What features are really effective for a Web Site? I'm not referring to things that WOW people but don't get a buyer or seller. What features of a Web Site have you found to be effective in getting business?

I've seen Sold Pages, Listings, Virtual Tours, Bio Info, Testimonials, etc. I just don't see which ones I should focus on.

Thanks,

George

I have found that the most important things to have on your site is your Home Search Form and a link to the MLS listings in your area. If all of your competitors in the search engines have their personal listings on their site than you should too.

In the end it does not matter what you have on your web site if no one is finding it for the right keywords

Hope this helps you!

I think that the most important tool would be free information - where the potential buyer/seller has to enter contact information (ie. email or snail mail address) to receive the free information. This will generate leads and make the website worth the cost, time, and effort.

Dana
Arkansas

Those both sound really good. You hear a lot of things and it's hard to say what really works. It has to be in the context of accomploshing business goals.

I've found a real estate web design company that has an IDX solution for MLS. I didn't know much about it before I talked to them, but they told me some interesting things. They mentioned that I could show all listings in my MLS on my site with my contact information in it, updated daily. Now, I thought this would be a great idea. Am I missing somethign, what's the downside?

I like the idea of giving something to get something. I assume you send out a newsletter to these folks that sign up, right.

Just make sure of one thing...

Whoever codes your webpage, do NOT let them use a lot of useless froo-froo.

Keep it wimple, with Black-on-White text, no Flash or java nonsense, just basic, standards compliant HTML in a simple, easy to use format.

Make sure that you update your site and change information every so often. People will keep coming back for new information and real estate news.

I think a listing search capability, like from an IDX, is good for "stickiness" of a real estate website. Thank makes potential homebuyers keep going back to your site to check out new listings.

However, in some regions, IDXs aren't great as many brokers select to opt out. It's funny, because a couple days ago, I visited one agent's site and his search capability showed only 2 listings for an area for given criteria, whereas if you go directly to the MLS, there were over 60 listings. That's an example of a not very good IDX.

But if you have a good IDX in your area, I say go with it in your website.

HTH. And good luck!

I read the NAR Technology Guide. Home Searches, virtual tours, and neighborhood information are the heavy hitters. It's what keeps people on your site the longest and what they all need. Free reports and information is good, but it has to be targeted. Dan Richard Gooder at Gooder.com has a book that gives great advice on marketing onlinle.