If you've never seen a "Talking House" before, all you need to understand it's potential is this: it's a short-range radio transmitter that lets you broadcast your own message to potential buyers while they're out in front of your listing!

I had successfully used these units years ago, when I first opened my own real estate brokerage, and can personally testify to their effectiveness. Sellers love them and they help convert a higher percentage of "drive-by" lookers into actual leads. Truly a great use of technology to serve both your buyers and sellers, too!

However, the key to getting the most out of the units not simply the technology, but in what you say on your personal broadcast. When you record the message, don't make the mistake of listing all of the homes features, instead focus on a few great benefits the property has to offer, but leave out some of the important details too!

Remember: the job of any advertisement is simply to make the phone ring. After that, it's you're job to convert the prospect into a loyal customer or client.

The idea of using the Talking House is simply to get the buyer to pay more attention and then to build interest to the point that they will call. If you simply read the entire MLS data sheet to them, there's no need for them to call, unless the home is just what they're looking for.

One of the frustrations that I used to have with the Talking House was its limited recording time. There was never enough time to effectively pitch both the property and brokerage, too.

However, Realty Electronics has recently unveiled a "deluxe" model of the transmitter, with a host of improvements.

In addition to a whopping 5 minutes of available recording time, the new units also feature:

• Longer broadcast range
• Double insulated (two-prong) power cords
• Hand-held microphones

And, maybe most significant of all, you can now record a "standard" company or agent promotional message on the unit, and then add the property specific information to it at a later date!

It's also worth noting that Realty Electronics is offering trade-in options on some units or a 17% discount on first-time orders. If you're interested, simply call 800-444-8255 and reference "Discount Code C12343."

Published: November 2, 1999

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Stephen Canale only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.