Working in real estate technologies, I am often asked SEO questions or for SEO referrals, to which I always respond "What are you trying to accomplish with SEO?"
If one is under the impression that they are going to gain the top few spots on Google for queries of "Real Estate Agent Chicago", which will then lead to an abundant stream of fresh new leads and booming business. I suggest they perhaps devote their limited resources elsewhere. There are three reasons:
- The selection of a real estate agent is often mostly by networking.
- Getting on the top of the google list for competitive keywords like that are EXTREMELY difficult.
- SEO can not be sustainably forced, it is driven by quality content.
However that is not to say that SEO can't play a useful role in your web presence. Good ranking can serve purposes when used correctly:
- Help people find you - Unless your name is Bob Dylan, Bill Clinton, or Robert Smith - It should be relatively easy to get your name or your company on the front page of a search for EG: "Craig Sparling Real Estate", "PeekaCity". I often use this when following up a sales lead since people switch companies so frequently.
- Reach your target client - Although certain keywords don't get hit very often, if you are the best resource for the topic in your area you are going to want them to point to you when they do. For example: "handicapped accessible real state downtown Dallas" or "dog friendly housing Evanston IL"
