Developing a Realtor Marketing Strategy: First Steps to Take - By: Jim Lockerby

A realtor marketing strategy is a method of setting goals and outlining clear operation plans. Daydreaming is the first thing to do when building a realtor marketing strategy. Stop chasing after every single one of those realtor marketing ideas that you encounter, and ponder what you really want from your career.

Part of this extended daydream will be a conversation with yourself on how much business you'd like to do. As you design a realtor marketing strategy, you'll need to set goals on annual sales numbers. Remember, these targets will determine how much free time you have. Set realistic, accessible goals that won't drive you batty with stress. As you work with sales numbers, don't forget to pay yourself a livable salary and factor in business expenses, as well.

Pinpointing Your Niche

Your niche market is one of the realtor marketing tools you'll want to describe in your realtor marketing plan. The focus of your niche is up to you, but it's generally recommended that you choose a niche that you understand intimately. For instance, a realtor who has an infant at home might choose to focus on those who are looking for larger homes for their growing families. To get your brainstorm rolling, here are three more examples of niche markets:

- A certain stage of life, such as to-be-wed or newlywed couples looking for their first home.- A specific neighborhood or geographic zone.- A certain way of life, such as a low-impact, environmentally friendly urban lifestyle. (This realtor might specialize in selling condominiums in high-density urban centers.)

Why Choose a Niche?

Among all realtor marketing tools, a narrow sales focus is one of the most confusing, since most people are unsure why a realtor would want to limit the customers he or she can work with. Why not just take all incoming business, especially when you're starting out? Well, the truth is that those with a clear picture of their ideal customers have an easier time rooting out effective marketing approaches and gathering leads.

For instance, let's imagine that one real estate agent's website advertises "Portland, Oregon real estate opportunities," while another agent claims that he is an "Expert in John's Landing First Homes." The first agent may think that he's being smart by keeping himself open to any Portland-area deals, but in reality Portland's larger real estate firms will drown his message out. Therefore, a broad realtor marketing strategy will likely fail to bring in business. On the other hand, the second agent's use of realtor marketing ideas to define a clear niche will work to his advantage. His website sends a clear signal to would-be homebuyers: This agent is dedicated to serving first-time homebuyers in the John's Landing neighborhood. Since home shoppers typically begin their search by selecting neighborhoods, this realtor marketing approach will almost certainly draw in more leads.

Over time, you will build a reputation for helping people in your niche. Let's say you specialize in homes for new parents; your clients will recommend you to other new parents, who will be happy to find an agent who comes with a personal recommendation. Soon enough, homebuyers will be approaching you, and not vice versa.

By setting clear goals around sales numbers and marketing to a specific niche market, you can boost your home sales and see long-term success.

About the Author

Establishing a realtor marketing strategy is the first step to growing your real estate presence. Visit http://www.ZingDing.com for tips and tools to make your realtor marketing plan a success.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Jim-Lockerby/205064

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