Category: Real Estate Marketing

  • How to Grow Your Real Estate Business in 2019

    How to Grow Your Real Estate Business in 2019

    Even though the housing market has been thriving for the last several years, 2019 is going to be a different story…

    What’s happening? Well, last year’s high home prices, low mortgage rates, and significant home price growth tilted the market in favor of sellers and investors. More than likely, that helped you close a lot of great deals for a pretty good profit, but now the “thriving” market is shifting.

    No one is expecting a housing crisis. but make no mistake, this downturn is going to shake up the market.

    Here’s what you should expect: a limited inventory means there’ll be more competition for leads. Higher mortgage rates mean more priced-out buyers and a harder time generating leads. And a mild decline of home sales means closing deals might take more incentives.

    In other words, whatever strategies worked for you in 2018 might not be as effective in 2019. Success in the new market is going to require more creativity. You’ll need to be comfortable evolving with the market, or you’ll risk the market leaving you behind.

    But don’t be too intimidated. Even though the market is going to be tougher than last year, it’s still healthy. If anything, this is a chance for you to show what you’re made of. It’s an opportunity to break above the competition instead of getting discouraged or sticking to business as usual. But that’s going to take some preparation…

    How to Grow Your Real Estate Business: Understanding The 2019 Market

    Realtor.com’s 2019 housing forecast reports that this will be a tough year for buyers and sellers. Buyers are facing increasing mortgage rates and pricier monthly payments (about 8% more expensive). This will keep quite a few would-be first-time homebuyers out of the market.

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    Sellers and investors don’t have it much easier. There’s going to be a lot more competition out there, and you probably won’t be able to close deals as easily. Selling is going to take longer and it might even require some incentives like price cuts. Bidding wars are also pretty unlikely since inventory will be limited.

    Remember, the market is still healthy, it’s just a bit tougher than it used to be. If you price competitively, use incentives, and get creative when it comes to generating leads, you can still thrive.

    Your Mindset Should Evolve With The Market

    The market is changing, so your mindset should too. After all, this isn’t 2018 anymore, so it’s time to throw out last year’s strategies and get ready to find new ones.

    If you don’t change your strategy to account for the changing market, you might miss out on some great opportunities to grow your real estate business in 2019. So, let’s talk about where you should focus your energy.

    There’s some evidence to support that marketing harder during downturns can give you a competitive edge. A study by McGraw Hill’s Research Laboratory of Advertising found that business people who put more money and time into marketing during downturns did better than those who buried their heads in the sand. By the time the economy recovered, they hit the ground running and flew even further past the competition.

    You should also pay attention to your testimonials. Your clients have a lot of money on the line, so boosting your credibility profile is a must. Don’t just tell everyone how good you are – show them with case studies, career highlights, or glowing testimonials.

    It’s a worthy use of your time and it could give you a leg up on the competition.

    It’s also crucial to get creative with closing deals. Since you probably won’t be able to name a price and make it in full, and it’s even less likely that buyers will get in a bidding war for the home, you might have to use price cuts or some other kind of incentive to stay competitive.

    Rise above those who aren’t ready to innovate and stand out with out-of-the-box deal closers.

    Generating Leads in 2019

    All of the changes the market is going through, in addition to some new players on the field (like Zillow’s iBuyer program and Facebook advertising), is putting a lot of pressure on you to find clever ways to generate leads and grow your business.

    Like I said before, you’re going to have to get creative if you want to thrive in the new market. Here are 4 examples of what I mean.

    1. Use Facebook Messenger Ads to Increase Response Rates

    The more text boxes and steps your form has, the more opportunities you’re giving a potential lead to get bored or discouraged and leave. Never lose a promising lead to something so easily preventable.

    As a rule of thumb, interactivity will help you boost lead engagement, so finding a way to interact with potential leads immediately is essential, even if that means you don’t get all of their information up front.

    One great way to do this is by using Facebook Messenger ads. At the click of a button, the potential buyer is connected to a live conversation with you or whoever it is you’ve delegated to the chat box. This cuts out practically every step on your form, so the person can ask whatever they want in real time without giving up any boring information. Since there’s minimal time investment on their end, this can ward off early dropouts and boost your response rate.

    You can do something similar with your real estate business.

    (Image Source)

    2. Try Cold Calling

    I know. Cold calling is intimidating, but if you’re just sitting back waiting for leads to roll in, why not give it a shot? You’ll get hung-up on more often than not, but if you find a lead, it’s all worth it.

    If a pure cold call is asking too much, try calling people on your own contact list. You already have a relationship with them, and even if they aren’t interested, maybe they have friends who are. Better yet, try calling expired leads. Freshly expired leads are probably a no-go (competition is fierce for those), but the much older leads, think 6 months to a year, are far less competitive.

    Give some of these people a call and ask what their plans are. If you can find out why they decided not to sell, tell them how you can help. Even if they say no at first, you might have gotten them back in a selling mindset and earn their business down the line.

    3. Give Automated Text Messages a Shot

    Believe it or not, emails aren’t the best way to reach your prospects these days. MailChimp reported that the average email open rate is a dismal 21%. Compare that to the 94% open rate of text messages reported by Essendex and there’s no question which method is best for securing leads.

    (Image Source)

    But why stop there? Your competition has already figured out that they should use SMS to contact leads, so you need to take it to the next level: automated text messages!

    Imagine losing a potential lead because you were driving, eating, sleeping, stuck in a meeting, or just missed the notification.

    You probably weren’t the only person they reached out to, and whoever gets back to them first might win them over. Having a simple automated message that asks a few questions and assures them that you’ll get back to them is a great way to immediately engage them and stay on their radar.

    4. Invest in SEO

    So, credibility, testimonials, and response rates are all important if you want to generate and maintain leads – but not if no one can find you on the internet! In their 2018 report, the National Association of Realtors found that 44% of home buyers began their property search online.

    That’s where search engine optimization (SEO) comes in. By filling your website with high quality content written with SEO best practices, you’ll be able to rank higher on major search engines and pull in new leads.

    You can be certain that your competition has already begun optimizing their websites and publishing keyword-rich articles and blog posts, so jump into the SEO game as soon as possible. It’s a long-term strategy, but once you get it rolling, it can save you a lot of money and win over plenty of leads.

    I covered the importance of SEO in real estate in a previous article. Some of the most important ranking factors I talked about were website loading speed, optimization for mobile users, lowering your bounce rate, getting SSL protection, and consistently publishing optimized content.

    That might sound pretty intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Here at Carrot, we have plenty of great resources for you like our SEO Keyword Bible or Content Pro and Advanced Marketer plans (which come with 12 and 24 optimized blog posts per month respectively).

    Here are just a few Carrot “Doses of Awesomeness” for SEO inspiration…

    “Just wanted you guys to know the you’re absolutely amazing! With all of the tools and SEO advice that come with Carrot, I was able to make huge changes in my rankings in just one week!! Not to mention A1 customer support! Thank you!”

    – Taylor Madewell

    Good morning!

    My name is Erin Pennington and I am the Marketing Manager for Alcala Properties/Laurel Buys Houses. I just attended your 2 day Carrot marketing summit and have been watching all the videos on how to improve SEO, let me tell you that we got 4 deals into contract this week, 2 of which are SEO. I would love to get one of those adorable carrot stuffies to put on my desk and flaunt in the office! Thank you for all the help you and your team provide on a daily basis! I think 2019 is going to be an epic year for our company!!!

    Sincerely,
    Erin Pennington
    Marketing Manager
    Laurel Buys Houses

    “From SEO this year we’ve done 19 deals. 13 of those have been in the last 3 months. That’s great!!”

    – Teal Clise (CR of Maryland)

    Conclusion

    These are just a few examples of what I mean by finding innovative and creative ways to generate leads. Get those creative juices flowing this year and come up with a few of your own. That’s the kind of mindset you need to adopt if you want to thrive in this year’s market.

    It’ll be a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to show what you’re really capable of.

  • How to use a Wholesale Real Estate Email Template to Automate Follow-up

    How to use a Wholesale Real Estate Email Template to Automate Follow-up

    A real estate email follow-up strategy is integral to any real estate business. But what are enough emails? How often and when should you send them? Should emails be personalized or should you use a wholesale real estate email template?

    You know how important it is to follow up with leads. Data suggests…

    48% never follow up on leads

    25% make a second contact and stop

    12% make three contacts and stop

    And, ONLY 10% make more than three contacts

    But…

    2% of sales are made on the first contact

    3% of sales are made on the second contact

    5% of sales are made on the third contact

    10% of sales are made on the fourth contact

    80% of sales are made on the fifth to twelfth contact

    Email follow-up takes time and energy. You’re not just following up with the motivated leads; you’re following up with all the leads – the good and the bad.

    The good makes you money. The bad wastes your time.

    While 80% of sales are closed on the 5th to 12th contact, if you’re running a semi-successful business, you don’t have time for that much email-typing or cold-calling action.

    Of course, that consistent follow-up is still vital…

    The stats remain the same, and your business’s success rides on those stats.

    Since you don’t have mind-reading software to divide the tire-kickers from the motivated sellers, you can’t afford to miss following up with any of your leads…

    But you also don’t have the time to do it manually…

    This is why you should plug these 5 (remember, 5 is the game-changing number of follow-ups) wholesale real estate email templates into your CRM and automate what you can.

    Motivated Seller Follow-up Timeline

    CARROT PICKED RELATED CONTENT: 6 Simple (but powerful) Questions A Six Figure Per Month Wholesaler Asks Motivated House Sellers

    How to Use a Wholesale Real Estate Email Template to Automate Motivated Seller Follow-up

    1st Follow Up – 5 Minutes After Contact

    Would you try to start a fire with wet wood?

    Well, you might…

    But it wouldn’t go very well.

    You’d be better off starting the fire when the wood is dry. Similar to your follow-up strategy, you’re far more likely to have a meaningful conversation with your lead if you follow up fast – when the lead is most interested in what you have to offer.

    Here’s how RJ Bates – one of Carrot’s top-performing investors – puts it.

    Following RJ’s advice, I recommend following up by phone for your first follow-up and email. You can automate the wholesale real estate email template (below) and steal RJ’s 5-minute rule to create a system for the phone follow-up.

    Also, if you’re a Carrot member, you can use our SMS system to receive a text message notification when you receive a lead on your website.

    Here’s your first motivated seller follow-up email template:

    Subject: Need to sell fast? 

    Hey, [name]!

    I’m glad you contacted us about selling your home fast. We’ve provided many people just like you with a fair cash offer on their home to help them get out of debt, ditch a distressed property, or remove the stress of trying to find a buyer.

    We’d love to do the same for you.

    I’ll be giving you a call to discuss this further at the phone number you provided! Looking forward to talking with you :)

    Best,

    [Name]

    2nd Follow Up – 24 Hours After Contact

    Okay – after calling your prospect and sending the first email, the rest of these emails should only be sent if 1) you couldn’t get ahold of the prospect on the phone or 2) you did get ahold of them, but they were hesitant about moving forward with you.

    In other words, follow-up emails 2-5 are only for prospects that don’t take the leap, and sellers who decide to work with you should be removed from these emails at whichever point they make that decision.

    An easy way to automate this is to have a secondary form on your website where you only have people who have decided to work with you (or you can fill it out for them by asking some questions over the phone). Once submitted, that form connects to your CRM and drip sequence, pushing the seller out of this automated follow-up sequence and into another category.

    For those leads that have been cold-shouldering you, though, here’s your second email.

    Subject: Still need to sell your house fast? 

    Hey [name],

    I would love to help you get out of your current stressful situation. I’ve worked with tons of home sellers in your exact position and saved them from foreclosure, crippling debt, and a giant headache of trying to find a buyer for their home.

    Here’s what one person said about me:

    [Testimonial]

    Plus, I’m willing to buy homes in literally any condition.

    Your house completely trashed?

    Don’t worry – I’m here to help. Actually, that’s my specialty. :)

    Anyways, if you’re still interested, you can contact me at and we can chat about this further.

    Best,

    [Name]

    3rd Follow Up – 48 Hours After Contact

    Subject: Are you busy? 

    I know that life gets busy…

    Trying to find a buyer isn’t the only stressful part about needing to sell your house fast.

    There’s the clean-up…

    The mementos…

    The bank…

    The relationships…

    Potential bankruptcy…

    Foreclosure…

    I get it because I’ve worked with tons of people just like you.

    And while I know you’re busy with a million other things, I can usually close on houses just like yours in [number of days or weeks] – completely eliminating at least one of those stressful things in your life and putting some immediate cash in your pocket.

    Interested?

    I’m just a phone call away –

    Best,

    [Name]

    4th Follow Up – 96 Hours After Contact

    Subject: Maybe I should give up…

    Look…

    It’s possible that you want me to stop contacting you, that you no longer need to sell your house, and that you have absolutely no interest in working with me…

    Heck, maybe I just can’t take a hint…

    But I’d really like to help you out.

    I know what it’s like to be in a high-stress situation without a clear way out – bills, banks, and relatives looming.

    Fortunately, I also know how to get people just like you out of those situations.

    Here’s what one of my sellers recently said about their experience with me:

    [Testimonial]

    Maybe you’ll be next?

    You can reach me here at any time of day –

    Best,

    [Name]

    5th Follow Up – 120 Hours After Contact

    This final follow up should include a phone call since it’s your last chance at converting the prospect.

    Subject: I’ll stop contacting you…

    Since I haven’t received a response from you over the past week, I’m forced to assume that you have no interest in working with me.

    If it’s because you already sold your house and found a way out of your proverbial escape room, then that’s amazing and I wish you the best! Please accept my most sincere regards.

    If, though, you’re still in need of help to escape…

    Foreclosure…

    Crippling debt…

    House clean-up…

    Looming bankruptcy…

    Then give me a call –

    This is the last time I’ll contact you, but I’m always just a phone call away if you need help.

    Wishing you the best,

    [Name]

    Conclusion

    What’s more undeniable than the converting power of following up with leads?

    The time and energy it takes to do so…

    You don’t have the time to sit at your computer, typing and sending follow-up emails all day.

    This is why you should use the above wholesale real estate email template (tweak them as needed) to automate your email follow up and snag the 80% of conversion that only happens when you contact prospects at least 5 times.

  • RJ Bates Case Study – $2 Million Story and Real Estate Marketing Strategy

    RJ Bates Case Study – $2 Million Story and Real Estate Marketing Strategy

    Football season just ended.

    A ripe 18-year old, RJ Bates woke up to his mom saying, “Football season is over. It’s time for you to go find a job. And I don’t want you to come home until you have one.”

    RJ shot out of bed and went searching. His first place?

    Pizza Hut.

    After begging the manager for a job, he was hired as a delivery person. And making about $100 a day with tips, he felt like the king of the world. He progressed to store manager, eventually buying his own restaurant at 23 years old.

    Then, in 2012, RJ’s niece got diagnosed with Leukemia and his dad passed away – a month before his baby was going to be born.

    That’s when everything changed.

    Watch RJ’s Bates CarrotCast

    RJ’s Unusual Real Estate Marketing Strategy

    Some people are wholesalers…

    Some people are rehabbers…

    Some people are rental owners…

    RJ is whatever his clients need him to be.

    With every lead, he asks the question…

    “How can we make money from this lead?”

    And that might sound like a selfish question to ask, but it’s actually one of the most selfless questions to ask. Because then, RJ doesn’t turn down clients because they need a specific service – he is willing to help them with almost anything they need. Whether that be rehabbing, wholesaling, holding a rental, or even roofing.

    If someone needs help and they have money to pay, then RJ takes advantage of the opportunity.

    Not, though, because it’s all about the deals for him, but because he’s running a business and his goal is to make money. According to him, there’s a massive difference.

    “Aren’t we in business to make money, not complete deals? You could bust out a thousand deals and make no money.”

    All of RJ’s goals are based on profitability… not on the number of deals. And the reason is simple: focusing on the number of deals can quickly turn into a vanity metric. Profitability, on the other hand, always leads to more money and a more successful business.

    Plus, by trying to increase the profitability of each deal rather than just doing lots of deals, you can actually make more money with less work.

    You could, for instance, make $20,000 by doing 3 deals, or you could make that in a single deal by optimizing your sales process and increasing your per-deal profitability.

    Less work. More money.

    How RJ Decides Which Markets to Expand into…

    RJ doesn’t just randomly pick markets to take his business into. The primary factor he uses to determine which market to move into next is if he can build a strategic partnership with someone else there.

    Some wholesalers and rehabbers prefer to build a completely remote business and outsource local tasks to someone in the area, but RJ prefers to have a partner with boots on the ground.

    He looks for other businesses that he can team up with and build something even better than what either person currently has. On his own, he believes he can create something good. With others, he believes he can create something great.

    Once he expands into a new market, he sets realistic expectations for that area. Each place has different cost-per-lead and cost-per-deal. And different marketing strategies work better (or worse) in different markets.

    Today, RJ is in lots of different markets, has a goal of $2 million in profit by the end of the year, and is consistently looking for new partnerships that can help expand his portfolio.

    RJ’s Marketing Strategy

    RJ starts with an ambitious goal. In his own words…

    “I don’t do well if I set small achievable goals. That to me does not excite me. I need to have the large goal because, in my mind, I can see what I need to do to achieve the large goal.”

    His current goal?

    To make $100,000 per month in passive income. If that’s not ambitious, then I don’t know what is. But it’s exactly that kind of goal that keeps RJ motivated.

    In fact, he even said that he’s less likely to complete small goals because they don’t get him fired up – making him more likely to quit when the road gets treacherous.

    Once he sets an ambitious goal, it’s time to start marketing his services.

    Here are his primary marketing strategies…

    1. Direct mail – Even though this is a physical marketing strategy, RJ believes that it ties in directly with digital marketing. When someone receives a mailer, the first thing they do is try to find the website of the business that sent it. If that website isn’t optimized for conversion, then you’ve just paid money to lose leads.
    2. Facebook ads
    3. Instagram Ads
    4. Google Ads

    With all of the digital advertising methods, he uses Carrot’s campaign tracking link system to make sure his ads are performing as he needs them to.

    If they aren’t, he pauses the ad and figures out why it isn’t generating leads. Then he fixes it and tries again. His average cost-per-deal (which varies massively depending on the market) is $3,000 to $4,000. But he has massive profit margins that can support high-cost deals like that.

    Image Credit: Speak2Leads.com

    Also noteworthy is RJ’s five-minute policy, where he shouts “Five minutes!” in the office whenever a lead comes through. That means the team has just five minutes to contact the lead.

    RJ believes that this policy is a big reason for their success…

    Because when people opt-in, they’re probably also opting-in on the competition’s website – or they will soon – and the sooner he follows-up with leads, the better chance that he’ll make the sale.

    RJ has also found that most sales happen not on the first or second contact, but on the 4th or 5th.

    The more that you contact people, the more that they think about you and – somewhat surprisingly – the more likely that they will eventually buy from you.

    Stay top-of-mind and they’ll buy from you once they’re ready.

    Which is why RJ says that “with marketing, there’s no secret sauce. It’s all about consistency.”

    Consistently getting in front of your target market…

    Consistently reminding people that you exist…

    And consistently working to stay top-of-mind for people who are on the fence about your service.

    Over time, that consistency pays off.

    (Image Source)

    What’s your Real Estate Marketing Strategy?

    How are you building your business?

    Are you setting ambitious goals or small goals?

    Are you sticking to one market or moving into many markets?

    Do you have a website optimized for conversion to make the most of all your marketing dollars – online and offline?

    This is RJ’s story. What’s yours?

    Become a Carrot Member Today and Receive your High-converting Website

  • Unlock Success: 14 Advanced Real Estate Facebook Ads in 2025

    Unlock Success: 14 Advanced Real Estate Facebook Ads in 2025

    The real estate marketing world changed in 2024 with increased enforcement of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act or the Application-to-Person 10-Digit Long Code (A2P 10DLC) regulations introduced to enhance transparency and reduce spam.

    In 2025, Facebook Ads for real estate will remain a powerful tool for grabbing attention and leaving a lasting impact on potential clients.

    This blog post dives into 14 examples of inspiring real estate Facebook Ads examples for 2024, spotlighting the latest trends and creative approaches that confidently set the industry standard.

    Learn The TRUTH About How Any Real Estate Investor Can Find Leads Online And Avoid Wasting Thousands Of Dollars

    Get Access to Facebook Ads Masterclass

    14 Advanced Real Estate Facebook Ads in 2025

    Jump to each ad example:

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Personalized Dynamic Ads:

    The concept of Personalized Dynamic Ads goes beyond traditional static advertisements, offering a dynamic and tailored experience for potential buyers by showcasing content uniquely relevant to each individual.

    Personalized Dynamic Ads leverage user data and behavior to deliver content that resonates with each viewer personally. This is achieved through real-time customization of ad elements, ensuring that the right properties are showcased to the right audience at the right time.

    Dynamic Ad Components:

    • Property Recommendations: Tailoring the ad content to showcase properties that align with the viewer’s preferences, previous interactions, and search history.
    • Pricing and Offers: Displaying real-time pricing updates, special offers, or personalized discounts based on user behavior and engagement.
    • Location-Based Information: Incorporating local amenities, schools, and attractions specific to the viewer’s location or the location of their previous property searches.
    • Call-to-Action Variations: Customizing the call-to-action (CTA) based on the user’s stage in the buyer’s journey, whether scheduling a tour, requesting more information, or making an offer.

    Benefits for Real Estate Agents and Investors:

    Unlike static ads, personalized dynamic ads can feature a variety of dynamic components, including:

    • Increased Relevance and Engagement: Personalized dynamic ads significantly increase relevance by tailoring ad content to individual preferences. This, in turn, boosts user engagement as viewers are more likely to interact with content that aligns with their specific interests.
    • Higher Conversion Rates: The dynamic nature of these ads allows real estate professionals to showcase a variety of properties or highlight specific features based on what is most likely to resonate with each viewer. This targeted approach contributes to higher conversion rates.
    • Enhanced User Experience: Personalized dynamic ads create a more seamless and enjoyable user experience. Potential buyers feel that the content is curated specifically for them, enhancing their perception of the brand and increasing the likelihood of positive interactions.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Utilize advanced analytics for marketing tools to gather and analyze user data effectively.
    • Collaborate with digital marketing experts to implement dynamic ad strategies across various platforms.
    • A/B tests different dynamic components to fine-tune ad performance and maximize results.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Emotive Storytelling Through Cinemagraphs:

    In the world of digital storytelling, real estate marketers are turning to an enchanting visual medium: cinemagraphs. Combining the dynamism of video with the subtlety of photography, cinemagraphs are captivating and emotive, making them an increasingly popular choice for conveying the unique stories behind real estate properties.

    Why Cinemagraphs Matter:

    • Extended Engagement: Unlike static images, cinemagraphs encourage prolonged engagement as viewers are captivated by the subtle, mesmerizing movements. This extended interaction provides more time for the property’s unique features to leave a lasting impression.
    • Differentiation in a Crowded Market: Standing out is essential in a saturated real estate market. Cinemagraphs offer a visually distinct and innovative way to showcase properties, differentiating your brand and listings from the competition.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Highlight Unique Features: Use cinemagraphs to draw attention to the distinctive features of a property. Whether it’s a cozy fireplace, panoramic views, or a tranquil backyard, cinemagraphs can emphasize these elements in a visually compelling manner.
    • Create Atmosphere: Cinemagraphs excel at creating a specific atmosphere or mood. Whether you want to convey a sense of luxury, relaxation, or excitement, the subtle movements in cinemagraphs can evoke the desired emotional response.
    • Storytelling Narratives: Craft visual narratives for your properties. Cinemagraphs allow you to tell a story, guiding viewers through different spaces and creating a cohesive narrative showcasing a home’s flow and character.

    Benefits for Real Estate Agents and Investors:

    • Memorable Impressions: Cinemagraphs leave a lasting impression on viewers. The combination of motion and stillness creates a memorable visual experience that can influence perceptions and decisions.
    • Increased Social Media Engagement: On social media platforms where visual content reigns supreme, cinemagraphs stand out in crowded feeds. The engaging nature of cinemagraphs can boost social media engagement and encourage users to share your content.
    • Versatility Across Platforms: Cinemagraphs can be incorporated into various marketing channels, including websites, social media, email campaigns, and digital advertisements. Their versatility makes them a valuable asset in a comprehensive marketing strategy.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Collaborate with professional photographers and videographers experienced in cinemagraph creation. Focus on subtle, natural movements that enhance the property’s ambiance without distracting from its key features. A/B test different cinemagraphs to gauge audience preferences and optimize engagement.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – AI-Powered Chatbots for Instant Engagement:

    In an era where instant communication is the norm, real estate marketers increasingly turn to AI-powered chatbots to facilitate immediate engagement and enhance customer interactions. These intelligent bots are reshaping how real estate professionals connect with potential clients by providing instant responses, valuable information, and a personalized experience.

    AI-powered chatbots leverage natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to understand and respond to user queries in real time. This technology revolutionizes customer interactions in the real estate industry by offering instantaneous engagement, 24/7 availability, and valuable insights.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Instant Response: One of the primary advantages of AI-powered chatbots is their ability to respond immediately to user inquiries. This ensures that potential clients receive timely information, fostering a positive user experience and reducing the risk of losing leads due to delayed responses.
    • 24/7 Availability: Unlike human agents, chatbots don’t need breaks or sleep. They offer round-the-clock availability, catering to users’ needs in different time zones or those browsing properties outside regular business hours.
    • Personalized Interactions: Advanced AI algorithms enable chatbots to personalize interactions based on user data. Chatbots can offer tailored recommendations, property suggestions, and relevant information by analyzing previous interactions, browsing history, and preferences, creating a more engaging and personalized experience.
    • Lead Qualification: Chatbots can efficiently qualify leads by asking relevant questions and gathering essential information. This streamlines the lead qualification process and helps human agents focus on high-priority leads, ultimately improving conversion rates.
    • Appointment Scheduling: Some AI-powered chatbots are equipped with the capability to schedule property viewings, consultations, or virtual tours. This seamless integration simplifies the process for potential buyers, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Integration with Platforms: Integrate chatbots into your website, social media platforms, and messaging apps to meet potential clients where they are most active. This omnichannel approach ensures a consistent and accessible user experience.
    • Natural Language Understanding: Enhance chatbot capabilities by investing in natural language understanding technology. This allows chatbots to comprehend user inquiries, even if they are phrased in various ways, improving the overall user experience.
    • Data Security Measures: Implement robust data security measures to protect sensitive information shared through the chatbot. Building trust with users is crucial for the success of AI-powered chatbots in real estate.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Regularly update the chatbot’s knowledge base to keep information current and relevant.
    • Monitor user interactions to identify areas for improvement and refine the chatbot’s responses over time.
    • When more complex queries arise, provide a seamless transition from the chatbot to human agents.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Virtual Property Tours:

    As technology advances, virtual tours have become a powerful tool in the real estate industry, revolutionizing how potential buyers explore and experience properties. Virtual property tours provide an immersive and interactive experience, allowing users to enter a property virtually, examine its features, and envision their future living space.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Immersive Exploration: Virtual property tours provide an immersive experience beyond traditional images or videos. Potential buyers can virtually explore every nook and cranny of a property, gaining a realistic sense of its layout, design, and overall ambiance.
    • Remote Property Viewing: Virtual property tours revolutionize remote property viewing, which is especially beneficial for out-of-town buyers or those unable to attend physical showings. This innovation in a globalized market empowers individuals to explore and evaluate properties from the comfort of their current location.
    • Enhanced Engagement: Virtual tours provide a higher engagement level than traditional media. Users actively participate in the exploration, deciding where to go and what features to focus on, leading to a more memorable and impactful experience.
    • Time and Cost Savings: Virtual property tours can save time and resources for real estate professionals and potential buyers. Instead of traveling to multiple properties, users can narrow their choices through virtual tours, making the property selection process more efficient.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Professional Virtual Content Creation: Engage virtual content creators or agencies specializing in real estate virtual tours to ensure high-quality, immersive experiences. Professional content can significantly enhance the visual appeal and effectiveness of virtual tours.
    • Cross-Platform Accessibility: Ensure that your virtual tours are accessible across various platforms, including using VR headsets, smartphones, and desktops. This ensures a broader reach and accommodates users with different devices.
    • Integration with Online Platforms: Embed virtual tours into your website, property listings, and social media platforms to maximize exposure. Seamless integration allows potential buyers to access virtual tours effortlessly and enhances the overall online presence of your listings.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Provide clear instructions for users on how to access and navigate virtual tours.
    • Regularly update virtual content to reflect any changes in the property, ensuring accuracy for potential buyers.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Neighborhood Guide Ads:

    Adapt to the evolving needs of your audience, ensuring that the information provided remains relevant and valuable.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Highlight Key Features: Strategically showcase the key features of each neighborhood, emphasizing factors like schools, parks, safety, and local culture.
    • Targeted Audience: Use real estate Facebook ads targeting features to reach potential buyers specifically interested in certain neighborhoods, ensuring your guides reach the most relevant audience.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive elements such as maps, videos, and quizzes to make your guides more engaging and memorable.
    • Community Involvement: Collaborate with local businesses and residents to enhance the authenticity and credibility of your neighborhood guides.

    GIF-based Teasers for Property Launches:

    GIF-based teasers have emerged as a creative and attention-grabbing strategy, particularly for generating excitement around property launches. This innovative approach leverages the engaging nature of GIFs to provide a sneak peek into a new property, creating anticipation and sparking interest among potential buyers.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Visual Appeal and Engagement: GIFs are inherently attention-grabbing due to their dynamic nature. GIF-based teasers capitalize on this visual appeal to quickly capture the audience’s attention and keep them engaged during the brief animation.
    • Storytelling in Motion: GIFs enable real estate marketers to tell a concise visual story. Whether highlighting the exterior aesthetics, interior design elements, or the property’s surroundings, these short animations provide a narrative in a format that is easy to consume and share.
    • Creating Buzz for Property Launches: GIF-based teasers are particularly effective in building anticipation for upcoming property launches. By offering tantalizing glimpses of what’s to come, these teasers create a sense of excitement and encourage potential buyers to stay tuned for the full property reveal.
    • Social Media Shareability: GIFs are highly shareable on social media platforms. Their short and captivating format makes them ideal for sharing across various channels, amplifying the reach of property teasers and increasing the likelihood of virality within online communities.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Highlight Unique Features: Use GIF-based teasers to showcase the distinctive features of a property. This could include panoramic views, state-of-the-art amenities, or architectural details that set the property apart from others in the market.
    • Countdown to Launch: Incorporate GIF teasers into a countdown campaign before the property launch. Each teaser can reveal a different aspect of the property, creating a sense of anticipation and encouraging potential buyers to mark their calendars for the official unveiling.
    • Cross-Platform Promotion: Share GIF-based teasers across various platforms, including social media, email newsletters, and property listing websites. Consistent cross-platform promotion ensures maximum visibility and engagement.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Keep GIFs short and snappy, focusing on key selling points.
    • Ensure that GIFs align with the overall branding and messaging for the property.
    • Monitor engagement metrics to gauge the effectiveness of GIF-based teasers.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Time-Limited Offers:

    The incorporation of Time-Limited Offers has proven to be a potent strategy for driving urgency and motivating potential buyers to take swift action. This real estate Facebook Ads approach involves presenting limited-time opportunities, incentives, or exclusive deals to create a sense of scarcity and prompt quicker decision-making among prospective property investors or homebuyers.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Urgency and Scarcity: The primary benefit of time-limited offers is their ability to instill a sense of urgency and scarcity. By setting a deadline, real estate marketers create a compelling reason for potential buyers to act promptly to secure exclusive benefits or savings.
    • Faster Decision-Making: The time constraint associated with exclusive offers accelerates decision-making. Prospective buyers are more likely to expedite their evaluations, negotiations, and ultimately, their purchasing decisions to take advantage of the limited-time benefits.
    • Enhanced Perceived Value: Limited-time offers contribute to the perceived value of a property. Buyers recognize that these exclusive deals are time-sensitive and may not be available in the future, adding a layer of exclusivity and attractiveness to the investment opportunity.
    • Lead Generation and Conversion: The sense of urgency generated by time-limited offers can stimulate increased lead generation and higher conversion rates. Potential buyers who might have been on the fence may be more inclined to act decisively to secure the exclusive benefits.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Clear Communication: Communicate the terms and benefits of the time-limited offer. Transparency is key to building trust and ensuring that potential buyers fully understand the value they stand to gain within the specified timeframe.
    • Multi-Channel Promotion: Promote time-limited offers across various marketing channels. This includes leveraging social media, email marketing, website banners, and property listings to reach a broader audience and maximize visibility.
    • Align with Property Features: Ensure the exclusive offer aligns with the property’s unique features and selling points. This creates a cohesive marketing message and reinforces the value proposition for potential buyers.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Use compelling and visually appealing graphics to highlight the exclusivity and limited duration of the offer.
    • Provide a clear and easily accessible call-to-action, guiding potential buyers on how to take advantage of the exclusive offer.
    • Monitor and analyze the performance of the time-limited offer to inform future marketing strategies.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Testimonials:

    Testimonials have acted as a compelling and authentic strategy to build trust, showcase client satisfaction, and humanize the buying or selling experience. This approach captures satisfied clients’ heartfelt stories and positive experiences through written or video testimonials, providing potential buyers with genuine insights into the real estate journey.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Authenticity and Trust-Building: Testimonials convey authenticity and sincerity that written testimonials may not fully capture. Seeing and hearing real clients share their positive experiences builds trust and credibility, as potential buyers can connect emotionally with the stories.
    • Humanizing the Experience: Testimonials humanize the real estate experience by putting a face and voice to the client’s stories. This personal touch helps potential buyers relate to the experiences of others, making the prospect of working with the showcased real estate professional more relatable and appealing.
    • Showcasing Diverse Experiences: A testimonial can showcase diverse client experiences. From first-time homebuyers to property investors, each testimonial can highlight different aspects of the real estate journey, resonating with a broader audience and addressing various concerns or considerations.
    • Differentiating Your Brand: In a competitive market, a testimonial can differentiate your brand by allowing satisfied clients to become advocates for your services. Positive client stories serve as powerful endorsements, setting your real estate agency apart and attracting potential clients who value the experiences of their peers.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Varied Client Profiles: Include diverse clients in your testimonial to appeal to a broad audience. This could encompass different demographics, property types, and real estate needs to demonstrate the versatility and expertise of your services.
    • Compelling Storytelling: Encourage clients to share their satisfaction and journey with your real estate agency. Compelling storytelling enhances the emotional impact of the videos, making them more memorable and relatable.
    • Professional Production: When using video, invest in professional video production to ensure high-quality visuals, clear audio, and a polished presentation. Well-produced testimonial videos reflect positively on your brand and contribute to a more impactful viewing experience.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Obtain consent from clients before featuring their stories in testimonials.
    • Use snippets or highlights from the testimonial across various marketing channels for increased visibility.
    • Regularly update your testimonials with new client stories to keep the content fresh and relevant.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Offering a Free Home Valuation:

    Real estate Facebook Ads are a potent tool for investors and agents. Among the myriad strategies available, one that consistently proves impactful is the “Offer a Free Home Valuation” Ads. In this segment, we explore the significance of leveraging this approach to enhance your real estate advertising efforts.

    facebook ads for real estate - home value report

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Client Engagement: Initiate meaningful conversations with homeowners by offering them a valuable service – a complimentary assessment of their home’s market value.
    • Lead Generation: Capture leads effortlessly as interested homeowners willingly provide their details in exchange for the free home valuation.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Clear Call-to-Action: Ensure your Ads have a clear and compelling call-to-action, guiding homeowners on how to avail of the free home valuation and encouraging immediate interaction.
    • Targeted Audience: Use Facebook’s targeting features to focus on homeowners within specific demographics or geographic locations, optimizing your reach and relevance.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Provide Transparency: Communicate the process of the free home valuation to build trust and encourage more homeowners to take advantage of the offer.
    • Follow-Up: Develop a follow-up strategy to nurture leads generated through these Ads, converting them into potential clients over time.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Localized Hyper-Targeting:

    Adopting Localized Hyper-Targeting allows professionals to refine their outreach efforts and connect with potential clients at a hyper-local level. This approach leverages advanced data analytics and geotargeting technologies to tailor marketing campaigns precisely, ensuring that messages resonate with specific audiences in localized areas.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Precision in Audience Segmentation: Localized Hyper-Targeting allows real estate professionals to segment their target audience precisely. By considering factors such as neighborhood demographics, income levels, and property preferences, marketers can tailor messages to specific subsets of potential clients.
    • Personalized Content: Tailoring content to the unique characteristics of a local area ensures that marketing messages resonate with the intended audience. From highlighting nearby amenities to addressing community-specific interests, personalized content enhances engagement and establishes a more meaningful connection with potential buyers.
    • Enhanced Relevance and Engagement: Hyper-targeting ensures that marketing messages are relevant and timely. By addressing individuals’ specific needs and interests in a localized context, real estate professionals can significantly boost engagement and capture the attention of potential clients more effectively.
    • Optimized Ad Spend: Localized Hyper-Targeting optimizes advertising budgets by focusing resources on specific geographic areas with higher conversion potential. This ensures that marketing efforts are directed towards audiences more likely to be interested in the featured properties, maximizing the return on investment.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Utilize Geotargeting Technologies: Leverage tools to pinpoint specific locations and tailor marketing messages accordingly. This includes utilizing GPS data, IP addresses, and other location-based technologies to identify and target potential clients in real time.
    • Data Integration: Integrate local market data, demographics, and property information to understand the target area comprehensively. The more data available, the more precise the hyper-targeting strategy can be in addressing the unique needs of a particular locality.
    • Adapt Campaigns to Local Nuances: Consider the unique characteristics of each neighborhood or community when crafting marketing campaigns. Whether emphasizing school quality, nearby parks, or cultural attractions, adapting campaigns to local nuances enhances their effectiveness.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Regularly update and refine localized targeting parameters based on changing market dynamics.
    • Utilize analytics tools to measure the performance of localized hyper-targeted campaigns and adjust strategies accordingly.
    • Stay informed about local events, developments, and trends to continuously align marketing efforts with the evolving needs of specific neighborhoods.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks:

    Incorporating behind-the-scenes sneak peeks in your real estate Facebook Ads allows professionals to provide an insider’s view into the intricacies of property listings and the real estate process. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional marketing by offering potential buyers a glimpse behind the curtain, fostering transparency, and creating a more engaging and personal connection.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Transparency and Authenticity: Behind-the-scenes sneak peeks foster transparency by allowing potential buyers to see the effort and care invested in presenting a property. This authenticity builds trust and credibility, which is vital to establishing positive client relationships.
    • Engagement Through Storytelling: Sharing behind-the-scenes content allows real estate professionals to tell compelling stories. From the initial stages of property preparation to the final touches before a listing goes live, each step becomes a narrative that engages potential buyers and piques their curiosity.
    • Showcasing Expertise: Behind-the-scenes sneak peeks allow real estate professionals to showcase their expertise. From discussing design choices to explaining market trends, these peeks can highlight the knowledge and skills that set a real estate professional apart.
    • Building Anticipation: Offering a behind-the-scenes look builds anticipation among potential buyers. It creates a sense of exclusivity and involvement, encouraging individuals to stay engaged with the property listing and follow its journey from preparation to market debut.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Capture Key Moments: Document critical moments in the property preparation process, from staging and photography sessions to discussions with clients or property owners. These moments humanize the experience and provide valuable insights into the investment in presenting a property.
    • Utilize Video Content: Video is a powerful medium for behind-the-scenes content. Visual storytelling enhances the impact of behind-the-scenes peeks, whether through short clips on social media or more extended videos on property listings.
    • Engage with Your Audience: Encourage interaction and engagement by inviting potential buyers to ask questions or share their thoughts during behind-the-scenes content releases. This two-way communication builds a sense of community and involvement.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Be consistent in sharing behind-the-scenes content to maintain audience interest.
    • Use behind-the-scenes peeks to highlight the unique features of a property and its distinct selling points.
    • Monitor audience feedback and adjust behind-the-scenes content based on what resonates most with your target demographic.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Market Insights:

    Market Insights have emerged as a strategic and engaging approach, enabling professionals to gather valuable market insights while fostering interaction with their audience.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Audience Engagement: Market insights involve the audience in the real estate conversation. Real estate professionals can build community by encouraging participation and interaction, keeping potential buyers and sellers engaged with their brand.
    • Real-Time Feedback: Unlike traditional market research methods, interactive polls provide real-time feedback. This immediacy allows real estate professionals to stay agile and responsive to changing market dynamics, adapting their strategies based on the most up-to-date insights.
    • Enhanced Personalization: Market insights enable real estate professionals to personalize their approach. By knowing the preferences of their audience, professionals can offer more relevant content, property suggestions, and services, enhancing the overall customer experience.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Define Clear Objectives: Whether gauging interest in specific property features or understanding market sentiment, having a clear goal ensures that the market insights are meaningful and actionable.
    • Promote Across Channels: Promote market insights across various channels, including social media, email newsletters, and your website. Utilize the reach of different platforms to maximize participation and gather insights from a diverse audience.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Keep market insights and easy participation to encourage higher engagement.
    • Share insights from polls with your audience, demonstrating transparency and creating a feedback loop.
    • Review and update topics to align with market dynamics and audience interests.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Ephemeral Stories for Property Highlights:

    Ephemeral stories involve sharing multimedia content—such as images and videos—accessible for a limited time, typically 24 hours. When applied to real estate marketing, Ephemeral Stories provides a platform for professionals to showcase key features, behind-the-scenes footage, and other property highlights in a visually appealing and temporary format.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Foster a Sense of Urgency: The temporary nature of Ephemeral Stories creates a sense of urgency among viewers. Potential buyers are motivated to engage with the content promptly, ensuring they don’t miss out on exclusive property highlights or time-sensitive information.
    • Visual Appeal: Ephemeral Stories capitalize on the visual appeal of images and videos to convey property highlights in a captivating way. The dynamic nature of stories allows for a more immersive and interactive experience, enhancing the overall impact of the showcased content.
    • Highlight Unique Features: Ephemeral Stories are ideal for spotlighting specific features of a property, whether it’s a breathtaking view, a luxurious amenity, or a unique architectural detail. The temporary nature of the content makes these features stand out, encouraging potential buyers to take notice.
    • Encourage Engagement: Viewers can actively engage with Ephemeral Stories through reactions, comments, and direct messages. This interactive element fosters engagement and allows real estate professionals to directly communicate with potential buyers, answering questions or providing additional information in real time.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Curate Compelling Visuals: Invest time in curating visually appealing images and videos that showcase a property’s most attractive and unique aspects. High-quality visuals contribute to the overall allure of Ephemeral Stories.
    • Create a Story Narrative: Develop a narrative for each Ephemeral Story to guide viewers through the property highlights. This could include a virtual tour, highlighting specific rooms, or providing insights into the lifestyle associated with the property.
    • Utilize Story Features: Leverage the features available within ephemeral story platforms, such as polls, quizzes, or swipe-up links for additional information. These features enhance interactivity and allow potential buyers to engage with the content actively.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Promote Ephemeral Stories across multiple platforms, including social media and messaging apps, to maximize visibility.
    • Use captions and overlays to provide context and additional information about the property highlights.
    • Monitor engagement metrics to assess the effectiveness of Ephemeral Stories and refine future content accordingly.

    Real Estate Facebook Ads – Highlight Recently Sold Listings

    One particularly impactful approach is the “Highlight recently sold listings” real estate Facebook Ads, a powerful narrative that encapsulates success and fosters trust among potential clients.

    Recently sold listings Ads go beyond showcasing properties—they tell a story of triumph, illustrating the dedication and proficiency of real estate professionals. These Ads serve as a visual testament to success, showcasing recently closed deals that exemplify expertise in the industry.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Visual Storytelling: Leverage the storytelling power of visuals to engage your audience emotionally and convey the diversity of your successful transactions.
    • Trust and Credibility: Establish trust by presenting a transparent track record of recently sold properties, reinforcing your credibility as a reliable and successful real estate professional.

    Strategic Implementation:

    • Diversity in Showcase: Strategically showcase various properties to cater to different preferences and demographics, expanding your reach and relevance.
    • Targeted Placement: Place your Ads strategically on Facebook to reach the right audience. Utilize the platform’s targeting features to maximize visibility and engagement.

    Implementation Tips:

    • Stay Current: Regularly update the recently sold listings showcased in your ads to reflect the dynamic nature of the market.
    • Encourage Engagement: Foster community by encouraging audience interaction through comments and inquiries, building trust and credibility.

    Conclusion:

    As we venture further into 2025, the real estate landscape continues to evolve, and these 14 inspiring Facebook Ad examples showcase the innovative and creative approaches defining the industry.

    By incorporating the latest technologies, embracing inclusivity, and staying attuned to market trends, real estate professionals can leverage Facebook ads to engage their audience, drive conversions, and stand out in a competitive market.

    Stay inspired, stay adaptive, and watch as your real estate Facebook ads significantly impact the year ahead.

  • Real Estate Marketing: 8 Tips to Find Motivated Sellers on Craigslist

    Real Estate Marketing: 8 Tips to Find Motivated Sellers on Craigslist

    2016.07.3-craigslist-main

    Most real estate investors have a “love-hate” relationship with Craigslist.

    We hear it all the time:

    “Craigslist doesn’t work for the real estate industry anymore.”
    “Ever since they killed the ability to post HTML-enhanced ads… my leads have dried up.”
    “Sure it’s great for ‘for sale by owner,’ but it’s impossible to scale.”
    “All I ever get is spam.”

    And I get it – when something isn’t working, it’s discouraging. It’s frustrating. Above all, it makes you want to quit and find a better place to invest your money.

    Before you give up, though, consider the kinds of results Cyndy Dumire – a real estate investor and Craigslist ad-writing pro – gets on a regular basis. Every week, Cyndy generates around 80 buyer leads, 30 seller leads, and 10 foreclosure leads. Even more impressive, in the last six months, she’s closed no less than 30 deals from leads that all originated from Craigslist ads alone.

    Effective Craigslist Ads With Cyndy Dumire

    Cyndy Dumire Effective Craigslist Ads

    The reasons most investors give up on Craigslist is twofold.

    1. Their ads don’t attract attention because they’re not offering their target audience a solution to a real and pressing problem (i.e., a market-driven need or desire).
    2. Their ads don’t inspire trust.

    We’ve ran hundreds of tests on our real estate websites and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that building trust with the people who arrive on your website impacts ROI and lead generation more than any other element.

    And that’s not just true on your website – it’s true on Craigslist.

    Of course, if you’re going to use Craigslist and actually get results like Cyndy, then you’re going to need to know more than, “Build credibility!”

    And that’s exactly where this post comes in.

    Today, I’m going to pull back the curtain and walk through 8 tips to find all the motivated sellers and buyers on Craigslist you want.

    Facebook Ads for Real Estate: The Why and How of Getting (REAL) Leads

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #1: Know your ideal customer

    To paraphrase the great Warren Buffett: never sell heavy-metal music lovers tickets to a jazz show.

    If you’re trying to market to buyers or sellers, you’ve gotta start thinking like them.

    Why do they want to sell their house? How stressful is their situation? How can you help them?

    When determining your ideal customer as a real estate investor, there’re two questions you must answer:

    1. What kind of buyer or seller they are?
    2. What influences them in a personal capacity?

    Answering the first question is pretty easy. But don’t be misled by its simplicity. One of the first mistakes most Craigslist ad marketers make is casting their net too wide. Unfortunately, targeting too broad of an audience – like “local home buyers” or “local home sellers” – won’t work.

    Craigslist is too crowded for bland targets. Instead, you have to get specific about the kind of buyer or seller you’re focusing on and the needs that drive them.

    For instance, your perfect customer might be…

    • An out-of-state investor who needs to know cash flow numbers.
    • A house flipper who needs a clear assessment of how much work is required to turn the property around.
    • A rent-to-own tenant buyer who needs to know that you’ll work with them on their unique financing situation.

    In other words, be as detailed as possible when it comes to defining the kind of customer you’re aiming at.

    Answering the second question – your customer’s influences – takes a bit more work.

    To help, here’s a quick breakdown of the four major factors that influence home buyers specifically:

    craigslist influences

    (Image Source)

    Understanding your perfect customer’s influences does not demand addressing each and every element noted above. But you also can’t create the best real estate listing without knowing what is going to sway your customer.

    Again, this is all the more true on Craigslist. There are so many ads already vying for their attention, and that is why you need to make yours stand out.

    How do you make your listing stand out?

    Consider the following template as a starting point from our Posts 2 Profits Craigslist Marketing Course.

    [cta offer=”craigslist”]

    Notice how this ad communicates directly to the agent’s ideal customer and – especially through the power of questions – draws them in toward a preliminary solution. The “Free Book” offer – rather than an overt invitation to call them – is based directly on their ideal customer’s legitimate need.

    craigslist ad template 1

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    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #2: Get personal

    Real estate is all about people.

    Of course, in a sense, all businesses are about people. But real estate is especially personal because the commodity it deals in is emotionally charged.

    After all, according to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, safety is one of the most primal human needs and comes in second only to our need for food and water (i.e., “Physiological” needs).

    Maslows Hierarchy Of Needs

    (Image Source)

    Our homes give us safety. And – just like Maslow’s very next need identifies – they make us feel like we have a place to be “loved” and “belong.”

    Even more powerful is the realization that our homes are where our memories are created. Not to be cliche, but home really is where the heart is.

    So, listing a home or a property is a big deal. And trust is at a premium.

    People need to trust you with what is quite honestly their biggest asset.

    Keep your target audience – their needs, not yours; their dreams, not yours – at the forefront of your mind when you compile listings.

    Craft personal, trustworthy ads with these tips:

    • Use your name in the ad, not just your company’s.
    • Write the way you talk and read your ad out loud to make sure it’s conversational.
    • Press on the pain of the person whose problem you’re trying to solve, then offer your holistic solution.
    • Don’t be afraid to let your personality and passion shine through.
    • Above all, tell a story. Paint a picture of how living in the home would feel using sensory language.
    Well-written-craigslist-listing-description-2

    A well-written home description paints a vivid story.

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #3: Include a Call to Action

    The entire point of any online marketing campaign – including listings on Craigslist – is to get the people who see it, to do something.

    Normally, this means getting them to contact you via text, email, or phone. It could also mean getting them to visit your agency’s website.

    Simply put: your Call to Action needs to get your reader to actually take action.

    That’s why, in your listing, it’s essential to add a clear and enticing CTA, and to give your reader options. For example, the following CTA invites the reader to choose the next step that’s most comfortable for them and repeats the CTA no less than five times.

    craiglist sold 1

    Action also means you need to always include a direct email link so they can respond immediately to the ad if they’re interested. Oh, and don’t be afraid to call attention to that by inviting them to email you.

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    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #4: Watch your words

    We all know how essential good imagery is to real estate. In fact, we’re going to cover imagery and graphics in the very next point.

    However, many investors fail because they underestimate the power of words. As Hamza Yusuf put it, “Don’t ever diminish the power of words. Words move hearts and hearts move limbs.”

    On Craigslist, watching your words comes down to two elements:

    1. Your keywords
    2. Your headlines

    The right keywords matter because it’s your keywords that will determine whether or not the right people find your ad. This is true both through Craigslist’s own search engine as well as outside search engines like Google.

    To get the best visibility for your ads, go beyond merely including your location as a keyword. Geek Estate’s post about “The Most Profitable Keywords in Real Estate offers this brilliant suggestion:

    “Profitable keywords imply an action. San Diego real estate implies nothing. It is just a thing. San Diego real estate for sale implies an action. People want something that is for sale, presumably so they can buy it.”

    In addition, Geek Estate also adds a second keyword characteristic: laser focus.

    In contrast to something like “Rancho Santa Fe homes for sale,” use “individual neighborhoods within Rancho Santa Fe”: e.g., “Fairbanks Ranch homes for sale, The Bridges homes for sale, or Rancho Santa Fe Covenant homes for sale.”

    Why? Because “people that type keywords like these into the search engines know exactly what they are looking for.”

    Lastly, as vital as keywords are, do not “stuff” your real estate listing with keywords for the sake of keywords. This creates an inhuman feel to your ads and violates our previous tip: “Get Personal.”

    The second element to watch is your ad’s headline.

    The title of your Craigslist ad is where the real attention-grabbing oomph resides, and you need to spend some time developing and testing titles that captivate. Whatever you do, don’t follow the crowd… unless of course, the ad has been proven to work, like the ones we provide in our Posts 2 Profits Craigslist Marketing Course.

    The ad I already called attention to in tip one is an excellent example of a headline that stands out:

    Craigslist behind on payments ad

    Likewise, so is the headline in this ad:

    craiglist sold

    On top of our own proven headlines, check out Inman’s 4 tips for writing powerful real estate copy which includes these simple, but super practical hacks:

    1. Short, concise bullet points work best
    2. Use numbers
    3. Use the words “unique,” “special” and “these”
    4. Use commands

    [cta offer=”craigslist”]

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #5: Be relevant with your graphics

    There’s no doubt about it: not adding images to your ads is a Craigslist killer. However, the mere presence of images doesn’t automatically translate into success.

    The right graphics dramatically increase the number of people who will take action and get in touch with you. So too … the wrong graphics dramatically reduce that number.

    As a golden rule, be sure to use images that are eye-catching, relevant … and high quality. That’s true across the board. But how do you decide what images and graphics to include?

    Go back to your ideal customer. The image you choose should be based on the type of buyer or seller you’re looking for:

    • Turnkey investors want to see images that show off how nice the house is, that it’s been well kept and that it’s in a neighborhood that’ll attract the type of tenant they want. That last characteristic means you should always include both pictures of the property itself as well as its surrounding area.
    • Cash buyers or flippers want to see a house that needs TLC in comparison to other houses in the neighborhood. With these types, you’d be smart to show the flaws of the property, exactly what kind of work will be required, but end by displaying its underlying high-points and long-term value.
    • If your ideal customer is a homeowner or retail buyer — if they will be living in the property themselves — then staged images that show off the house as a home are essential. Just be careful what you include in those staged photos:
    craigslist doll pic 1

    Image Credit: Huffington Post

    craigslist doll pic 2

    Image Credit: Huffington Post

    • If your ideal customer is an investor, then glamorous, well-staged pictures of the property itself won’t be nearly as compelling as adding numbers to those pictures. In this case, you could try using a multi-property image for investors interested in purchasing multiple properties.
    craiglist sold 2

    Lastly, as a pro tip, don’t overdo it with images. Remember, the entire point of your ad is to get your reader to do something, like visit your website. Give them just enough to make them want to find out more.

    5 Real Estate Marketing Strategies to Turn Cold Website Visitors into Cold, Hard Cash

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #6: Post often and from different “angles”

    Alongside the previous pitfalls we’ve covered, I’d be willing to argue that the number one real-estate-ad-killer on Craigslist isn’t the words, the images, or even the calls to action.

    It’s recency.

    The way that Craigslist works is the most recent postings land at the top of the page and the past ones get pushed down. Some people search Craigslist based on the search box (so make sure to include keywords that your best clients are likely to search in your listings), but most people just scroll down the listings a few scrolls to see “what’s new”.

    So with that said, to get in front of your prospects the most… make sure you have ads online and active at the times of the day that your prospects are likely looking at Craigslist. 

    We’ve even seen with today’s Craigslist algorithm some of the most successful accounts post between 3-15 times per day. 

    Here’s how…

    Day 1-3:
    Launch a Craigslist account and start posting just 3 times per day. Once in the morning, around lunch, and evening – around 7 or 8 pm. These tend to be the times of the day people will look at Craigslist. Think about when you look at your email, Facebook, or Craigslist… it tends to be during that “slack time” during your day. Posting your ads just before these “slack times” helps put your ads near the top of the feed when your best prospects hop on to browse.

    On those ads, don’t post the same ad every time. You’ll want to tackle it from different angles. If you’re looking for motivated house sellers or cash buyers, what are different reasons a house seller could want to sell? Create an ad for each. What motivations could cash buyers have? Create an ad for each.

    This way you’re keeping things interesting and hitting on multiple hooks. One might grab someone better than another.

    Day 4-8:
    Add in another ad to your mix. Now posting 2 ads 3 times per day (for a total of 6 ads that day). Again, don’t post the same ad every time and mix up your hooks. Also, mix up where you’re posting your ads – don’t put them all in the same spot.

    What we’re doing here is “seasoning” the account in a natural way so you’re not launching a new account and posting 20 ads the first day. That’s a great way to get your account banned and you’ll have to start over.

    Day 9-20:
    Keep renewing your ads every 48 hours as Craigslist lets you and bump up your ad posting frequency so you’re posting 3 ads 3 times per day (for 9 ads total per day).

    Same thing, keep your ads interesting, high value, and hitting on different hooks – things that your top prospects are thinking about, worrying about, or need help with.

    Day 21-20:
    I’d cap it at about 12 ads per day on that one account. I’ve seen some accounts get ghosted or banned at even that amount if the ads aren’t high value and really helping people. So in this phase, add on a 4th ad 3 times per day… capping it at that 12 ads per day for that Craigslist account.

    Just a note: if you post more than 15 ads a day, you’ll get “Craigslist slapped” and your ads will stop showing up.

    The lifespan of Craigslist ads can vary depending on the number of competing posts in different geographic locations. In large metropolitan cities, ads may only be visible for 5 days, while in smaller towns they may show up for 50 days.

    Why all this focus on recency and renewing? Because generating real estate leads on Craigslist is an attention game, so the more you’re at the top of the Craigslist listing when your best prospects are searching… the more likely your ads will get seen and the prospects will come your way.

    If you want to cross that gray line on the Craigslist Terms of Service to ramp it up… we’ve seen it be crazy effective having a few Craigslist accounts. Yes, this is against the Craigslist TOS so it’s your choice and you risk getting your accounts banned. However, if you’re marketing different websites with different phone numbers (i.e. – a cash buyer site and a motivated house seller site) the chances of it being seen as a duplicate account are very small.

    It all boils down to value. If you’re adding value to the Craigslist ecosystem vs. just spamming it… then you’re good.

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #7: Create a system

    By now, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Keeping track of all those ads can be hard work.

    Unfortunately, Craigslist doesn’t provide any analytics or tracking data, so it’s up to you to track each of your ads and monitor your calls as a part of your overall real estate marketing plan so you can see what’s working.

    At a minimum, keep a spreadsheet of your Craigslist ads and a method to monitor them.

    Not only does creating a system of tracking give you concrete proof of what’s working and what’s not, but getting organized with a system gives you more time to do other more important things.

    We recommend you send traffic to a specific URL on your site.

    This has a couple advantages.

    1. You can track them using Google Analytics
    2. You can retarget users that you know have come from Craigslist

    Here are a few tips to consider when creating a special page for Craigslist traffic.

    • Name the URL something short and descriptive. An example http://yourdomainname.com/sell-fast-cl
    • Realize that this site might rank in search so you will need to look at that traffic in your Analytics account
    • You should have content on that page that specifically address the type of lead and ad copy that they are coming from.
    • If they clicked on the ad and are coming to your site, you know what questions they have, make sure the answer is easily found.
    • Track which pages are converting the most traffic and make changes as necessary.

    At the end of the day, any data is better than no data.

    So, create a page, or have your developer help you. Then just send traffic to that specific page.

    8 Real Estate Marketing Tools to Save you 10+ Hours Per Week

    Craigslist Motivated Seller Tip #8: Build trust

    I mentioned in the introduction to this post that trust is at a premium on Craigslist. In fact, trust is absolutely crucial to all your real estate marketing efforts.

    I’ve touched on this theme a number of times already. But in case you missed it, trust is so vital that it deserves its very own tip.

    It’s like the old joke: “It’s all about sincerity. Once you can fake that … you’ve got it made.”

    In all seriousness, however, the last question you should ask yourself before you hit “Post” is, “Does this ad build trust?”

    A lot of factors go into trust, so let’s just look at the two most prominent.

    (1) Be Attractive

    It may sound shallow, but persuasion expert Robert Cialdini’s very first step in the famous know “trust chain” is to be “attractive.”

    This doesn’t mean you should feature glamor shots of yourself in your Craigslist ads.

    But it does mean the images you use must be high quality. It also means providing plenty of attractive “white space” in yours ads. Short sentences and short paragraphs don’t just look good, they’re easy to scan.

    craiglist house listed

    Being attractive also means covering your bases when it comes to grammar and proofreading. Nothing kills trust more than an agent who can’t spell correctly.

    (2) Be Easy to Contact

    Conversion guru Peep Laja, in his 39 Factors: Website Credibility Checklist, gives both the number two and number three spots to what we might call contactability:

    “Make your address and phone number visible at all times. Include it in the footer (a must), but depending on your site also in the header (especially if your business depends on incoming calls) and on the sidebar, in the microcopy.”

    “Make it very easy to contact you.”

    How does this apply to Craigslist? Easy. Simply including your contact information once isn’t enough. Take a look at another of our proven templates and see if you can count how many contact opportunities there are:

    contact-craigslist

    All told, I counted nine. Even if it feels redundant … your ads should do the same.

    Real estate works on Craigslist… you just have to know how to work it.

    We’ve covered a lot of ground.

    Eight tips on how to find all the motivated sellers and buyers on Craigslist you want:

    1. Know your ideal customer
    2. Get personal
    3. Include a Call to Action
    4. Watch your words
    5. Be relevant with your graphics
    6. Re-post real estate listings … often
    7. Create a system
    8. Build trust

    Good luck out there, and let us know if we missed your own favorite tip in the comments.

  • 8 Real Estate Marketing Ideas That’ll Give Your Campaigns New Life

    8 Real Estate Marketing Ideas That’ll Give Your Campaigns New Life

    real estate marketing ideas Post Header

    Using the same ol’ marketing strategies for years on end can get a bit monotonous.

    Direct mailers, Facebook ads, flyers, AdWords, blog posts, emails… they all work. But the problem is, when you start getting bored of something, you don’t do it as well as you used to. Not because you’re lazy, but because you’re human.

    We all need to mix it up every now and again to reinvigorate our marketing strategies and inject new life into the way we execute those strategies.

    So, if you’re tuckered out from doing all the same things and want to try something new, here are eight real estate marketing ideas that might give you the energy to keep moving forward.

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #1: Run an A/B test

    Want to inject immediate energy into a marketing campaign?

    Then A/B test it.

    When it comes to marketing a business, there’s nothing quite as fun as trying to discover what works and what doesn’t. With an A/B test, you can experiment on everything from the copy of a landing page to the image on a Facebook ad to the color of a button.

    In fact, HubSpot ran a test and found that red buttons outperform green buttons by 21%.

    Real Estate Marketing Ideas

    (Image Source)

    Except they don’t.

    HubSpot later found that it wasn’t so much the color red that increased conversions, but the uniqueness of that color in relation to the landing page it was on.

    In the image above, for instance, you can see that the red color stands out simply because nothing else on the page is red.

    With this A/B test, HubSpot discovered something important: uniquely colored CTAs can increase conversions.

    That is the power of A/B testing.

    Wondering what color CTA would work best on your website? Or maybe what words in your landing page title will make the biggest difference? Or maybe even which Facebook ad image draws the most attention?

    Great — run an A/B test and see what happens.

    For Facebook ads, you can just use Facebook’s internal tool. Learn how to do that here.

    For your website, though, consider using VWO, Optimizely (both paid services), or even Google Analytics (free).

    [cta offer=”recontent” color=”red”]

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #2: Buy a drone

    There’s no better way to inject child-like life into your marketing strategy than purchasing a remote-controlled toy.

    And drones aren’t just great for having a bit of well-deserved fun, they’re great for business. 83% of people selling their home prefer to work with an agent that uses drones. High volume realtors use drones 3.5 times more than their low volume counterparts. And, last but not least, homes with aerial images sell 68% faster than homes with basic images.

    Really, that’s no surprise when you take a glance at the beautiful photos these flying playthings can capture.

    (Image Source)

    (Image Source)

    But, which drone should you buy? There’s a lot of options and you want to get the best bang for your buck.

    Truthfully, I don’t know. I’ve never bought a drone and I hesitate to tell you which one to buy before I’ve actually tried it out for myself.

    However, I did find this list to get you started. Keep in mind, though, that that article probably has affiliate links littered throughout the list, so take those recommendations with a grain of salt.

    In the end, I’d trust Amazon reviews above all else (they’re harder for people to tamper with).

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #3: Create a Google My Business account

    Most of you have probably already created a Google My Business account.

    But if you haven’t, then you might be missing out on easy-to-capture SEO traffic. For example, these are the kind of results that Google My Business can generate for your website.

    Real Estate Marketing Ideas google locations

    Perhaps the best part about these types of results is that they draw the eye even more than normal top-of-page Google results. It’s a great way for your business to cut to the front of the SEO competition, especially if you have more five-star reviews than anyone else.

    BONUS TIP: Generating reviews for your Google My Business account is another marketing strategy you might consider implementing. Reach out to your past customers and ask them to review you on your Google My Business page.

    If you don’t already have a Google My Business account, then simply go the landing page and click “Start Now.”

    google my business real estate marketing ideas

    Then, it’ll ask you to fill out some information.

    real estate marketing ideas google my business

    google my business post creationThe rest is quite easy. Just follow the prompts and you’ll be off and running — ready to collect all the reviews and SEO juice that Google My Business has to offer.

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #4: Join in on local events

    If you’re part of a team, then going to a local event to represent your real estate business is an effective way to drive energy levels upward. Even if you’re not part of a team, this can be an awesome way to regenerate your vigor for marketing your business.

    There’s just something about getting together with a group, meeting new people, and working toward a common goal.

    It’s inspiring.

    And, as you probably saw coming, it’s good for business.

    When you’re out at local events (whether it be a business meet up, a charity run, or a local holiday), you meet people. And conversations with strangers often naturally turn to questions about business.

    Here’s how real estate marketing pro, Elizabeth Wilson, over at Southern HomeBuyers puts it:

    “Networking is one of my favorites because it involves people and solving direct problems — meet ups, involvement in my neighborhood, church and running club… random but intentional. Not sales-y but inevitably, people ask ‘What do you do?’”

    Elizabeth Wilson,  Real Estate Pro at Southern Home Buyers

    And when people ask, “What do you do?” that gives you an opportunity to talk about your business and maybe even generate an unexpected lead through a stranger who’s looking to buy or sell.

    Of course, you want to make the most of when you go to these events. You don’t just want to count on random conversations with strangers.

    To be even more intentional, consider…

    • Wearing a t-shirt with your business name on it.
    • Taking pics that you can post later on social media.
    • Intentionally watching for conversational opportunities.

    8 Real Estate Marketing Tools to Save you 10+ Hours Per Week

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #5: Create and promote an infographic

    More than likely, you’re not a designer.

    But that doesn’t mean you can’t dip your toes in design. In fact, it can be fun to try something you’ve never done — especially when that something has as much lead-generation potential as an infographic.

    In fact, here’s an infographic describing why visual content is so powerful. Ha!

    real estate marketing visual content

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    Said more simply, people love visual content. And an infographic is basically a more visual and easy-to-digest blog post. Here, for instance, is an infographic that some real estate agents created.

    real estate marketing ideas infographic

    to-do list for first time buyers Real Estate Infographic(Image Source)

    But how the heck do you come up with an idea for your own infographic? And how do you actually design it?

    Well, it’s all easier than you think. Check out our real estate infographic guide to learn how to do it.

    Once you’re done creating it, promote it on your social media channels, email list, and blog.

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #6: Spend your lunch hour at the local coffee shop

    This idea is similar to “Join in on local events,” but takes less planning and is often more comfortable for real estate pros who’re flying solo.

    Still today, face-to-face interaction is the most impactful type of communication. Almost 100% of people say that face-to-face communication is critical for long-term business relationships. And 72% of people claim that their impression of someone is influenced by how that person appears and what their handshake is like — two things you can only experience in person.

    And consistently going to a coffee shop during your lunch hour is a great way to build face-to-face relationships with locals. The more you go, the more people you’ll meet and build relationships with. The more people you build relationships within the community, the more potential leads you have in your back pocket — not to mention the word-of-mouth buzz you’ll create.

    How, though, can you meet people when you’re in a coffee shop? After all, that can be a lot more awkward than I make it seem on the page. Here are a few tricks I found useful when I was trying to do the same thing in full-time ministry.

    1. Small talk with the barista — This is going to be your easiest access to a conversation. They’re paid for customer service and will be open to chatting so long as there isn’t a long line behind you.
    2. Engage with stuff that happens — When you go to the same coffee shop day after day, stuff happens. Someone drops their coffee. Someone else has a child who’s screaming. There’s a fender bender outside. All of these things are opportunities for you to engage with people in a small or big way, depending on the situation. If someone’s kid is throwing a fit, offer an understanding smile rather than a judgmental glare. If someone drops their coffee, offer to buy them a new one. If there’s a car accident outside, offer to give someone a ride home if they need it. All of these are opportunities to build authentic relationships that might turn into cold, hard cash in the future. The more you do this, the more it’ll pay off.
    3. Have a friendly face — Sometimes, other people will want to start a discussion. Maybe they have their own agenda, or maybe they have a question for you, or maybe they are just lonely. Whatever the case, these people won’t talk to someone with an unfriendly face. Make yourself seem approachable so that people who do want to chat with you feel welcome to do so.

    As a real estate professional, it might seem like you’re in the business of selling and buying houses, but you’re not. You’re in the business of building trustworthy relationships. And a coffee shop lunch break is a great way to do that consistently.

    Who knows? Some of those relationships might just end up making you a whole lot of money.

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #7: Run a webinar

    You might think that running a webinar is just for the self-proclaimed B2B coaches and gurus of the world, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, running a webinar on a topic that appeals to your audience is a great way to build digital relationships and start relevant discussions about how you can help people buy or sell a home.

    Accordingly, here’s a far-from-exhaustive list to get you started hosting your very first webinar.

    • What not to do when buying your first home
    • X tricks to sell your house for its highest possible value
    • Should you sell your house without a real estate agent?
    • How to sell your house crazy fast

    Keep in mind, though, most people prefer to only watch a webinar for somewhere between 30 minutes and 45 minutes. So try to keep yourself to that time limit and advertise it as being that long in the first place. real estate marketing numbers

    (Image Source)

    In terms of technical webinar set up, this guide by SmartBlogger will show you how to do it for free (just skip to the “How to Run Webinars Like a Pro (Without Spending a Dime)” part).

    And before you actually do your webinar, test everything and make sure it’s all working how you want it to. There’s nothing quite as embarrassing or frustrating as technical difficulties during a webinar presentation.

    Once you’ve put your webinar together, start collecting sign-ups via Facebook ads, emails, and maybe even guest posts on other blogs.

    Real Estate Content Marketing: A Strategy You Can Actually Use to Grow Your Business

    Real Estate Marketing Idea #8: Optimize your website for conversions

    Enhancing your website’s conversion rate doesn’t just give you an excuse to break from the daily grind, it can also make a massive difference in how your business performs.

    Heck. If you’re pulling traffic to your website but not converting that traffic consistently, then you’re losing out on leads that are right in front of your face. And the competition is surely gaining those leads.

    So taking some time to think through your website’s layout, copy, and CTA placement is well worth the investment.

    Of course, making changes that will actually help your conversion rate is easier said than done.

    Fortunately, here at Carrot, we’ve run thousands of A/B test on our customer’s websites and generated 1.4 million leads — so we know a thing or two about conversion optimization.

    Here are some things you can do that will likely increase the conversion rate on your website:

    1. Place the CTA front and center — One of the first things your website visitors should see is the button that you want them to click. Put your CTA at the top of your homepage so that people who want to take action quickly are able to. Ideally, you want to place a few clicks between the moment they get to your website and the moment they convert.
    2. Add testimonials to your homepage — Digitally, nothing builds trust better than a stream of testimonials. To make these as impressive and trustworthy as possible, include a picture of the person who said it, their full name, and their professional title.
    3. Make the CTA a unique color — If your CTA is a unique color, then people will notice it easier. When they notice it easier, they’re more likely to click it. Or at least, if they want to click it, they can find it easily. ;-)

    Or you can just get yourself a Carrot website and we’ll do all of this for you. ;-)

    Learn more about working with Carrot

    Conclusion

    Bored out of your mind with the marketing tactics you’ve been using for what feels like a decade (or maybe is, literally, a decade)? then give one of these eight things a try.

    1. Run an A/B test
    2. Buy a drone
    3. Create a Google My Business account
    4. Join in on local events
    5. Create and promote an infographic
    6. Spend your lunch hour in the local coffee shop
    7. Run a webinar
    8. Optimize your website for conversions

    It’ll give your marketing headspace a much-needed injection of energy. And one of these might even be the thing your marketing strategy was missing all along.

  • How to Create Real Estate Agent Infographics (10 Examples)

    How to Create Real Estate Agent Infographics (10 Examples)

    Real Estate Agent Infographics

    One of the most persuasive ways to build brand awareness online is to incorporate real estate agent infographics into your content marketing strategy.

    Not all content is created equal. There’s a reason that 55% of B2C content producing companies rated visual content as their top priority.

    Pearson reports that 65% of the population are visual learners. Hubspot notes that an infographic is 30 times more likely to be read than pure text. And Massplanner explains that infographics are shared 3 times more than any other type of content.

    But, how do you create your own infographics that are useful to your audience, convert the right people into leads, and don’t look hideious?

    Well, that’s why you’re here.

    Because you’re not a designer or a professional content marketer, you’re a real estate agent. But, as we’re going to see, that doesn’t mean you can’t put together some lead-generating real estate infographics.

    Here’s a three-step process for creating your very own real estate agent infographics: Choose an idea. Find your formatting. Use these tools.

    Real Estate Agent Infographics – Pick an Idea

    As with any piece of content, you need an idea. And brainstorming is the best way to dig up ideas. But since you probably don’t have a real estate infographic guru sitting next to you, and brainstorming on your own is boring, we’ve done the digging for you. Here are 5 examples of infographics that you, as a real estate agent, can steal ideas from.

    (1) 3 Ways Real Estate Agents are Better than “For Sale By Owner.”

    real estate infographics real estate for sale by owner

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    The perks of explaining — in an infographic — why someone should use a real estate agent are obvious… especially if you are one. If prospects believe they need an agent to sell their house, and you’re the one who convinced them of that, they’ll likely be giving you a call.

    (2) 5 Industry Facts & Figures for 2017

    real estate infographics industry stats

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    Creating an infographic that illustrates the market’s health is a benefit to homebuyers and sellers alike. Anyone looking to purchase or peddle a house is likely interested in the market’s current wellbeing. This will help inform prospects of a ripe market and — if you include your phone number on the bottom — of who to call for help.

    (3) To-Do List for First-Time Homebuyers

    to-do list for first time buyers Real Estate Infographic

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    This infographic is wildly helpful for the person looking to buy their first home. Every first-time buyer has worries, concerns, and doubts about the buying process. Creating a piece of content that covers the steps of purchasing a house helps to dilute these uneasy feelings — making the procedure seem a whole lot easier.

    (4) 10 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes

    Real Estate Agent Infographic example 10 first time buyer mistakes

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    Nobody wants to walk into a pole — whether that’s physical or metaphorical. Homebuyers are filled with fears of what could go wrong in choosing a house, purchasing the house, picking a real estate agent, getting a loan, and moving in. The infographic above does a nice job of ensuring that these fears don’t paralyze a prospect.

    (5) Home Improvements that Pay Off

    Real Estate Agent Infographics example home improvements

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    Ever wondered what pays off on house remodels? Sure you have. And so has your potential client. Make an infographic that has information on what sort of remodels are the best to pursue. Again, the idea is to aid the person looking for help. If you help them now, you’ll likely get to help them again when they need an agent.

    Choose a Format

    Infographics are able to illustrate concepts that words cannot. Because of that, it’s important to consider what kind visual formatting you should use. Above all, don’t get fancy.

    The simpler your real estate infographic, the easier it is to understand and the more people who will engage with it. Here are some formats to consider from beautiful — but simple — real estate agent infographics.

    The formats are organized from easiest to hardest in regards to their creditability. Don’t be afraid to start at the beginning.

    (1) The Numbered List

    Real Estate Agent Infographic winter homeowner tips

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    The numbered list format is common for a reason. It’s easy to read, effective at illustrating simple pieces of information, and guides the eye seamlessly from point to point. Simply choose a number of tips, don’t-do’s, or guidelines and fill in the blanks. Start here if you’ve never created an infographic before.

    (2) The Stat Card

    Real Estate Agent Infographics - how proimity affects home value

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    This infographic is nearly as simple as the numbered list format but requires a bit more research. Use the stat card format when wanting to provide useful information for the prospective client, such as when to sell, best house investments, or any other topic that’s data-driven.

    (3) The Comparison

    Real Estate Agent Infographics - Rent vs buy

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    Buying or selling a home is riddled with choices. How many beds and baths should I have? Am I getting my money’s worth? Should I rent instead of buying? Which is exactly why this format is fantastic for helping the prospect to make a decision.

    Ask yourself what kind of questions clients have for you and then create a comparison infographic to provide the pros and cons of each option.

    (4) The Flow Chart

    Real Estate Agent Infographics - not to do to buy a house

    (Image Source)

    Building this kind of infographic requires some creativity beyond the previous templates. But the basic idea is allowing the infographic to guide someone from point A to point B.

    Visually on the graphic, and contextually on the info, the piece gives the viewer an idea of what it will take to make the journey — whether it be from renting to buying, from owning to selling, or from selling to investing.

    (5) The Form Fits Function

    Real Estate Agent Infographics open house success

    (Image Source)

    This format for an infographic is one of the most creatively demanding. As you can see in the image above, the tips are placed visually within a house. Thus, the form matches the function. While this kind of infographic is beautiful to look at, it’s unnecessary. Unless you have the creative power, time, or money to design this kind of brilliant, free-flowing infographic, don’t.

    Use these Tools

    Thinking up an infographic in your head is one thing. Creating it is quite another. But, lucky for you, in our age of digital stampedes and marketing masters, anyone — including a real estate agent — can become a graphic design artist. Here are two tools you can use to create your own infographic right now for free.

    (1) Venngage

    Just in case you think you’re too good for an infographic creator, be aware that huge companies including Google, Hubspot, Microsoft, and Forbes all use Venngage. In today’s world, a great tool is utilized by the small and the big alike. Venngage is such a tool. Join up for free and it will walk you through designing your very first infographic.

    create your own Real Estate infographic

    (2) Canva

    More versatile than Venngage — and still free to use — is Canva, a holistic graphic design platform. You can edit images, design a logo, and create banners, flyers, and infographics. Great for the inexperienced graphic designer.

    A Final Tip

    Yes. Your audience is three times more likely to share an infographic than they are to share any other piece of content. But, that’s only the case if you make your infographic easy to share. Whenever you post an infographic, always include the embed code so that people can easily share it to either social media or on their own blog. On our infographic explaining SEO and PPC, we included shareable buttons and the embed code, to maximize the size of its wings.

    Real Estate Agent Infographics SEO vs PPC

    Keep it Visual, Fun, and Data-Driven

    Visual content will continue to be powerful because human nature demands it. And real estate agent infographics, in particular, are powerful because they are a visual representation of helpful, inspiring, and insightful data. Plus, now that tools to create your own infographics abound, you’re out of excuses.

    Remember, no first draft of content ever comes out perfect. So above all, just start. And keep in mind what you’ve learned here.

  • 7 Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents: Inspiration to Bring Your Strategy to Life

    7 Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents: Inspiration to Bring Your Strategy to Life

    Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents

    It’s painful, grueling, laborious work. Especially when you have so much else on your plate. As a real estate agent, you know you need a content marketing strategy for your real estate agent website. 

    But you also need to schedule house visits, drive homebuyers to potential houses, meet with house sellers, solidify contracts, and do a whole lot more.

    When the heck are you going to find the time to (1) come up with content marketing ideas for real estate agents and (2) create the content?

    Well, that’s exactly what we’re talking about today: Real examples from real agents who’re using content marketing to catapult themselves to the head of the pack. Because potential customers aren’t just looking online… they’re making decisions based on what they find.

    Content marketing is how you dominate search results, build trust, and attract new clients all before they even meet you.

    Why? Because your strategy has to be built on your strengths … and loves:

    Content Marketing For Agents

    Download Your Free Content Marketing Strategy Guide

    This post digs into the details with two top-to-bottom examples of exactly how to execute your content marketing master plan and a host of supplemental examples along the way.

    So, let me introduce you to our content marketing test case …

    Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents

    Judy Weiniger runs the Weiniger Group, a seven-person real estate agency in central New Jersey. She’s active on various platforms, including social media, Youtube, and her website.

    But, Weiniger doesn’t do content marketing just about selling houses; she makes it about what someone buying a house in the area would need and want to know. In other words, the content she provides is not one promotion, listing, or sales pitch after another. It is useful information that helps her audience.

    That is the pinnacle of great content.

    7 Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents

    1. Real Estate Content Marketing Ideas All Start With The Right Agent Website

    Let’s start by looking at her website. To begin, it’s gorgeous. You should click through to see the video background in the hero section; the following screenshots don’t do it justice.

    Visitors are greeted with a friendly hello message — “Welcome to our neighborhood!” — followed by two CTAs directing them exactly where to go next.

    While this isn’t connected to content marketing, notice that in the top right there’s a prominent “Let’s Talk” button for anyone wanting to connect directly.

    As you scroll down, you’ll see the type of content she’s releasing, and it’s just what home buyers want to see.

    First, there are the featured listings.

    real estate agent featured listings

    If the prospective homebuyer is there to look at houses, this section lets them do that … immediately.

    Homes By Krista (a Carrot customer) takes a similar approach. It opens with a beautiful hero image and simple problem-solving message: “Sell your house faster and for more money” and “Find and buy the perfect home with less hassle.”

    Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents

    To find out more about getting your conversion-optimized Agent website, go here!

    In Weiniger’s case, after taking care of the low-hanging-lead-fruit, she turns her full attention to content.

    2. Real Estate Agent Blogging Ideas That Are Way More than Just Listings

    Rather than just featuring houses and soliciting sellers, Weiniger caters her blog to people who either don’t know if they want to move to central New Jersey yet or are looking to explore the area.

    Want proof?

    Scroll further down the homepage, and this is what you’ll see.

    real estate marketing for agents

    Weiniger doesn’t just play the part of a real estate agent — a home-finder and home-seller — she plays the part of friendly food citric, supermarket expert, school advisor, and more.

    And they deliver. Two of Weiniger’s most popular posts at first appears to have nothing to do with real estate at all: The ULTIMATE Guide to Farmers Markets & Farm Stands in Central New Jersey and 11 Favorite Yoga (& Pilates!) Studios In & Around Warren.

    conversation marketing for real estate
    content marketing for real estate

    But that “appearance” is exactly the point. Both articles answer the kinds of questions someone relocating or settling in would naturally have. When they take to the internet to find answers … guess who they find:

    Weiniger occupies the second organic search result on page one of Google (the only result that beats them is an actual yoga studio and they even outrank Yelp). Plus, the posts are more than just words. They include embedded YouTube videos, direct links to all the mentioned resources, and interactive maps.

    At the end of each post is Weiniger herself, her contact information, and a CTA to “Schedule Now”:

    real estate broker marketing

    Naturally, once a visitor reaches the end of a post, Weiniger has positioned herself as an advisor. She’s helped them. She’s generated trust. And really… that’s the point.

    Feel like that sort of design and technological integration is beyond you? It’s not because all those slick elements aren’t necessary.

    Cranford & Westfield New Jersey Real Estate’s blog follows a similar topic pattern, without all the visual bells and whistles. And yet, this post — Grilled Cheese Shoppe Opening Celebration TODAY in Westfield, NJ — has generated nearly 2k shares on social media and ranks on the first page of Google:

    Content Marketing for Real Estate Agents

    The point is: that every real estate agent can do this with their blog content. After all, real estate agents know the area they live in better than almost anyone else. Why not utilize this knowledge of your town like Weiniger has?

    Want even more real estate blogging resources?

    Also, check out these two posts for inspiration:

    3. Real Estate Video Marketing Ideas Where You Aren’t The Star

    If you didn’t notice on their homepage, Weiniger also has a box linked to her YouTube page. One of the reasons you might have missed it is because it’s not titled, “Real Estate Videos.” Instead, it’s enticing: “Explore NJ Community Videos.”

    On her YouTube channel, Judy educates viewers about everything from New Jersey’s local pharmacy to great pizza, pasta, and seafood in the area.

    She does this with short video clips introducing each industry.

    Sight is our most engaging sense, and using video to leverage that fact is a great way to engage potential clients. 51% of marketers name video as the type of content with the best return on investment.

    But rest assured, these don’t need to be cinematic masterpieces. All these videos have in common: they’re about serving their audience… not serving the agent.

    And as a Carrot member, you can even turn your video content in long-form blog content with the click of a button using what we call VideoPost.

    But what should you talk about in these videos? What kind of advice should you offer? Here are a few ideas…

    • Advice For First-Time Homebuyers — Show new homebuyers how to secure a low-interest loan, how to negotiate with sellers, what to look for when seeing a home for the first time, and tons more.
    • Advice For People Trying to Sell Their Home — Show home sellers how they can get top-dollar for their house, how they can stage their property on a budget, or what kind of renovations they should make before selling.
    • Testimonial Video For Your Business — Do you have a client who is exceptionally happy with your services? Ask them if you can record a short video of them giving you a recommendation. That will make for some great social media street-cred.
    • Community Videos — As a real estate agent, you know your community better than most people. Record a video showing potential buyers all of the great things about your city, where to eat, what to do, and the best places to live.

    Need some more inspiration?

    4. Real Estate Lead-generation Guides Worth Signing Up For

    Also, on her homepage, Weiniger links to a piece of content that is real estate lead generation gold: a guide. In her case, it’s the “40 Top Tips For Selling Your Home!”

    Real Estate Guides Worth Signing Up For

    Because this guide goes above and beyond the typical blog post, it’s “gated,” meaning you have to signup for access:

    Content Marketing Ideas for Real Estate Agents Form

    This is precisely what you should do with your free guides — make it so people have to give you their contact information to receive the resource. That way, you’re simultaneously providing free value to your audience and generating leads for your business.

    Bend’s Station takes the same approach, though they dedicate considerable online real estate to their guide on their homepage:

    Real Estate Guides bend oregon

    Inside is a beautiful and picturesque overview of the entire Bend area. And it ends with two opportunities to go deeper with Bend Station: (1) an email signup box and (2) a full form to “Get in Touch”:

    Both guides major on the needs and wants of either prospective sellers or prospective buyers. They’re helpful and provide genuinely valuable content you can replicate for your local area (seeing a trend yet?).

    5. Real Estate Agent Infographics Should Make Sense Of The Numbers

    Speaking of beautiful and picturesque, also on Weiniger’s blog, you’ll find a series of Warren NJ Market Reports. Each one contains easy-to-understand (and easy-to-create) graphics summarizing the previous month’s real-estate financials:

    Real Estate Infographics

    Each time they culminate is a powerful, one-two content punch: (1) access to a digital copy of the report and (2) a CTA to “Chat with Judy!”

    Keeping Current Matters follows a similar path with their simple, but wildly popular infographic that has been shared nearly 10k times:

    Real Estate Infographics rent vs buying

    Likewise, 1850 Realty supplies local market trends in a visual form both on their blog and across their social media:

    Real Estate Infographics

    Raleigh Reality takes a good versus bad approach with their companion infographics:

    Real Estate Infographics ROI

    Even more simplified (but no less beautiful) are West + Main Homes’ monthly Real Estate Market Reports:

    If creating graphics with something like PhotoShop or InDesign intimidates you, check out Canva or Venngage to build your own … easily.

    Learn more about how you can create amazing real estate infographics

    6. Genuinely “Social” Content Marketing On Your Real Estate Social Media

    Not surprisingly, Weiniger’s real estate content is all over social media. So we’ll take each one in turn.

    Twitter

    To start, she uses her Twitter account to do much the same thing she does with her blog and Youtube videos, but with less defined reason.

    Her reason for creating the content I’m going to show you seem to be because she realizes that creating helpful content for everyone in central New Jersey is a great way to build rapport.

    Plus, the more rapport you build, the more clients you’ll receive through word-of-mouth advertising; which no one needs to tell you is the most powerful form of advertising.

    This Twitter post that leads to her blog is particularly engaging.

    You might think that when you click on the link, it’s going to be featured houses for sale that she’s trying to trick you into purchasing with some well-placed click bait, but that’s not the case.

    Click through, and you’ll see a very legitimate list of weekend activities for the everyday New Jersey family.

    Social Content Marketing On Your Real Estate Social Media

    Or…

    Social media real estate Content Marketing

    She also uses Twitter to direct traffic to her blog cleverly:

    Twitter also serves as a way to send “follows” to her other social media platforms, such as Instagram:

    The tweet leads you here:

    content marketing for real estate strategy

    From Instagram, you can then jump to her blog post and webinar on Placester

    content marketing strategy for real estate

    And what’s the webinar about? Creating exactly the kind of content we’ve worked through above:

    “I wanted to always lead with value and lead with trust. A better way for me to do that was providing content that really mattered. Valuable content that people couldn’t find elsewhere. As a local expert in my community, I was the perfect person to be able to create it and then distribute it.”

    Judy Weniger, CEO of Weniger Group

    Take Tom Flanagan, who is a believer in posting helpful tidbits of content for his followers on Twitter that lead back to content on their blogs:

    These agents prove that not all your content must be a sales pitch. Content that is not a sales pitch is attractive to everyone… including those you want to sell to.

    Facebook

    Weiniger’s Facebook account reveals how every realtor should use social media. One obvious application is posting pictures of houses that are for sale.

    real estate facebook post

    Because while you don’t want to be overbearing, you also don’t want to avoid talking about houses totally. People know you’re a realtor and they want to see what you have to offer. Pictures are a great way to do that.

    Heck, even people who aren’t looking for a house might reconsider if they see some incredible pictures of an affordable home.

    She also uses a Facebook page rather than a personal account which conveniently allows clients to review her.

    Weiniger also posts fun, personable, and interesting videos of local restaurants. This video content benefits the local diner, people moving to the area looking for somewhere to eat, and — ultimately — your business.

    You can even take inspiration from a real estate agent, Jim Walberg, and post quick tips for people living in the area. Because, if we’re being honest, real estate is nothing without a healthy dose of city and state pride.

    Saddle up for a deeper look at Facebook Ads for Real Estate

    Instagram

    Let’s not forget Instagram!

    Instagram is great for real estate agent content marketing because it’s a highly visual platform and, well… real estate is a highly visual product (house buyers love to look at pictures of houses).

    Here’s a great example of a real estate agent’s post on Instagram…

    Image result for instagram real estate posts"

    Like this post, be sure to include your phone number and email address in every post so people can get ahold of you if they’re interested. Also, don’t forget to include relevant hashtags since that’s one of the best ways to get found out on Instagram (#housesforsale, for example).

    I’d recommend using at least 10 hashtags on everything you post.

    TikTok

    TikTok is a new social media platform where users can view and share short video clips of just about anything — funny, serious, motivational… whatever!

    And the platform is growing like a weed. It already has 500 million users, 41% of whom are aged between 16 and 24. Still, quite a few home-buying millennials and even some older folk visit the platform regularly.

    You might be even more surprised to find out that many local businesses are finding great attention-grabbing, lead-gen success on Tik Tok — doctor’s offices, dentists, and even real estate agents are using the platform to spread brand awareness in their local area.

    Here’s a great step-by-step video from a real estate agent talking about how you can use Tik Tok to generate leads for your real estate business.

    🔴 How to use TikTok for Real Estate Agents [ Step by Step TUTORIAL + Marketing Strategy ]

    7. Podcasting For Brand Awareness & Leads

    Maybe you’ve never thought about creating a podcast before.

    It’s probably not the first thing that came to mind when you considered creating a content marketing strategy for your real estate business.

    But why not? There are plenty of buyers, sellers, and other agents who’d like to learn from an expert like yourself — why not be the one to teach them? Especially since doing so could result in tons of referrals and leads.

    After all, when your committed podcast listeners here about someone who needs help buying or selling a home, who will they recommend?

    That’s right, YOU!

    And the best part is that creating a real estate podcast is as easy as pie in today’s world. You just need a decent mic (audio is one of the most important elements of any podcast) and some great content ideas.

    Then, you can start recording your podcasts for free over at Buzzsprout — after some time, you’ll have to pay for hosting, but you can get started for no cost.

    As for getting a decent mic, check out our technical recommendations over here for creating a real estate podcast.

    And for coming up with great content ideas for your first few episodes, consider…

    • Doing a few history lessons about the town where you operate. This can work to create interest in your local market and establish you as the go-to expert.
    • Tips and tricks for selling or buying a home. You know way more than most people about how to sell a home for top dollar or how to buy a home at a discount. Why not share what you’ve learned and by so doing, increase people’s perception of your expertise.
    • Real estate education. If you’ve ever thought about coaching other real estate investors or agents on how to build their own successful businesses, a podcast is a perfect place to do just that. Share what you’ve learned and, eventually, you might even get paid to consult up-and-coming agents or investors.
    • Weekly updates. People read the newspaper and look on social media to find out what’s going on in their local community… how about they listen to your podcast instead? Every week, you could give updates about scheduled events, political developments, and other items of local interest.

    One thing’s for sure — your podcast won’t start itself! So grab a mic and get recording. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy doing it.

    Content Marketing for Real Estate Agents: What You Can (And Should) Use

    Content isn’t truly content unless it gives. At its heart, content is a mode of creation that offers something to someone else before expecting anything in return. It really comes down to one question: Does it add value?

    Have fun. Look for inspiration anywhere and everywhere, even in industries that aren’t about real estate — like technology, B2B, SaaS (software as service), and ecommerce content marketing. Sometimes, that’s where you’ll the best and untapped ideas.

    Write about a local pizza shop that is making a killing. Do a video interview with your community college about its success. Create an infographic discussing how safe the local public schools are.

    Whether it’s a guide for PPC or a list of popular local restaurants, your content strategy needs to revolve around the homebuyer and home seller, not around your monetary gain.

    Realtor’s who’ve found the balance between when to make a sales pitch and when to produce purely helpful content are the most successful realtors.

    In other words, your real estate content marketing strategy shouldn’t focus on selling yourself, but on buyers and sellers themselves, the people behind the money.

    [cta offer=”seoagents”]

  • 3 Real Estate Sales Questions You Should Start Asking in 2024

    3 Real Estate Sales Questions You Should Start Asking in 2024

    Perhaps no one put it as well as John Martinez:

    “The best sales people only talk 10% of the time. And when they do open their mouth, it’s with a question.”

    John Martinez, Owner of Midwest Revenue Group

    Remember the bidding wars of 2022? Those seem like a distant memory in today’s real estate market (2024). Now, houses are lingering longer, and buyers are becoming more selective. As an investor, I recently came across Sarah, who inherited her childhood home. The emotional attachment was strong, but the upkeep was becoming a burden. She needed to sell, but traditional methods weren’t generating the interest she’d hoped for.

    That’s where the power of asking the right questions comes in. By digging deeper and understanding her specific situation, I was able to craft a solution that worked for both of us. Identifying motivated sellers and asking the right questions can be the key to unlocking a win-win deal in today’s market.

    The 2024 real estate market has shifted somewhat. While some areas might still be seller-friendly, it’s definitely not the breakneck pace of the past few years. Homes are sitting on the market a little longer, and buyers have more negotiating power. This can be a great opportunity for investors like myself, but it all hinges on finding truly motivated sellers.

    Market conditions significantly impact seller motivation. In a seller’s market, sellers might be more flexible with closing dates but less willing to negotiate on price. Conversely, sellers may be more open to price discussions in a buyer’s market but might need a longer closing timeline to find the right buyer. The key is understanding what motivates the seller beyond just the sale itself.

    3 Real Estate Sales Questions You Should Start Asking in 2024

    Question #1: What’s Your Ideal Timeline for Selling? (Focus on Urgency and Flexibility)

    This seemingly simple question, “What’s your ideal timeline for selling?”, can be a goldmine of information. It goes beyond just a date and reveals a seller’s true motivation and timeline constraints.

    Urgency Exposed:

    A seller who needs to close quickly, perhaps due to a job relocation or a new home purchase already under contract, is likely more motivated to negotiate. Knowing their ideal timeline allows you to tailor your offer. If you can offer a fast cash sale or a smooth, expedited closing process, it could be very attractive to them.

    Flexibility Uncovered:

    On the other hand, a seller with more flexibility might be more open to waiting for the right buyer and potentially a higher price. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not motivated – their motivation might simply lie in maximizing their profit. Understanding their flexibility allows you to craft a competitive offer that might not involve the quickest closing but still presents a compelling option.

    Negotiation Powerhouse:

    By understanding a seller’s ideal timeline, you can craft a negotiation strategy with more leverage. For an urgent seller, highlighting the speed and efficiency of your offer can be a big advantage. For a flexible seller, focusing on the terms and potential benefits of your offer becomes more critical. Asking this question empowers you to present a solution that aligns perfectly with their needs.

    Here’s what Question #1: “What’s Your Ideal Timeline for Selling? (Focus on Urgency and Flexibility)” might look like within a conversation:

    You: “So, Sarah, tell me a bit about your situation. Ideally, when would you like to see this house sell?”

    Seller (Sarah): “Well, ideally, I’d love to close by the end of the summer. That would give me enough time to find a new place before the school year starts.”

    You: “Absolutely, that’s a great target. Is there any flexibility in that timeline, or is the end of summer a firm deadline?”

    Seller (Sarah): “Honestly, it would be fantastic to close by then, but I could push back a few weeks if the right buyer came along.”You: “That’s good to know, Sarah. Thanks for your honesty. Understanding your ideal timeline helps me tailor the marketing strategy to attract qualified buyers who can meet your timeframe.”

    Question #2: Beyond Price, What Makes This Sale a Success for You? (Go Beyond the Bottom Line)

    We all know price is a major factor in any real estate transaction. But successful deals are often built on understanding what truly motivates a seller beyond just the dollar amount. That’s where the powerful question, “Beyond price, what makes this sale a success for you?” comes in.

    This question delves deeper, uncovering non-monetary motivations that can be key to crafting a win-win solution.

    Unveiling Hidden Motivations:

    Imagine a seller who inherited a large family home. They might need to sell due to downsizing or living in another state, but the emotional attachment to the property runs deep. Understanding this desire for a smooth transition or a respectful buyer can completely change your approach.

    Tailoring Your Approach:

    Knowing these non-monetary motivations can help you tailor your approach to address their concerns. For the downsizing seller, offering a flexible closing that allows them time to find a new place could be a major selling point. For the out-of-state seller, highlighting your experience handling long-distance transactions can be reassuring.

    Creative Solutions Emerge:

    Sometimes, understanding a seller’s motivations can lead to creative solutions. For example, if a seller needs to stay in the house for a few months after closing due to a delayed move-in on their new home, you might be able to structure a leaseback agreement. This shows you’re not just focused on a quick sale but on finding a solution that benefits everyone involved.

    By going beyond the bottom line and understanding what truly makes the sale a success for them, you can build trust, differentiate yourself from other agents, and unlock a deal that works for both parties.

    Here’s what Question #2: “Beyond Price, What Makes This Sale a Success for You? (Go Beyond the Bottom Line)” might look like within a conversation:

    You: “We’ve discussed the sale price, and that’s obviously important. But beyond the financial aspect, what would make this a truly successful sale for you, Sarah?”

    Seller (Sarah): “Honestly, it’s a bit bittersweet. This house has been in my family for years, and I have a lot of memories here. Ideally, I’d like to find a buyer who appreciates the character of the place and would take good care of it.”

    You: “That makes perfect sense, Sarah. Having owned the house for so long, it’s understandable you’d want it to go to someone who will cherish it. In our marketing materials, we can highlight the unique features and history of the home to attract those kinds of buyers.”

    Seller (Sarah): “That sounds wonderful! Knowing the new owners will appreciate the house would make this transition much easier.”

    You: “Absolutely, Sarah. And beyond finding the right buyer, is there anything else that would make this a smooth and successful sale for you?”

    By asking a follow-up question like this, you can uncover any additional needs or concerns the seller might have, allowing you to address them throughout the sales process.

    Question #3: Have You Considered Alternative Selling Options? (Explore Other Possibilities)

    In today’s diverse real estate landscape, a traditional listing might not always be the best fit for every seller. That’s why posing the question, “Have you considered alternative selling options?” can be a game-changer. This opens the door to exploring a wider range of solutions that might be a better fit for their specific needs.

    Beyond the Traditional Listing:

    Many sellers might not be aware of the various options available beyond a traditional listing on the market. This question allows you to showcase your knowledge and resourcefulness as an agent. You can discuss options like:

    • Cash Offers: For sellers who prioritize a quick sale and a guaranteed closing date, a cash offer can be very appealing. Explaining how you can facilitate a smooth cash sale can be a major advantage.
    • iBuyer Programs: These online platforms offer a fast and convenient way to sell a home directly to an investor. Understanding their situation allows you to present iBuyer programs as a viable option, highlighting the pros and cons so they can make an informed decision.
    • Creative Financing: Some sellers may be open to creative financing options, such as owner financing or lease-to-own arrangements. By understanding their motivations, you can explore these possibilities and show your willingness to think outside the box.

    Positioning Yourself as the Expert:

    By presenting these alternative selling options, you position yourself as a knowledgeable and resourceful agent who prioritizes finding the best solution for their needs. This can build trust and differentiate you from others who simply push a traditional listing.

    Here’s what Question #3: “Have You Considered Alternative Selling Options? (Explore Other Possibilities)” might look like within a conversation:

    You: “We’ve discussed a traditional listing on the market, and that’s certainly a great option. However, I also like to explore all possibilities to ensure we find the best fit for your situation. Have you considered any alternative selling options, like a direct cash sale or working with an investor?”

    Seller (Sarah): “Hmm, not really. I wasn’t sure if those options would fit this property well.”

    You: “That’s understandable. There are pros and cons to each approach. A traditional listing can get you top dollar, but it might take longer to find a buyer. A cash offer from an investor could close quickly, and you might not have to worry about showings or repairs. Would you be interested in learning a bit more about these alternative options?”

    Seller (Sarah): “Actually, yes, I would. I’m open to hearing more about anything that could make this process smoother.”

    You: “Excellent! Let’s discuss the pros and cons of each option in more detail and see if one might be a good fit for your needs.”

    By presenting alternative selling options in a neutral light and highlighting their potential benefits, you open the door to exploring solutions that might better fit the seller’s specific situation.

    Benefits of Asking These Questions (Value Proposition):

    In today’s market, where a seller’s motivations can be just as important as the asking price, asking the right questions becomes a powerful tool. Here’s how these three questions can lead to success:

    • Identify Highly Motivated Sellers: By probing beyond surface-level concerns, you can uncover sellers who are truly motivated to move quickly or on specific terms. This allows you to focus your time and energy on deals with a higher chance of closing.
    • Build Rapport and Trust: Understanding a seller’s situation and goals demonstrates genuine interest and builds trust. This rapport can lead to a smoother transaction and potentially open doors to future business.
    • Uncover Unique Needs and Tailor Your Approach: A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in real estate. By uncovering a seller’s unique needs and motivations, you can tailor your approach to address their concerns and present solutions that meet their specific requirements.
    • Structure Win-Win Deals: Understanding both the seller’s and buyer’s priorities allows you to structure win-win deals that benefit everyone involved. This can lead to faster closings, satisfied clients, and a stronger reputation as a skilled negotiator.

    By incorporating these questions into your seller consultations, you can become a more effective agent, identify great opportunities, and unlock successful deals in today’s real estate market.

    Conclusion

    The real estate market of 2024 demands a shift in focus from just listing properties to truly understanding the motivations behind sellers. By asking the right questions, you can unlock valuable information that leads to win-win deals for everyone involved.

    Put These Questions into Action!

    Integrate these three powerful questions into your next seller consultations – ideal timeline, non-monetary motivations, and alternative selling options. You’ll be surprised at the insights you gain and the creative solutions you can develop.

    Bonus Tip: Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills!

    Knowing the seller’s motivations is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly excel in today’s market, hone your negotiation skills. Download Carrot’s free guide, “The Real Estate Sales Negotiation Playbook,” jam-packed with expert tips and strategies to turn you into a negotiation master.

    Remember, in a market where understanding trumps just selling, these questions and resources can be the key to unlocking your next real estate success story.