HelpMyAgent.com

Goodbye HelpMyAgent…..Hello MyMarketWare

For all the rockin’ real estate professionals that have become HelpMyAgent fans….

We moved! We can now be found at MyMarketWare. We are excited about the upcoming launch (February 1) of our new blog, MyMarketWare.

What’s MyMarketWare?
It’s your online marketing solution center. Take advantage of the most professional single property Website solution for the best price. Learn great tips and access helpful resources for your real estate marketing. Stay current with cutting edge marketing and technology advice for your real estate business. 

Why are you still here? Come visit me over at MyMarketWare and let me know what you think!

Posted in Community Connections, Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Blogging | 2 Comments »

New Year. New Blog.

Changes are coming to the HelpMyAgent Blog. So please bear with us! The blog is getting a facelift and moving! We will continue to share marketing and technology tools, tips, and resources for real estate professionals. But we’ll be sporting a new look, feel, and name! More details to come as we get closer to the re-launch which will be taking place in the next few weeks. Thank you for your patience!

Posted in Community Connections, Business Organization, Blogging | 1 Comment »

Kickstart My Heart…And My New Year at Inman

I’m pleased to kickstart my New Year at the Inman Real Estate Connect in New York this week. My better half, Reggie Nicolay, will be speaking on the Marketing Your Blog panel on Wednesday. And I have a fun “top secret” task of my own. 

If you plan to attend, don’t miss the Beers with Bloggers Reception, hosted by Zillow at the Heartland Brewery. Hope to see you there! If you can’t make it, no worries. I’ll be sharing some highlights here.

Posted in Community Connections, Business Organization, Blogging | 3 Comments »

5 “Don’t Miss” Marketing Tips For Your Real Estate Business

It was one long weekend at my house. Both my 1 and 3 year old have colds and sleep was not so easy to come by for any of us. Fortunately, my Google Reader kept me up to date on the latest and greatest real estate marketing tips offered by the following probloggers! Check them out and put them to good use!

(1) How to add YouTube videos to your real estate PowerPoint presentations. Reggie Nicolay from MyTechOpinion provides insight and directions.

(2) How to choose the perfect complimentary colors for your online and offline marketing. Luke Knowles from the Virtual Marketing Blog suggests Kuler from Adobe Labs.

(3) How to create a holiday lights slide show of your market area. Check out Ted Barrow’s example. I suggest using Animoto to get started making your own.

(4) How to take better photos and make the MLS a more beautiful place. Carson Coots shares a valuable resource and great suggestions at Real Estate Remix.

(5) How to be wacky and go viral! Check out the Whopper Freakout via Dustin Luther at 4realz.net.

Posted in Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions | 3 Comments »

The Cure for Resisting the Real Estate Blog

Finally, the perfect therapy for the anti-blogging real estate agent – one dose of Realty Blogging by Richard Nacht and Paul Chaney will do the trick!  After literally devouring this succinct paperback in just two day’s time and soaking its pages with my trusty yellow highlighter (the one with the handy little sticky tabs built in the handle), I promptly ordered additional copies that I have stuffed in my purse for emergency distribution.  Good thing, since blog emergencies are running rampant amongst the real estate community these days. 

I have to say that I feel a little evangelistic amongst the real estate population, carrying this book around, cleverly initiating blogging conversations among the (can I call them) “anti-bloggers” starting off slowly with loaded questions and then unraveling my plan for conversion.  I leave them hungry for more information and then turn back to offer them the book, the guide, the “treatment”, Realty Blogging, assuring them that this easy read will be the cure for their blogging anxiety, questions and resistance. A cause well-worth the $14 donation, as far as I am concerned!

Dramatic, yes, but if you are on the proverbial real-estate-blogging fence faced with the fears of adapting to new technology, intimidated by your fear of professional “transparency” and not quite convinced that blogging is an effective use of your time, then do yourself this one favor – read Realty Blogging.  But don’t take my word for it.  Check out the introduction written by Brad Inman of Inman News or the numerous reviews posted to the Real Estate Network, Active Rain. 

Why am I so passionate about this particular read?  This book was easy to understand, provided compelling reasons for agents to begin their blogs, and, most importantly, related all instruction and examples for blogging directly to the real estate environment.  An agent would walk away from this read with concrete evidence of the necessity of real estate blogging, an understanding of the lingo, the confidence to begin blogging and the necessary resources to get started.

Instead of carrying on highlighting compelling points and key explanations from the book, I’d rather the time be spent reading the actual words of Nacht and Chaney.  Not only is their presentation unbeatable, but as I flipped through the pages to identify key points to mention, I realized that there is scarcely a page in the book that didn’t have my highlighter markings, exclamation points and sticky tabs flickering off the pages. 

The case for real estate blogging is clear and now there are no excuses.  The anti-blogging vaccine is here!  As for me, I lay to rest one tired, dried-up, well-loved highlighter - a sacrifice I am willing to make for the delivery of would-be real estate bloggers everywhere.

Posted in Business Organization, Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Blogging | 2 Comments »

20 Content Ideas + Posting Plan = Happy Real Estate Blogger!

Do you schedule your real estate “blog time”? Do you have a plan or just squeeze it in on nights, weekends and between activities? And how do you decide what to write about?

Juggling all our commitments to make time for blogging is a job in itself. But when you’ve finally gotten home from writing a contract and putting the kids to bed, the last thing you need to think about is a new topic for your blog post. Content ideas may come easily for some, but not all of us can just throw up an article in 30 minutes. Thoughtful and resourceful bloggers think about adding value to their niche and their community with every post.

I find that when I get an idea for a post I spend a good amount of time researching the topic first. When I was teaching elementary school, my lesson plan book kept me on track and prepared for all my lessons. Therefore, I decided to create a “content posting plan” so that I could better ready myself for upcoming posts. This way, if and when I encounter items of support for my posts I add them to my content arsenal now, giving myself a head start on future posts.

It’s simple really. To get started, grab a monthly calendar. Whether you prefer a Google or Outlook calendar, or a desk or wall calendar…it’s all the same. Make a list of all the content ideas you have for your blog. Or check out the idea list below. If you are an ambitious blogger than shoot for 2 quality posts a week and at least one “read and research” session. I utilize my read and research time for checking out support resources and reading other blogs. (Note: Checking your Google Reader each morning with a venti hot coffee in hand will keep you up-to-date on all your favorite blogs. Alternative: Check it each night with a glass of your favorite wine.) Anyway, schedule at least 2 blog content ideas per week on your monthly calendar. (see my example below) You know your schedule, so you choose the days that work well for you. 

So why haven’t I planned the whole year you ask? Well, we all know that plans change. Be prepared to swap ideas out for others you come across. Motivation reigns and usually produces a better article. If you find your interest being sparked in another direction…go with it! And remember to continually blog your listings in between your selected niche posts.

CONTENT POSTING PLAN EXAMPLE:

CONTENT IDEAS FOR YOUR POSTING PLAN:

(1) Community Events Update: Post a monthly event calendar or list of events with all the local event information and links.
(2) Local Market Update: Give us your forecast, graph the changes, share local statistics, and give us some tips for adapting to this changing market.
(3) Industry Article: Share the latest trends in real estate and highlight new products and services.
(4) Seasonal How-to: Post informative guides on how to clean out the gutters, winter prep your pool, holiday décor, spring cleaning, etc.
(5) Buyer Info: Provide helpful posts with tips and suggestions for buyers.
(6) Seller Info: Provide helpful posts with tips and suggestions for sellers.
(7) Client Q& A: How many questions are you asked during one transaction? Keep a list of all those questions and answers and share them one at a time with your readers.
(8) Community Focus: On a local business, restaurant, charity, historical facts
(9) Interview: Post short interviews with industry professionals, local business leaders, local heroes, etc. Include testimonials from past clients.
(10) School Scores & More: Post recent testing scores, school achievements (ex: Distinguished School), local benefits and fundraisers, and even sporting events for high schools and colleges in your area.
(11) Neighborhood Spotlight: Showcase a specific neighborhood…the homes, parks, schools, stores…oh, and your listings too. Give us your top 10 reasons for living in each neighborhood. Interview local neighbors and connect with your farm at the same time.
(12) Rate Update: Get the latest info from your lenders and provide tips for buyers on finding the best rates.
(13) Realtor Recipe Share: Share recipes from you, other agents in your office, or clients. Give suggestions for serving and choose wisely according to what’s in season. And give a shout out to your local farmer’s market!
(14) Local Builder Highlight: New construction is always a hot topic. So whether local builders are making the news headlines or just getting started on a new development, keep your readers in the know.
(15) Photo Collage or Slideshow: Show off the beauty and uniqueness of your area with a monthly collage of photos taken in your market area. Choose a different theme each month.
(16) Listings: Update your blog frequently with your newest listings and perhaps highlight ones that need additional exposure.
(17) Investment Insights: Post informational articles on how to select an investment property, interview of an analyst, local suggestions from your tax professional, etc.
(18) Book Club: Whether it’s a book your reading or a suggested reading list, sharing “good reads” and helpful resources is always a plus!
(19) About You: Write an occasional post on a special experience, holiday wishes, or fun events that recently occurred in your life. Are you involved in a charity or fundraiser? Tell readers about your involvement and how they can help too. Provide a little personal transparency to your blog and give readers a chance to relate to you.
(20) Go Green: Post articles about local initiatives toward sustainable practices and building. Share tips for reducing, reusing, and recycling at home.

Got content ideas? Tell me what works for you.

Posted in Community Connections, Business Organization, Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Blogging | 8 Comments »

Willy Wonka Has Nothing On These Real Estate Delights!

Simply put, the National Association of Realtors conference was overwhelming…But overwhelming in a kid in a mega-candy store kind of way.  After wandering, awestruck through the colossal building at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, I began to sense the sting of my sweet tooth, so I decided to take a more strategic approach to tackle the extravagant expo.  Using the floor plan map and my trusty highlighter, I scanned the guide book and identified a few main categories to focus on.  Over the next few weeks, we will continue to post information about some of the sweetest spots found on the journey through the maze of marketing wonders.  In the meantime, here is a quick bite of three of the real estate marketing eye catchers – the everlasting gobstopers of the bunch:

1. Truly custom postcards from LentzDesign.com.  In the world of overwhelming and often under-stimulating real estate marketing mailers, the postcards from Lentz Design will undoubtedly catch your client’s weary eye.  These pieces cleverly integrate client’s names into the personalized and striking postcard images.  From a beach scene with your client’s name in seaside stones to their names spelled out on the frosty windshield of a snow-covered car, your clients are sure to feel the personal touch from this intriguing design. On the flip side of the card, you will find your traditional listing and agent information.  This is one treat that is guaranteed to impress your recipients and inspire them to share with friends and family and, at the very least, hang on the fridge for all to admire.  Bingo!

2. The Most Beautiful Agent Website Template Design (drum roll please) goes to AgentImage.com.  These sites are spectacular and incorporate a tiered level of template exclusivity.  Pay the least amount for site designs that are available to the masses and increase your payment to capture a specified number of limited designs.  All are available in a spectrum of color schemes allowing agents to add their own branding image and flavor.  AgentImage.com also aids in search engine optimization, email marketing and goes so far as to guarantee qualified monthly visitors for conversion into prospects.  These designs are professional and alluring allowing agents to boast a superior online presence for a worthwhile expense.

3. Super charged voicemail.  GotVMail.com offers an affordable phone solution for real estate agents and brokers by connecting callers with a professional network of greetings and menu options.  From the main greeting that you set up with either your own voice or a professional greeter, your callers can select a service option such as reaching a specific members of your team, accessing new sales information or whatever category you choose to set up.  Your calls can be forwarded from this directory to the phone number of your choice.  This program allows for a toll-free or local number and allows for voicemails and faxes to be emailed directly to you.  The principle behind it all –  bring high level business practices to the real estate entrepreneur. 

This is just the icing on the cake.  Check back with us as we will continue to digest the more than 650 exhibitors and bring you the crème de la crème of the 2007 NAR Realtors Expo.

Posted in Business Organization, Real Estate, Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions | 4 Comments »

It’s Not Fantasy Real Estate: Trading Cards for Your Listings

Homes are a lot like our greatest sports heroes. We admire their success or great potential…and they both look really appealing on professional print trading cards. So don’t just covet those baseball cards, turn a favorite hobby into your latest real estate marketing tool. 

Listing trading cards are a fairly inexpensive and eye-catching addition to your real estate marketing arsenal. The idea is simple…attractive picture on one side, home stats and contact info on the other.  Moo.com is a great place to start! Their odd shaped MiniCards are the way to go and sure to stand out in a sea of regular business cards. A custom set of 100 is only $19.99. After uploading your listing photo to their online design manager, you’re prompted to fill in the text for the opposite side. Keep it simple and clean. List the address, basic characteristics, perhaps the single property website, and your contact information.

Besides handing these beauties out at open houses and broker’s tours, be sure to give your seller a stack. And keep your cards in mint condition with a MiniCard Holder from Moo. Make it an impressive client gift that shows off your marketing genius!

Moo not for you? Well, here are two additional options you may fancy. Our friends at MyNeigborhoodAgent offer 2 x 3.5 pocket flyers. And for those independent do-it-yourselfers, visit Avery’s Design and Print Online for their double sided real estate business cards.

If you know another real estate trading card solution or have used listing trading cards, tell me about it!

Posted in Community Connections, Technology Solutions, Marketing Solutions | 9 Comments »

Real Estate Marketing for More than Market Share

Looking for some cost effective holiday marketing this year? What if I told you I had found the perfect two for one special?  In the midst of a declining real estate market and the onset of the bustling holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of our own daily lives.  While times may seem tough as we’re faced with skyrocketing foreclosures, and dwindling transactions, there are people in most every community going without meals, sleeping in the streets and (in many areas) spending days chilled by the plummeting Winter temps.

So why not take a break from garnishing wine bottles and trimming candy boxes and stretch ourselves to help a cause beyond market share…all the while continuing to benefit your sales and nurture your client database.  Here are some ideas for gifts and gestures that will impress and inspire your clients and community as well as bring some holiday cheer to those in need:

1. Hold a coat collection drive at your office. Send out a promotion to your clients letting them know that they can drop off their gently used coats at your office to be donated to your local homeless shelter.  Specify a time frame so that you can be sure to meet with them and offer some holiday goodies and even a current personal promotion or market analysis report.  Go the extra mile by offering to pick up the coats from their home, upon request.  A little personal face time sure couldn’t hurt! 

2. To the clients, affiliates (or even friends and family) that you would normally offer a gift, why not donate a specific monetary amount to a local charity in their name? Print out a personalized card letting them know what organization you have donated to on their behalf.

3. The Domino Effect:  Make a note on your donation greeting cards that you would be willing to print the same cards for your recipients to give to their friends, family and business relations to support your charity.

4. Get Noticed:  Let your local newspaper know what you’re up to and gain some local attention via a press release or feature article.  Keep them posted as to your final figures and any matches or success stories.

5. Kindness is contagious!  Start a kindness chain-book and grow your email distribution list one good deed at a time!  Buy a journal and place your business card on the first page.  Write on the inside cover that you would like the journal to be returned to you when full and, of course, clearly specify your address.  Include instructions that you would like each recipient of the journal to perform a “random act of kindness” during the holiday season, log it in the journal and then pass it on to someone new.  In the instructions, indicate that you will be emailing out a copy of the inspiring stories in the journal once it is returned to you - if they would like to provide you with their email address.  If you feel like getting chic, order a blank “photo book” from online sources like Ofoto.com, Shutterfly.com or Photobooks.com and add your photo and logo to the cover of the bound book along with a custom spine and instruction page.  Philanthropic AND fancy!

Yes, business is business and while you can expect these efforts to have a significant positive effect on your business, you might find that what you get back is even greater than the closing of an escrow.

Posted in Community Connections, Business Organization, Real Estate, Marketing Solutions | 2 Comments »

Santa’s Real Estate Marketing Ideas for the Holidays

Okay, I’m not really “Santa” but perhaps an elf-like assistant who enjoys making lists too! There’s no better time than the holidays to reach out to your client sphere and make valuable business connections. So what’s in your holiday marketing bag? Don’t be left sending out the same card, different color this year. Plan early and send now. Here is a list of 10 delicious marketing ideas that if served up properly will make Santa, his reindeer, and your client sphere very happy to hear from you this holiday season!

(1) Thank You Cards/Thankful Brunch Event: Around Thanksgiving it’s customary to give thanks, so naturally you’ll want to send thoughtful business thank you cards to your client sphere–thanking them for their business and continued support, etc. You could also choose to send invitations for a special Thankful “Client Appreciation” Brunch hosted by you at your home or work.

(2) Holiday Promotion: Send select clients a gift certificate for a local tree lot or ice skating rink. It can be an affordable option at $10 a pop. For Thanksgiving, make it a pie giveaway by sending clients a print promotion for a free desert. Have clients drop by your office to pick up their treat on a specified day/time.

(3) Santa or Family Photo Op:  Send clients a date/time postcard with details for a Santa Picture Day, or even a Family Portrait Day. Hiring a professional photographer to take pictures of your clients for their holiday cards is well worth the lasting memories.  Now you’ve become part of their holiday tradition!

(4) Holiday Open House or Open Office: Not big on formal entertaining? Well, as my dad always said…”have it done!” (He’s a broker.) Whether you invite your clients to your home or office, hire a caterer and even server for drinks. Send holiday themed invitations via mail and keep it light and informal. Be sure to have coloring books, cookie decorating and other simple kid activities on hand for families with small children. This way you can eat, drink and be merry with your clients. (Not too merry though, unless that’s your target client base of course.)

(5) Make a Donation (in your client’s name): Whether it be a local or national charity, giving in someone else’s name is sure to get you to the top of Santa’s Good List. Just make sure to include the charity info on your marketing item so you’re client can learn more about the organization or choose to give back in their own way.

(6) Holiday Card w/ YOUR Family Picture: Want to show your softer side? Send out holiday cards with your own family picture. Yes, being a real estate agent can be a 24 hour job, but you do have other interests….family, hobbies, etc. Choose a nice family portrait, exciting hobby action shot, or even a close up with you and your treasured family pet.

(7) Holiday Event Calendar: Research and collect the local holiday events and organize them on a calendar. Customize your calendar with your contact information, picture, and special client appreciation events of your own. Now you’ve secured a spot on your client’s fridge for the holiday season!

(8) Holiday Recipe Cards: Share your own or pick a favorite from the Food Network. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a good one. Recipe cards make great mailers. If you are a stellar chef, then make a mini-recipe booklet to share and give out when farming. Go the extra mile for very special clients by inviting them to a gourmet holiday cooking class at your home hosted by you and a chef.

(9) Contest for Local Ski/Snowboard Weekend: What a fun way to get your sphere excited and help update your database at the same time! Whether you email or mail a postcard or newsletter promotion, make sure that your return entry form has all the fields necessary for updating your contact database.

(10) Holiday Safety Tips: Perfect as a mailer or for your farm. Whatever format you choose, make sure to include basic holiday safety tips, as well as a checklist of items to make your household safe. If you don’t already have safety information, try Google…you’ll get plenty of suggestions and resources to choose from. (EX: National Safety Council)

Posted in Business Organization, Real Estate, Marketing Solutions | 6 Comments »