Wow, how did this happen? It seems I just learned about Web 2.0, and now the so-called gurus are talking about Web 3.0!
Okay, here’s my take on Web 2.0 and how it affects us as Realtors: web 2.0 is about conversation, communication, transparency and instant information. As realtors we need to learn how to implement these strategies into our web initiatives, marketing campaigns and advertising.
Now, let’s break each one of these Web 2.0 strategies down a bit. In the interest of keeping this information digestible, I’m going to cover my points in 4 separate blog posts.
Conversation: As Realtors, we need to create cutting-edge techniques to captivate the online consumer through conversation. We can do this by giving the Seller a voice when it comes to promoting their listing. There is software out there that has some great technology that allows the Seller to post comments on their own listing, creating a dialogue with the online buyer.
With a new web solution on the market, the prospective Buyer also has the ability to converse with the Seller through an innovative rating system that allows them to rate the property out of 10 stars, and leave anonymous comments if they like, again creating conversation. Notice that conversation doesn’t necessarily need to be two-way.
By giving Buyers and Sellers a voice to communicate with each other, we give them the ability to become more connected to the sales process, and of course more connected to the Realtor.
Opening the door to an online dialogue like this has many advantages. First, it gives the Seller an opportunity to share the warm and fuzzies about their property that aren’t included anywhere else, giving you a little added help with the listing. Second, by allowing online prospects to rate a listing and provide anonymous feedback, it gives you a sneak peek at potential objections, and the opportunity to make changes in the listing as you need to (like removing a photo that’s raised concerns).
I know that many of you reading this are shuddering at the thought of seeing less-than-desirable comments and remarks on your listings (or getting spammed), but don’t be concerned. There’s always the option of turning comments on or off, or intercepting comments before they’re posted, much like many blog applications.
Don’t let fear of spam or abuse hold you back from using technology to your advantage.
Stay tuned for my next post that will outline more effective ways of communicating with clients and prospects.
TLC
