April 2017 Marketing Minute

What’s the Buyer’s Role in the Appraisal Process?

There has been ongoing debate around whether a listing agent should be part of the appraisal process. There are some states where the listing agent can’t even be present, but for those where it is an option, check out the guys from Inman discussing this topic. Watch video here.

Millennials Are All About the Online Experience — Except in Real Estate

Reaching millennial home buyers remains a hot topic in the industry — from engaging with them on social media, to figuring out how best to communicate with your millennial clients. A new study from CentSai, a financial wellness website, did an interesting study showing that 75% of millennials would prefer to enlist the help of a local real estate agent. Check out the full report from CentSai showing that Millennials are more traditional than you may think when buying a home. Read the full article here.

Home-Building Slides in March, but Permits Show Promise

While home-building numbers were softer than estimates projected, there is still promise for the Spring buying season. When speaking about buying momentum into the spring, EVP of Quicken Loans Bill Banfield says, “Confidence in the housing market and economy is improving, signaling a spring home-buying season that could easily be one of the strongest in years.” Read the rest of story for more details on the housing market. Read more here.

NAR Says Most Realtors Interested in Sustainable Homes

Realtors are sensing an increased demand for sustainable houses from consumers according to a recent survey from NAR. Their latest research shows that it’s worthwhile to highlight the energy efficient aspects of homes. Are you actively promoting the “green” features of homes? Read the full article here.

Drone photography takes the real estate business to new heights

While good photography has long been a hallmark of creating a quality online listing, new technology is pushing this even further. If you often have luxury listings, creating aerial drone footage is a captivating way to differentiate your listing. Take a look at this quick how-to article and video. Read more.

QUICK LINKS

■ What kinds of marketing agreements can agents and brokers make with lender/title partners?

■ Do you really need to have a open house?

■ 5 tips agents can use to make a better first digital impression

“Buyers decide in the first eight seconds of seeing a home if they’re interested in buying it. Get out of your car, walk in their shoes and see what they see within the first eight seconds.”

— BARBARA CORCORAN,
American businesswoman, investor, & syndicated columnist

HOMES & LAND | APRIL 2017