Details in the Digital Age

Did you know, in 2018, 44 percent of home buyers searched for properties online before making any contact with a real estate agent?  Imagine, 2019 that number is probably higher.  With various real estate websites and numerous apps available, your listing is being placed in front of buyers online in more and more places.  So, what makes a buyer stop to look at your listing in-depth?  Here’s what the National Association has found through their home buyer surveys:

  • 87% of home buyers found photos very useful and most appealing
  • 85% found detailed information about the property very useful
  • 52% found floor plans very useful
  • 46% found virtual tours very useful

Did you also know that the data you enter into the MLS is transmitted every 15 minutes to syndicate sites like realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia and many others?  What does this mean to you?  For the best representation of your seller’s property, you should have ALL data fields completed (remember, detailed property information is very useful and makes buyers want to look at your listing more in-depth), and ALL photos uploaded before your listing goes live.

Hint:  Room info is key to a buyer, especially the room level.  Take great photos (de-clutter, good angles, no people in the picture!), but also fill in, at the least, the room level.  Rooms are not required in the MLS, but just because something isn’t required doesn’t mean its not beneficial.

Put on your thinking cap and get out those marketing handbooks.  A great description goes a long way too.  Say something unique about the property and make that house feel like home to the buyer.  Good marketing might not sell your house but it will make the phone ring and if buyers don’t call, you won’t sell.