We all hear the debate of internet vs old fashioned paper marketing. Both arguments have some validity. I am sure as well that some methods work better in some markets than others.

My main question is, are there any studies to tell which type markets are better suited for each of these choices? Demographics would have to play a major role. Lower income, or high elderly population would seem logically to mean low internet usage.

The national stats are through the roof as far as how home buyers search (internet), but just like national vs local on sales trends, I would think the same argument would apply to the best marketing venue.

I think a vacation market works better for internet marketing, definitely - you have out of the area buyers and sellers...they're researching things online

Perky,

Thanks for the response. It makes perfect sense. My main question is how does each market area (or even niche within a market) define the most likely source of business (internet vs print, or even a combination?)

A bit hard to come to a set conclusion here and my answer may not be what you're looking for but, a combination of both online and offline marketing is key. In any business marketing is a crucial role to the lively hood of the company and real estate is no different. Even if you are in a very intelligent, young community some of the people may not like looking at things over the internet and then contacting an agent - they may want to call the listings agent directly (or another Realtor)...I think that both have their weight and should not be overlooked...find where you get the most/best traffic/business and put a little more focus on that but do not forget the other avenues.

I think you define it by trial and error. But even then...

For me it's internet stuff all the way. I actually don't advertise much at all and I get most of my leads from my website.

Another agent in my office gets tons of listings from sending out calendars every year. Another one bombards people with direct mail until they either call the office and demand she stop or they list with her.

I have sold a house due to it being listed in the Real Estate Book. Or on Realtor.com...or the Yellow Pages. BUT...the norm for ME has been the internet, and one of my colleagues, it has been direct mail. Same market, different methods, different custoemrs. *shrug*

Sent those danged calendars out numerous years - NOTHING! Although a renter I always sent it to did eventually purchase through me, so, I guess we could say I broke even.

I like "until they either call the office and demand she stop or they list with her."

Gotta try THAT - it's all about attitude, eh?