Realtors get innovative

It seems like I'm posting a doom and gloom real estate market story almost every day. From news that the real estate boom is over to the roof caving in on housing starts, the depressing bits can get kind of overwhelming.

But, the good news is that tough times force people to innovate. And, according to a story in today's Globe, realtors are using social media to take home buying and selling to a new level.

From Twitter (you can follow me here) to Facebook, blogs, Kijiji and Craigslist, realtors are capitalizing on social networks to attract new buyers and sellers without all the traditional costs of printing cards and flyers.

I've certainly noticed this. My Twitter feed is full of realtors and interior designers, many who offer a mix of the personal and the professional in their tweets.

I've even been communicating regularly with two realtors through Twitter's direct messaging, asking questions and getting information for upcoming articles and personal use.

For consumers like me, this is a real boon. You're no longer constrained by trying to get that phone call in while they're still at the office, or stuck missing a call because you're trapped on the subway. You can send out a question on Twitter or Facebook and wait to see who replies at any time of day. You can reply to emails at midnight when you can't sleep, and sometimes you'll even get your answer back within minutes.

What do you think of this emerging real estate model? Do you think it will continue when the market rebounds?

And, for all you Friday afternoon procrastinators, read up on the latest news in Yourhome.ca's real estate section and catch up on Room for Improvement's office overhaul.

Comments

[Toronto Condo Dude]

Will it continue when the market rebounds? Absolutely. There will soon come a time where agents who are not engaging their clients and potential clients using social media will all be out of business.

[Rich Rogala]

I think that social networking is a fantastic resource for real estate agents to use. It takes away the "sales" approach that so many consumers are uncomfortable with, and lets them connect on their terms. And I believe that the real estate agents that are using it effectively now will be swamped with business when the market turns around. The relationships they develop now will pay off as people's wallets loosen up and start buying again.

[Sanaz]

Social networks like facebook are a great way to promote any business, I'm a home stager myself and I see through my Realtor friends and colleagues how everyone is taking the "new" approach to advertise. It's a much more friendly and less aggressive way of exposing your business...it's really great!!!