I have been doing a lot of research due to the number of complaints that I receive from agents and brokers about sites such as Zillow, Trulia, Homes and REALTOR.com. While some may choose to boycott these sites others choose to participate. Let's face facts..we built these sites up, not the technology but certainly the content and sharing of real estate listings. After all, agents and brokers alike want their listings syndicated and it's the best option to help a home seller to market their property to buyers around the globe. These sites have massive massive traffic. So if your sites do not generate enough customers many will opt to buy into these programs.
Real Estate Love/Hate Relationships And It Continues
I often ask myself, are these sites becoming what we hated in banks when the worst market hit in mid 2000's? Damned if you do and damned if you don't. in any case a real estate agent must compete whether it is a marketing proposal or to work with a buyer. Of course, some big real estate companies as a whole have somehow managed to receive special treatment on these sites just as they did during the big foreclosures days. I suppose we become what we think about but sadly what we hate. It's kinda interesting don't you think? What a concept to sell leads that was generated by a listing agent who took the listing. This only pressures agents to continue to use these sites, fair or unfair. Consumers want it and consumers expect it!
So What Is Your Point Midori
It's where buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants turn to because these sites are found everywhere you turn. The radio, television, online, in ads, sponsoring conferences and always on the other end of your telephone...I think you get it..the money agents spend to use these sites only better their marketing opportunities. They sell agents and brokers everyday.
Pay attention in how aggressively they want your business, while there are many sites to choose from. One thing is certain they stay in contact with you. All of them are pleasant and very patient. They share statistics and have their objection handling down to a science. They will call numerous times. They market everywhere. They show up in places you never expect them too with marketing materials such as cups, towels, etc. etc. They give you discounts for commitment and reward you with extra services because you pay. They provide all the data and tools needed to determine what a buyer will buy, how much a consumer will spend and possibly who they would like to work with. Read this paragraph again if you don't see the point of this post.
Wait For It
Third Party Sites are doing what brokers and agents should be doing in their day to day business. Last night it hit me. Agents expect to be fed leads because third party sites provide this yet maybe they do not realize the time, effort and work put into creating a frenzy or the cost. I guess what I am trying to say here and especially with the fact the New Year is approaching, take a look at your business and change the parts of the business you fail in and get better at it. Chances are its making phone calls, a lack of marketing and lead generation. Open up on the ways you communicate with people rather than expect online leads to just fall in your lap. You have to work them.
Success Is One Step Away From Failure
In real estate you must spend money on your business, you must put effort to market yourself and build a brand, you must market your customers listings, your goal should be to become a household name same as Zillow, Trulia and REALTOR.com right in your own neighborhoods. Instead of complaining to your broker that there are never enough leads, become a little more independent because many agents sure use that card to not attend meetings, join in on board and office activities.
A Little Real Estate Training Tip
Get in a rythm, find ways to create a frenzy, stay in touch, know your market place, be found, be heard and most of all know people's wants and needs. Be the real estate resource these 3rd party sites are. No one is responsible for anyone's success except you! Brand recognition, tools and a fantastic broker will not guarantee you success but working as these 3rd party sites do to gain your business and trust will!
In life we blame others for our failures and we credit only ourselves when it comes to success! I can tell you, its a team effort to be successful! Think about it. Create and plan and then be open enough to change it if need be!
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