Topic Title: Video and Real Estate

First Post:

Seems like there is a lot of talk about implementing video into the marketing mix of many realtors these days. I’ve found video to be quite useful as a means to excite buyers and attract sellers but I feel there’s something to be said about planning first.

Before you go out and start rampantly shooting video, I encourage you to think about the end result you’re trying to achieve. There are two main things to consider:
Am I trying to actually sell a property or brand myself with this video? Am I simply trying to create web traffic to my site?If your answer to the first question is “yes” then the quality of the video you shoot is imperative. I’ve seen some agents simply guide me through a home with a hand-held camcorder and weak commentary. I believe this does your seller (and your image) more harm than good. Any video you post specific to a listing or when trying to professionally brand yourself needs to be high quality footage.

If you’re planning to use video as a simple way to create some web traffic and viral marketing, I think we all now know that places like YouTube can be incredibly useful. YouTube is now the 5th most popular website on the entire internet and an incredible resource for capturing traffic. Compared to the video you might load directly to your site, these clips can often be of lesser production value while not hurting your reputation.

Substance is the key however! Make sure your videos are short and targeted to the message you’re trying to convey. If your content is too scattered, and not directly related to the headline you advertise, you will lose prospects’ interest very quickly. Writing a general script before you start the cameras rolling is often a good idea.

Another great use of video I’ve seen is with a video blog. These can be entertaining and informative at the same time while giving you, the agent, a personality beyond just a written blog. A great example is Ian Watt’s video blog (no affiliation). Google "Ian Watt in Vancouver" if you want to check it out.

My two-cents for the day!

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