Admin

To Myspace or not to Myspace???

By
Real Estate Agent with Windermere Real Estate/West Sound Inc.

I have found that Myspace is a rather controversial subject in the Real Estate World. I have a Myspace account and use it regularly to keep in touch with friends and family. I wouldn't say that I advertise my business on Myspace but my profile does state that I am a Realtor. I have had quite a few leads generated through Myspace. Some which have worked out, others that have not, and some that are "to be determined".

However, I hear alot of people in the industry say it is unprofessional to "advertise" yourself on Myspace. This has me at somewhat of a stand still, I felt it was just another way to spread the news that...I am a Realtor!!!

I am somewhat new to the Real Estate world, I'm just finishing up my first year. However, I watch the news and I read the statistics and I have heard numerous times that the "target market" or the highest percentage of homebuyers these days are between 23-35 years old. I am also a self proclaimed "Myspace Professional" and I know that is exactly the age range of MOST of the Myspacers out there. Now I am not saying that I want to turn my Myspace page into an all out overload of tacky, free advertising...but what's the harm in reminding your friends that you are a Realtor or letting your friends know  about the market every now and then???

Show All Comments Sort:
John Walters
Frank Rubi Real Estate - Slidell, LA
Licensed in Louisiana
I think you should keep using it all you want.  As long as you use common sense and ethics go for it.
Feb 24, 2008 12:30 PM
Sam Miller
RE/MAX Stars Realty - Howard, OH
Knox County Ohio Real Estate Specialist
Heather - You are going to get a lot of different views on this and I have to say that it will depend on how much effort you put into Myspace.  I have found it to be a great lead generator and also a wonderful referral contact place.  If you are interested you can add me as a friend by visiting my social networking link on my website:  http://www.sammiller.com/socialnetworking.htm
Feb 24, 2008 12:32 PM
Steven Keefe
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge Realty - Lake Arrowhead, CA

It can't hurt to be there.  Any form of promotion  is valuable.  You never know where a deal is going to come from.

 Steve Keefe
Broker/Owner
Coldwell Banker Sky Ridge
Lake Arrowhead, CA

Feb 24, 2008 12:42 PM
Cassie Hansley
Wilikinson and Associates - Lincolnton, NC
I have created a professional website and a personal. I use the personal with friends and family. Professional is www.myspace.com/lincolntonrealestate. Check it out
Feb 24, 2008 12:45 PM
Karen Parker
Parker Holdings of Tampa Bay, LLC - Brandon, FL

Heather,

 I use my MySpace account as both a personal and business site. I have a lot of friends that are just social contacts but they too need housing. I prominently display the fact that I am involved in real estae on my site and actively participate with many MySpace "groups" to promote my business. I find it is an excellent resource. I would not let anyone deter me from using a valuable resource because of their personal opinion. The majority of the wealthiest people did not become so by "going along with the crowd" but by daring to do things their own way. ;)

Feb 24, 2008 01:11 PM
Lisa Hill
Florida Property Experts - Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach Real Estate
I say you should do what works for you. If you think MySpace is working for you, then continue. My profile says I'm a REALTOR, but my page is private. And I rarely login. So it wouldn't work for me. But everyone hast to decide what's right for them.
Feb 24, 2008 01:25 PM
Heather Benson
Windermere Real Estate/West Sound Inc. - Silverdale, WA
Thanks to everyone for all the great comments. I love the idea of having seperate personal/professional Myspace pages. I have been back and forth on whether or not to do it but I think I'm ready... THANKS!
Feb 25, 2008 01:23 AM
Byron Lewis
Landmark Real Estate - Manhattan, KS
Realtor, e-PRO, ABR, CRS, Manhattan Kansas Real Es
I agree with Cassie.  A professional profile seperate from your personal use one
Feb 25, 2008 01:31 AM
Jason Todd
Compelling Media + Design - Halifax, NS

It's all about your clients, right? So if they don't have a problem... as a real estate agent, you're always marketing, out in public, on the web. If you're meeting clients on MySpace - congrats. Facebook has some nice free features to "quietly" market yourself too. Welcome to AR.

Feb 25, 2008 09:48 AM
Virginia Parker
Realm Real Estate Professionals-Magnolia - Magnolia, TX
Magnolia Texas Real Estate
I think if it works for you go for it, clients are hard to come by these days.
Feb 29, 2008 04:49 PM
Roland Woodworth
Blue Cord Realty - Clarksville, TN
Benchmark Realty
Heather.... there are MANY agents on myspace...... I have actually picked up buyer leads there as well. Please feel free to add me.... Roland_Sells_Homes
Feb 29, 2008 04:54 PM
Cowboy Gonzalez
Keller Williams - Norco - Norco, CA
This Cowboy rides the extra mile.

HEATHER,

Use all the free advertisement You can use. I use myspace myslef and I think it is a great tool.

Apr 11, 2008 10:39 AM