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Innovative real estate marketing ideas can help you stand out in a competitive market. And given our 2024 housing market predictions, it looks like this year is going to be even more competitive than usual.
The good news? There are countless smart (and affordable) ways to stand out while saving on spend with your marketing content approach.
Here are 5 real estate marketing ideas that can help propel your business to new heights.
Each new trend, technology, and platform opens new streams for audience engagement. However, it’s important to resist imitating your competition too closely or blow your budget on passive onlookers while skimping on strategy.
Peep some of our favorite content and channel ideas to capture your audience’s attention, keep you on their radar, and drive ROI.
1. Leverage Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to bring your properties to life.
If possibly, you might want to try creating VR property tours that allow potential buyers to explore properties remotely in a highly immersive way. This can be particularly appealing to out-of-town buyers or those looking to minimize in-person visits.
Another idea is to test our AR staging. There are a variety of AR apps you can use to help potential buyers visualize empty spaces with furniture and decor. This can make it easier for them to imagine living in the home and can enhance online listings.
2. Connect with helpful, branded online content.
Digital traffic is by far the fastest growing market with no sign of letting up. Competing for qualified leads means amplifying your online presence and reaching your audience on their preferred channels. Your buyers and renters are definitely looking for amenities, but they're also looking to build trust. And content is a great way to do that.
- Neighborhood Guides: Location, location, location. It's one of the most important factors for any renter or buyer, so it's also something that you'll want to sell! Try creating a neighborhood guide for the areas where you have properties Highlight local amenities, schools, parks, and unique features of the community to give potential buyers a sense of the area's atmosphere and lifestyle. You can create these as blogs, videos, or both!
- Blog Articles: Showcase your expertise by sharing valuable insights on current market trends, homebuyer tips, and neighborhood guides. Optimize for SEO to drive new website traffic and raise your visibility.
- Video/Vlog: Craft engaging video tours, amenity highlights, and client testimonials. For example, you might want to test out Utilize platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok to reach wider audiences.
- Podcast: Join as a featured guest or sponsor and find podcasts that align with your target audience, industry niche, or location. Provide actionable tips for buyers and sellers, mini “why buy” seminars, homebuyer workshops, or any other topics of interest.
- Webinars and Workshops: Establish yourself as an industry expert by hosting webinars and workshops on topics relevant to buyers, sellers, and investors. This not only provides value to your audience but also helps in building your brand and expanding your network.
Want to create content that resonates? Then you need to know your real estate target market. Audience Town is the only consumer intelligence platform built just for real estate. That means you can discover if your leads are actually likely movers, and if so, what they're interested in.
3. Boost social media engagement.
Showing up on social media is valuable for most real estate companies. Just as important? Actively engaging on social media platforms.
Not sure what to post about? Share listings, host Q&A sessions, and run targeted ads to reach your ideal clients.
You might even want to try hosting a contest or giveaway on social! For example, you might enable participants to win a free home valuation, staging consultation, or even local gift cards. Contests are powerful because they can increase views, boost engagement - and generate leads.
One more piece of advice about social media: be strategic about your choice of channels. Managing these accounts takes time, so make sure that your resources are well spent. Keep your profiles consistent and remember to focus on building your audience and brand, rather than aggressive sales marketing.
- Instagram and Pinterest: Utilize these platforms for showcasing high-quality images of your listings. Create captivating visuals and use relevant hashtags to reach a broader audience. Instagram stories and Pinterest boards can be particularly effective for highlighting features and offering virtual tours.
- Facebook: Use Facebook to create targeted ads. With its vast user base, Facebook allows you to reach potential buyers or sellers based on specific demographics, interests, and behaviors. Regularly update your page with listings, success stories, and useful content to engage your audience.
- LinkedIn: Establish your expertise by sharing industry insights, market trends, and professional advice. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for networking with other professionals and attracting higher-end clients.
4. Invest in high-quality visuals and design.
Online marketing materials are critical for making a good first impression. Ensure your photos, videos, and website are all visually captivating and offer a seamless user experience. Here are a few ways you can do that:
- Photography and videography: Select top-of-the-line professional services to showcase your listings in the best light. Consider adding drone footage for a stunning view of the property and its surroundings, providing a comprehensive visual experience.
- User-Friendly Website: Your website is your digital storefront. Keep the design clean and functional with a prominent search window and fast load speeds. Ensure it is mobile-responsive and updated with your latest listings, client testimonials, and a blog that offers valuable insights into the real estate market. Implement SEO strategies to improve your website's visibility on search engines, making it easier for potential clients to find you.
- 3D Floor Plans and Interactive Maps: Provide 3D floor plans or interactive maps on your website, allowing prospective homeowners and renters to explore property layouts and neighborhood features online before visiting in person.
5. Sell through storytelling.
Share success stories and videos that help your prospective customers understand what the experience of working with you would be like. Take it to the next level and personalize the content they'll receive based on lead and prospect segmentation, so that they get a customer journey that's designed just for them. Here are a few ideas:
- Targeted Email Campaigns: Segment your audience and send personalized email newsletters with relevant listings, market updates, and community events. Make them feel valued and informed.
- Client Appreciation: Show your gratitude with thoughtful gestures. Send handwritten thank-you notes, host client appreciation events, or offer exclusive discounts. Nurturing relationships fosters loyalty and repeat business.
- Referral Rewards: Incentivize satisfied clients to spread the word. Offer referral programs with attractive rewards, encouraging them to become your brand ambassadors.
6. Host innovative in-person events.
Make a splash with memorable in-person events.
Host open houses with a twist! Organize paint-and-sip events, cooking demonstrations, or live music performances to attract potential buyers and create a memorable experience.
Or, participate in collaborative co-marketing opportunities with local businesses. Think a pop-up stand at a home improvement or hardware store, a sponsored workshop with a local interior designer, or even a community event with local realtors or mortgage lenders.
7. Celebrate what makes your properties unique.
This is one of the most important things you can do! After all, no two communities are exactly alike. Do you have amazing dog washing stations? Food Truck Fridays? A community pool? Wine fridges in every property? Impressive sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives?
Whatever it is, make sure to celebrate that special spark that makes your community great.
