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QR codes. What they are, and how they can help sell houses

Are you one of those agents interested in the latest technology to market yourself? QR codes could give QR Code you an advantage over other agents in your area. QR codes are cell phone readable bar codes that can store URL's, contact info, phone numbers, etc. "QR" stands for Quick Results, and is a simple way to link offline printed material to online content with the least effort.

Imagine a potential buyer out gathering flyers on a Sunday afternoon. They see a QR code on your flyer or sign and scan it with their free QR reader app. It takes them straight to your virtual tour where you end with an invitation to show them the house - all while standing in the driveway!

Go to your phone right now and find a QR code reader, then scan the code above. It will link you to an online video from our website about clearing a slow sink drain (hey, we're home inspectors, what do you want?). Think of all the places these can be used; post cards, flyers, and yard signs. Put it on your business card to link it to your Facebook page. There are even a companies that will print shirts and temporary tattoos.

Sample Flyer

For the technical crowd, we've compiled more information, a history of QR barcodes, and a free QR code generator. Visit our full QR page. Some new phones come with a QR code reader installed. Or you can get free reader apps from numerous developers on the web.

This article was submitted by Philippe Heller who is president of The San Diego Real Estate Inspection Company.

Philippe Heller
President
The San Diego Real Estate Inspection Co.
www.sdinspections.com

Posted by Philippe Heller on 06/18/2010 07:00 PM

Comments (18)

QR Codes in the Online Marketing Channel

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Generate short URL

18 Comments on QR codes. What they are, and how they can help sell houses

JUN

2010

Philippe,

I have to print this off and study it; I'm a slow learner,

This is way too cool and cutting edge....thinking of several different places to use this technology!

Another way to stand out. . .I will check it out, thanks for sharing it

I've heard of these but thought it was costly to generate. I'll look forward to learning more from the link you posted.

Philippe, I just learned about OR-Codes a couple of days ago. Didn't know how to generate them. Thanks for the link.

Nice post on a emerging technology- be aware how ever there are several versions of QR codes out there and not all aps read al codes. Similar to the beta max vs VHS war years ago there are competing companies that promote THEIR solution....You have to stay up on it and V can probaly up date the news.

Very interesting. I do think that QR codes would capute the attention of the techies. I think this could easier than it seems on the surface. thanks for the post.

This method is really useful for the agent who adds online content in addition to the typical MLS listing. Linking to a virtual tour, or an intro video of your company, can help you capture the client. In addition, sticking one of these codes on a yard sign can provide an easy way for people to get virtual flyers if the physical flyers are gone.

Like all new ideas, I say give it a try!

This is a great technology, companies use this inventory management all the time. The only downside I see is that most folks won't take the time to download the app and then go through the process of scanning to get more information. I think in a short period of time this might become more mainstream and well worth the effort to include on your flyers.

Thanks for posting this and letting us get ahead of the crowd...

JUN

2010

Just when I think I have the newest technology, something else I don't quite understand comes on the market. i will have to look into this. it seems interesting

AUG

2010

This is kind of new to me. Carra Riley aka Cosmic Pie wrote something about this in a blog I believe two or three weeks ago. And Elizabeth Ramsey Cooper Golden mentioned this in one of her blogs too. I googled this and Elizabeth Ramsey Cooper Golden's company and this blog came up first page on Google. Thought I let you know. Congratulations on the Gold Star. Great post.

OCT

2010

I use QR codes for all sorts of web pages... and especially my client listing sites.

NOV

2010

QR codes are every where. They have been in Europe for years and now hitting our real estate market and the retail market on this side of the planet.

Still think it will be a cool techie tool with a short shelf life.

Thanks for the post.

Frank D'Angelo Broker

EXIT Realty Minneapolis MN

DEC

2010

I love new techie things. Thanks, I needed to know that I can embed a visual tour. I was wondering what information would fit a QR code!

JAN

2011

Hi ...is the QR just for Apple's Iphones? I googled it and couldn't find one for Blackberrys?

OOOps...I found blackberry QR apps. http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/qr-code-software/blackberry/

FEB

Thanks for the post info. Thought this would be tough to set up, but seems to be not so bad.

JUN

Good stuff Phillipe. QR codes are interesting and there are many uses for them. You pointed out a good use for QR in the RE industry. Well done.

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Philippe Heller

San Diego, CA

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The San Diego Real Estate Inspection Co.

Address: 1672 Main St. #E-125, Ramona, CA, 92065

Office Phone: (760) 203-9682

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The contingency period can be the most stressful time in a home purchase transaction. The findings in a home inspection report can cause a stir. This blog will share information with buyers and agents so thatsome of the anxiety can be reduced. Entries will clarify the intent of an inspection, why comments are worded the way they are, and what to expect from houses from certain decades. Important safety information will also be addressed for the benefit of buyers and agents alike.

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