Where ever we are headed
The Future is Online
See why your website is one of your most important assets with these
Top Real Estate Business Insights for 2024 and Beyond
Welcome to the digital age, where the internet plays an increasingly critical role in today's business world. With online activity now accounting for 28% of all business operations, real estate professionals must respond by establishing a robust online presence for themselves that also caters to their clients' evolving needs. Embracing this transformative shift and harnessing the potential of online experiences is key for agents and brokerages to unlock fresh opportunities that drive growth within their businesses.
Google dominates the digital world, powering a staggering 93% of global internet traffic. Thanks to its advanced search algorithms and user-friendly interface, billions of people worldwide confidently rely on Google to find information, products, and services online. The fact that 78% of real estate searches also kick off on search engines, with Google claiming the majority of that search traffic, underscores the importance of making Google search optimization and advertising a top priority for real estate professionals. Google’s unmatched influence makes it the key player shaping the digital landscape.
Faced with these facts, it’s easy to see why creating a user-friendly real estate website that ranks high in search engine results and works well on mobile devices is crucial, as 88% of online users won't revisit a site after a negative experience. Partnering with experts who understand the intricacies of Google optimization and PPC advertising is key to enhancing your visibility and attracting your target audience. You'll not only stay ahead of the curve but also effectively connect with your audience, ultimately fueling the growth and prosperity of your business.
Data From The National Association of Realtors
Technology Use During The Home Search:
97% of all home buyers used the internet in their home search.
76% of home buyers used a mobile or tablet device in their home search.
Buyers typically searched for eight weeks, viewing nine homes, five of which were viewed solely online.
Nearly all generations were most likely to have first found the home they ultimately purchased online.
Google is now the go-to destination for people
When potential clients are searching for a real estate professional to help them buy or sell their home, they typically follow a structured path. It starts with online searches, where they check out the agent or brokerage’s website, read customer reviews, and explore their social media presence. The potential client then compares their offerings with competitors, search for trust signals like awards and certifications, and might even reach out directly for more details before making the decision to do business with them.
Sound familiar? This is likely how you would investigate a business you've never come across before. Your potential clients are no different when it comes to researching and choosing their agent.
Over 90% of online experiences start with search engines because it empowers consumers to find the best fit for their needs and preferences by considering factors such as pricing, services, reputation, and customer support. This comprehensive research process helps individuals make informed decisions and build trust in your real estate services before engaging in any form of business. Running a professional website, nurturing a positive online reputation through reviews, and engaging effectively on social media are crucial to your long term success.
According to
“57% of users won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed website.”
“Google is the most visited website with 85.1 billion visitors.”
“74% of online users will return to a website that is mobile-friendly.”
The vast majority of online users
access the internet with their mobile devices
The shift towards mobile devices as the primary source of web traffic is another critical trend that all businesses must be aware of. The vast majority of online users today are accessing the internet through their mobile phones. As of Q2 2022, mobile devices now drive 58.99% of all web traffic, up from just 10.88% in 2012. Mobiles also surpassed desktops as the primary source of internet traffic as of November 2016, accounting for 50.7% compared to desktops' 49.3%. For these reasons, in 2018 Google announced that they would begin ranking mobile versions of websites before their desktop counterparts. In response, real estate professionals should strive to ensure their website is easy to use on mobile devices and provides a helpful browsing experience.
The importance of user experience cannot be overstated. Real estate professionals remain the most frequently used source of information in the home search, followed by searches on mobile devices. 76% of homebuyers used a mobile or tablet search device in their home search, with Millennials using mobile devices nearly 2x as often as the Silent Generation. Creating a website that is easy to navigate, aesthetically pleasing, and optimized for mobile devices is necessary for virtually all modern businesses or they risk falling behind in today's digital marketplace. Real estate professionals who can effectively leverage the power of the internet and digital technology will have a significant advantage over their competitors.
Working with the right partner who understands the importance of user experience is essential since a subpar mobile experience can result in reduced engagement and decreased conversions. The right team will design with a mobile-first approach that can help create a positive user experience, drive engagement, and encourages repeat visits. When you choose Pine & Birch, you're selecting the partner that prioritizes your user experience, with a team of experts who are dedicated to building and improving a digital presence that helps you achieve your goals.