What Happens to Your Listing After It’s Put in the MLS?
We all know that once we put our new listings in the MLS this information is sent out all over the internet, but where exactly does it go and how is it presented? This is great information to provide to your sellers so they can see the value in using an agent and how their property is being marketed to potential buyers.
There are essentially two “groups” of websites that your new listing is sent to. The first, which we call the Brokerage Group, is all the individual websites of agents and brokerages within the MLS region. These are RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker, Keller Williams, etc. and each of their agents’ individual sites. Unfortunately, you don’t have any control over these sites and how your information is displayed. Most will have something that says “Courtesy Of (Agent Name)”, but no contact information or anything like that.
The second group, what we call the Consumer Group, are all the consumer-facing sites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com and Homes.com. We’ll stick to these four as they are by far the biggest ones.
Be sure to set-up your free profile on each of these sites so people can find you. When you do put a listing up, it will link to your free profile, so it’s extremely helpful to have that information updated and accurate. Add your photo, contact information and description.
Did you know that 85% of Zillow leads click on the default agent? It’s not necessarily the listing agent, although they often think that it will be. You may get a little resistance because they wanted to speak to the listing agent, but take a little time to explain why they’d have a better chance at finding their dream home with you. Explain these points to them:
- You will show them more homes
- Listing agents tend to push that one home because they are selling it
- You will protect their deposit
- You will provide CMA’s
- Get more training here
Now let’s take a look at these sites and discuss what you need to do to set yourself up for success!
Zillow, Trulia & Homes.com
These three platforms are all pretty similar because Zillow owns all three. They put 4 agents up on one page at a time- how can you stand out when most people just click on random photos? Call people as quick as you can so that you can start generating some business. Most people click on multiple agents, so you want to be the first to reach them. Also ask past clients to post reviews to your profile. Be prepared to answer the question above about being the listing agent and have a good response ready to go. Keep in mind that these platforms offer paid options that can increase your lead generation.
Realtor.com
This platform is slightly different and unless you’re paying their Showcase Product, leads will go to paying agents. So, even if your listing is up there, when someone clicks on it, it will go to someone else. Luckily, they are pretty inexpensive and the cost starts out around $50/month, so if you are new and have a few listings, it’s a good way to gain some traction quickly.
In addition to these top four home sites, your MLS listing goes out to 90+ other sites like these.
So be sure to include this information in your listing presentation and update your seller’s often on any online activity.
At Dalton Wade we believe that today’s buyers and sellers need a trusted resource that can guide them through the complex world of real estate. With our extensive knowledge and commitment to providing only the best and most timely information to our clients and agents, we are your go-to source for real estate industry insight and advice. Contact us today to learn more!
