrepreneurs in shaping their digital future and revolutionizing their professional lives. As part of the Dell Technologies family, which encompasses Dell, Dell EMC, Pivotal, RSA, Secureworks, Virtustream, and VMware, customers gain access to the industry's most comprehensive and innovative technology and services portfolio. Put our technology and small business advisory services to work for you with exclusive discounts for RE Technology
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VirtualTourCafe
VirtualTourCafe embarked on a journey to completely redesign and redevelop the online software to meet the needs of today’s real estate industry as well as the new “Web 3.0” graphical and responsive designed websites. Eight thousand hours of developing later, VirtualTourCafe 3.0 was launched on June 1 st , 2016. The new and improved service offers many new features and benefits for the real estate agent, but more importantly positions VirtualTourCafe for the future! The VirtualTourCafe difference: An integrated easy-to-use modern solution for every real estate agent! Today we are still a small but growing company based in Pleasanton, CA with a small staff and lots of help from our friends, family and business partners. We work with independent contractors, photographers and virtual partners around the world. We are proud of what we have accomplished in such a short time with loyal customers who have been with us from the beginning! We have been able to maintain our values and moral compass pointed in the right direction, while always treating our customers, employees and associates as if they are family, and living life full of love and gratitude, one day at a
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Webinars

[WATCH] The Future of AI
Intrigued by artificial intelligence? Ever wanted to understand it more deeply? We've got just the overview for you! Last month, RE Technology was joined by Dr. Brons Larson of Dell Technologies for a webinar. Dr. Larson is an applied mathematician with a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence who has worked with AI for two decades. Dr. Larson took us on a fascinating journey, explaining the origins of AI, where it's at now, and where it's headed in the future. Webinar attendees were treated to a discussion that ranged from complexity to how AI learns to the ethics of AI — and, yes, how advancements may impact real estate professionals in the future. So if you want to deepen your knowledge of this rapidly changing technology (and sound much smarter at cocktail parties), watch the full webinar below: Webinar Guests Dr. Brons Larson, AI Ecosystems Lead, Dell Technologies Sara Nauert, Strategic Partnerships and Business Development Analyst, Dell Technologies Moderator: Marilyn Wilson, Co-founder and President, RE Technology Video Timeline 0:00 - Moderator Marilyn Wilson introduces the topic and panelist. 0:54 - Dr. Brons Larson shares his background as an applied mathematician with a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence who has worked in the AI field for 20 years. 2:00 - Dr. Larson offers a snapshot of what AI at Dell Technologies means today. 2:53 - How AI is categorized into three broad areas within Dell. 4:35 - A snapshot of Dell's current AI projects. 8:35 - What's next for AI? An overview of the first, second, and probable third waves of AI. 12:24 - Dr. Larson references quotes from experts, including DARPA's view that AI is essentially a bunch of spreadsheets, and Jeffrey Hinton's suggestion to "throw it all away and start over." 14:47 - Why is a third wave of AI needed? 22:57 - An overview of AI challenges. 25:24 - How human learning differs from how AI learns. 30:45 - How does third wave AI work? 32:15 - What will launch the third wave of AI? 33:45 - Third wave AI offers up an immense opportunity. 36:39 - Impact of shifting from second to third wave AI. 39:05 - Third wave AI and creativity: Will AI replace creative professionals? 42:29 - Sara Nauert shares Dell Technology offers available to RE Technology readers. 44:08 - Dr. Larson answers questions on how AI will impact the real estate industry. Next Steps For questions or more information on Dell Technologies, contact [email protected] Learn more about special offers from Dell for RE Technology readers Watch more webinars
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3 Must-Read Tips for Building a Digital Brand Identity as an Agent
Creating a digital brand identity as a real estate agent has never been a more important component of the business. Both buyers and sellers spend ample time researching potential agents online long before they make any decisions about who will represent them in the home transaction, typically between six months to a year before they actually hire someone. At the same time, it's never been more difficult to craft a distinct brand as an agent, one that prospective buyers and sellers can trust and understand. There are no doubt a lot of agents competing with you in your market, and standing out from the crowd can be a challenge for even the best agents. In a webinar from October 31, 2023, Marilyn Wilson, President of RE Technology, sat down with John Adams, President of Adams, Cameron & Co., and Peter Newton, President of Big Rock Consulting Group, to talk about actionable ways agents can craft their unique brand identity. Watch the video to get the full experience; meanwhile, here are some between-the-lines takeaways from their presentation. 1. Digital reach matters more than physical distance Buying physical advertising on billboards, park benches, or newspapers has been a tried-and-true tactic that many agents have used to establish and spread their brand identity. However, these days, people who buy a new house are moving farther and farther away from their current residence: up to 50 miles, compared to up to 15 miles in previous years. If the billboard ads are working for you, that's great, but remember that there could be potential clients who are miles away from the places you would most likely post a physical ad. Building a digital brand identity will help you to both cement trust locally and generate leads from outside your immediate area. 2. Working with a high-profile brokerage can give you a head start Both buyers and sellers want to work with agents who have an established brand. For newer agents who don't have as much experience, or even for seasoned agents who appreciate the additional leverage, working with a brokerage that aligns with your brand identity and that has done its own work to market and advertise itself can help provide a boost to your own reach. 3. Be ubiquitous and consistent It takes a certain number of impressions before an individual member of your audience will be able to remember who you are and what you do. That's not an indication that your brand needs improvement; rather, it's proof of how inundated everybody is with information all day, every day, and how consistent and persistent messaging can help cut through the noise to reach your target audience. With that in mind, it's smart to diversify your marketing efforts just like you would an investment portfolio. Create content that consistently showcases you as a real estate expert in your niche for different channels. If you make a neighborhood guide video for your website, ask yourself how you can slice it up and reuse it not just on Facebook, but also YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and other social media platforms that support video sharing. To learn more about how to establish a niche for yourself and the five steps of building a brand, watch the full presentation. Related reading Real Estate Branding: 6 Steps for Agent Success How to Humanize Your Digital Business A Step-by-Step Guide to Branding Your Business
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Mastering Real Estate Marketing in 2023: Back to the Basics
When home sales decline in a market, it may feel natural to pull back on spending to conserve your resources. But is that really the right approach? Instead, top agents take the opposite tack: they get even more aggressive on promotion because they know their competitors are cutting back. This leaves an opportunity for top agents to expand their presence. Then, when the housing market turns favorable again, they can come out stronger than ever. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a ton on promotions to be successful. In a recent webinar, we learned how to act strategically to market yourself to sellers and give your listings a virtual advantage. Watch the webinar recording to learn more: Webinar Guests Michael Vervena, VP of Sales and Marketing, Planitar, Inc. Moderator: Marilyn Wilson, Co-founder and President, RE Technology Video Timeline 0:00 - Moderator Marilyn Wilson introduces the topic and panelist. 3:40 - Michael Vervena talks about current market challenges. 6:55 - Buyers and sellers are starting their real estate journey online. 8:35 - What do home sellers expect from a real estate professional? 11:27 - Meeting home buyers' expectations. 17:35 - How to give your online listings a virtual advantage. 22:03 - Technology that provides accurate and reliable data to meet buyers' expectations. 42:20 - Strategies for sharing your listings on social media. 43:11 - How to demonstrate your value by showing your client what you did for them. 48:35 - What makes iGuide unique, and how it helps your marketing strategy. Next Steps To learn more about iGuide, visit GoiGUIDE.com To find a service provider in your area, visit goiguide.com/residential-real-estate Read articles about Virtual Tours, Floor Plans, and Online Marketing Explore more Virtual Tour, Floor Plan, and Online Marketing solutions in our Product Directory Watch more webinars
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Online Marketing Boot Camp: Don't Be the Invisible Agent
Can your ideal clients find you online? Making your business visible to potential leads isn't as simple as throwing up a real estate website. Online marketing isn't like Field of Dreams — if you build it, they may not necessarily come. They will, however, come if you undertake a consistent marketing strategy. And it doesn't even have to be complex or time-consuming. The key is cross-promoting your marketing content across various platforms so that you reach consumers wherever they are. We learned all about this in a recent webinar. Watch the recording below to find out how easy it is to get started with an online marketing strategy that puts your business in front of your ideal clients. Webinar Guest Brandon Zwingman, National Business Development Consultant, Elm Street Technology Video Timeline 0:00 - Host Brandon Zwingman introduces himself and the webinar topic. 4:11 - The top five online platforms that most agents aren't using in their online strategy. 6:37 - Email marketing: what kind of emails to leverage, how to use them, and what content to include. 18:05 - Blogging: the benefits to SEO, your online visibility, and how to promote. 20:13 - Facebook: Business pages, how often to post, the most valuable types of posts. 33:33 - LinkedIn: "The silent powerhouse" for real estate marketing. 40:00 - Your website: your central place to be found on the internet. 44:22 - The key to effective social media marketing. 47:08 - The way consumers search has changed. 48:00 - Local ranking factors on Google. 49:37 - Setting up your Google Business Page. 53:00 - The importance of your online brand. 56:27 - Money making goals to set for your online reputation. 1:00:41 - A look at how OutboundEngine can simplify your online marketing strategy. 1:14:58 - Go to bit.ly/profilereach to see how your business is displayed online. Next Steps Visit OutboundEngine.com to learn more Read articles about Online Marketing, or explore more Online Marketing solutions in our Product Directory Watch more webinars Register for our upcoming webinar, Real Estate Marketing in 2023: Focus on the Fundamentals
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[WATCH] The Ultimate Lead Generation Machine: How to Keep Your Repeat and Referral Gears Turning
Did you know that 67% of all real estate leads come from repeat and referral clients? To help our readers learn to nurture this side of your business, we recently co-hosted a webinar with Morris Marketing Group. Webinar attendees learned the latest research on lead generation and conversion, as well as answers to the following questions: Where do the best leads come from? Who is converting them? What is their strategy? Watch the webinar recording below to learn why lead conversion is just as important as lead generation, how to find quality leads, and how to keep your repeat and referral business humming along. Webinar Guest Phil Hollander, VP of Business and Professional Development, Morris Marketing Video Timeline 0:00 - Host Phil Hollander introduces himself and the webinar topic. 5:00 - What type of real estate agent do you want to be? 6:13 - What does having a vision for your business look like? 7:29 - Why you need to generate a steady flow of leads. 7:55 - The Lead Spectrum: a different way to look at leads. 11:33 - Two ways to evaluate a lead. 13:09 - The ideal lead situation. 15:14 - The four dominant personality types of lead generation and conversion. 23:50 - A look at the Prospector and Converter personality types. 25:56 - A look at the Networker and Marketer personality types. 28:59 - How are clients choosing agents these days? 29:57 - Why having a systems-based business is critical to your success. 33:51 - The Success System for generating and converting leads. 36:15 - Component #1 of the Success System: Direct mail newsletter. 40:32 - Component #2 of the Success System: Email newsletter. 41:17 - Component #3 of the Success System: Market updates. 42:29 - Component #4 of the Success System: Birthday and move-in anniversary outreach. 43:01 - Component #5 of the Success System: Phone calls. 44:09 - Component #6 of the Success System: In-person client events. 45:20 - Component #7 of the Success System: Annual real estate checkup. 47:29 - Component #8 of the Success System: Your website. 49:08 - Component #9 of the Success System: Blog and social media content. 51:21 - Strategies for qualifying your database. 53:31 - Quick overview of what we've learned so far. 54:50 - Does the Success System work for new agents? 58:21 - Learn more about the Client Referrals system with a free 20-minute consultation. Next Steps Contact Phil Hollander via email or at 800-308-6134 ext. 217 for a free 20-minute consultation Visit MorrisMarketingGroup.com to learn more Read articles about Lead Generation, or explore more Lead Generation solutions in our Product Directory Watch more webinars
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