I finally got on the Video bandwagon and started using video to cover local events and businesses--a great way to be known as the "local expert" where I sell Real Estate. I researched video cameras and went through a lot of trial and error because I realized this was a good way to provide something useful for the community while subtly promoting my services and listings. This is a "what's in it for them" approach to networking.
Creating videos to showcase homes (and posting them on YouTube) is also a very good tool I include in listing presentations. I don't make videos for all my listings - let's face it, foreclosures and similar homes don't always show well on the big screen. However, I usually get a several good pictures and create Real Estate shows for listings. Some time ago, I found out that they create a video out of the show which is posted on YouTube and Zipvo.
While these are two "must do" uses of video, I discovered another very useful way to assist my buyers when they are choosing a home. It started with my nephew when we were getting close to writing an offer on a home. They wanted to show it to some friends and family so I took a video with my Flip Video and posted it on Facebook for them. While pictures are good, this really gives a truer sense of what the home is like. Later I took some clients out a second viewing of a home and they wanted to take some pictures to show their friends. I always have my toolbox with me and they forgot their camera. Not only did I take some pictures to forward them, I took another video with my Flip. Since they don't have a Facebook account, I posted in on YouTube and sent a link. About a week later, they were having a dinner party and called to have me send them the link again.
It was great fun reading the comments that people made on the Facebook link and to get noticed for another tool that I provide to their friends and family. It is so easy with the Flip and I always have it with me. I am taking out clients whose parents are coming to see their top picks. They don't live in the area - so I can continue to offer this when they can't be here - it's an important decision and it's important to have some additional input.
Royal Oak Realtor selling Real Estate in Southeastern Michigan. TishHouse sells Houses - selling Oakland County Real Estate with RE/MAX Showcase Homes in Birmingham, Michigan. Helping People in a challenging market by specializing in Short Sales. See what my clients have to say about my extraordinary customer service. Follow me on Twitter.
Cool idea! I can see how that would get you some attention on Facebook. It sounds like you really go above and beyond for your clients. I'm sure the extra effort will pay off for you big time! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Cathy, I love RE Shows and find news ways to use that great tool all time for both my clients and my business. I agree there are so many uses and I have also used the tool to provide an announcement for clients to share their news about their new home - similiar to what you're doing just after the close and it's been received so well. You're right - we always have a camera with us and there's so many ways to share our listings, area and information with our clients. Great use of the tool! ~Anne Marie
Great use of the camera!!
Cathy,
Fantastic post! So much information, thank you.
I have been gently coaxing my clients to add video, screen casting and/or podcasting to their toolboxes to help set them apart from their competition.
One of the ideas I suggested to my clients are short videos about area attractions. For example the local golf courses. A new one each week, talk to the pro, show off putting techniques. Use your imagination, think about what a prospective buyer would like to know about the area, ask yourself why would I want to live there, then go and video it.
Another good reason to add these tools is your SEO rankings and videos drive traffic back to your site.
I will be referring them to your post, You have some really great ideas and excelent links.
Thanks again for sharing.
The Real Estate shows are awesome! I also have a flip camera but have not used it much. I really need to start.
Cathy - I really need to start using video more, as I feel I am getting behind on the technology. I need to find a new video camera, and don't really know which one to purchase. I need to do my research.
Great idea Cathy.
Question - how can you make more money off this idea?
It's an awesome benefit to send a buyer a video of a property to show family & friends, but what about protecting your time?
It's so easy to get sucked into being busy oing tasks that don't generate revenue! I contstantly have to monitor what I do for whom so I can still make a living. Otherwise, I could work 24/7, but not make a dime!
Jason: I think it always pays off to go the extra mile.
Anne Marie: We definitely have to think outside the box to provide those things that make a difference to our clients.
Jeannette: Thanks!
Laurie: You definitely get it - particularly about the SEO - I have a page on my website where I always post my newest video - and change them. Thanks so much for referring people to this post!
Bill & Troy: I have a camcorder but use my Flip Video the most - today I did a video of the local parade - camera in one pocket and flip in the other - so easy.
Drew: It really doesn't take much time for these - I don't really edit them that much and only 5-10 minutes to shoot. Well worth it with the links I get from family and friends I have a philosophy that we don't know where the business/referrals are coming from - if I can do the extra, I will without always worrying about "the in order to" result. Sometimes I don't have the time - glad when I do.
Cathy, great overall information. I don't have a Flip but I understand they are easy to use and upload videos.
Interesting ideas. Sounds like some nice value add for everyone.
Gary: I have a camcorder but am finding that I prefer the Flip - so easy and good quality. The camcorder is bigger, extra battery and more.
Matt: I think it does add value - thanks.
Cathy, good post. I agree with you that don't make the assumption all your viewers/buyers have been to your area so show them the area on line by posting community not just real estate videos. Video is huge and taps all the senses, goes deeper is more memorable if done correctly.