Realtors: Why use Referral Marketing
17 August 2018
If you’re working a real estate geographic farm, or are considering focusing on one, it’s all-too-easy to be influenced by misinformation. Just about everyone in the industry has an opinion — and not all those opinions are correct!
So, let’s look at the most common myths about geographic farming and what the actual facts are.
Myth 1. Real estate geo farming is a thing of the past.
True, real estate geographic farming has been around for a while. And for good reason! It’s an effective way to build your reputation in an area, be seen as the go-to agent, and get the lion’s share of the real estate leads.
Yes, the internet and digital marketing techniques have given agents new ways to generate leads. However, a real estate geographic farm can become a lead-generating asset for you that can last for years.
Myth 2. All the good geographic farms are taken.
At first glance, it might seem that agents have already planted their flags in every real estate geo farm in your area. But, in most cases, that’s an illusion. The reality is, there are likely several potential farms that could be a good fit for you. (Check out this article on how to choose one.)
Every farm has at least some competition. But you don’t necessarily need to be number one to reap the benefits. If enough residents in a real estate geographic farm come to know, like and trust you, you’ll generate leads and referrals.
Myth 3. It takes too long to get results.
That begs the question, “What is ‘too long’?”
It’s true that digital marketing techniques to generate online leads can work faster. However, those types of leads tend to be lower in quality compared to geographic farming leads. In fact, when you get a geo farming lead, it’s not uncommon for you to be the only agent that person called.
When you start your farm, it may take 12-18 months to start seeing good results. But isn’t that worth it considering you’ll be generating high-quality real estate leads that increase each year, and for your entire career?
Myth 4. Real estate geographic farming is too much work.
Real estate geographic farming involves staying in touch with residents and building those relationships. The best way to do that is with an eye-catching real estate newsletter packed with value: market updates, how-to articles, tips, and more. You should also host a community event each year and build your reputation in the area in other ways.
A lot of work? Yes. But you don’t have to do all that heavy lifting. If you have the right Geographic Farming System in place — one that is automated and done-for-you — then your investment is just a few hours a month.
The bottom line here is that creating a thriving geographic farm can be one of the best things you do for your business. So don’t let the myths sway you. Go with the facts!