Independent estate agents face a tough test to stand out in what can be a crowded market, especially as the growing number of online-only agencies has crept across the nation.
There are more than 25,000 estate agencies in the UK – the majority of which operate independently in a local area.
And while the online operators may talk a good game and use flashy offers to tempt people, there’s no substitute for the expertise that a local agent can provide when looking to match the right people to the right home.
With that in mind, here are five ways that independent agencies can make themselves stand out from the crowd and cut above the noise.
Consider the importance of local advertising
If you operate an agency in a specific area, it’s important that people living – or looking – in that location know all about you and your business.
Physical advertising, such as custom-made flyers and leaflets featuring your business, can leave an imprint on people which resurfaces when it comes to putting their home on the market or looking for a new one.
Focus on optimising your website
There’s no reason why you can’t take on the online operators at their own game and add a rock-solid digital strategy to your existing strength – boots on the ground in your area of operation.
Make sure that your website is as easy to use as possible and concentrate especially on a mobile design – this is where the vast majority of people search! Of course, it should go without saying that if you’re not already you should be working with search engines such as Rightmove and Zoopla to make sure your listings reach far and wide!
Create a blog to share insights
Blog posts on your website are not going to necessarily sell you and your services in a big way. But by offering advice and tips on the house-buying process or to those who are renting you strengthen your expertise in the eyes of would-be clients.
It might be a bit of a softer sell, but it can also convince people to recommend your agency – a crucial marketing win for any business.
-
Collate customer testimonials
Speaking of which!
If you’ve had particularly successful experiences with customers, there is no harm in asking them to write a short review and collating some on your website. Websites like Trustpilot and Google Reviews are also ideal spots to direct customers to as banks of reviews there can assist your digital marketing strategies.
