Blog
Posted by Michael Connolly on July 06, 2010 in Marketing
Your Online Experience with Project Websites & Social Media
In an age where information can be readily available via the internet, I often find myself researching future purchases online, not only through company websites but through social media platforms as well.
What I’ve often found is that in the world of pre-sale real estate, project websites often lack detail beyond basic information. Although a website won’t replace actually taking a drive around the neighborhood or having a discussion with a project sales representative, it should provide you with a greater understanding of the project prior to your visit (and ongoing.)
Where many websites tend to fall short by not providing enough information, there is an opportunity for corresponding social media initiatives to bridge the chasm by providing ongoing news about the project or neighborhood, interesting purchaser stories, project updates and so on. As a consumer, and as a person who will do research prior to making a major purchase, I find this information just as important in aiding my decision making process.
This leads me to the question: How important is your online experience when researching your next real estate purchase?
Personally, I want the website to load quickly and easily, be easy to navigate and find the information I’m looking for and still be a good representation of the product in quality and offering. I’m often frustrated when faced with a flash based website with little content and only glitz. Additionally, if the website looks to be continuously updated or with links to social media where updates can occur, this greatly appeals to my desire to want to take the next step and visit a presentation centre.
Some of my best online experiences involve simple site design coupled with social media initiatives and a good amount of information. One particular project website that worked well was District, finding information was simple and their use of Facebook, Flickr and Twitter was well done and well received.
Ultimately I’m looking for details that I can compare and contrast against other real estate options in the neighborhood I’m looking to live. I don’t want to call or visit the presentation centre until I’m satisfied with the information I’ve gathered and am ready to take the next step.
Unfortunately our website isn’t currently setup for your comments; that said feel free to access this “note” on the MAC Facebook Fan Page. Here you’ll be able to share your thoughts on the topic.
Michael Connolly
