Over the past several weeks I have had several posts and comments on posts referring to my STEALTH SITE.

Including How to handle FAKE leads (and the people that sent them)  and One of the BEST TOOLS - The STEALTH SITE

I can't say I am not surprised at the number of negative comments I have received from people saying that I can't or shouldn't do that. That it is unethical, or forbidden, or whatever other excuse they have.

Jim and GARY were both quick to say I was doing something wrong, and quote the bylaws. First of all, let me say I do appreciate their feedback, I think it's good that we have healthy discussion, that being said, if you have your broker name and state of licensure on the web page, you are good to go.

There are also those who say stealth sites and drip campaigns don't work any more. This simply isn't true. You have to be EXTREMELY POLITE with your follow up, and ask for permission for continued follow up, but if you do, you will create good prospects.

This is nothing new to me, anytime I do anything that gets results, I noticed there is a certain "doughnut eating" element of the real estate industry that likes to put down anybody else's ideas for fear they will have to get up off their chair and actually do something to earn their living. These people are generally resentful of innovators, producers, and of others that have idea's and attempt to put them to use.

I will be the first to admit, that most of my idea's fail. But than again the same can be said about most of EDISON's Ideas. Edison once said (I am paraphrasing and not quoting) "I didn't see the 9999 times that my lightbulb didn't work as failures, but as successes in learning yet another way that would not work"

When I first started working as a loan officer, I was criticized by real estate agents for helping FSBO's. I was told I was making it harder for them to get business by competing with them. The truth was... I was doing the opposite. I was generating and incubating leads for the few agents who were actually loyal to me. I had dozens of ideas and programs that I implemented, many of which I still use today. I was often surprised at how reluctant agents were to learn new ideas, or think outside the box. I became so frustrated that I got my real estate license to implement my ideas, originally thinking I would still generate business and give it to agents, who would in turn give me loans. I now sell more real estate than most of the agents I started out trying to get business from, and still in the real estate community both locally and here on ACTIVE RAIN, the masses look for reasons why idea's won't work.

I have learned that there are NO MAGIC SECRETS in real estate. I can share my idea's with everybody and it won't hurt my business or production at all for two reasons.

REASON #1 - People are LAZY. -  You can tell them step by step how to create a million dollar business, and even if it's a proven successful business plan, they will not put forth the effort to implement it.

REASON #2 - There IS enough business to go around! - Because of reason #1, there are only a few agents that will do what it takes to make it. They will do the same things you are doing whether you share information with them or not, and there is enough business for the good agents to all make a good living. Sharing will only speed up the process for them, and for you, as they also share their ideas.

 My stealth sites are ethical, comply with rules and laws AND are effective.

Here is a screen shot of one:

MY STEALTH SITE

You will notice the disclaimer at the top of the page, giving brokers name and state of licensure.

Here is a bit of advice for any newbie, or anyone wanting to take their business to the next level...

Never take advice from someone who's rear end is the same shape as their chair. It' didn't get that way overnight.

Ingore the NAY SAYERS and the NERVOUS NELLIES and the DONUT EATERS in our business, and go out and make some money!

 
Post is included in group: Weichert Affiliates Illinois and Wisconsin

66 Comments on STEALTH SITES - ETHICS VIOLATION? OR PROFIT CENTER?

APR
11
2007
187,017 Points 12 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Great information Ralph!  I've been thinking of a stealth site for a long time now.   Any advice on service providers?  My branded site is excellent, but I definately see the value in this application!!!
3:18pm • #1
2 Featured Posts

Ralph, right on! Oh my gosh finally someone who just nailed it. I get so frustrated with Realtors that want the commissions but aren't willing to go out there and do what it takes to get the job done. I can't tell you how many times in the early days, I encountered the nay sayers and now they are coming to me asking for advice. Amazing!

You really have to be positive in this business and by helping others you will help yourself! Great post!

3:18pm • #2
3 Featured Posts
Ralph...too many people worry about what others are doing, instead of putting that energy into developing new and better ways for them to work smarter and not harder.  Keep up the good work!
3:19pm • #3
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Thanks Chris -

I use IPROCENTER. It's not important who you use, and long as it's reliable. Take a look at mine. You should be able to capture all the information, and immediately get an email. The faster your response, the better the chance to identify real leads vs. bogus leads.

I make an attempt at a phone call right away, and tell the prospect I am only calling to help with the search and make sure they only get the properties that fit their criteria. I than set up auto-email and put them in a top producer campaign that has phone calls, emails and a few letters over the next 6 months.

3:38pm • #4

Chris, your comments are well taken.  The key to all of this is the personal contact that you develop along the way.  I often have several soft touches, like a phone call or even a business card with discounts for local restaurants on the back. 

The initial contact is slow, building relationships is what it is about.  They need to know, like and trust you.

 

4:00pm • #5
609,186 Points 80 Featured Posts Outside Blog
I stick by my guns, if you don't identify yourself individually on your real estate website site as required by the NAR Code of Ethics...then you violate the NAR Realtor Code of Ethics.  If your state requires disclosure of your name, phone number, office address, broker, office phone number and it is not provided as required, then you are in violation of State license law.  Are you afraid of people knowing who you are?  I mean you either have a great reputation, or are afraid people won't work with you.  I don't get it!
10:58pm • #6
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

JIM - How am I not identifying myself? Just exactly what information am I not providing that you feel is necessary. The only thing my web site does is ask for the prospects information before I provide market date to him/her. My reputation is fine... I just want to have a name and face (and possibly email address and phone number) to go with the request for info.

DID YOU ACTUALLY LOOK AT MY SITE? Or are you just passing criticism's along without knowing what you are talking about?

11:27pm • #7
118,985 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Ralph, I think Jim hit the nail on the head. With the website program I have, there is a great promotion for me to have an "Un-Branded" site. I do not have one because I want to "Brand" my name and Team name WITH innovative lead capturing. I checked out your site and YES, you do provide your Broker information and telephone numbers. It did take awhile to load on dial-up (yes, there are still dial-up users) however, a good site. Mine is http://www.MarylandHOMESTeam.com/

"The Bar is there for a reason......now rise above it"

11:37pm • #8
609,186 Points 80 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Where is your name? It isn't on the site at all!  I can read, your brokers name is there,  Your's isn't!
11:48pm • #9
APR
12
2007

Ralph, I like your boldness. Keep being a pioneer!!

Good Day!! have a cup of java and a smile on me :)

12:43am • #11
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Jim - WHY ALL THE BOLD SHOUTING?  Actually the site designers do not have a place for the agent's name, and the point is to provide information of value first, before being self-promoting. When a prospect goes to HomeSearchWI.com, or to HomeValueWI.com  and fills out their information request, they are directed to www.RALPHNUDI.com  after hitting the "SUBMIT" button.

There they can find out all of the information on me that they want.

And the bottom line is... this site works. I provide valuable information about Kenosha Real Estate to people who want it, I earn their trust, and I sell their home, or help them to buy one. Isn't that what we are in the business of doing?

9:42am • #12
609,186 Points 80 Featured Posts Outside Blog
If the site is owned by the agent, and is a free standing url, it doesn't comply.  There is always room to place your name.
1:40pm • #13
It never fails to amaze me how many people haunt these boards just to jump all over people or insist that they are right or righter then someone else. I usually find that these are the people who are sitting around the office reading the paper and complaining about how bad things are and why can't they be they way they used to be. . I applaud you and as long as your Broker approves of what you are doing and you aren't breaking any laws I say good for you. I hate it when people randomly appoint themselves the "board police"
2:44pm • #14
2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Sandra - is it the "Board Police" or the "Bored Police" I am beginning to think it may be the latter. :D

Jim - Just exactly what doesn't it comply with? What exactly are your credentials for my state of operation? 

Is that legal advice you are giving me?  (Didn't notice the J.D. after the name there) 

I am trying to share ideas that help provide a competetive edge. I am certainly ethical when dealing with my prospects, customers, and clients. I have not had any compaints, and I don't mislead anyone. Just what is it that you object to?

I am merely providing information on KENOSHA REAL ESTATE.

11:29pm • #15
2 Featured Posts
Ralph this is a brilliant idea.  Thank you for taking the time in teach all of us new ideas in real estate.
11:36pm • #16
APR
13
2007

OK since the big debate here is, is this ethical or not? does it comply with NAR code of ethics to find out lets go to the "tape"

 

  • Standard of Practice 12-9
      REALTOR® firm websites shall disclose the firm's name and state(s) of licensure in a reasonable and readily apparent manner.

      Websites of REALTORS® and non-member licensees affiliated with a REALTOR® firm shall disclose the firm's name and that REALTOR®'s or non-member licensee's state(s) of licensure in a reasonable and readily apparent manner. (Adopted 1/07)

  • Standard of Practice 12-10
      REALTORS®' obligation to present a true picture in their advertising and representations to the public includes the URLs and domain names they use, and prohibits REALTORS® from:

      1. engaging in deceptive or unauthorized framing of real estate brokerage websites;
      2. manipulating (e.g., presenting content developed by others) listing content in any way that produces a deceptive or misleading result; or
      3. deceptively using metatags, keywords or other devices/methods to direct, drive, or divert Internet traffic, or to otherwise mislead consumers. (Adopted 1/07)
  • Jim: I do not see on here that the agents name has to appear.  since Ralph has the statehe is lisenced in and the brokers name I think he is with in the code.

    Maybe someone from NAR can clear it up but that is the way I see itG

    1:05am • #18
    APR
    14
    2007
    1 Featured Post
    It is the samething in the home inspection business
    7:05am • #19
    4 Featured Posts

    Just an FYI:  I recently received this update from my broker (who had received it from our board) so that I could update my own website and not get in trouble:

    Per the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of Realtors, effective Jan. 1, 2007, our state and license number must be apparent on all websites.... (this along with the name of the firm)

    so...you're almost complying.  :o) 

    I truly don't think people told you this to jump all over you.  When I see someone doing something that is clearly a violation of what I've been told are the rules (per NAR, etc.), I like to pass it on.  I'd rather someone here at AR tell me than be called on the carpet by the "big guys."

    12:44pm • #20
    APR
    15
    2007
    2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    Sandra- You helped give me a great idea for a post.... read my latest ARE you the "BOARD POLICE..." or perhaps the "BORED POLICE"

    Ralph

    9:53am • #22

    Ralph great post, I agree if we want to make money we need to work smarter. After all I was always told, "When a salesperson's feet get tired, that's when they start using the freaking HEAD".

    But as for post your name and phone number - I was always under the assumption that its only required if you are promoting your own listing or selling your property, not a requirement for promoting advise or searching...

     

    3:02pm • #23
    As best I can tell the code of ethics merely requires the firm name. Any requirement for the individual would be from some other source, such as state regulations. I think it is reasonably clear that the form is a request for listings to be emailed. 

    Personally, I would never provide information to such a site. It has the look of an identity theft site. Legitimate businesses will typically provide contact information. I will take your word for it that the site is effective, but the people using it are fools IMHO.
    7:11pm • #24
    APR
    19
    2007

    I think your stealth site is great. Thats what I have www.agent321.com doesnt advertise my company or myself. But once they sign in to get access to my free reports and mls access, they are sent an email to www.agentroman.com which is almost a mirror image. I like to call it Branded and UnBranded sites.  

    10:10pm • #25
    APR
    22
    2007
    2 Featured Posts

    Hi!

    I couldn't help but get a chuckle out of the "disclosure" at the top and the bottom of your stealth web site where it shows - "Information Provided courtesy of Weichert, Realtors� - Unum Properties - Licensed in WI" and "Weichert, Realtors� - Unum Properties" So is it really being provided by Weichert, Realtors? Ha!

    Perhaps it is because you didn't use the proper html entity "®" which automatically creates the trademark sign in all web browsers - Weichert, Realtors® 

     

    7:57am • #26
    MAY
    03
    2007
    Outside Blog

    Stealth sounds too sneaky.... Branded and Unbranded are MUCH better ;)

    It is just important to disclose on the unbranded the Brokerage and agent name.

    1:12pm • #27
    MAY
    08
    2007
    Ralph - i'm a little lost as to what's the problem or concern others have/are having...... if it works for you, great.  then again..... i'm a newbie ;)  ron
    8:46am • #28
    4 Featured Posts

    I have a couple of stealth sites and they ROCK!!!!  I get a ton of business form my sites.  Yes, you have to be in compliance with board policies but stealth sites are just that, they are "value added" first and foremost.

     

    9:34am • #29
    2 Featured Posts
    Stealth just means that it is flying under the radar of the traditional agent-centric site, and is more consumer centric by providing information that consumers want.  Stealth sites do ROCK!  And you can make them easily with GoDaddy and Website Tonight, or FrontPage!
    10:12am • #30
    JUN
    26
    2007
    1 Featured Post

    We have our rules and guidelines that we must abide by from NAR but we also have State regulation.  In the State of Arizona, Stealth or Unbranded web sites are not legal.  In addition, you must have the company logo prominently display on your web site so it is readily seen without having to scroll down your brower to see it.

    We have other rules as well but enough said.

    Jeff Daley

    7:24pm • #31
    JUN
    27
    2007

    Ralph, a stealth site very interesting concept. I am going to have to find out more about it

    11:29pm • #32
    Ralph- Im all for the stealth site, I think you have to be creative and you have it nailed...nice job
    11:33pm • #33
    JUN
    29
    2007

    I like to think that if I spend the money on my website, that I would spend on a stealth sites i would get the same results.

    Q? Is  STEAL-TH plural?

    Ken

    8:04am • #34
    13 Featured Posts
    Has your domain expired? The website I see is not the same website in your screenshot.
    8:48am • #35
    Localism Sponsor

    I just started using a buyer steath site and seller stealth site.  I like the concept but I'm having trouble getting the hits on them.  What are you doing to get the people to visit them? 

    They work great when people use them because when they fill out the form you know they are ready to take the next step.

    David N. Slavin, ABR www.SellMyHouseDave.com

    4:48pm • #36
    JUN
    30
    2007

    Ralph, it is a very interesting discussion. It took me a while to figure out what stealth websites are about. 

    Tamara, thank you for the clarification! 

    Frankly, I am surprised that any website, stealth or not, can produce much traffic, unless it is highly ranked by Google. I am curious to try out.

    Information and privacy is the key. Internet clients like to do their research before they make any "firm" connection with agents.

    And last, congratulations Ralph for trying to do something different, sticking to your guns and most importantly, be open and frank about.  

    5:26am • #37
    1 Featured Post Hit Router
    Hey Bloggers...Ralph is on his honeymoon and will be answering your questions when he get's back! Just wanted to let you know he isn't forgetting about you!  Congrats Ralph!
    9:37am • #38
    JUL
    01
    2007
    323,387 Points 40 Featured Posts Outside Blog
    Ralph--First of all congrats on your marriage...I did read at least one comment! :) Here is my comment on the post...I don't like stealth sites because many who use them leave off the broker disclaimer as you pointed out that you use. IF the disclaimer is used, it should be large enough for site visitors to read in the template so that it is on every page and not hidden at the bottom of the page or in tiny text no one can read. Lazy people will still fill in the form...Why not be honest and upfront with them?
    8:40am • #39
    JUL
    02
    2007
    260,536 Points 30 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    I'm with Jim.....I think these sites are misleading, and some agents have received licenses but have never read the code of Ethics.  Either that or they choose to ignore the rules hoping they don't get caught.  We all know agents like this.  Bored or Board Police aside, I think Professionalism and realizing that agents have to follow Broker Policies, NAR rules, and State rules, goes with the profession/job.

    Many people are "doing their own thing" but that doesn't make it right.

    1:20pm • #40
    JUL
    03
    2007
    211,141 Points 14 Featured Posts Outside Blog


    You Da Man, Bubba!

    Rather than commenting here, I'm going to mention your excellent post on my AR blog with a link to this post....and hopefully get more folks to view it.

    Sum and substance here: I agree with you completely and will outline my reasons on my post.

    It's a beautiful evening here on the lake in Reston...hope it's a beautiful day/evening there in Kenosha, too! 

    10:31pm • #41
    211,141 Points 14 Featured Posts Outside Blog

     

     Robert McArtor wrote:

    "Ralph, I think Jim hit the nail on the head. With the website program I have, there is a great promotion for me to have an "Un-Branded" site. I do not have one because I want to "Brand" my name and Team name WITH innovative lead capturing. I checked out your site and YES, you do provide your Broker information and telephone numbers. It did take awhile to load on dial-up (yes, there are still dial-up users) however, a good site."

    No offense meant, Robert, and I hope none is taken, but the concept of branding, once so necessary and and successful, is no longer the dominant force in today's marketing.  We CRS instructors and national speakers stressed branding for years.  The Web changed all of that...which is one reason why stealth sites work.

    Sorry, but today's consumer really does not care a whit about you (or any other agent).  Consumers want information, information, information.  Successful agents today are those with Web sites that fill that need.

    Branding, done properly, is very expensive.  A good, deep Web site marketed correctly is not and brings better results than does branding.

    Again, no offense, but branding oneself is not nearly as important as it used to be.  Not that it doesn't have a place in your marketing plan, but I wouldn't make it the core of my marketing plan. As I've mentioned in other posts, my "research group," the Allen F. Hainge CyberStars(r), has shown this to be true.  They have increased their income and greatly reduced their expenses by de-emphasizing branding in favor of Web sites, blogs, advertising their sites and blogs correctly...and in general giving the consumers what they want.

    It's a beautiful evening here on the lake in Reston...hope it's beautiful day/evening there in Abingdon, too!

    11:58pm • #42
    JUL
    04
    2007
    187,017 Points 12 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

    Wow, people will make just about anything controversial.  i think the rules are fairly clear on this and complying is relatively easy.  I'm tired personally of spending money to get profanity laced leads or leads that have the wrong information,  I will say that when I get a lead that has phone numbers on my regular site it is a strong lead, but some of these others might incubate better with a stealth site.

    Rob, Do you still have a branded site, and which site do you push more? 

    Also, what about addresses?  I have TexasHomeAnswers.com parked as well as IsellCollegeStation.com.  I have the feeling that the "I" would be a worse stealth site than the other...any opinions?  Or, do you think the Texas is too broad?  Advice would be much appreciated!!!!

    12:56pm • #43
    JUL
    05
    2007
    4 Featured Posts

    Ralph,

    I have to agree with what you said about neigh-sayers, but Jim is right.  Yes, you have all of the necessary information but YOUR name is nowhere to be found.  Is this in violation of some type?  I don't know.  I guess you would have to check in  your state.  Great post and keep them coming.  I will read them anytime.  I learn from each and everyone. :)

    8:18pm • #44
    JUL
    11
    2007
    1 Featured Post


    Our company AgentStealth.com offers stealth website lead systems for real estate agents and brokers. Our lead systems are owned, hosted and operated by us. By doing this, agents and brokers have nothing to worry about.

    We are like a hybrid model of 'stealth websites' and 'traditional lead generation'.

    Scott 

    1:43pm • #45
    JUL
    16
    2007
    Thank you very much for sharing, I got some good information
    12:20am • #46

    Stealth sites can also be created using on-demand websites,

    12:29am • #47
    JUL
    26
    2007

    I just attended a Tom Ferry Seminar.  It was awesome.  One of things he discussed that I'm going to implement is a stealth website.  He used losfelizmls.com as an example which was done by successwebsite.com.  I think it's a great idea.  Everything I've been hearing lately is more content.  That's exactly what stealth sites are all about.  They're all about providing the customer information.  We're past all the I'm #1 in the Universe sites.  Comply with the rules and make $$$$$$.

     Great Post. 

    7:37pm • #48
    JUL
    27
    2007
    1 Featured Post

    Thats cool Tom. Once you put your system into play, it does the work for you. It is a must have tool for the internet real estate age.

    12:11am • #49

    I am all about doing the unusual to succeed.  I, like you, have never listened to people who said that it can't or shouldn't be done.  Do it.  As long as you are not hurting anyone or violating any law go for it.

    Dol or do not there is no try!

    1:07am • #50
    1 Featured Post
    This Stealth site. How does it work? I did not get a chance to read your first blog regarding it. I have to agreed with you on lazy realtors.
    2:47am • #51
    AUG
    22
    2007
    217,964 Points Outside Blog
    I have buyer and seller stealth sites and they work great for me. I really don't spend much money advertising them either, I just make sure I include a UPS (Unique Seller Proposition) to all my current advertising, outgoing emails, blog posts, voicemail recording, etc., I  just make sure that it gets seen by prospective buyers and sellers. I also make sure they are provided with the information they request and I see it as a win win situation.
    1:23pm • #52
    1 Featured Post
    Great idea, stealth sites can really work well if done right.  I really like your two reasons why you share your advice with everyone, makes so much sense, thanks.
    3:41pm • #53
    222,631 Points 12 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    I dont see anything wrong with them.  In my market, we must disclose the name of the broker, address and phone number at the bottom - but who cares?  The cost is minimal and if done correctly - why not?

     

    3:57pm • #54
    143,983 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    I joined the Agent Stealth site of Scott Sanderson at the first of this month.  I have all of Dallas.

    These sites that are owned by a third party, and the lead is provided by them to a broker, I don't see as that is any different than running into someone at the golf course who tells me Joe's getting ready to buy a new home, and perhaps I ought to give him a call.

    And the reason I don't is because there isn't any difference.  I identify myself when I make the contact calling Joe's friend.  I would certainly do the same thing with the Agent Stealth lead.  Until then, the whole process so far is moot.

    Below Scott has done a great job of rebutting a misunderstanding I had of how long it takes the things to work.  I have edited that stuff out of this comment.

     

    6:08pm • #55
    1 Featured Post

    Hey Bill, I appreciate you referring to me as a nice guy :) With Complete Respect to you, you ordered the system from us and we setup your system only 7 Days ago on the  8/15/07. I'm sure you just had a typo. 

    Our systems are built by hand and take time for internet integration.  Just like any website out there, it will take time for natural organic search results. The larger the city you live in, it is most likely that it will take longer for websites to organically rise to the top and be be found by browsing buyers and sellers. Working in a city the size of Dallas Texas can have its advantages and disadvantages. Disadvantage are that it can be hard to get in the spotlight. It can take longer to be seen and possible extensive advertising to be seen by all the buyers and sellers because there are so many people in the same line as you.  The Advantage of being in a big city is that once you are in that light and you have paid the dues of time or marketing or whatever it takes for you to get in the light, you are exposed to a lot more people which means that you have a lot more potential business.

    Whatever lead system or methods that anyone uses, make sure you do something active that exposes yourself or your systems to the right audience. It does not have to cost you a lot of money. Try thinking as if you were the buyer or seller. Sure, you could go out and spend heavy amount of money on marketing and advertising but there are other ways as well. If you go on our site, you can find some other ways to advertise to get some exposure in the meantime. Start "Name-Dropping"your stealth websites in public online or offline areas and you will find your way to success.

    Scott

     

    6:39pm • #56
    176,173 Points Outside Blog
    I feel that misrepresentation or false advertising - even if it is within the law will hurt business more than it helps.
    11:17pm • #57
    MAR
    05
    2008

    I see some of you are using Craig Proctor's branded and unbranded sites. Open up your wallet. (You also were likely sucked into his 12K a year "coaching program.) Proctor's branded site is completely ADD ... you'd think you had a 100 lightbulbs popping off in your face when you hit one of his cloned sites. Too busy is an understatement. His unbranded is better, but again you're going to get hosed for cost. PLUS, there is no ancillary program to drive leads to the site ... you have to do that yourself. In Proctor's antiquated world that means running "small inexpensive classified ads" using .com redirects like chicagohomevalues.com or the like. 

    Your BETTER value is to check out Web Agent Solutions. They offer a branded and unbranded combo for $150 per month, and you can also have them run a AdWords/Overture campaign to drive leads to you. Those leads can be set to autoload into Top Producer 7i, and also send you a text notification to your phone. Remember, you need to follow up with incoming leads within 10 minutes or they go stale. You can also run a e mail drip campaign out of the back end of WAS, and you can further  customize the reports that get mailed out.  

     Something missing from many unbranded sites I see you guys using is a place for a phone number so you can call a prospect back and, using a script, get a face to face meeting with them. Otherwise, all you're going to be able to do is a mindless e mail drip campaign. So what about those scripts? Admittedly, Proctor does have a good universal call back script. There are others out there as well. 

    The next thing you should consider is signing up for Top Agent Toolbox which is  the brainchild of Jeff Wilheims. Blows Proctor's stuff out of the water ... many of Craig's coaching members on up into Platinum have dumped him for TATB. And at a FRACTION of the cost I might add ... about $100 a month (vs. a cool G with Craig.) PLus, they have TONS of downloadable and customizable marketing materials.

     Good luck to you all. 

      

    Undisclosed, Chattanooga Tennessee
    5:33pm • #58
    154,165 Points 5 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

    Ralph - I appreciate your post and I am also an avid stealth user.  I understand a few of the points made by other members but I think deep down they are missing the point of what a stealth site is doing...it is a low pressure way of marketing something without all the agent bling.  You or your company are marketing that you are offering automated listings by e-mail for example...any REALTOR and any real estate brokerage who has a computerized MLS can do this.  If your state or NAR requires your name to appear on the site...big deal, just toss it below your main graphic on the main page. 

    The point I am wanting others to see is that your marketing will generate interest and with interest you have the ability to gain leads or inquires.  If you ran an image advertisement saying visit my website because I am the greatest REALTOR in my market you would NEVER get the same level of traffic that this advertisement would "Get The Newest Real Estate Listings By E-Mail" or "Real Estate Listings Instantly By E-mail" or "See The Homes You Want By E-mail Without Speaking To An Agent".  The reason stealth works is because you are giving the client the information that they want when THEY want it.  If they appreciate the information you have provided them you may have gained a client.

    Happy Selling!

    8:49pm • #59
    MAR
    10
    2008
    good points I will make sure and have those three things on all of my sites
    2:25am • #60
    JUL
    27
    2008

    non-branded sites are a great source of business and is just a different way of promoting your services and not your image. As long as it complies with state law there is no issue. If the prospect feels violated they will ask you not to contact them anymore. If they do well you probably dont want to work with them anyway,

    12:05am • #61
    JAN
    11

    Very good and to the point. We have had our BEST year ever this year in 2008. Mainly by trying new things.

    Richard
    9:55am • #62
    JAN
    23

    As an Internet Marketing Specialist I always like to come here and read what agents have to say and.......Ralph you are dead on on everything.  I especially like the LAZY part.  I speak with hundreds of agents everyday and they all think the internet won't work because they all expect to throw up a website, do nothing and they should generate business!  It is the Marketing side of the Internet that is what makes the hard working agents most successful!  Good luck to all!

    P.S.  If any of you want some free marketing tips do not hesitate to call me!  (Now this is Marketing)

    Thomas Blair

    800-899-8148 ext 7221

    4:24pm • #63
    SEP
    29

    Ralph,

    Stealth Sites don't work, pay per cick does not work, and, drip email is a wast of time and money! LOL. 

    Everyone look at the top producers in your market and I bet you will notice one thing with the majority of these agents.  "A STRONG INTERNET PRESENCE"

    GREAT POST!!

    9:46am • #64
    211,141 Points 14 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    Ralph:  Well stated, my friend.

    For those who think they are sneaky, underhanded, don't work, it's important to have YOU featured, etc.:

    Sorry, but you're wrong.  Not my opinion but rather the results obtained by my CyberStars(r), 213 top agents from the US, Canada, Australia and the Bahamas.  A majority of them use stealth sites by Real Pro Systems.  The amount of leads they get for the (automatic) followup system and the amount of buyers/sellers they close from them are, frankly, astounding.

    As for state rules, regs, the stealth site makers follow the rules.  Check any of the RPS sites and you'll see that's true.

    Folks, there's a revolution going on in real estate...and it has been going on for awhile.  In case you haven't noticed, the consumer wants information and does not really care about you that much, at least until the face-to-face contact is made.  Stealth sites and blogs are the best tools I have seen for bringing this about.

    It's a great day here on the lake in Reston...hope it's a great day wherever you are, too!

    Allen F. Hainge, CRS

    Senior Instructor, CRS 206 Technology Course

    Check out Allen's ebook, "Digital Essentials for Today's Agent," here.

    9:59am • #65
    211,141 Points 14 Featured Posts Outside Blog

    Ken wrote: "I like to think that if I spend the money on my website, that I would spend on a stealth sites i would get the same results."

    Sorry, Ken, but I disagree, again based on data from my CyberStars(R).  Everyone should have a good, deep, consumer-oriented Web site....they should also invest in stealth sites, especially those with a built-in automatic followup system.  They really bring in the leads, and they stay in touch with prospects w/out any work on your part.  Very good ROI

    Adam wrote: "I feel that misrepresentation or false advertising - even if it is within the law will hurt business more than it helps."

    Oh, Adam...this makes me sad.  You are not alone in the respondents who are missing the forest because of the trees.  No false advertising at all, as has been pointed out many times in this thread.  Your success depends on letting the largest number of people you can know who you are, what you do for a living and seeing if they need your services.  Web sites, especially stealth sites do this to the nth degree.  Get with it, my friend....and use the technology that works for the heavy hitters such as Sam Miller, one of my CyberStars(R) who mentioned in this thread that he uses them and swears by them.  If you can open up a bit to new ideas, you might email Sam and ask him how many prospects his stealth sites put in his pipeline and are now automatically hearing from him regularly....

    More on stealth sites, including a contribution from Sam, in my new eBook, "Digital Essentials For Today's Agent."  Don't mean to be promoting it overtly, but a number of the respondents here really need to read this book to see what today's technology, including stealth sites, is doing for them.

    It's a beautiful day here on the lake in Reston...hope it's a great day wherever you are, too!

    Allen F. Hainge, CRS

    Senior Instructor, CRS 206 Technology Course

     

    11:13am • #66

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    Ralph Nudi

    Kenosha, WI

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    Weichert, Realtors® - Precision

    Address: 4235 Green Bay Rd, Suite 202, Kenosha, WI, 53144

    Office Phone: (262) 997-0668 x 230

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