We were recently invited to speak at a Tuesday morning Realtor meeting to discuss virtual tours and online marketing. The brokerage was relatively new to internet marketing, so we focused on several fundamental strategies that can help agents improve their online presence and generate more exposure for their listings.
One of the first topics we discussed was the importance of maintaining an active email account. While phone calls and face-to-face meetings remain valuable, email has become one of the most common forms of communication for consumers researching properties online. Agents who are easy to reach electronically are often better positioned to respond quickly to prospective buyers and sellers.
We also emphasized the importance of having a functional and easy-to-navigate website. Both brokerages and individual agents should have an online presence that allows visitors to learn more about available properties and access virtual tours when appropriate. A professional website serves as a central hub for an agent’s marketing efforts and can be enhanced through tools such as property website software for real estate photographers that help showcase listings more effectively.
Another recommendation involved print advertising. Every marketing piece should direct consumers to additional online information whenever possible. Whether using brochures, magazines, postcards, or other advertising channels, including website information and promoting virtual tours can help generate additional interest and engagement.
Photography was another major topic of discussion. Listings featuring multiple high-quality photographs consistently attract more attention than listings with limited or poor-quality imagery. Buyers often make decisions about which properties to explore based on the photos they see online. Professional photography created using modern real estate photography software can significantly improve the presentation of a listing and help create stronger first impressions.
We also discussed the benefits of expanding listing exposure through various online marketing channels. The internet provides numerous opportunities to reach potential buyers, and agents who actively market their listings online often gain a competitive advantage.
Finally, we recommended utilizing tools that help capture interest from drive-by traffic. Property signs, marketing materials, and other advertising should make it easy for prospective buyers to access additional information. Simple, memorable calls-to-action can help direct consumers online where they can learn more about a property and the services an agent provides.
The overall message was straightforward: today’s buyers rely heavily on the internet when researching homes. Agents who embrace online marketing, professional photography, and virtual tour technology position themselves to generate more exposure and better serve their clients.
Gary Bolda
Ark-La-Tex Virtual Tours
Shreveport Virtual Tour Company
