5 modern ways of selling

Real estate marketing is a dynamic industry, constantly changing to adapt to technology and clients. Did you know that over 85 percent of prospective home buyers and sellers use the Internet as their starting point for the real estate process? So, why aren't you there too?

Keep reading to learn about new methods and technology to generate real estate leads that really work.

1. Blogging

Blogging is a great way to keep your website fresh and new with vibrant copy that will keep your readers coming back for more. When blogging, always stay on topic (local real estate), keep it short and focus on content that's actually interesting. So offer local real estate news, not a rehash of your marketing materials.

2. Email Newsletters

While email newsletters shouldn't be sent out like spam to unsuspecting leads, they're a great way to market directly to subscribers. But, how do you get subscribers? Add a subscription link to your website, blog and printed advertisements.

To keep readers interested in your email newsletter, follow the same principles as a blog - keep it informative, interesting and on-topic.

3. Virtual Tours

Virtual home tours are a step above and beyond basic online photos. They're also a huge draw to your site. With free websites like FlyInside.com (http://flyinside.com) you can even make your own with a simple, online wizard.

4. Online Networking

Online networking lets you connect directly with potential clients without ever leaving your desk. Try to devote 15 to 30 minutes per day to online networking - whether it's participating in real estate social networks, posting on local real estate forums, or even answering online questions.

When participating in online discussions or commenting on blogs, always include your full name, business, location and a link to your website.

5. Search Engine Optimization

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of trying to organically make your site rise higher on search engine results for particular search terms. It's not an exact science, but there are some common sense factors involved.

For example, let's say you want a prospective client to find your site when they type "Real estate agents Sunnytown" into their search engine. If that phrase or a variation of that phrase is nowhere to be found on your website, it's unlikely that your site will appear.

Other search engine optimization techniques include providing a search engine sitemap, offering consistently fresh and new content, and building links from other respected real estate sites back to your own site.