With the introduction of the Covid-19 pandemic, the framework of conducting a real estate business has changed rapidly. In an industry where consumer interaction is vital, it is critical that we retain the face-to-face connections & continue to foster close, meaningful relationships.
As professionals, experts & lighthouses for those needing to buy & sell residential real estate in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, it is our duty to conquer this current digital landscape. Below you will find fantastic resources, apps & programs to help your real estate business thrive in our current social dynamic!
VIRTUAL FACE-TO-FACE, VIRTUAL LISTING APPOINTMENTS & VIRTUAL PROPERTY TOURS
Although the struggles of working remotely & being quarantined to our homes are evident, is has never been historically easier to connect with one another virtually. Here are some great apps to help you connect in various situations.
ZOOM – This is our top suggestion for video calling. The quality of both audio & video is great & it’s a fantastic option for amassing multiple parties into one call. ZOOM could be a great way to get on a video call with your clients & their lender or title company at the same time.
Get ZOOM for Web HERE
Get ZOOM for iPhone HERE
Get ZOOM for Android HERE
>>> For a video on how to use ZOOM, scroll to the bottom of this section<<<
FACEBOOK LIVE – Utilizing Facebook as a tool to let others into your daily life can be a great marketing tool. Go live to hold a virtual Open House! Touring your listing LIVE can allow you to interact with those watching by answering questions about the property or showcasing a specifically requested room or home feature. Additionally, Facebook Live videos are recorded to your profile so others can watch it after the fact.
FACEBOOK MESSENGER VIDEO – To enjoy a more intimate (private) communication through Facebook, use the Messenger Video option. If you’re currently working with a buyer but they can’t meet at a property, you can tour the home while streaming video to them through the Facebook Messenger App.
Get it on the Apple App Store >>>> HERE
Get it on the Google Play Store >>>> HERE
WHATSAPP – Another communication platform, WHATSAPP, is a free app featuring text, voice & video calling. The difference is that WHATSAPP uses your phones internet connection (WiFi) to make calls so you aren’t using your phones data plan.
SKYPE – One of the original video chatting platforms, SKYPE is another option for getting face-to-face with your clients.
Get WhatsApp on the Apple App Store >>>> HERE
Get WhatsApp on the Google Play Store >>>> HERE
GOOGLE MEET (HANGOUTS) – Since we all have Gmail email accounts through weknowtx.com, GOOGLE MEET is a great option for our agents to connect with clients as well as peers. Brainstorm with other agents & your client base directly from your Gmail email client.
FACETIME - One of the staple apps used by Apple device users to video chat, FACETIME is a very convenient option when working with compatible clients. Since you already have their number in your cell phone or tethered iPad, there is no need for outside apps or programs & can be accessed directly from their contact in your Apple device.
Check out some great tips on mastering FACETIME HERE.
GOOGLE DUO - Essentially Google's answer to Facetime, GOOGLE DUO is the compatible way to video call the contacts on your Android device. In addition, GOOGLE DUO is also available for web & on Smart Displays like the Google Nest Hub Max making it an extremely versatile tool.
Find more information on GOOGLE DUO HERE.
>>Check out this great in-depth video on how to use ZOOM, FACETIME & GOOGLE DUO!<<
GRAMMARLY – Another great Gmail Extension, GRAMMARLY checks your email drafts for spelling & reading tone. Install the extension HERE and ensure that the email you are drafting as concerned is perceived that way by the reader.
LISTINGS
In a less than ideal scenario, it is our job & fiduciary duty to provide our customers with the best possible experience when buying or selling. For those agents who currently have listings, there are some great options to maximize your property exposure.
NEW MLS VIRTUAL SHOWING OPTION - A new selection has been added in NTREIS to the "Showing Instructions Type" field - "Virtual Showing - Call Agent". MetroTex hopes this new feature will assist agents attempting to show or view properties given that a number of buyers and sellers, as well as agents, are wanting to limit in-person contacts.
Many agents are providing virtual showing opportunities, at least for initial showings to comply with those cities and counties that are increasing restrictions. This new selection provides an alternative means to comply with the "available to show" requirement.
MetroTex is available for MLS support by emailing MLS@dfwre.com.
VIRTUAL STAGING – Becoming more & more popular in the real estate industry, VIRTUAL STAGING is a great way to optimize a vacant property & help potential buyers (especially online) to see past empty spaces & envision themselves in your listing.
Take a look at these two great vendors for VIRTUAL STAGING!
>>> Full Package Media <<<
>>> Box Brownie <<<
VIDEOLICIOUS – We have been providing training videos & materials on this tool, & now is a great time to utilize it to the fullest! Use VIDEOLICIOUS to showcase your listing in a recorded video to post on your social channels. Want to get advanced? Include your professional listing photos in the video as you narrate room by room for a virtual tour.
Host a virtual open house? Record a recap video in VIDEOLICIOUS and send it to the users who watched & interacted with you during the FACEBOOK LIVE!
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