With the evolution of Internet Data Exchange (IDX) and literally millions of real estate websites, the consumer has had access to a significant number of sources of property information. VOWs (Virtual Office Websites) will allow brokers to once again place themselves at the center of the consumer's property search experience.

A broker's VOW will offer consumers the most comprehensive, accurate and timely real estate information available.

Because of the quality of information offered to consumers through VOWs, customers will be less likely to spend much time on non-broker websites offering less listing information. In mature VOW markets, more than 50% of all transactions were to registered VOW consumers. Both buyers and sellers value the depth of information available to watch market trends and find the right home.

Home sellers in VOW Markets are pricing their homes more realistically. Buyers using VOWs are working closely with their agents reviewing listings that match their search criteria all under the supportive hand of their real estate professional.

The new challenge will be to stay attuned to the behavior of your client as they perform their research using your VOW.

Historically, agents have prepared a specific set of information for their buyers and sellers to review in their decision making process. The new process will be more conversational – online and offline. The customer is likely to be doing as much or more research as their agent. This will challenge agents to be as well informed as their clients. A good VOW product will support the agent by providing visibility into the behavior of their customer.

Virtual Office Websites are one of the most valuable tools a real estate professional can use today to provide the depth of information today's real estate consumer is looking for.

For More Information

• Learn more about AgentAchieve in our Product Directory
• Explore more options for Virtual Office Websites
• See our collection of articles about VOWs