Internet Marketing vs. Print Advertising

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) performs an annual national survey of home buyers to identify trends. The 2007 survey from NAR indicates that most buyers are going online to search for their next home, and that online advertising produces over 9 times the results of newspaper advertising.

The Internet continues to be the up-and-coming medium to advertise homes for sale. Here are some of the results of the 2007 survey, including the changes from last year’s survey:

WHERE BUYERS FIRST LEARNED ABOUT THE HOME THEY PURCHASED:

• Real Estate Agent— Still number one, but down to 34% from 36%
• Internet— Up to 29% from 24%, BIGGEST MOVER!!!
• Yard Sign— Down to 14% from 15%, continues to decline
• Friend or Relative— Steady at 8%
• Home Builder— Steady at 8%
• Print newspaper— Down to 3% from 5%, biggest drop
• Directly from Seller— Steady at 3%
• Home Book or Magazine— Steady at 1%

However, many Sellers are still demanding that listing agents advertise their home in newspapers and magazines. This is probably not the best use for their agent's time or marketing dollars!

When you choose your next listing agent, make sure that he/she is e-savvy and e-connected, and that your home is advertised extensively online to reach the maximum number of potential buyers – this will make a difference!