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THE NEXT GENERATION OF REALTORS:

By
Real Estate Agent with Tranquility Realty Services Crop.

 

Five years after we entered this current downturn, some real estate professionals still attempt to conduct their real estate businesses' through the sole use of traditional forms of operations. By traditional, I am referring to not being a part of the cyber set. The next generation of realtors must learn to think out of the box, and have more understanding of the full real estate brokerage concept.  My hope is that this blog will keep cutting edge technology in your face.  Today's blog will cover the QR Code, many of you are very much aware of this technology, feel free to give those who are not as informed on the QR codes some of your input.

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A QR code is a specific matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code.) by dedicated QR barcode readers and camera phones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can tact, URL or other data.

Although initially used for tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing, QR codes are now used in a much broader context, including both commercial tracking applications and convenience-oriented applications. Aimed at mobile phone users, (Known as mobile tagging). QR codes can be used to display text to the user, to add a vCard contact to the user's device, to open a URI or to compose an email or text message.  Users can also generate and print their own OR codes for others to scan and use by visiting one of the several free QR code generating sites.

In today's Internet world of cell phones, text messages, and instant messaging, it's no wonder yet another tool is emerging, the QR Code. Of course, it would stand for "Quick Response." Everything is about fast information today, and the QR Code for real estate is no exception. Any person with a cell phone that has the QR code reader software installed can shoot a picture of that image and they will be taken to the website for that code.

Explaining it a bit better, you'll need a web-enabled phone. That's becoming much more common these days. Cell providers are upgrading their networks and offering web access at lower rates. Once you have the software on the phone, you can shoot a picture of these QR codes wherever you see them. They are appearing in print ads, on brochures and many other places. When you scan one, you are taken to the web page the marketer wants you to see. Of course, it will be optimized for viewing on a cell phone.

QR code lawn signs - The  yard signs is provides  the ease with which a prospect can get to a website with color photos and full detail information about a listing. Another great thing about the QR is, you don't need to post the sign at the home. You could place one of these QR code image signs anywhere. 

Take a moment to think about  the potential here. The number of phones that are capable of using the codes will jump dramatically in the next year or so. Get your plan together now, and you could be seeing targeted traffic to your custom listing sites from these codes. Remember, you can have a code for your personal website as well, placing it on your business cards and in other advertisements.

As I said, the next generation of realtors must start to be part of the cutting edge cyber group. Traditional forms will always be the building block of our industry, but understand that those who choose not embracing new technology and incorporate them into their business practices, will find themselves up a creek without the a  paddle.   

Malcolm Johnston
Century 21 Lanthorn Real Estate LTD., Trenton, Ontario - Trenton, ON
Trenton Real Estate

Michael, the way we do business sure is changing, and the people who are reluctant to embrace this new paradigm are the ones who will be left behind. I see that you are new to Active Rain, great first post, and welcome aboard.

Mar 18, 2011 10:31 AM
Social Media, Email Marketing & Search Engine Optimization Specialist
PCS Online Solutions - Del Mar, CA

Michael, no doubt we all should utilize the latest in marketing. But I still like the feel of print too (yes, I may be giving my age away).

But, I still get plenty of people who ask for a listing sheet or brochure. Sometimes a flyer sitting on a potential client's desk is more "present" than him or her having to actively go seek the info.

Welcome aboard. I look forward to reading your future blogs.

Mar 18, 2011 10:36 AM
Letitia Stevenson
BHHS Fox & Roach | www.DelawareValleyRE.com - Greenville, DE
Listing Agent DE/PA/MD, Digital Marketer & Coach

Michael, Welcome to the Rain! Active Rain is a great place to share your knowledge, expertise and thoughts, as well as network and learn so much from the vast pool of talent already onboard. If you would like to connect with me on ActiveRain, please subscribe to my blog!

Welcome Aboard and Much Success!

Mar 21, 2011 04:19 PM