Real Estate, The Election, Two Approaches

November 19, 2008
Volume 3 Issue #3

I know you're not supposed to talk about religion or politics but who says you should do everything that you're told. Actually this month’s newsletter is about neither but it is inspired by the election or more accurately by the campaign. A major difference, however, is that I am going to be short and to the point.

This year’s presidential campaign can easily be compared to competition for getting business. Think about it-- the candidates give presentations, use various strategies, marketing is important, and a good, well-organized approach can really be helpful; plus, there are some factors that are just out of the candidate’s control.

The Candidates:

Obama- developed an Internet marketing machine to raise an enormous amount of money. He used the Internet to build a huge army of volunteers. He got his message out to a diverse population, not always reached by politicians. Using the Internet was an integral part of his campaign. He was considered Internet savvy.

McCain- admitted he didn't know much about the Internet. He said that he counted on his wife to help them with e-mail. McCain had an Internet presence but it wasn't a big part of his campaign.  He was considered as technology challenged.

We all know the result. Was Obama's use of the Internet the deciding factor? No one knows for sure, but it sure was a factor.

You- As a real estate agent, does it make sense not to take the Internet seriously when you campaign for business? How do you feel about your website? More importantly, what does your website say to potential voters/clients? Do you communicate with clients on your website and through the Internet? Is your website an asset, does it help you get the vote/business? 

As the end of the year approaches, it is a great time to review your website.  Knowing that there is a good chance that clients will review your website before they decide to give you their vote of confidence, does your website need to be updated? Are you happy with just a company provided web page that is just like thousands of others as you campaign for business?  You face a campaign for business every day, are you ready to be elected?

Tech Tip Almost everyone knows that Google has lots of tools and is a great way to search for things on the Internet. Two things that can make your life easier as a real estate agent are Google’s phone cross directory and mapping. If you have a phone number, type in a phone number in the format of 555-555-5555 in the Google search box and you will get the name and address information if the phone number is listed.

Type an address in the Google search box and you will get a map to the property (click Maps). In most cases you will have a choice of several views, (actual homes on the street, satellite and terrain). Other options include directions and the ability to search for nearby amenities. Finally, you can print the map, send it as a link in an email or generate a link to a map you put on your website.