Marketing Archives - WAV Group Consulting https://www.wavgroup.com/category/marketing/ WAV Group is a leading consulting firm serving the real estate industry. Sat, 20 Dec 2025 16:26:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://www.wavgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Marketing Archives - WAV Group Consulting https://www.wavgroup.com/category/marketing/ 32 32 Brokers, Pay Attention: Agent Bios and Headshots Are Not Optional https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/12/19/brokers-pay-attention-agent-bios-and-headshots-are-not-optional/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=brokers-pay-attention-agent-bios-and-headshots-are-not-optional Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:00:08 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=53588 If your website features inconsistent photos, uneven bios, and incomplete profiles, that inconsistency becomes your brand.

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A consumer recently shared a simple experience with the WAV Group research team. They visited a brokerage website to learn about the people behind the brand. What they found was impressive. Clean layout. Consistent headshots. Well-written bios. Each agent profile gave a sense of personality, expertise, and professionalism. The takeaway was immediate. This was a company that cared about presentation, standards, and trust. It felt like the broker website was introducing each of their agents.

Isn’t that the role of the broker website? Isn’t the top priority to introduce consumers to their agents who express the broker’s values?

Then they visited another brokerage site.

Some profiles were strong. Others were clearly rushed. Outdated photos. One-line bios. Missing designations. In many cases, no photo at all. The contrast was stark. And the impression was just as immediate.

Consumers assume how you do one thing is how you do everything.

Your Profile Is Your First Listing

For many buyers and sellers, your bio is the first interaction they ever have with an agent. Before a call. Before a showing. Before a presentation. They are making silent judgments about the agent’s attention to detail, professionalism, and pride in their work.

An incomplete profile signals neglect.

A low-quality headshot signals shortcuts.

A thin bio signals disinterest.

If the agent’s digital presence looks like something you checked off a list rather than something you committed to doing right, consumers notice. And they carry that perception into every future interaction.

Group of friends watching smart mobile phones - Teenagers addiction to new technology trends - Concept of youth, tech, social and friendship - Main focus on center hands

What a Strong Profile Actually Communicates

A high-quality profile does far more than list years of experience and production stats. It answers unspoken client questions:

  • Do you take your business seriously?
  • Do you invest in yourself?
  • Do you pay attention to details?
  • Can I trust you with the largest financial decision of my life?

When done right, a great profile builds confidence before you ever speak. It removes friction from the decision to reach out. It supports your broker’s brand as much as your own.

This is not vanity. It is basic digital hygiene in a trust-driven business.

Best Practices for Brokerages to Align With Their Web Developers

Raising standards on agent profiles requires more than good intentions. It requires clear technical and brand direction for your web developer. Here are proven best practices brokerages should normalize across their site.

Professional Headshots: Normalize the Background

Consistency is everything.

  • Use solid-color backgrounds. Solid backgrounds age better than graduated colors and do not look dated after a few years.
  • Best background colors: Neutral gray, white, or off-white.
  • Prioritize contrast. The agent should stand out cleanly from the background to avoid visual blending.
  • Design once, use everywhere. Solid backgrounds work better across:
    • Brokerage websites
    • Business cards
    • Social media profiles
    • Listing presentations
    • CMAs
    • Single-property websites
    • Reports and marketing collateral

When backgrounds vary wildly, the website looks fragmented. When backgrounds are consistent, the brand feels intentional.

A Second Photo: The Personality Image or video

If the site supports a second image, treat it as a personality photo or video.

This is where agents can show:

  • Community involvement
  • Lifestyle alignment
  • Approachability
  • Personal interests

The first photo builds credibility. The second builds connection.

Biography Length: Write Three, Use Them Strategically

Every agent should have three versions of their bio:

  • One-paragraph bio: 50 to 100 words
  • Short bio: 150 to 250 words
  • Full bio: 300 to 500 words

Best practice is to use the full bio on the brokerage website. Bios under 300 words often struggle to surface in search engines. Longer bios improve discoverability and give consumers meaningful context.

Writing Style: Formal, Third Person, Lead With Impact

For the brokerage website:

  • Write in the third person
  • Maintain a professional, formal tone
  • Lead with impact, not tenure

Open with what differentiates the agent, not how long they have been licensed.

Essential Bio Elements

Every full bio should clearly include:

  • Core areas of expertise and specializations
  • Notable achievements
  • Relevant experience
  • Education and professional credentials
    • Spell designations out. Do not abbreviate. For example, use “Counselor of Real Estate,” not “CRE.”
  • Professional associations
  • A short personal note at the end is optional but humanizing

Required and High-Trust Page Elements

From a compliance, trust, and usability perspective, every agent page should include:

  • Agent license number
  • Name and linked profile of the supervising broker
  • Current listings (if the agent does not have listings, default to office listings)
  • Testimonials
  • Social Media links
  • Link to agent website
  • Space for agent logos, if any.
  • Space for language, other than English
  • Team affiliation with a live link to the team page, if applicable

These elements do more than complete a profile. They reinforce legitimacy, transparency, and accountability. Agent profiles are not a small marketing detail. They are a direct extension of your company’s brand standards.

If your website features inconsistent photos, uneven bios, and incomplete profiles, that inconsistency becomes your brand. Consumers do not separate the agent from the brokerage. They assume the company allows it, and by extension, endorses it.

Raising the bar on bios and headshots is one of the simplest ways to improve brand perception across an entire organization. Your bio and headshot are not administrative tasks. They are your public signal to the market. If your profile looks unfinished, rushed, or ignored, consumers will quietly assume your service might feel the same way. And they will move on without ever giving you the chance to prove otherwise.

Orange County broker Seven Gables collaborated with WAV Group to create an AI driven bio generator for agents along with an agent AEO application that helps agents measure their visibility on AI chatbots and gives a report that provides step by step instructions on how each can raise their visibility. Here is a webinar about Seven Gables AI.

In today’s market, professionalism starts long before the first conversation. It starts with how you show up when no one is watching. Fill out the form below if you’d like help and don’t know where to start.

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RateMyAgent and Curated Social Rebrand to Renowned: shifting from property marketing to people marketing https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/11/12/ratemyagent-and-curated-social-rebrand-to-renowned-shifting-from-property-marketing-to-people-marketing/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ratemyagent-and-curated-social-rebrand-to-renowned-shifting-from-property-marketing-to-people-marketing Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:30:32 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=53095 Homes may be the result, but service is the offering. The future belongs to those who market their expertise as well as they market their listings.

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Real estate isn’t about selling homes. It’s about selling a service. Every listing, showing and negotiation reflects an agent’s craft, the skill, trust and expertise that turn transactions into relationships. Yet for years, the industry’s marketing focus has centered on properties, not people. Platforms such as Renowned are focused on changing that.

From listings to local expertise

Renowned, created from the merger of RateMyAgent and Curated Social, represents a shift toward what it calls Local Expert Marketing, or LEM. The idea is simple: consumers choose people they trust, not listings they find online.

By combining RateMyAgent’s verified review engine with Curated Social’s automated marketing tools, Renowned helps agents turn proof of service into consistent, shareable storytelling across Google, social media, brokerage websites and AI-powered search.

This approach moves the focus from inventory to identity. When buyers and sellers look for representation, they want credibility, connection and competence. Local Expert Marketing delivers that at scale.

With home sales projected at 4.06 million in 2025, far below the 10-year average, every client interaction counts. Brokerages that continue to spend primarily on property advertising risk blending into a crowded feed of sameness. Those that highlight their people, authentic, reviewed and visible, will stand apart.

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, nearly 70 percent of consumers hire the first agent they contact, often based on online reputation. The message is clear: reputation is now the first showing. Renowned’s integration gives brokerages a way to make that showing automatic, consistent and measurable.

Another thought: Real Estate Agents and Brokers are not syndicated by IDX. They are authentically yours to market. Using Renowned, you have a strategy that celebrates your people. 

Automation makes this possible. Renowned takes verified reviews, transaction updates and client feedback, then turns them into branded, polished content without requiring agents to manually post or design.

Customer Testimonials

OMNI Homes International founder Calvin Case said the biggest benefit is scalability: “a way to power consistent marketing for all agents without increasing workload.”

At RE/MAX Professionals, Brad Whitehouse added, “Consistency is something we could never accomplish without Renowned.” 

RealtyONE Group leaders Erin Carmona and Ben Zallaha said the system “turns reviews and sales updates into polished posts that keep us visible without us lifting a finger.”

About Renowned

Renowned is the real estate industry’s first fully integrated suite of Local Expert Marketing (LEM) solutions. Its LEM platform includes the award-winning, consumer-facing brand RateMyAgent and Curated Social. Renowned’s automated LEM engine turns verified reviews, past performance, listings, and hyperlocal insights into content that wins trust and builds agent reputation across the digital channels that matter most. By delivering always-on, done-for-you marketing, Renowned helps brokerages improve agent recruiting, retention, and results. Learn more at renowned.com.

Elevating the profession

For years, WAV Group has advocated for agent ratings as a cornerstone of consumer trust. Verified performance data allows the industry to move from property marketing to professional marketing, showcasing the expertise that defines the real estate service.

As market conditions tighten, platforms that highlight the agent’s brand and demonstrate real value will become indispensable. Renowned’s launch marks more than a merger, it’s a reminder that real estate is a people business, not a product business.

Homes may be the result, but service is the offering. The future belongs to those who market their expertise as well as they market their listings.

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LeadingRE Taps Storytelling to Boost Brokerage Brands, Recruit Talent, and Showcase Properties https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/09/16/leadingre-taps-storytelling-to-boost-brokerage-brands-recruit-talent-and-showcase-properties/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=leadingre-taps-storytelling-to-boost-brokerage-brands-recruit-talent-and-showcase-properties Tue, 16 Sep 2025 18:28:26 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=52615 Listings flood online platforms every day, leaving buyers scrolling quickly and often forgetting what they’ve seen. What makes a home and or a brokerage stick in someone’s mind isn’t just the square footage or the list of upgrades. It’s the story.

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Listings flood online platforms every day, leaving buyers scrolling quickly and often forgetting what they’ve seen. What makes a home and or a brokerage stick in someone’s mind isn’t just the square footage or the list of upgrades. It’s the story.

That’s where video comes in. Video is one of the most powerful storytelling mediums, and in real estate, it has become a strategic advantage for brokerages, top producers, and teams who want to elevate their brand, recruit talent, and attract the best offers for their clients’ homes.

Why Video Works So Well in Real Estate

Unlike static images or text descriptions, video combines movement, emotion, and narrative. A well-produced video gives buyers not only a sense of what a property looks like but also what it feels like to live there. It humanizes the agent or team behind the sale and allows brokerages to communicate their unique brand personality in a way that sticks with clients.

When video is story-driven, showcasing the lifestyle a home offers, highlighting community features, or telling the journey of a successful agent or team—it becomes more than marketing. It becomes connection. That connection builds trust, and trust drives offers and recruiting success.

LeadingRE + Xunami: Elevating Storytelling Through Video

Recognizing the power of video to transform real estate marketing, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE) has welcomed Xunami into its Solutions Group. Xunami specializes in cinematic, social-media-ready video that does more than showcase properties. It amplifies a brokerage’s and the listing agent’s identity and values.

From concept through production, the company blends strategy, creativity, and advanced tools like AI, CGI, and professional videography to deliver videos that grab attention in crowded feeds. For brokerages, that means:

  • Differentiation: Standing out from competitors with content that looks and feels high-end.
  • Recruiting Power: Attracting top agents who want to be associated with an innovative, brand-forward company.
  • Property Performance: Giving listings an extra edge that leads to more online engagement, more showings, and stronger offers.

As Jason Randolph, co-founder of Xunami, explains: “This partnership is about more than content—it’s about helping incredible companies share their stories and continue leading the way in real estate.”

A Strategic Advantage for LeadingRE Members

With Xunami as part of its Solutions Group, LeadingRE is providing its global network of 550 market-leading firms with direct access to premium video solutions. These cinematic, story-driven videos not only showcase properties and communities in their best light but also help brokerages strengthen their brands and support their agents’ success.

As Jim Psyhogios, vice president of strategic engagement at LeadingRE, noted: “Xunami’s premium, real estate–focused content solutions will empower our members to elevate their marketing and stand out as leaders in the industry.”

What This Means for Brokerages and Teams

If you’re a brokerage leader, top producer, or team, think about the story you’re telling right now. Are your properties getting the spotlight they deserve? Do potential recruits see your company as cutting-edge? Does your marketing reflect the lifestyle and community you’re selling—not just the square footage?

Video storytelling is the medium that answers “yes” to all of these questions. Done right, it can transform your business and give both your brand and your listings the “extra special something” that leads to attention, offers, and long-term growth.



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Why Great Agents Leave (And How the Right Culture Keeps Them Forever): 10 Culture-Building Tips https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/07/16/why-great-agents-leave-and-how-the-right-culture-keeps-them-forever-10-culture-building-tips/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-great-agents-leave-and-how-the-right-culture-keeps-them-forever-10-culture-building-tips Wed, 16 Jul 2025 14:53:56 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=52051 Recruiting and retaining the right agents in more than just commission splits or lead generation systems.  The most successful brokerages understand that culture is their strongest recruiting tool and retention strategy, especially when you want to make sure that an agent is the right fit. A well-crafted culture doesn't just happen by accident—it requires intentional effort, consistent reinforcement, and authentic leadership. Here’s 10 culture-building tips that will help you build a brokerage where agents thrive.

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Recruiting and retaining the right agents in more than just commission splits or lead generation systems.  The most successful brokerages understand that culture is their strongest recruiting tool and retention strategy, especially when you want to make sure that an agent is the right fit. A well-crafted culture doesn’t just happen by accident—it requires intentional effort, consistent reinforcement, and authentic leadership. Here’s 10 culture-building tips that will help you build a brokerage where agents thrive.

1. Define Your Core Values and Live Them Daily

Your brokerage’s values should be more than wall decorations. They need to guide every decision, from hiring practices to client interactions. Whether your focus is on integrity, innovation, or community service, ensure these values are embedded in your daily operations. Agents can sense authenticity, and they gravitate toward brokerages where leadership walks the talk.

2. Create Genuine Learning Opportunities

Top agents are lifelong learners who seek continuous improvement. Establish robust training programs that go beyond basic compliance requirements. Offer workshops on negotiation tactics, market analysis, technology tools, and personal development. Consider bringing in industry experts or partnering with local professionals to provide diverse perspectives that keep your team sharp and motivated. 

3. Foster Collaboration Over Competition

While real estate can be competitive, the most successful brokerages create environments where agents support each other’s success. Encourage team deals, mentorship programs, and knowledge sharing sessions. When agents see their colleagues as resources rather than threats, everyone benefits from collective wisdom and shared opportunities.

4. Invest in Technology and Tools

Modern agents expect their brokerage to provide cutting-edge technology that streamlines their workflow. From CRM systems to virtual tour platforms, ensure your team has access to tools that enhance their productivity and client service. Don’t just provide the technology—offer comprehensive training on how to maximize its potential.

 

Download WAV Group’s

365 Days of Growth: The ROI of Year-Round Recruiting

 

5. Recognize and Celebrate Achievements

Recognition doesn’t always require monetary rewards. Celebrate milestones, both big and small, through team meetings, newsletters, or social media shout-outs. Create annual awards that highlight different aspects of excellence—not just sales volume, but also community involvement, client satisfaction, or innovative marketing approaches.

6. Maintain Open Communication Channels

Establish multiple avenues for agents to voice concerns, share ideas, and provide feedback. Regular one-on-one meetings, anonymous suggestion boxes, and team meetings create opportunities for dialogue. When agents feel heard and valued, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to your brokerage’s success.

7. Support Work-Life Balance

The real estate industry is known for demanding schedules, but successful brokerages help agents manage their time effectively. Offer flexible scheduling, remote work options when possible, and resources for stress management. Agents who feel supported in their personal lives are more productive and loyal professionally.

8. Build Strong Community Connections

Position your brokerage as a community leader by participating in local events, supporting charitable causes, and maintaining relationships with other business professionals. This not only generates referrals but also gives agents pride in their association with your brand.

9. Provide Clear Growth Pathways

Ambitious agents want to know how they can advance within your organization. Create clear advancement opportunities, whether through team leadership roles, specialized niches, or mentorship positions. When agents see a future with your brokerage, they’re more likely to invest in long-term success.

10. Lead by Example

Culture flows from the top down. Your behavior, attitude, and business practices set the tone for your entire organization. Demonstrate the professionalism, integrity, and work ethic you expect from your agents. When leadership embodies the culture they want to create, agents naturally follow suit. Remember, agents don’t just choose a brokerage—they choose a professional home where they can thrive and grow their careers.

 

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NAR Report: Gen X leads in income, Millennials stay mobile, and Gen Z quietly arrives https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/04/01/nar-report-gen-x-leads-in-income-millennials-stay-mobile-and-gen-z-quietly-arrives/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nar-report-gen-x-leads-in-income-millennials-stay-mobile-and-gen-z-quietly-arrives Tue, 01 Apr 2025 13:00:57 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=51196 The 2025 NAR Generational Trends Report from NAR just dropped, and it reads like a family portrait of America in transition. Baby Boomers are moving closer to grandkids, Gen Zers are scurrying to scrape together enough savings to buy their first place, Millennials still buy the most homes, and Boomers are the top home sellers. [...]

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The 2025 NAR Generational Trends Report from NAR just dropped, and it reads like a family portrait of America in transition. Baby Boomers are moving closer to grandkids, Gen Zers are scurrying to scrape together enough savings to buy their first place, Millennials still buy the most homes, and Boomers are the top home sellers.Generations of home buyers

Here are some things agents will want to know about to better understand the differences in the generations they serve:

Gen X makes the most and buys the most expensive homes
Buyers aged 49 to 58 now top the income charts, with a median household income of $126,900. That puts them ahead of every other generation, plus they’re using their financial advantage to purchase homes with a median price of $380,000, the highest among all age groups.

Millennials still buy the most homes
Younger Millennials (25–33) and older Millennials (34–43) together make up 38% of all homebuyers. They remain the largest generational group purchasing homes, continuing a trend that began in 2014.

Gen Z quietly enters the market
They may be just getting started, but the Gen Z buyers (18–24) market accounts for 3% of all homebuyers. This generation is mostly single and buying their first home. With a median age of 21 and a median income of $71,200, they’re also the most diverse generation of buyers.

Boomers dominate the seller side
Older Boomers (69–77) and younger Boomers (59–68) make up 45% of all sellers: 45 PERCENT! But that’s really not a surprise, as they have the longest tenure in homes at an average of 19 years before deciding to sell.

First-time buyers bounce back
First-time buyers held a meager 26% market share last year but that’s surged back to 32%. While it’s a positive trend, it still falls short of the 38% historical average.

Mom and dad help out
Nearly one in four first-time buyers received a gift or loan from family or friends for their down payment. That figure jumps to 32% for Gen Z buyers. Family help is a required bridge to homeownership.

Longer-distant moves are becoming the norm
Buyers are moving 20 miles from their previous home: double the distance reported in 2021. Gen Z is moving the farthest: a median of 35 miles.

Fewer children at home
Only 28% of buyers had children under 18 living at home, down from 58% in 1985. It’s a long-term trend that will impact demand for family-style homes and school-focused communities.

Most buyers still want help from a real estate pro
Despite the internet and now potentially AI real estate agents, about 9 in 10 buyers used a real estate agent or broker. And it’s not just Boomers: 88% of Millennials and 90% of Gen Z tap a pro to navigate the process.

Why this data is important to agents
This must-read annual report is a treasure chest to help agents create and refine their sales strategies and marketing plans. It tells us how the real estate market is evolving, why people move, and why they stay in the same place. Most importantly, it puts a spotlight on the different reasons for each generation.

Gen X may have the means. Millennials are still making the most moves. And Gen Z is finding a way in, even if it’s with a little help from family.

For agents, this report helps connect the dots between the market and the people. Take time to study these shifts and you’ll better understand not just the how, but the why behind the motivations of buyers and sellers.

infographic nar gen report 2025

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Key Digital Experience Insights for Real Estate Brokerages to Thrive Online https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/03/11/key-digital-experience-insights-for-real-estate-brokerages-to-thrive-online/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=key-digital-experience-insights-for-real-estate-brokerages-to-thrive-online Tue, 11 Mar 2025 13:00:57 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=50793 Last week, I encountered a white paper by Contentsquare titled "2025 Digital Experience Benchmarks." This paper resonated with me because of Victor's article, "High-Tech vs. High-Touch Brokerage—AI May Change Strategy," which discusses the consumer experience with real estate brokerages. Every brokerage has an online presence with a website. Still, I have only seen a very [...]

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Online Digital Experience 2025 Benchmark for Real Estate Brokerages

David Gumpper, WAV Group Technology, AI, and Business Intelligence.Last week, I encountered a white paper by Contentsquare titled “2025 Digital Experience Benchmarks.” This paper resonated with me because of Victor’s article, “High-Tech vs. High-Touch Brokerage—AI May Change Strategy,” which discusses the consumer experience with real estate brokerages.

Every brokerage has an online presence with a website. Still, I have only seen a very select few who revere it as a marketing asset that must have an ROI attached to it. Brokerages spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure the website has the proper branding narrative; they seldom focus on the digital experience that their audiences demand.

As brokerages experience shrinking margins, it is crucial for them to focus on differentiating their website experience and measuring return on investment (ROI). To achieve this, brokerages and their teams must stay ahead of emerging trends in the ever-changing digital landscape.

Efforts are needed to enhance their digital strategies, improve customer engagement, and drive conversions. This article benchmarks today’s consumer digital behavior and offers guidance on enhancing website digital experiences for consumers.

Who is Contentsquare?

If you haven’t heard of Contentsquare, it’s a digital experience analytics company that assists brands in creating better digital experiences through its AI-powered platform. Over the past four years, they have acquired Heap and HotJar to enhance the services offered in their digital platform solution. I have used both tools to gain insights into how consumers interact with brokerage websites.

In my experience, these technologies benefit brokerage businesses by providing deep insights into customer behavior on their websites and apps, helping optimize user journeys, and improving conversion rates.

By analyzing billions of digital interactions, Contentsquare helps companies uncover vital insights that can enhance the human digital experience.

This white paper by Contentsquare highlights critical shifts in website traffic, user engagement, frustration factors, and conversion rates in Q4 2024.

This summary of the white paper is intended for brokerages and prop-techs seeking to enhance their customers’ online service experience and help them continue growing their business in a more competitive and demanding market.

Key Digital Trends

The 2025 benchmark report from Contentsquare analyzes data from 6,000 websites, 90 billion sessions, and 389 billion page views across various industries, including real estate, fintech, investments, insurance, and banking. Its findings reveal significant changes that should influence how brokerages approach digital customer interactions.

The following comes from the financial part of the white paper, which covers real estate websites.

1. Declining Website Traffic

Overall, traffic has dropped by 3.3% year-over-year, with a noticeable decline in unpaid (which includes organic) traffic (-5.7%). I have seen the same result across the real estate and other industries I consulted.

The explanation is simple. Transaction volume has decreased by 30%, which leads to fewer conversions and reduces the number of people actively searching for or purchasing property in the current market. Additionally, there is less inventory available, resulting in lower session counts and decreased consumer engagement on real estate websites.

Paid traffic increased slightly by 0.4%, but organizations continue to spend more on digital ads, driving up the cost per visitor by over 9%. I have experienced the same spending increase with Google Ads, Bing Ads, Adwerks, and other digital advertising programs.

As SEO traffic declines, businesses are increasingly turning to paid channels like Google, Meta, TikTok, and Connected TV (CTV) as part of their advertising strategy to boost sales.

Implications for Real Estate:

Brokerages must diversify their traffic acquisition strategies beyond traditional SEO and PPC. Emerging channels like industry media networks and niche advertising platforms offer new opportunities for audience engagement. According to EMarketer.com, Connected TV (CTV) is the fastest-growing advertising ad channel, surpassing spending on traditional social media and other advertising platforms.

2. Decreased User Engagement

Overall content consumption (page views per visit, time on site, and scroll rates) has declined by 6.5%.

While returning visitors consumed more content (+0.5%) than new visitors, new visitors viewed fewer pages (-1.8%).

Product Detail Pages (PDPs) are now the most common landing pages, increasing bounce rates.

Implications for Real Estate:

New visitors need better on-site experiences tailored to their needs. Brokerages need to optimize landing pages for first-time visitors. Local real estate websites have many types of landing pages for first-time visitors, whereas retail space does with PDPs. Some of the possible landing page opportunities that match homebuyer and seller interests are:

  • Interactive Neighborhood pages
  • Geographic and Price-Point Specific On-Market Property Search Result Pages
  • On and Off-Market Property Detail Pages

Engaging consumers on these landing pages requires brokerages to implement interactive content such as virtual tours, market stats, and dynamic property listings.

Consumer interaction data is a topic that is near and dear to WAV Group’s core. Aggregating this data is becoming more crucial as it allows brokerages to enhance their clients’ personalized experience.

3. Frustration Factors Undermining Digital Success

Several factors frustrate consumers with websites. The most significant are slow-loading pages, broken links, and excessive hovering on a page, which can lead to rage clicks.

According to the white paper, while frustration levels dropped slightly (-1.8%), it still affects 1 in 3 visits to a website. Companies that actively monitor and reduce frustration experience 4.5x fewer negative user experiences.

Implications for Real Estate:

Slow and frustrating digital experiences drive potential buyers away and inhibit homeowners’ trust in listing with a brokerage. Brokerages need to ensure they:

  • Optimize website speed (reduce JavaScript errors and improve mobile performance).
  • Implement real-time monitoring tools to detect user frustration.
  • Improve website navigation to reduce excessive hovering and rage clicks.

4. Conversion Rates Are Declining

In real estate, a conversion event occurs when a visitor submits a website customer inquiry form. The report takes this into account. We should measure website conversions by converting customer inquiries to sold transactions as our sold conversion ratio for website visitors.

The white paper states that conversion rates have dropped by 6.1% year-over-year, with new visitor conversions falling by 7.4%. I have observed varying results based on digital ad spending. When a company increases its digital ad spending, conversions tend to fluctuate between a decrease of less than 1% and an increase of around 1%.

While paid traffic brings in more visitors than unpaid traffic, it converts at a lower rate (1.83%) than unpaid traffic (2.66%). This result is relatively standard; consumers selecting digital ads tend to be shoppers, whereas those not choosing digital ads are typically buyers.

User engagement affects conversion rates. Companies that enhanced user engagement, measured by session depth, experienced a 5.4% increase in conversion rates.

Implications for Real Estate:

To increase conversion rates, brokerages must focus on deepening user engagement through high-quality content and interactive tools. They must also improve lead capture forms and reduce friction in the inquiry process. Improving conversion includes performing A/B testing of their forms.

A/B testing of fillable forms is accomplished by changing the layout, design, type of information gathered, and placement. I have seen how each test produces interesting results and insights into the website’s audience behavior.

What would an article today be if it didn’t include AI as a solution? Brokerages must consider using AI-driven personalization to match visitors with relevant listings and services.

5. Need to Improve Retention Rates

The 30-day visitor retention rates have declined by 7% year-over-year and have not shown improvement over the past five years. While returning visits increased by 1.9%, retention rates from paid traffic grew by 5.6%. This indicates that returning consumers to the site has become an expensive strategy through paid advertising.

An interesting fact from the paper is that websites with the highest retention rates had 17% fewer frustration clicks and 18% more page views per visit.

Implications for Real Estate:

Retaining digital visitors is crucial for long-term business success. Brokerages should:

  • Implement retargeting strategies to nurture leads over multiple visits.
  • Reduce frustration factors that contribute to bounce rates.
  • Leverage customer feedback tools like NPS surveys to understand user pain points.

Actionable Strategies for Real Estate Executives

The benchmark report highlights five critical areas where real estate businesses can improve their digital experience. Below are key strategies for each leadership role.

CEOs:

  • Invest in AI and automation to improve website personalization.
  • Diversify marketing spending to reduce reliance on paid traffic.
  • Implement data-driven decision-making for digital strategy.

CMOs:

  • Optimize landing pages for both new and returning visitors.
  • Leverage interactive content such as video tours and live chat.
  • Focus on emerging channels for traffic acquisition.
  • Perform A/B testing of fillable forms to improve conversion.

COOs:

  • Enhance website performance to reduce user frustration.
  • Streamline lead management and follow-up processes.
  • Improve cross-device customer journeys.

CTOs:

  • Invest in real-time website monitoring to detect frustration.
  • Optimize website speed and mobile responsiveness.
  • Implement data analytics tools to track visitor engagement.

Summary

The 2025 Digital Experience Benchmark Report reveals that digital transformation is no longer optional for real estate companies. With website traffic declining, engagement falling, and frustration impacting conversions, real estate executives must adopt a proactive approach to digital strategy that should involve a conversation with their website vendor partners.

Real estate businesses can thrive in an increasingly competitive online environment by optimizing traffic acquisition, improving engagement, reducing frustration, and enhancing conversion rates.

Recommend Next Steps:

  • Conduct a digital experience audit.
  • Optimize for mobile and page speed performance.
  • Leverage AI-driven personalization.
  • Expand traffic acquisition beyond traditional channels.

Today, real estate is digital—are you ready to adapt? If yes, contact the WAV Group!

Hire WAV Group

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How to Optimize Traffic to a LinkedIn Post: Best Strategies for Maximum Reach https://www.wavgroup.com/2025/02/17/how-to-optimize-traffic-to-a-linkedin-post-best-strategies-for-maximum-reach/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-optimize-traffic-to-a-linkedin-post-best-strategies-for-maximum-reach Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:53:32 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=50547 LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for generate awareness and discussion around real estate news, but getting your posts seen by a large audience isn’t always easy. LinkedIn’s algorithm determines which posts gain visibility and which fade into obscurity. If you want to maximize the reach of your content, understanding LinkedIn’s algorithmic preferences is key. Here are the best ways to optimize traffic to your LinkedIn post while working with the platform’s ranking system.

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LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for generate awareness and discussion around real estate news, but getting your posts seen by a large audience isn’t always easy. LinkedIn’s algorithm determines which posts gain visibility and which fade into obscurity. If you want to maximize the reach of your content, understanding LinkedIn’s algorithmic preferences is key. Here are the best ways to optimize traffic to your LinkedIn post while working with the platform’s ranking system.

  1. Avoid Posting External Links Directly in the Post

Historically I have included links in posts to articles, reports or webinar invites, but I have learned that is not the right path. LinkedIn deprioritizes posts that contain external links. Why? The platform wants users to stay engaged rather than clicking away. When you include a link in your post, LinkedIn’s algorithm tends to reduce its reach, making it less visible to your network.

Workaround: Place the Link in the First Comment

Instead of including the link in the main post, you can add a link from your post and instead place it in the first comment. This method helps boost the post’s initial visibility while still providing users with the link they need. To ensure engagement, consider pinning the comment so it remains easily accessible.

  1. Encourage Meaningful Comments with the 5+ Word Rule

Posts that receive more comments and interactions are shown to a wider audience. However, LinkedIn gives more weight to comments that contain at least five words. When you’re adding the link in the first comment, make sure the accompanying comment has at least 5 words.

Strategy: Add Context to the Link Comment

If you’re using the first-comment link strategy, don’t just drop the link—add context. Instead of saying, “Here’s the link,” try something more engaging, like:
This article dives into the latest trends in real estate marketing—worth a read!

This approach increases engagement while subtly boosting the post’s visibility.

  1. Edit the Post to Add the Link Later

Another effective strategy is to let your post gain initial traction without an external link. Once it has received some engagement, go back and edit the post to include the link. Unlike adding the link upfront, LinkedIn doesn’t seem to penalize this method as harshly.

How to Use This Strategy:

  1. Post without the link first – Focus on creating engaging content that encourages comments and shares.
  2. Wait for engagement – Give your post time to generate interactions before making any edits.
  3. Edit and insert the link – Once the post has momentum, add the link naturally in an update.

By following this method, you can maximize your post’s visibility while still providing the necessary external resource to secure the engagement you’re looking for on your blog, website or podcast.

WAV Group’s Marketing Agency WAV Group Communications support many clients by building message and content and maximize their brand building and lead generation potential by building their social media presence and influence. If you would like to learn more about how we can significantly expand your voice and brand impact feel free to reach out to us.

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Where is Real Estate SEO Going After August 2024 Core Update on Google Search? https://www.wavgroup.com/2024/09/04/where-is-real-estate-seo-going-after-august-2024-core-update-on-google-search/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=where-is-real-estate-seo-going-after-august-2024-core-update-on-google-search Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:00:06 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=49445 Here we go, as the world turns again in real estate SEO. It didn't take Google long to release the August 2024 Core Update after the judgment in the antitrust case. Google Search announced another core update on August 15, 2024.

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Here we go, as the world turns again in real estate SEO. It didn’t take Google long to release the August 2024 Core Update after the judgment in the antitrust case. Google Search announced another core update on August 15, 2024.

Real estate brokerages and prop-tech partners should stay on top of these changes as they are crucial for maintaining online visibility and attracting potential customers. This is especially true as Search AI becomes the standard in search by consumers. Let’s dive into what this update means for our industry.

The Essence of the Update

Google announced on August 15, 2024, a new Search core update to prioritize authentic useful and relevant content for customers. A goal for Google has been to improve search results, especially since the “Helpful Content Update” was released in September 2023.

What does this mean for the real estate sector?

It means a stronger emphasis is placed on high-quality, informative content that truly serves homebuyers, sellers, and investors.

Google is looking to surface content that offers real value, not just pages optimized for search engines.

A house embedded in a key to unlock SEO.Key Impacts on Real Estate Websites

The update has several implications for real estate and prop-tech websites. First and foremost, I have seen a renewed focus on content quality.

Google is now better at distinguishing between in-depth, helpful property descriptions and generic, templated listings. This means your property, community, neighborhood, and blog article pages need to go beyond basic specs and offer rich, informative content that answers consumers’ questions.

Another significant element of this update is the emphasis on user experience, particularly on mobile devices. This is why when I have my product management hat on, the focus is always “mobile first” UX/UI.

With more consumers starting their search on smartphones, having a fast, mobile-friendly website is more critical than ever. If your site loads quickly and is easy to navigate on mobile, you’re more likely to see improved rankings.

Interestingly, the update also aims to level the playing field between larger real estate portals and smaller, independent brokerages. This could be good news for local brokerages who provide valuable, area-specific content that larger competitors can’t match.

WAV Group has maintained this as a fact for years. Local knowledge, or the unique insights and information about a specific area that only a local expert can provide, is the gold. You just need to find it and use it to your advantage in your content and marketing strategies.

Observed Trends in the Real Estate SEO

Since the update rolled out, we’ve seen some notable trends in the real estate digital space. Some property websites have experienced fluctuations in their search rankings. A recent poll by Search Engine Roundtable showed that about 44% of websites across various industries saw a decrease in rankings or traffic, while 27% saw an increase.

In the real estate sector, we’ve noticed that sites offering comprehensive neighborhood guides, detailed market analyses, and helpful resources for first-time homebuyers tend to be performing well. Sites that are not well managed or maintained have seen organic search from from 11% to 22% year over year.

The monitoring of the core update will continue for weeks or even months as Google continues its rollout.

Strategies for Real Estate and PropTech Firms

To adapt to these changes, real estate brokerages and proptech companies should focus on several key areas:

  1. Improve the content quality! If you haven’t, it is time to invest in creating detailed, informative content about properties, neighborhoods, and the home buying/selling process. Think beyond basic information and offer insights that help your customers in your market.
  2. Showcase your local expertise. Your local knowledge can curate content that highlights neighborhood features, local market trends, and community information that national portals can’t match. Leverage dynamic content to keep the information fresh.
  3. Ensure your website is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. Improve features like virtual tours, floor plans, interactive maps, and easy-to-use search functions that enhance the home-buying and selling experience.
  4. Your team must utilize tools like Google Search Console to monitor your site’s performance. Pay attention to which types of content are performing well and adjust your strategy accordingly.
  5. Video and visual content continue to be very important in terms of quality. With the increasing importance of visual content in real estate, consider incorporating more high-quality images, videos, and virtual tours into your listings and website.

The Bigger Picture for Real Estate SEO & Digital Marketing

The August 2024 Core Update by Google Search reinforces the importance of providing authentic value to your audience. In the competitive real estate market, this means going beyond simply listing properties. Your digital presence should position you as a trusted advisor in the home-buying or selling process.

For prop-tech firms, the update highlights the need to articulate how your technology improves the real estate experience. Focus on creating content that showcases real-world usage of your product and the benefits of your solutions.

Remember, these updates are Google’s ongoing strategy to improve search results. That includes Generative Search AI is utilized and will become a standard for search. Employing and maintaining excellent SEO best practices will continue as a mainstay in your digital marketing task list.

The challenge is consistently focusing on valuable, user-centric content and experiences (Google’s Helpful Content Update). When you do, you’ll be well-positioned to weather future updates and maintain strong online visibility.

The key to success remains the same — understand your clients’ needs, provide genuine value, and leverage technology to enhance the real estate experience.

By doing so, you’ll not only improve your search rankings but also build lasting relationships with your clients in the digital age.

WAV Group has been helping firms with their digital marketing strategies for years. Contact David Gumpper to discuss your challenges or needs.

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Building a Gold Medal Real Estate Brand: Lessons from the Olympics https://www.wavgroup.com/2024/08/07/building-a-gold-medal-real-estate-brand-lessons-from-the-olympics/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=building-a-gold-medal-real-estate-brand-lessons-from-the-olympics Wed, 07 Aug 2024 12:05:01 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=49126 Just as the Olympics have created one of the world's most enduring brands, real estate professionals can build lasting, impactful brands by following a similar blueprint. Drawing inspiration from the Games, let's explore four fundamental components of a successful brand strategy that can elevate your real estate business to Olympic heights.

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Just as the Olympics have created one of the world’s most enduring brands, real estate professionals can build lasting, impactful brands by following a similar blueprint. Drawing inspiration from the Games, let’s explore four fundamental components of a successful brand strategy that can elevate your real estate business to Olympic heights.

1. Destiny: Defining Your Purpose

In the Olympics, the overarching purpose is to spread the philosophy of Olympism – creating a way of life based on joy in effort, educational value, and respect for universal principles. For real estate professionals, your destiny should answer the question: “Why does your business exist?”

Real Estate Takeaway: Define a clear, inspiring purpose that goes beyond just selling properties. Perhaps it’s about helping families find their dream homes, revitalizing communities, or creating sustainable living spaces. Your purpose should resonate with clients and stand the test of time, just like the Olympic ideals have endured for millennia.

2. Distinction: Identifying Your Unique Value Proposition

The Olympics stand out due to their diversity of sports, athletes, and host cities. Each edition offers a unique blend of tradition and local flavor. In real estate, your distinction answers the question: “What makes your service unique?”

Real Estate Takeaway: Identify and emphasize what sets you apart in your market. This could be specialized knowledge of a particular neighborhood, expertise in sustainable home design, or a unique approach to client relationships. Like each Olympic host city, infuse your brand with your own personality and local insights.

3. Culture: Building Your Team and Network

The Olympics involve a complex interplay of athletes, media, sponsors, and fans from around the world. In real estate, your culture addresses “Who is involved in fulfilling your destiny and reinforcing your distinction?”

Real Estate Takeaway: Cultivate a strong team culture and network. This includes not just your immediate colleagues, but also partners like mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and contractors. Like Olympic athletes, strive for excellence and perseverance. Foster relationships with clients, local businesses, and community organizations to create a robust ecosystem around your brand.

4. Experiences: Delivering Excellence at Every Touchpoint

The Olympics create unrivaled experiences through a virtuous cycle involving athletes, fans, media, and sponsors. In real estate, experiences focus on “How do you deliver your services?”

Real Estate Takeaway: Design every client interaction to be memorable and valuable. From the first consultation to post-sale follow-ups, ensure each touchpoint reinforces your brand promise. Like the Olympics, create a multisensory experience – perhaps through immersive property tours, personalized closing gifts, or community events. Remember, your clients’ experiences will attract future business, just as Olympic fans attract media and sponsors.

Conclusion: Going for Gold in Real Estate

By applying these Olympic-inspired principles to your real estate business, you can build a brand that stands the test of time. Remember:

  1. Clearly define and communicate your purpose
  2. Differentiate yourself in the market
  3. Build a strong team and network culture
  4. Deliver exceptional experiences at every opportunity

With this blueprint, you’ll be well on your way to creating a real estate brand that, like the Olympics, becomes a recognized symbol of excellence in your field. Just as the Olympic flame continues to burn bright after thousands of years, your real estate brand can become an enduring beacon in your market.

Need Strong Marketing Teammates?

WAV Group’s Marketing division has proven success in conceptualizing, building, executing and analyzing strategic brand initiatives across the real estate sector.  Specializing in gold-level story-telling and engaging audience experiences, WAV Group can help your organization excel where other strategic partners have failed.

Reimagining your brand story starts with a single conversation. 
Schedule yours today.

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The Art of Audience Excitement: A Marketer’s Guide to Igniting Passion https://www.wavgroup.com/2024/07/25/the-art-of-audience-excitement-a-marketers-guide-to-igniting-passion/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-art-of-audience-excitement-a-marketers-guide-to-igniting-passion Thu, 25 Jul 2024 15:30:26 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=49056 In the bustling marketplace of ideas and products, one skill stands paramount: the ability to excite your audience and stir emotion. I’ve always been a strong believer in the idea that emotions will sell more than any “feature vomit” ever will, and it’s a tried and true process with some of the world’s largest brands:

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In the bustling marketplace of ideas and products, one skill stands paramount: the ability to excite your audience and stir emotion. I’ve always been a strong believer in the idea that emotions will sell more than any “feature vomit” ever will, and it’s a tried and true process with some of the world’s largest brands:

Nike sells motivation (not shoes).
Amazon sells convenience (not products).
McDonald’s sells happiness (not burgers).
Disney sells memories (not rollercoasters).
Apple sells trends (not gadgets).
Ferrari sells status (not cars).

Emotional selling is extremely important, as people will buy from an emotional standpoint over logic more times than not.  So, what emotions are YOU selling, and how do you transform indifference into enthusiasm? Let’s dive into the alchemy of engagement from a marketing standpoint.

EMOTIONAL STORY-TELLING EXAMPLE #1:
FERRARI:  UNVEILING THE ROMA SPIDER

The Triad of Triumph: Audience, Product, Brand

1. Know Your Audience: The Human Element

Before you can ignite passion, you must understand what fuels it. Dive deep into the psyche of your target audience:

  • Values and Motivations: What drives them? Family, finance, or freedom?
  • Thought Processes: Are they logical decision-makers or emotional responders?
  • Desires and Needs: What solutions are they desperately seeking?

    2. Spotlight Your Product: The Star of the Show

Your product isn’t just a thing; it’s a story waiting to be told:

  • Problem-Solving Prowess: How does it vanquish the villains of everyday life?
  • Unique Selling Proposition: What makes it the hero in a sea of sidekicks?
  • Life-Changing Benefits: Paint a vivid picture of life after your product enters the scene.

3. Craft Your Brand: The Storyteller

Your brand is the narrative voice that brings everything together:

  • Visual Identity: Let your colors and imagery speak volumes.
  • Voice and Tone: Will you whisper comforting assurances or shout exhilarating challenges?
  • Consistency is Key: Weave a seamless experience across all touchpoints.

EMOTIONAL STORY-TELLING EXAMPLE #2:
APPLE:  THE ONES WHO ARE CRAZY ENOUGH

Strategies to Spark the Flame

  1. Embrace Mystery: Leave them wanting more. Uncertainty breeds curiosity.
  2. Polish to Perfection: First impressions matter. Make yours shine.
  3. The Power of Repetition: Echo your message across channels, but beware of overkill.
  4. Future Focus: Build anticipation. What thrilling horizon are you leading them towards?
  5. Rewards and Bonuses: Sprinkle in some extra excitement with enticing offers.

EMOTIONAL STORY-TELLING EXAMPLE #3:
NIKE:  YOU CAN’T STOP US

Bringing It All Together

Exciting your audience and stirring emotion isn’t just about loud noises and flashy lights. It’s a delicate dance of understanding, storytelling, and strategic presentation. By deeply comprehending your audience, showcasing your product’s strengths, and leveraging your brand’s unique voice, you create a potent mixture of anticipation and desire.

Remember, true excitement isn’t manufactured—it’s cultivated. It grows from the genuine intersection of your audience’s needs and your product’s solutions, nurtured by the authentic voice of your brand.

So, are you ready to set the world ablaze with excitement? Your audience is waiting. It’s time to light the spark.

————

Need help sparking excitement and turning emotions into cha-ching?  Tap into the power of WAV Group’s Marketing Division.

WAV Group’s Marketing Division can scale based on your needs and budget, delivering strategy, creativity and data-driven results.  Whether you need a completely out-sourced marketing team, or an additional “arm” to your internal marketing initiatives, we are here to help.

[ Schedule Your Consultation Today ]

Marketing Services

  • Marketing Consulting & Planning
  • Brand Identity
  • Website Creation & “Squeeze” Pages
  • Copywriting
  • Blogs, Email & Social Media
  • Direct Mail
  • Sales Planning
  • Channel Development
  • Advocacy Marketing
  • Experiential Marketing
  • Webinars
  • Videography / Photography
  • Pay-Per-Click Digital Advertising
  • Creative / Design 
  • Campaign Creation, Execution & Analysis
  • Product Planning & Roadmaps
  • Research & Development

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REAL AI: Free AI image creation, 5 ways agents can use image generators, facts, headlines, and AI Quote of the Week https://www.wavgroup.com/2024/07/19/real-ai-ai-image-generators/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=real-ai-ai-image-generators Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:00:28 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=49023 By Kevin Hawkins with Korey Hawkins | Vol. 2 Post 29 REAL AI is a human-created weekly roundup of all things AI in real estate and emerging AI innovations in other sectors likely to impact real estate. We post a new edition every Friday, and our free newsletter is delivered to your inbox every Monday. [...]

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By Kevin Hawkins with Korey Hawkins | Vol. 2 Post 29

REAL AI is a human-created weekly roundup of all things AI in real estate and emerging AI innovations in other sectors likely to impact real estate. We post a new edition every Friday, and our free newsletter is delivered to your inbox every Monday.

Joining the AI image generator movementJoining the AI image generator movement

Have you noticed that the photo or image atop your favorite news story or feature often is crediting Midjourney? Chances are it used to say Adobe Stock, Getty Images, or a similar paid licensing image site.

You will still see major stock photo sites listed—especially for photography—but the images created by online image generators are currently free to use. Even with a paid subscription, they are a lot cheaper than paying a stock service licensing fee.

Real estate agents and brokers are embracing the AI image generation movement for reasons beyond the pricing advantage. You can create an image you need for a social or blog post or a promotional brochure about the services you offer buyers and sellers in seconds, and you can do it yourself.

The good news is that because it’s become one of the biggest AI trends, real estate agents will benefit from continued improvement in AI image generation as the space becomes more competitive.

Microsoft Designer, largely ignored until now, just released its latest improvement, giving agents another option, especially if you use other Microsoft products like PowerPoint and Word. If you are a CoPilot subscriber, Designer now integrates with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Photos. Designer also supports more than 80 languages and offers a free mobile app and an app for Windows.

The most popular real estate agent design site, Canva, has built-in image generation tools in its Magic Studio. Still, Canva tools are often better at tweaking and refining images than creating new ones. It features tools such as background remover, magic resizing, removing items in an image, enhancing the image resolution, and more. It puts Adobe Photoshop to shame on ease of use, all because of AI.

The image champ continues to be Midjourney, which is worth the $96 yearly for its basic plan. ChatGPT 4o also renders images with text prompts, but creating alike or themed images and refining, tweaking, and iterating what you create is much easier in Midjourney.

A terrific free crowdsourced AI-image generation site is Lexica.art. Its superpower is all the images created by others that you can access and download. Need a shot of new homes from an aerial view? A quick free search will reveal a wide range of options in your search display, ready to download and use.

There are others that real estate agents may find worth checking out, including Fotor and NightCafe.

Finally, selecting which AI-image generation tool works best for you is likely the one you test out and have the quickest success. One caveat: what used to be okay can suddenly become extraordinary, so in the world of AI today, it is essential to return to AI tools you once eliminated to see if they have improved enough to win you over. Canva is a classic case in point. (-Kevin)

5 ways real estate agents can use AI image generators5 ways real estate agents can use AI image generators

The core focus of this AI newsletter for real estate is the practical ways you can use AI today. Image and AI-powered design creation are moving more agents to incorporate AI into their daily workflow.

Here are just a few ways agents are using these image-related AI tools every day:

  1. Social media posts

Create eye-catching images, generate visuals for local event announcements, improve the professional look of your social posts, and stand out from the competition.

Benefits: Professional designs significantly increase engagement and shareability and complement and reinforce your brand image.

  1. Blog post images

Use key phrases from your post to create Illustrative concepts, just like we do for REAL AI. Also, use them to create not only header images but images throughout your post to emphasize the key takeaways.

Benefits: Enhanced visual appeal of content improves reader retention and understanding of complex topics. It draws readers into your post to read it all rather than skimming.

  1. Website imagery

Generate lifestyle images or graphics representing your local communities, enhance your website images to improve and modernize them, or change the backgrounds of your existing website photos to make them more interesting.

Benefits: Enhances the visual appeal of your website, making it more attractive to visitors and increasing their time on site. Also, while improving your website aesthetics, you avoid the privacy concerns of using past client property photos, fostering a professional and trustworthy image.

  1. Promotional materials

Create graphic elements for Buyer and Seller Presentations, enhance CMAs, create images for newsletters and Market Reports, and generate high-resolution images for printed promotional brochures that promote your services.

Benefits: It allows you to quickly produce timely, relevant content, positioning your local brand as helpful and knowledgeable. Better-designed newsletters can also improve your open and click-through rates.

  1. Educational content

You can also use these new tools to educate and inform prospects, leveraging strong image creation to develop infographics or first-time homebuyer and home-selling guides.

Benefits: Cut down the time it takes to create powerful educational tools like these. Plus, you’ll improve your content’s professional look and appeal. (-Kevin)

AI Fast FactsAI Facts and Stats

  1. Around 80% of workers using AI say that this technology is already improving their productivity – Slack
  2. 57% of college graduates surveyed state they interact with AI at least several times a week – Pew Research
  3. 41% of workers claimed they would consider overstating their generative AI skills to secure a work opportunity – Salesforce
  4. 66% of business leaders say they wouldn’t hire someone if they don’t have AI skills – Microsoft
  5. 65% of executives admit they lack the technology expertise required for gen AI-led transformation – Accenture

Source: AOL (-Korey) 

AI HeadlinesTake 5 AI Headlines

Real estate strategies for an AI-powered world | 7/17/24 Hospitalitynet
A detailed breakdown of the current and coming impact of AI in real estate.

22 Generative AI Workplace Tools And How To Use Them | 7/15/24 Forbes
A quick list of AI tools that can help increase workplace productivity.

What We Know About OpenAI’s Secretive ‘Project Strawberry’ | 7/16/24 Newsweek
ChatGPT’s upcoming update may soon allow it to do research without human prompts.

Scoop: Meta won’t offer future multimodal AI models in EU | 7/17/24 Axios
Tech giants are fighting back against European rules and restrictions by not allowing access to their newest versions.

Bridging the AI trust gap in business | 7/12/24 IT Pro
A clear AI strategy, learning opportunities, and employee involvement are needed to embrace AI assistants.

(-Korey)

AI Quote of the WeekNicolas Cage AI quote of the week

Subscribe to our free REAL AI newsletter here.

Content suggestions welcomed: email korey@wavgroup.com.

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REAL AI: RPR AI video scripts, Goodbye Google Hello AI, facts, headlines and AI Quote of the Week https://www.wavgroup.com/2024/07/12/real-ai-rpr-ai-video-scripts-goodbye-google/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=real-ai-rpr-ai-video-scripts-goodbye-google Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:00:14 +0000 https://www.wavgroup.com/?p=48944 By Kevin Hawkins with Korey Hawkins | Vol. 2 Post 28 REAL AI is a human-created weekly roundup of all things AI in real estate and emerging AI innovations in other sectors likely to impact real estate. We post a new edition every Friday, and our free newsletter is delivered every Monday. AI from RPR [...]

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By Kevin Hawkins with Korey Hawkins | Vol. 2 Post 28

REAL AI is a human-created weekly roundup of all things AI in real estate and emerging AI innovations in other sectors likely to impact real estate. We post a new edition every Friday, and our free newsletter is delivered every Monday.

AI from RPR creates market trend video scriptsRPR AI Scriptwriter

Video for real estate agents has presented a conundrum since YouTube launched nearly two decades ago.

Agents know the power of video, but most efforts have focused on posting listing videos that get very few buyer clicks. Even though YouTube logs more than 2 billion monthly users and TikTok has over 1 billion active users each month, most agents can’t create videos that connect and engage.

However, AI just might be the game-changer for agents creating impactful videos. An example to check out is 100% free for Realtors from RPR or Realtors Property Resource.

RPR might be today’s most powerful yet underappreciated marketing assistance tool for real estate agents. By leveraging AI, RPR is taking its game to the next level with a video content creation tool that overcomes the No. 1 challenge most agents face when marketing: content creation.

Active agents who can’t offload their marketing tasks to a team member or assistant either lack the time to create content or get stuck on what to create. RPR’s AI-powered Scriptwriter tool solves both problems, making it easier to produce engaging, informative videos and social media posts beyond simple listing showcases.

The Power of RPR’s AI Scriptwriter

RPR has long been one of the industry’s trusted real estate data and analytics platforms. As a national parcel-centric database of residential and commercial properties built exclusively for Realtors, its mission is to create efficiencies that help agents better serve their clients. With AI Scriptwriter, agents can unleash the local information from RPR to create compelling video content in minutes.

How to Access RPR’s Market Trends ScriptWriter (Watch Video)

  1. Visit narrpr.com and click Research in the top navigation bar.
  2. Click Research Market Trends.
  3. Enter County, City, Zipcode or neighborhood in the search bar.
  4. Select ScriptWriter from the right side of the screen.
  5. Next, ScriptWriter opens:
    1. Customize Your Content: Choose the desired tone (casual, formal), audience type (buyers, sellers), and content type (video script, social media posts, metrics analysis).
    2. Generate Content: The ScriptWriter will create tailored content based on your selections.
    3. Review and Edit: Carefully review the AI-generated script and make any necessary adjustments to ensure accuracy and personalize the message.
    4. Create a Video or Share: Use the script to record a market update video or share the content on social media or via email.

How to Access RPR’s Commercial ScriptWriter (Watch Video)

  1. Visit narrpr.com and click Research in the top navigation bar.
  2. Select Commercial Map Insights. A Data Layers window will open on the map.
  3. Choose your desired geographic area (e.g., ZIP code) and click Apply.
  4. Select the specific area you want to analyze and click View Trade Area Details.
  5. Click ScriptWriter in the top-right corner of the Attribute Summary section.
  6. Customize Your Content:
    1. Choose your desired Tone (e.g., professional, conversational).
    2. Select your Target Audience (e.g., City Planners, Business Owners, Tenants, or Investors).
    3. Select the specific Data Points you want to highlight.
  7. Generate Content:
    1. One-Pager: A concise overview.
    2. Detailed Report: An in-depth analysis.
    3. Presentation Outline: A structured guide for pitches.
  8. Review and Edit: Refine for accuracy and personalization.
  9. Share or Utilize: Use for presentations, marketing, or articles.

The biggest bonus: RPR offers Canva templates to help agents create professional-looking graphics for their local market trends and report videos.

Creating a script is the hardest part of creating a video that will garner attention. RPR Scriptwriter automates this. A rule of thumb for video content is that making one minute of professional content takes one hour of production. With RPR Scriptwriter, you can cut your total production time by at least half, if not by two-thirds.

According to RPR, the Market Trends Scriptwriter has generated content for Realtors over 319,000 times in its first year.

One of the biggest challenges today with AI is providing accurate and reliable data. Scriptwriter’s superpower is using data from within RPR databases. Combining the power of AI with embedding Canva templates inside RPR demonstrates its penchant for finding ways to make content creation easier for agents.

By consistently sharing insightful, data-backed videos in your posts, agents can increase engagement, demonstrate local expertise, build trust, stay top-of-mind, differentiate themselves from competitors, and, most importantly, concretely demonstrate their value.

Since its launch in 2023, RPR market trends reports have been viewed over 2 million times. This is a practical AI tool that agents can leverage today. (-Kevin)

Goodbye Google, Hello AIGoodbye Google Hello AI

The iPhone gave us instant information at our fingertips. Ever since my first one, despite defaulting to Safari, Google Chrome has been my browser of choice for it and every other device I own.

I first used Google in beta, and it’s been my go-to source for quick answers ever since. That is, until recently.

Since I signed up for a paid ChatGPT account just after launch, I noticed a significant shift in my search habits. Checking my tech-savvy colleagues, I am not alone.

Instead of defaulting to Google for everyday personal and work answers, we’re turning to AI, specifically ChatGPT 4o, for nearly every type of question.

Here’s why and how I’ve made this switch, along with a few examples of how AI can transform our daily lives.

The Convenience of AI
Using ChatGPT on my iPhone and Mac has streamlined how I get information. The ChatGPT app allows me to verbally ask anything and receive instant, concise answers. It passes Glenn Philips of Lake Homes Real Estate’s one-word tech approval test: convenience.

Travel Questions
It’s summer, and the volume of OOO emails I receive tells me folks are traveling as it’s vacation season.

I now turn to ChatGPT to ask questions that, last year, I would have Googled and then drilled through a half-dozen links to piece together the answer. A quick verbal question now results in a complete answer without a single click in a browser:

Tipping customs and ride shares: I’ve asked ChatGPT about tipping practices in various countries, whether they have Uber or similar ride-sharing services, and which ones are the most popular locally. It will effortlessly tell me the cost comparisons between local taxis and ride-shares in Barcelona.
Local time and airport Information: Simple questions like “What time is it in Malta?” or “What terminal does Icelandair use in Rome?” are answered instantly, saving me the hassle of sifting through search results.
Nearby ATMs: I wanted to know if any Cirrus ATMs were near my hotel. ChatGPT provided the nearest locations and their addresses within seconds.
International cell coverage: I was curious about AT&T coverage in Tunis. Yes, I could go into my AT&T account and scroll through the list of countries, but ChatGPT gave me what I needed faster.
Temperature, local currency, and conversions: Simple conversions, such as “What is 19 °C in Fahrenheit?” are handled quickly. Asking, “What is the currency in Tunis?” and “How much is 1000 Dinar to the US dollar?” will save clicks.
Frequent flyer upgrades: I’ve asked about the likelihood of upgrading a frequent flyer ticket with American Airlines based on status with a partner airline. ChatGPT gave me the bad news, citing AA policy.
Electrical standards: Before a trip to Costa Rica, I asked ChatGPT about the local electrical plug standards at our hotel, telling me 120v, so we didn’t have to pack adapters.

Beyond practical travel and logistical questions, ChatGPT has been invaluable for more nuanced inquiries:

Explaining cash offer programs: In conversations, I’ve asked ChatGPT to explain newer real estate topics like cash offer programs for first-time buyers, getting a clear and comprehensive explanation.
Builder impact fees: When discussing home building costs, I wanted to know how builder impact fees affect the average price of a home. ChatGPT not only provided the information but also cited sources.

Why ChatGPT over Google?
One of the main advantages of using ChatGPT is the efficiency and focus of the responses. Moreover, I can ask questions with incomplete information, and ChatGPT can figure it out when Google fails.

One example: I knew the actor in a movie but could not remember the film’s name. By telling ChatGPT a bit about the plot, it was able to provide the name of the movie instantly. Try that with Google.

ChatGPT’s interactive nature also means I can ask follow-up questions and receive more refined responses. Traditional search engines like Google lack this adaptability, as they provide static results that may not address the full scope of my query.

The shift from Google searches to ChatGPT 4o is changing my daily habits. The speed, convenience, and quality of information have made AI my preferred tool for professional and personal searches.

I see this as a trend and know that Google must be worried, as I would be if I were in their shoes.
(-Kevin)

AI Fast FactsAI Facts and Stats

  1. 72% of companies reported adopting AI in 2024, a significant jump from around 50% in previous years – McKinsey
  2. 71% of business leaders said they rather hire a less experienced candidate with AI skills than a more experienced candidate without them – Microsoft
  3. Jobs requiring AI specialist skills carry up to a 25% wage premium in some markets – PwC
  4. Desk workers at companies that have issued guidelines for how AI can be used are nearly 6x more likely to have experimented with AI tools – Slack
  5. 89% of daily GenAI users report increased productivity compared to just 39% of monthly GenAI users – Asana

Source: Upwork (Korey)

AI Headlines

Generative AI Is Your Ally for Smart Staging, Faster Deals | 7/8/24 NAR
Another AI staging app joins the fray to offer virtual home staging.

Will AI replace Realtors? Embrace it to stay competitive | 7/8/24 Real Estate Magazine
AI use in real estate is no longer optional but essential.

Microsoft quits OpenAI board seat as antitrust scrutiny of artificial intelligence pacts intensifies | 7/10/24 Associated Press
Microsoft makes a move in an attempt to lessen the chances of government intervention.

The Washington Post debuts AI chatbot | 7/9/24 Axios
D.C.’s biggest news source uses AI to answer questions about climate.

Warnings About an AI Bubble Are Growing. When Could It Burst? | 7/10/24 Inc.
As the AI gold rush surges, the pressure for sustainable AI models continues to grow.
(-Korey)

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