MARKET YOURSELF ONLINE

Real estate professionals increasingly spend more money on online marketing because research shows most homebuyers turn to the Internet to initiate property searches. Online marketing does not have to be expensive or difficult, and there are several easy steps that associates can take to create a Web presence, including the use of their e-mail and Web site addresses on fliers, business cards, postcards and other communications. Also, they should to ask for callers' e-mail addresses so that they can send e-newsletters. Associates should send "Just Listed" or "Just Sold" e-postcards containing photographs, as well as market reports and updates, to all of their contacts - a move that eliminates postage costs. Additionally, associates should post their listings and open house information on Craigslist, Postlets and other free real estate sites, and consider entering the blog and social networking arena. Other useful tips include matching their e-mail addresses and Web URLs, and adding their Web site address to their e-mail signatures.