For me, 2006 has been the year of educating my peers about the Internet. I've taught several classes on building a web presence and recently discussed the benefits of starting a real estate blog, assuming of course that there is something of worth to say. As I discuss these things, I see heads nod and eyes light up (or glaze over, depending on what tangent I'm on) but within a few days the interest disappears.

On some level I don't mind at all - this is a competitive business and I'll be happy to be the lone ranger reaping the benefits of the Internet. (Right now my wife is smiling.) On another level, I feel like I've failed in my quest to "pay forward" the web advice I was given when I first started. (Right now my wife is hitting me with a skillet.)

So here's one final Internet primer ... my closing gift for 2006 to my peers ...

WEBSITES
    Expensive doesn't always mean better. Template-driven sites can work, as long as you take the time to make that template yours. Here are some options absolutely worth exploring in 2007:
    Century 21 Web Builder - $60 a year, includes hosting. You can also pay for additional options. It's WYSIWYG format - What You See is What You Get - and is relatively easy to use. This is made more for someone who wants the website for their own clients but not necessarily as a prospecting tool. Not sure where to start or lacking the time? I'm available to help get your website up and running: $35 per hour, three-hour initial minimum bill.
    Point-2-Agent - I have this on the list because I've heard some good things about them. There are free sites and paid template sites - if you contact Jay Thompson with Century 21 Aware, he can give you more details.
    Sharkzone Design - Tom designed my web site and has a substantial portfolio you can review.  He's offering three different packages for the real estate set, depending on how extensive you want your site and how much SEO (search engine optimization) work you desire. You basically have a one-time fee then only pay for a hosting, which is a piddling in the grand scheme of things. A must call/e-mail if you ask me.
    I also can assist with some website design on a consulting basis - you can check my Arrowhead Ranch and Westbrook Village sites to see what my sites look like.

    The big key with the website is spider-friendly code and quality content. Without those, your site won't get very far.

BLOGS
    There are multiple pay options available. Two free options are Active Rain and Realtown Blogs. You can join Active Rain off this link - you'll have access to continuing real estate-related subjects and get your own free blog. You also have the opportunity to be listed as a featured agent in the city of your choice, all by simply participating in the discussion.
    The second option is Realtown Blogs, brought to you by Internet Crusade, the folks who put together the e-Pro certification classes. There are several templates available - if you would like a more personalized look, I'm able to assist for $25 an hour, two-hour minimum billing. (Needless to say, this blog is designed with a customized template.)

    One last thing ... if you don't use Google Reader or another RSS reader to keep up with trends in the real estate market, get one. Yesterday. There's far more out there than your manager possibly can tell you at a weekly sales meeting. Changes take place in minutes much less weeks right now.

If you have questions, I'm always only an e-mail away. Happy 2007, kids.

(c) Jonathan Dalton, 2006 / Jonathan Dalton's Arizona Homes