There are good real estate websites and there are great ones. It’s not difficult to tell which one is doing well and which one does not because almost everyone knows how websites perform.
However, there’s more to performing real estate websites other than visual aesthetics and it needs a good deal of research to develop effective online strategies to make the most out of your site.
Of course, search engine optimisation (SEO) is vital but is not a one-off solution without the key ingredients that make a real estate website perform well and give you the results you need.
What else does your website need?
Other than SEO, your real estate website must have the right content and must be easy to use.
When it comes to real estate websites it is crucial that you know what your audience wants and needs and how you can fulfil them.
Specific to real estate, the key elements in your website are the following;
Listing feeds
This is a no-brainer because without listings your website means nothing. Whenever possible, you can incorporate an IDX feed so that your Multiple Listing Service (MLS) listings are properly integrated and displayed on your website.
If this feature is limited in your MLS platform, check if there are other similar options to display property listings on your website.
Neighbourhoods
While the internet has allowed buyers and sellers to find their next home based on design or value, people also find it important to search for property based on location and the community it’s in or those surrounding it.
Studies have shown that people find it helpful when websites have neighbourhood or community pages that showcase, among others, community events, testimonials, or the types of houses or architecture that are common or tell a story about the neighbourhood.
Focused or featured searches
Setting up your website’s pre-set search parameters based on common search keywords in real estate can be greatly helpful for your audience. For instance, filter parameters such as houses with pools, two-bedroom houses, and nature backdrop are just some of the common search terms used that can help visitors narrow down their choices.
These featured search functions can also be a suggestive element that can also provide visitors with what to look for in the pages. Other search elements also include price range, additional amenities, unique features, etc.
Lead capture
Let’s face it, you cannot capture leads if there’s nothing on your page that would allow your readers to contact or get in touch with you such as your phone number or email address.
Make sure it is located strategically on your page within easy view of the reader such as the banner, header or sidebar. You can also use a call to action button directing your readers to fill out a contact form should they need more information or assistance.
About You
This page is as important as your landing page where it gives you the space to introduce yourself and your professional image or brand with your readers. It also allows you to showcase how knowledgeable you are in your locality
It should also aim to convince people why they should be working with you for their real estate journey, what they can expect from you, your level of responsiveness, professional experience, track record, and your specialties or expertise.
So, does your real estate website have any or all of these elements? If not, it’s time to put on your thinking caps and start planning to boost your website’s performance.