Home buying is a very trendy topic these days. People are searching for homes on online marketplaces (e.g., Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO) and using online marketplaces to connect with real estate agents, buy tickets to open houses, and make offers.
Most people think that to market to home buyers, they have to be online marketplaces. But that’s not true. Offline marketplaces like real estate agents’ offices, open houses, and building societies are still very much alive, and they provide a much more personal touch than a business entity like Amazon.
Here’s how you can market to home buyers even if you’re not an online marketplace.
Focus On The Buying Process
People love to shop: According to HubSpot Blogs research, 66% of people said they would rather purchase something online than in a shop. But that doesn’t mean that shoppers will always be found online.
A key part of your marketing plan for home buyers should be focused on the buying process. This is especially important if you’re new to the real estate industry and don’t have many clients yet. You want to educate your potential clients about what to expect and how to get the most out of the buying process.
The best way to do this is by taking the time to listen to and understand what your customers want. According to HubSpot Blogs’ research, customers want someone to “just get things done” and make them “feel like they’re being heard.”
So instead of pushing your products or trying to sell your services, you should instead be asking questions and getting to know your customers. This way, you’ll be able to provide the best possible service and make them feel like you’re the best choice for their needs. It’s all about trust and relationship building. When a customer knows that you’re hearing them, they’ll feel more confident to voice their needs and opinions. And that, in turn, can make or break your relationship. Your customers are the most important part of your business; treat them with respect, and they’ll treat you with respect too.
Create A Customer-Centered Culture
Customers want to feel that their needs are being heard and that their opinions are valued. To create the right environment for this, you have to instill a sense of “We’re in this together.”
Even when you’re not actively marketing to home buyers, you’re likely already doing this. But you might not even know it. Chances are, when you walk into a room in your house, it feels like you’re in someone else’s house. You’re not really experiencing your own space, and that can make you feel less connected to your home. This is why creating a culture where everyone feels comfortable speaking their minds and sharing their opinions is so important. Your customers will thank you for it.
Focus On Building Long-term Relationships
What’s the best way to ensure that your customers come back for more? Build a long-term relationship with them. This is easier said than done, but it’s worth it. Your customers will become your biggest advocates and will help you grow your business by word of mouth. And it doesn’t have to be expensive; you can start a blog and establish yourself as an expert in your industry. If you can become an authoritative voice on your topics, you can position yourself as a thought leader in your industry and grow your influence and reach. You can also hold webinars and educate your customers about relevant topics. This way, you’ll be able to build a profile as a leader in your industry while also marketing to potential new customers.
Don’t Forget The Basics
If you’re new to the real estate industry, it’s important to remember the basics. Research the market size and study the competitive landscape. Learn about SEO and how to optimize your website. The more you know, the more you’ll be able to offer your customers. They’ll appreciate your expertise and know that you’re the best person for the job.