Commercial Real Estate Online
Commercial real estate online was once limited, but this is no longer the case. With over 80 percent of Americans having internet access, the online world is a part of nearly everyone’s daily life. The real estate industry has embraced the internet through online listings and auctions as well as many other industry specific features.
Despite commercial real estate being one of the oldest industries in the United States, it has trailed behind other industries when it has come to the power of being online. Technology has made for easier and more streamlined transactions through faster correspondence through email and (nearly) paperless transactions. While there is currently no Zillow or Trulia of the commercial real estate world, someday there is sure to be. A wide variety of commercial real estate challenges have been overcome with the use of online technology. Online marketing activities take time, dedication (and sometimes money) but they are worth it, in the long run. In order to compete with competitors and differentiate yourself in the industry a company needs to have an online presence.
While the online presence of commercial real estate hasn’t yet reached its full potential, residential real estate has made a name for itself in the online world, and commercial real estate won't be too far behind. Commercial brokerages have begun to build innovative websites, smartphone apps and a social media presence in order to communicate with clients. Social networking has proven its use through driving leads from the use of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other popular social networking sites. Keeping top of mind is important in any industry, and commercial real estate is no exception.
Online marketing efforts can help to introduce potential customers to your brand, identity, and properties. A reputation is built through a variety of online marketing strategies. The important part to realize about online marketing is that its success does not happen overnight, but with proper nurturing over time it can bring great rewards (i.e. deals). Many industry leaders agree that an online presence is vital, within the competitive marketplace landscape commercial real estate firms need to utilize online mechanism for reaching leads and promoting properties.
Websites are great for presenting company information, property details and other important data which can all be presented through an online user-friendly interface. Property images, site plans, and maps are all great ways to communicate information in an easy format. Email marketing is completed through digital newsletters and brochures. This is a great way to utilize email contacts and keep top of mind. Online marketing strategies can vary greatly from one firm to the next as some companies can realize success in virtual tours, e-brochures, and advertising for lease and sale properties on popular sites.
The commercial real estate industry has begun to rely on online marketing techniques to market properties. Exposure to any property comes through a variety of marketing techniques, not the least of which are online based. The internet has created a whole host of new options for marketing properties. 21st Century marketing has led to a step away from traditional print-based materials and into new technology platforms online. Many experienced commercial real estate companies will agree that you have to be proactive in utilizing the internet to market properties.
CRE companies across the United States are increasingly turning to digital channels and utilizing fewer types of traditional media. Lead generation, brand awareness, and property marketing are all high priorities for the utilization of online marketing channels. A visible online presence is an important factor in a business’s success. In most areas of the country, consumers turn to the internet for just about everything nowadays and finding a commercial real estate company online is no exception.