Are you looking for real estate leads?
Do you want to build a stronger relationship with your potential clients?
If so, then we suggest you take part in SMS for real estate marketing.
But how can you take part in something you’re not familiar with?
Let us help you out.
In this article, we’re going to discuss everything you need to know about SMS for real estate marketing.
So shall we?
Is SMS Marketing Effective for Real Estate?
Absolutely yes!
Based on research, this strategy is more effective than the email and cold calling strategy.
Though email and cold calling can also be accessed through the phone, it isn’t as easy to answer as with a simple text message.
I mean, with SMS, potential leads and/or clients can respond within 1 to 2 minutes.
Is SMS Real Estate Marketing Illegal?
It isn’t illegal per se.
However, TCPA or Telephone Consumer Protection Act states that businesses are not allowed to send messages to consumers or clients without their consent.
Failure to follow the highlighted rule will make the strategy illegal. The consumer can file a claim if they feel harmed. Businesses reported by the consumer will then face fines and possible closure of business.
So make sure that you follow the guidelines before going with this marketing strategy.
3 Types of SMS Real Estate Marketing Strategy
If you decide to do SMS real estate marketing, then know that there are 3 types of strategies. These are:
- SMS opt-in
- Bulk SMS
- Peer-to-peer texting
Let’s look at them more closely.
SMS opt-in strategy
This type of strategy uses shortcodes made up of 5 to 6 digits that appear as the sender’s telephone number. This is instead of using the actual phone number of the agent.
This makes it easier for the client to remember because it’s a lot shorter to memorize.
Using shortcodes also allows you to send large files or longer messages.
Bulk SMS strategy
In this strategy, messages are sent to multiple leads/clients. So instead of writing individual messages for all your leads/clients, you can send off a bulk of messages. This will help you save so much time.
Peer-to-peer texting strategy
This is a strategy wherein an organization hires realtors and sends messages to possible prospects. Most real estate companies are using this type of strategy. Each agent or realtor has an intended quota.
3 Rules in Creating Real Estate SMS
Now that we have ideas of what SMS messaging for real estate is, let us now focus on the rules in creating the text. These rules will help the message be more effective.
Short and Precise
The first rule in real estate SMS is being concise.
Remember that text messages have a limited number of words and you have to squeeze in a greeting, your name and your company name, your intent, and a closing thank you in one message.
You don’t have a choice then but to make it short and precise, so get straight to the point.
Easy to Understand
No need to add flowering words. All you need to do is to use words that are convincing and easy to understand.
The approach of the message should be persuading and interesting to encourage clients or possible prospects to learn more about your offer.
As the message is short, don’t forget to include simple instructions on how the client can reach you for more information.
Personalized
This is very important as leads/clients will feel special if you know them by name.
The message should include the details that are needed for the lead/client.
In adding this, it will help you convince and let the receiver feel your eagerness to help them. And, in turn, they will be comfortable doing business with you.
Trust is always the key to success!
Benefits of Using SMS for Real Estate Marketing
What exactly are the benefits of SMS marketing?
Well, let’s check out some of the best ones.
Easy Response
There’s a high percentage that modern people are most of the prospects today. These modern people nowadays are always open-minded and open to suggestions.
In line with this, they are very techy. Plus, they want their lives to be as easy and convenient as possible.
Dealing with a business via SMS is advantageous for them. This is a type of asynchronous communication wherein information can be exchanged in no time.
Easy to Set Appointment
Since SMS messages are easy to read, and there’s a higher chance for the recipient to read them, it’s a lot easier to set an appointment with that person.
You can add all the details, such as the appointment time, date, and location in one message.
He or she can decide if the schedule works for them or not, and reply only if they’re available. They won’t need to click a link to register or open another device. They just need their phone.
However, don’t forget that you can’t just send out messages as you wish. You still need to get approval from the prospect.
Gain the Client’s Trust
With a quick personal message, it is easier to build a connection and earn the trust of the client. You can personalize your response when making a deal, making your client more comfortable when they first inquire about your properties.
Remember that each client has a different budget and priority, so being able to phrase your response according to what they would like to hear can help take the flow of your conversation towards a positive end.
Note that although personalizing text messages when sending to several clients can be a hassle, there are mass SMS services available. These can easily switch names, addresses, etc.
Less Spam
Unlike SMS, receiving emails are very risky for the client’s account.
We all know the disadvantages of using emails. Malware and Spywares are always found there.
Phishing attacks are also common.
Using SMS, on the other hand, can lessen or even avoid these attacks. In addition, you will not be worried that your message will go to spam folders.
Key Takeaways
Realtors have so many techniques to use when engaging with their clients and possible prospects. SMS for Real Estate Marketing is just one of the most effective techniques in this generation.
Through SMS messaging, it is easy for the client to respond at their most convenient time since this type of approach is asynchronous communication.
Not only that, it’s easy for you, too.
An important thing to remember is to follow the TCPA or Telephone Consumer Protection Act. This states that we need to get the consent of the client before sending a message.
If you do get consent, then happy messaging!