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A marketing strategy without social media is still a strategy.  But, social media is growing in importance so business owners need to carefully consider investing in these channels, and when they do decide to create a presence, they need to stay committed to it.  Be sure to have a good plan that is based on realistic goals, matches your business objectives AND is something that can be  delivered consistently (e.g. a weekly coupon.) Don't start something on social media and then abandon it.  It affects your brand and makes you look unprofessional or uncommitted.

How can Realtors improve their Digital Presence?
Technology is giving real estate agents easier and more efficient ways to communicate with prospective buyers, as such it’s an ideal platform to create and build a process to generate leads and sell more homes.  By taking action and building an online brand you can separate your business from your competitors.  
Here are some ways to save you time grow your brand to grow your business.
Make an impression with your website
                 
Claire Jacobs Dream Home Specialist
•        Fresh Design:  Go a step further than posting photos of available homes, invest in a custom design that will ‘WOW’ home buyers while showcasing your brand and who you are. 
•        Dynamic: Make sure your design is responsive; the user experience should be seamless and consistent on mobile devices. Buyers may be directed to your website via mobile home buying apps, once there, they will expect the same level of functionality and sophistication experienced on a computer.        
•        Call-to-Action:  An important element on your website is content.  When developing content always have a call-to-action in mind.  If you ask visitors to do something be specific.  Remember to answer the question of “Why, do you want them to call you.”  Make it a direct action, such as “Call me for a free home consultation.” or “Sign up for my newsletter for home buying tips.”   
•        Be active: If you are going to add social media to your website make sure you are active on these sites. Post blogs regularly, update your status, create a presence on each of them.  
•        Video Customer testimonials:  The average user spends 88 % more time on a website. So invite your satisfied home buyers to share their stories by making a video, then upload it to your site. Note: you must make this process very simple for them.  Video is powerful medium as it provides a real source, while making visitors feel connected to your brand. 

Create New Opportunities        
According to a study done by the National Association of Realtors, 92% of people turn to the internet as the first step in the home buying process, making it increasingly important for realtors to provide them with information on the networks they are familiar with. 
A savvy realtor understands that this sometimes means going beyond the usual social networking platforms, like Facebook or LinkedIn, to generate leads. Social networking sites like Trulia and Zillow provide comprehensive information about homes, neighborhoods, etc., as well as group potential buyers into targeted and specific communities in which realtors can engage. 
Building a profile on industry specific social sites has enormous potential to generate lead by allowing sellers to engage and start discussions with buyers early in the process. This is a simple yet effective way to generate leads, particularly if you are just starting your business or if your marketing budget is limited.  Treat these sites just as you do your social media pages, with regard to being consistent and active. 
  
Trulia, Real Estate 

Use Social Media to Connect with Prospects 
In order to build a sustainable online brand and business you must engage your visitors and potential buyers on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram without being too aggressive or pushy.  Use these platforms to gain insights into the needs and expectations of buyers in more personal and casual manner. Some ways to do this are:  
•        Ask questions: Where they are located?  What are your home buying concerns? How is your day going?  Start a discussion and ask for feedback.  
•        Offer something of value:  Give them information they can use, such as the latest home loan rates in their area. Give free online home buying seminars, or tips about home repair. 
•        Be Personable: Use platforms such as Facebook or Instagram to show who you are on a level outside of real estate. Prospective buyer may share a common interests or hobby, which increases the level of connection and trust. Remember, buying a home is a very personal purchase, and people buy property from realtors they trust, like, or respect.  

Final Thoughts
Today there are many avenues for real estate agents to generate leads and market themselves, the key to success finding a way to merge all the elements together to build a successful brand. Finally, use these social platforms to nurture communication throughout all the stages of the buying process- before, during, and long after it’s completed.