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The VA in Alex Bay

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Is This a Marketing Nightmare?


New tax assessments were mailed out a few weeks ago here in Alex Bay. I've been told property around here hasn't been assessed in years. As people opened their mail you could hear a collective groan across the village that evening. Suddenly homes are popping up for sale faster than the tulips are coming up. I don't know if the drastic tax increase caused this but it is certainly suspicious. As I watch graceful old homes being sold now my heart aches that if this tax increase is truly causing this market deluge then it is a shame.

As real estate professionals what can we do to get people the most money for their homes in situations like this? What are the most effective marketing techniques we could use in times like these? Direct marketing? Probably not since everyone is in the same boat, neighbors are selling too! Internet marketing seems to be the answer in this type of market. Let's explore all the options. Of course the MLS is the standard. I don't know of any MLS that isn't on the internet today. Every company should have a website that advertises all of the company's listings. Each agent should definitely have a website. There are many free portals available to advertise - Google, Craigs List, Postlets, and LiveDeal. For approximately $10 you can create a property specific site. Many cities have advertising outlets that allow you to advertise properties at little or no cost. In Louisville, KY a site called louisvillemojo.com allows agents to advertise listings at no cost. A local agent there tells me he gets good results from the ads he places there.

Also explore alternative advertising. I live in an area that is home to many retirees that winter in Florida. In the case here in Alex Bay I would recommend that local agents advertise throughout Florida in the top marketing venues there. In other areas look to the population to direct your marketing efforts. Know your market, know their lifestyles and if they are mobile then market to the areas they move through in their travels. Your local population makes life-long friends as they move throughout the country in off-seasons. These friends could be the next resident of your community!

Explore and experiement with your marketing. You've only got new business to gain! If you need assistance with marketing contact Jeri, The Secret Assistant. Jeri@TheSecretAssistant.com
posted by Jeri Winkler at 10:35 AM

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