Google made an interesting move by rolling out individual “place pages” for every property that’s listed in Google Maps. A unique page for every listing that includes photos, a map (including Street View) property details, directions, transit information and more – basically, it’s a listing detail page.

“Clicking the “more info” link next to a listing takes you to a faster, easier-to-read page that gives you all of the information we have about a listing: photos, inspection times, videos, details, a Street View preview and nearby public transit information if available, allowing you to quickly find the listing you want and click through to the sources of the listing.” – Google

Just another reason to make sure your listings are getting on Google Maps – Google Real Estate

There are an endless list of websites but from my experience and using Google Analytics for tracking many of my own clients I always suggest the following MUSTS.

1. http://www.craigslist.org
2. http://www.eastbayrealestatedirectory.com
3. http://www.postlets.com
4. http://www.zillow.com
5. http://www.backpage.com
6. http://www.trulia.com
These sites have proven to be the top ranking referring web sites.

Some real estate offices already feed their listings to sites such as Zillow and Trulia but I would suggest you joining these sites yourself. By doing this you can create your own profile, customize your listing and link to your own website, virtual tour or single property website.

Have I forgotten any?

I’d also be curious to hear what you think about advertising in newspapers. Is it still a must for you? Do you think sites such as Craigslist have replaced the newspapers?

• 87% of all home buyers, and 94% of buyers aged 25 to 44, used the internet to search for homes.
• For 1/3 of home buyers, the first step in the home buying process is looking online for properties.
• The typical home buyer searches for 10 weeks, and views 10 properties.
• 90% of sellers report their home was listed or advertised on the internet.

Will you be found by those 87%-94%?

You may think that because your office has a website it is enough.
Well, that’s definitely a start -but think about your office website… does it allow you to stand out from the other agents on the site?

Having your own website not only allows you to showcase yourself but your listings, your knowledge of the market and the community. By including the MLS/IDX you can also provide services such as: allowing visitors to searching the MLS directly from your website, email listing updates (all email updates are directed back to your website for more information), mortgage calculator, CMA form and many other customized features.

Read more about the MLS/IDX Integration