I’m an early adopter with all things technology and as an early adopter, I’m keenly aware that there are pros and cons to buying in early. I’m ok with that. Technology changes rapidly and those of us that are early adopters buy the new technology as it comes out. The latest and greatest as they say.
Real estate marketing, however, has not changed too much for most agents. We all take photos, we all list in the local MLS system(s) and we all try to get the best price we can for each and every new listing we take. After all, it’s the price as it relates to condition and location combined with the photos that attract buyers and beget sales. Right? I think that’s true, but I think we need more, better marketing, in light of the fact that traditional resale homes are having to compete directly against somewhat comparable short sales and foreclosures that have spread like a virus across the real estate landscape.
I don’t think photos are enough. In this market, I think we have to make a more compelling case that are listings are better – worth more than the foreclosures and short sales down the street. I think we need video. I don’t mean panning still images set to some cheesy music either. I’m talking about videos that make your listings (and maybe even you) look fantastic. Here’s a video from some guys in Australia that have taken video over the top!
Pictures are great. I use a DSLR and accompanying equipment from lighting to lenses, etc…to make sure the photos look great, but it still doesn’t seem to be enough and that gets me back to being an early adopter. My new DSLR shoots video – uber high quality video so now real estate agents with any of the newest generation of DSLR cameras from Nikon or Canon can shoot great videos of their listings. Here are 2 of mine. They aren’t as good of a production as the one above, but I shot them myself. I still have to improve on the narration, but so what? They’re fantastic, clients love them, they tell a story that can’t be told with pictures alone and I think they can get more listings!
A listing at 110 Dove Ct. In Roswell:
1865 Bethany Way
Until the last 2 years or so, video software and cameras that were high enough quality were really out of the reach of most real estate agents and real estate photographers making the cost and time to shoot a video outside of the realm of reality. Times (and technology) have changed and I think it’s time we fully embrace video as a viable marketing tool for us in the real estate profession.
If you don’t someone near you will…
Nice job as always Ryan!
August 12th, 2011 at 11:03 am
August 12th, 2011 at 6:01 pm
Looks great Ryan!
August 13th, 2011 at 4:45 am
I can’t help but think that video and novelty listing Web sites are more for making your clients feel better, than actually generating enhanced exposure to potential buyers. Be that as it may, satisfying clients, and making them feel as though you are doing everything to boost their chances is a good end in itself.
I still have yet to venture into video, but intend to do so in the near future.
August 14th, 2011 at 10:07 am
Why would you think video and listing websites are for sellers? Good ones can help provide buyers with a much better experience than photos alone, no?
August 15th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
I’m obsessed with virtual tours. If there isn’t a virtual tour, I’m already not that interested.
August 16th, 2011 at 11:56 am
I’m starting to add video testimonials on the main page of my website. Also mixing in some other videos to build credibility. Videos are the new blog and new way to reach sellers and buyers. Nobody wants to read text on a real estate website, lets face it. People will watch an interesting video for a minute or two.
August 27th, 2011 at 9:18 am
Real estate and local community event videos deliver, engage, connect using the eyeballs and eardrums. They save time, gas, and help real estate buyers know more, get in and around more property listings, zip codes. Making better property buying decisions.
August 28th, 2011 at 9:15 am
I’m really liking the incorporation of video into the real estate sector. As is fairly obvious, video has an effect on people that many other mediums simply cant touch. Incorporate music and you can build a whole new world in the minds of clients.
August 31st, 2011 at 8:26 am
Agreed to your part Jim, Virtual tours do help to get more visuals for the listings instead of having that in photos and all. Otherwise need physical appearance there.
August 31st, 2011 at 10:00 am
Videos are not only the most important and up and coming element on the internet but traditionally nothing has been more effective in sales than TV commercials — videos. If you’re not using videos then you’re losing money.
September 12th, 2011 at 8:27 pm
Virtual tours are a great way to secure interest! With everyone trying to sell, it grants an extra edge. Great post Ryan!
September 13th, 2011 at 6:34 am
One of the best ways to make yourself stand out as an agent is to use video, because so few agents will actually adopt it’s use.
November 12th, 2011 at 10:56 am
Nothing sells better than video — for any product — so using it to sell real estate only makes sense. Follow a few simple rules for producing good videos and you’ll get good results. You want any help with making your own videos contact me at tom.aikins@gmail.com.
November 21st, 2011 at 8:30 pm