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10 Tips for Real Estate Ads

By
Real Estate Agent with Global Realty Marketing, Inc

Hey some of these tips were given to me by others and some I thought of based on experience.  These tips are great for Realtors trying to sell in this down market.  If you're FSBOing it then perhaps only a few of these ideas would apply, but any help is good help, Right?

 

In you ads, ALWAYS:

  • Mention the price of the home.
    This works for Price ranges too.  Buyers will think that a place is too expensive if the price is left out.
  • Always Give a Location.
    We've all Heard of 'Location, Location, Location!' This is because its one of the biggest factors in a buyers decision making process.  They want to know about school district, if they are near work, major roads, shopping, hospitals, etc.
  • Feature the Home with Multiple Quality Photos******
    My partner, Tom preaches this one almost daily.  The photo draws your eye to the ad- DUH.  And in this age of digital photos, there's NO EXCUSE for not having at least a few Pictures. (Even just one doesn't cut it anymore)
  • Create a Headline that grabs the buyer
    This is the reason the buyer reads on so make it good.  If the house is huge and that is its best feature you could say, "SOOOOO BIG" or "S-T-R-E-T-C-H  O-U-T!!!" or even "Bring your Tape Measure!!"  Get it? Good.
  • AD Copy: List main ammenities
    Remember to keep the ad Positive!  Don't start listing why others might not have liked it or what needs to be fixed or replaced that is what the seller disclosure is for, besides you want to get them in the door first and perhaps most importantly, let them create their OWN impression.  So Keep it simple and list the good things: "New Sunroom in 07, Updated Electric in Garage, Master Suite hosts private balcony.... "
  • Logos, Slogans and Headers should be consistant
    Ok so this one is mainly for the Realtors, unless you're an invester that commonly sells without an agent (Why you would ever do that I don't know...)  Basically if you're consistant in all of your advertising people will recognize you and that helps build trust.
  • Think like a Buyer
    Everyone is different.  Communicate to the needs your buyer would most likely have.  Its the 'Its all about YOU' idea.  "Hosting parties is no problem here as this 3000+/- Sqft condo is an entertainer's delight."
  • The Seller knows more than they know they know
    Ask them what motivated them to buy the house in the first place.  "Why is it special to you"   Use these ideas to appeal to the new buyer.
  • Call to ACTION
    Closing with a reason to call and ask the buyer to do it.  Simple.
  • Contact info a MUST
    Well Duh, how would the buyer contact you otherwise.  Of course its always good to provide multiple options for the various buyer personality types out there.  List your Email, Website, Phone and Fax.

 

Of course don't forget to check out MY website:  http://www.iknowjackandtom.com

Martin Dorgan
Prudential Indiana Realty - Columbus, IN
You've made some great suggestions here Jack, hopefully people will make valuable use of them in the future.
Feb 07, 2008 06:31 AM
Pamela STETSON
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Abbott Realtors - Mahwah, NJ
I would love to help you buy or sell your home!
Thanks Jack...but I do have to say that sometimes...less is more. The reason? Because if you give 'em too much...they won't call to find our more. If they don't want that home...perhaps there are others you can discuss...once they are on the phone. That is why , we in the ad biz, always use a "teaser" so they have to call to get more....thanks...
Feb 07, 2008 06:44 AM
Sara Bonert
Zillow - Atlanta, GA
Real Estate Internet Marketing
I espicially wanted to call out points 1 and 2.  I think a lot of advertising is bypassed because these two key components aren't in it.  All right on!
Feb 07, 2008 06:50 AM
Debbie Hodrick, PMP
Crystal Coast - Salt Lake City, UT
Thanks Jack Johnson!!! Great Suggestions. I like your website name. Great Catcher!
Feb 07, 2008 06:52 AM
Mark Maupin See Blog Free Investors Training
National Real Estate Network, LLC - Highland Township, MI
National Real Estate Investors Network Host
thanks -- this is great check list when you go to do advertising.
Feb 07, 2008 06:57 AM
James and Denise Francois
HomeSnipe Real Estate, LLC - Allentown, PA
REALTOR

 

I agree with you Jack that we do not want to give out too much information to keep buyers away.

Feb 18, 2008 01:14 PM
Margaret Woda
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. - Crofton, MD
Maryland Real Estate & Military Relocation
Great tips for newbies and fsbos, Jack.  And thanks for making me an Associate.
Feb 19, 2008 12:31 PM
Michael Fowler
Fowler Realty Quad Cities - Davenport, IA
Broker, Owner Fowler Realty
Great information.  I always like to leave something out so people have to call you directly to find out.
Feb 19, 2008 02:00 PM