It doesn’t seem that long ago when we were printing, photocopying sales particulars of the properties we were marketing and mailing them out to people on the mailing list hoping that something would catch their eye.
Technology is moving at a very fast pace in life and for estate agents this is no different. But how has the technology available improved the property market?
Let’s discuss…
The Internet
We all rely on this in one form or another and whether you are using it for social media or for business, we all must admit that it has revolutionised the way we run our lives. Agree? For the younger generation, they were born with the Internet, for others it is something that we have learned to embrace.
Many demand information and they want it now. The Internet provides this. For an estate agent, having a website with some company information, contact details and the latest properties is vital. The Internet has provided a platform for the portals (and estate agents) to promote properties 24/7. Almost everyone in the UK now has a smart phone and this then provides the Internet whilst on the move. This means that people are contactable via phone, SMS texting or email.
For Estate Agents
One of the most important factors that we firmly believe in here at Frank Schippers is providing a first class service to our clients. Yes, the Internet can assist but people buy from people and there is nothing wrong with the traditional approach to estate agency. The older generation can relate to this, but we like to blend the latest technology with the good ‘ol face to face communication.
Email marketing platforms mean that we can reach people by email instantly with the latest instructions. We can also update them with changes to the property market and any exciting news that is taking place internally.
The advancement of digital photography has enabled us to provide high quality sales particulars and enhancing the way that properties are marketed. Floor plans are also essential, and this has helped buyers get a better understanding of the layout and sizes of properties before they view.
For buyers
As we mentioned above, having access to the property portals is fundamental when it comes to looking for that perfect home. Gone are the days where people tend to spend their weekends walking up and down the High Streets registering their details with estate agents. It is safe to say that why would someone do this when they can do it from the comfort of their own sofa?
Email alerts and text notifications are popular and easy to use.
Buyers in today’s market can see more details about a property than ever before. Virtual tours, floor plans and professional videography are just three changes to technology that buyers are using. This is the future of property viewing and we are embracing this all the time.
For Sellers
Never in the history of selling properties have vendors got the greatest opportunity to market their home. Estate agents are offering more by means of technology and all of these helps maximise the exposure of the property for sale thus generating more opportunities for viewing enquiries.
The rise of the online estate agent is proving this however, their service is purely online. We still get people walking through our doors to discuss their property search and whilst the footfall is lower, the quality of applicants is still positive.
Over the coming years, we recognise that there will be more advances in Prop Tech and we can only see these as being positive changes that will help our clients, whether they are selling or buying.
If you would like to discuss how we can help you maximise the marketing of your property, by using the latest technology, get in touch with our experienced team today here online.