The pandemic has been difficult for all of us. However, there is one bright spot amid all the hardship: the real estate market is thriving. With so many of us stuck at home, traffic on real estate sites has skyrocketed. For brokers and agents, now is the time to seize the opportunity and revamp our online presence.
COVID and the Changing Real Estate Climate
While the Coronavirus pandemic ravaged many industries in our country, the real estate market thrived. Amid historically low interest rates, the need for more space, and an exodus away from the cities, real estate agents across the country saw record sales.
The trend doesn’t seem to be slowing, either. Moving into 2021, home prices remain higher than we have seen in years. Homes are selling just as fast as they hit the market, often leading to multiple offer scenarios in markets from coast to coast.
More People Searching Real Estate Sites
We already know that there are a record number of people buying homes right now. But the way buyers are finding homes is shifting, too.
Before the pandemic, about 90% of all homebuyers initiated their home search online. However, a curious trend began emerging during the pandemic lockdown: people browsing real estate sites as a hobby.
Perhaps we’re all dreaming of a bigger home where our kids aren’t practically on top of us while we attend yet another Zoom call. Or maybe it’s a way for us to escape to a new location since we rarely leave home anymore. Whatever the reason, online real estate sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and others all report increased traffic since the pandemic’s onset.
While search volume doesn’t necessarily translate to home sales, it’s likely that this “real estate surfing” leads to an uptick in home purchases, too. For real estate agents, that’s a trend worth noticing.
With more people than ever viewing real estate online, is it time to upgrade your website?
Updating Your Real Estate Sites: Make the Most of the Pandemic Shift
If you’re a real estate professional who wants to take advantage of the super-hot market (and we’re guessing you do), the key is to work smarter, not harder.
One way to do that? Updating your website.
It’s crucial to have a website that connects with potential clients. Top-performing real estate sites include easy access to the current MLS, information about your brokerage, and valuable insights for home buyers and sellers.
However, as a busy real estate agent, you don’t have the time to get your website in tip-top shape.
One way to rejuvenate your website and add every necessary tool is to purchase a real estate-specific website theme like WinningAgent My Community Pro Theme. This ready-to-use theme can take your website to the next level. It includes all the tools you need to create a beautiful real estate website that integrates MLS search tools from your website directly.
For even easier website set-up, we can build your entire real estate website for you in less than a week. With the WinningAgent Real Estate Website Package, you’ll get an expertly-created website, complete with website hosting services (if needed), IDX Broker software MLS integration, and broker-specific content pages designed around your business and your brand.
Creating stunning real estate sites has never been easier – and it’s never been more important to your business.
Other Ways to Boost Your Business During the Pandemic
An updated and revamped website is the best way for real estate professionals to reach new clients during this pandemic. However, once you have your new website up and running, there are still other ways to boost your sales and tackle professional development.
First, consider attending a virtual summit to hone your professional skills. Connecting with other successful brokers can inspire, encourage, and challenge you to step outside your comfort zone. And while we are all in lockdown, now is the perfect time to attend a virtual course.
Second, increase your online presence. If you’re not active on social media, start using those platforms to share news about current home listings and other aspects of your business. You could also boost your website’s traffic with informational blog posts about home buying and selling.
Finally, one of the best ways to develop your personal and professional skills is to read. While you might not think you have the time to devote to a good book, studies show that reading is vital to success. Some of the world’s most influential business leaders devote time every day to learning.
This pandemic definitely has its challenges. But for real estate professionals, the boost in traffic to real estate sites represents an opportunity for growth and success. Have you changed your marketing approach during the pandemic? We want to hear about it! Connect with us in the comments.
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