It’s amazing how everyone is online these days, isn’t it? It seems like it was just yesterday when marketing folks still felt that a website is no more than “nice to have,” but when we think about it, that was back in the early nineties! Now everyone realizes that a website is an absolute must for any self-respecting business, and that includes real estate agents.

But the thing is, a website is not enough anymore. It’s a given – as in, if you don’t have a website no one will take you seriously – but these days you need to do much more than maintain a website to be considered a savvy real estate professional.

To truly grow your online presence, ideally you should have a mix of the following:

1. An agent website. Your agent website is your online business card and resume, and should be used to highlight your achievements, experience and expertise and to provide clients and prospects with valuable information.

2. Single property websites. These focus around a single property, highlighting its features and benefits and providing all the information on that property at one place. Sellers and buyers alike love single property websites, and they are great at helping you to win listings.

3. Social media accounts. You need to have a Facebook page and a Twitter account. Update your social media accounts frequently, add useful info and links, and reach out to new friends and followers weekly. Over a year or so, you can significantly grow these accounts. The beauty of social media is that it functions just like word of mouth marketing, but on a much larger scale.

4. Don’t forget email! Being active and proactive rather than passive when keeping in touch with clients and prospects can make a big difference, and email drip marketing programs are a huge help.

Growing your online presence takes time and patience, but it is also lots of fun and the return on investment is very real.