Real Estate Internet Networking vs. Old fashion real estate sales

   I cannot knock down the immense impact of the Internet, networking, blogging on Active Rain, Localism.com for example,on line marketing, SEO, widgets, RSS and more  which  have transformed our industry. I don't miss the days in  the mid 90's  when  we had this huge  listing book of properties and the MLS on line was outdated and so brief and raw. It took for ever just to get on line!

 We all know that more then 70% of potential buyers search properties through the Internet and I have to say that I am glad to see more action on my web site the last month. Even some serious buyers. It seem that some buyers are finally coming off the fence. Still when I went to my office today l was scratching my head at the sight on the large board. We have over 100 listings at the office ( many dropped out and are now inactive )and 60 of these belong to 2 agents who barely have a web site and you cannot find them on the web unless you punch in their name!

          the assistant Miss red
 

They are not networking savvy to say the least. Still, they have over 60 listings, mostly shorts sales which is not surprising. Mind you I have seen them do com parables ( and accurate ones to) in 10 minutes flat. It told me that using old fashion techniques works and one cannot just be blogging and networking on the net. perhaps the Value of an Agent is to be able to do both.No one said it was easy.

  They use the old fashion style of techniques I had learned with the Sweat Hogs. What is your sphere of influence?
Do all your friends and people you meet on a daily basic know that you are a Realtor?  Do you introduce yourself  personally to  homeowners  in your area  and give them a card? Do you call at least 20 people a day? The list goes on and on.

 At times don't you want to get out of the office and get away from the grind?

I often take my dog on these self marketing adventures and just 2 days ago I talked to a couple who stopped in front of a sale sign. It was enjoyable to meet people in person with my furry assistant Miss Red, and lo and behold these people want to view a few single homes as they are not sure they want to stay in a condo. So I will show them some interesting homes in Fort Myers Beach this week. It was more fun then writing 12 e-mails and sending 12 potential properties and following up my phone.I  could  physically see them ! ( of course now I could also use my cam on the computer and do that, but when it all said and done the potential buyers will have to meet you and view these homes.

                                       Friends and also clients from Belgium. They like to keep in touch with their video cam. I met them through a common friend.   
 

  So perhaps mixing it up is best and when I asked how one of the agents got so many listings she told me" from word to mouth". She must have either quite a mouth or must know what she is doing.Probably both. So let's not forget old fashion interaction. Make sure people around your sphere of influence know that you are a real estate agent. 

 LLoyd Nichols