I joined this community and worked diligently on my website because I truly believe that the majority of Real Estate searches start on-line. 

However, now that I have built a solid website, done some fundamental SEO, gotten good placement, and leveraged ppc, I am finding that the people contacting me want to use my knowledge but work with another agent.

I have people hit my site all day and I do get some clients from it.  But the majority of people have been eager to use my knowledge, service, etc.  Then suddenly they disappear and work with another agent, whom they intended to the entire time.  Usually their agent is family or a friend.

I have literally had a recent client let me take them out several times, get excited about a Murrieta home, arrange to meet me to write it up, and never show up.  I didn't hear from them for 2 week and then he wanted my help again.  I don't think I could use people like that, knowing that their time is their living.  This guy is completely guilt free and he isn't alone.  I know some of that is just "real estate being real estate" but I definately see it much more frequently from online leads.

So, while I do get some business from my site - feel free to check it out www.stefanwest.com.  I often wonder how other agents feel about web leads, establishing an internet presence, etc.  I am still in the process but my site gets a decent amount of traffic.

Anyone out there with some opinions, advice, or similiar experiences?

To me it just seems that people window shop online, get you to help them and take that information and experience back to an agent that has done nothing for the client.  Anyone out there with a dominate website position over the last couple of years have a good method of lead management you care to share?

Thanks

Stefan