RealTown's RealTalk

Well Saul, I think that many lot of these comments miss the real point: perhaps I can help:
1. It is clear that nobody searches online for a Real Estate agent. That would be the equivalent of searching for a used car salesperson, it is just not done often.
2. It is clear that over 90% of everyone does research onl8ine before buying anything.
3. It is clear that any major purchase is about relationships and TRUST, and, while this can begin online, it will not come to fruition there.
4. It is clear that people search for a whole bunch of various information about schools, demographics, employment, travel and the like BEFORE purchasing.
5. It is clear that an Internet generated lead, is just that: a lead, not a deal. To turn a lead into a deal, there must be a relationship of trust established, and there is the rub...
Most people lack the follow through and other skills to a complete number 5 in the process.
This is not smoke and mirrors: even if you meet a person at business networking events, as I do most of my clients, and properly managed Internet presence is not only part of building that trust, it is part of the listing and/or selling presentation, and part of the reason to buy when a deal is made: it is part of what you do for them. Nobody wants the low tech, hide your head in the sand realtor representing them. Get real, don't be a dinosaur because you cannot keep up: keep up or move over!
Israel Rothman, SocialMediaSystems.com LLC, 54 years old BTW, and no formal education in this area; proud of proof of performance, not self-proclaimed expertise!

@Isreal said:

"1. It is clear that nobody searches online for a Real Estate agent. That would be the equivalent of searching for a used car salesperson, it is just not done often."

While I agree heartily with the rest of your post, the statement above contradicts our experience. In fact yesterday we signed a listing agreement with someone based on them finding our website on google.

We could be falling under the "it is just not done often" part of your statement because we deal with so many people from out of the area. It has been surprising that we are getting listings from our website.

Malcolm Waring, Realtor, e-PRO
Are you looking for Pocono Realtors?

Responding to "5. It is clear that an Internet generated lead, is just that: a lead, not a deal. To turn a lead into a deal, there must be a relationship of trust established, and there is the rub..."

I agree with just about everything said here. A lead is a lead, not a client and not a sale. However, the internet is a fantastic way to get leads & a great way to BUILD TRUST online. One of the goals of my website, www.CharlestonResource.com is to build trust with my on-line shoppers by providing them with tools and information that will establish me as the local expert, before they ever register or contact me. I provide an "About me" page where I talk about my hobbies and life journey. I give market statistic for each of the communities in Charleston. I allow my users to view helpful articles about buying and selling homes in the Lowcountry - give info about the Charleston Beaches, Golf in Charleston, Shopping on King Street, Charleston Tours, etc.

My website has provided an invaluable tool for me to build trust with clients before they ever even hear my voice. By the time they do call or email me, they are already convinced that I am the right person to represent their needs. At that point, I just need to provide them with great service - but I don't need to work on the building trust piece all that hard, because I already have it.

Matt O'Neill
(843) 532-4220
President of Charleston Resource, Inc.
RE/MAX Advanced Realty
Matt@CharlestonResource.com

Search all homes for sale at www.CharlestonResource.com

Hi Saul

I totally agree that personal relationships are important. Most of my sales are from referrals. I encourage all new agents to start their business working through their friends and family. They are people who want to help you. Don't be afraid to ask.

By the way, Saul, this is my first Blog. 19 years of real estate, just finishing up my E-pro course.

Margo Cordner John L. Scott, CLM www.margocordner.com margoc@johnlscott.com 509-929-1847