Breaking Property News – 18/09/2023

Daily bite-sized proptech and property news in partnership with Proptech-X.

 

Social media is transforming property market in the digital age

There is no doubt that in an era where the estate agency sector is rapidly evolving, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for estate agents to effectively market properties, engage with clients, and establish a robust online presence.

Richard Combellack, Chief Commercial Officer at nurtur.group, a leading proptech supplier specialising in digital marketing and lead generation, says that with the proliferation of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter, the opportunities for estate agents to leverage social media are endless.

“In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the role of a well-crafted social media strategy has become paramount for estate agents. In the past the property sector has conventionally relied on traditional marketing channels like flyers, newspaper ads, and direct mail. However, the game has evolved, and to remain competitive and relevant, estate agents must embrace the power of digital channels such as social media in conjunction with their other marketing avenues,” he adds.

According to Combellack, first and foremost, a robust social media strategy provides estate agents with a dynamic platform to showcase their property listings. With billions of users scrolling through social media feeds daily, platforms like social media platforms offer unparalleled reach and visibility. “By strategically posting high-quality images, virtual tours, and informative descriptions of properties, estate agents can capture the attention of potential buyers and renters who might have otherwise missed their listings. Social media also enables estate agents to utilise location-based targeting, ensuring that their content reaches the right audience in the right area,” he comments.

Combellack notes that a social media strategy also allows estate agents to establish and reinforce their brand identity. He adds that building trust and credibility in the property sector is vital, and social media offers an avenue for estate agents to humanise their services. “Agents can share success stories, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their daily operations. Engaging content not only fosters a sense of transparency but also helps potential clients connect on a personal level with the agency,” he says.

In the UK’s highly competitive property market, staying top-of-mind with clients is essential. A consistent social media presence ensures that estate agents remain in the spotlight, even when clients are not actively searching for properties. Regular updates, industry insights, and informative blog posts can position estate agents as trusted advisors, demonstrating their expertise and commitment to their clients.

“Furthermore, social media enables estate agents to interact with their audience in real-time. Responding to inquiries, addressing concerns, and engaging in meaningful conversations can set agents apart from their competitors. In a field where trust and communication are key, the ability to connect directly with clients and potential buyers or renters can make all the difference,” says Combellack.

He adds that the importance of a social media strategy for estate agents cannot be overstated. It serves as a multifaceted tool that not only enhances visibility but also builds brand recognition, fosters trust, and facilitates direct communication. “In an industry that is increasingly digital, staying ahead of the curve by harnessing the power of social media is a surefire way for estate agents to thrive in a competitive market and meet the evolving expectations of their clientele,” Combellack comments.

He notes that nurtur.group is able to manage estate agents social media for them, providing engaging content that will help build their online profile, generate leads and enhance customer relationships. “Consistency is key when it comes to social media, and it is often very time-consuming managing all the platforms. This is where the services of a specialist such as BriefYourMarket comes into play, especially considering the need to constantly navigate the ever-changing algorithms.

Staying current with the latest trends and algorithms will ensure that marketing efforts for businesses remain effective and reach their intended audience. Using the services of a professional digital marketing provider will help agents to grow their social media and digital presence, while being able to spend their time focusing on the core elements of their business,” Combellack concludes.

nurtur.group delivers technology services to the property industry through brands such as The Property Jungle, LeadPro, BriefYourMarket and Starberry, a digital lead generation powerhouse, its membership organisation, The Guild of Property Professionals, and its global premium estate agency brand Fine & Country.

Eco-efficiency in the workplace – Studio Alliance

Sustainability in the workplace has become a hot topic these days, and for good reason. With environmental concerns taking center stage and a growing awareness of our collective impact on the planet, businesses recognise their role in creating a more sustainable future.

Integrating eco-friendly practices minimises the carbon footprint and demonstrates a commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.

Studio Alliance, a European alliance of workplace experts, has provided six effective tips on how offices can start being more sustainable, along with the benefits they bring

Smart Energy Management Systems: Implementing smart energy management systems that utilize IoT (Internet of Things) devices and sensors can significantly reduce energy consumption in office spaces. These systems can monitor and adjust lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy and natural lighting conditions. By optimizing energy usage, companies can lower their carbon footprint and operational costs, showcasing their commitment to sustainability to both employees and clients. This approach also aligns with digital trends, demonstrating technological innovation and efficiency.

Biophilic Design Integration: Incorporating biophilic design principles into office spaces involves introducing natural elements like plants, natural light, and natural materials. This design approach not only improves air quality and enhances the aesthetics of the workplace but also promotes employee well-being and productivity. Exposure to nature has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, and increased job satisfaction. A sustainable, nature-inspired workspace can be a strong selling point in recruitment efforts and contribute to higher employee retention rates.

Flexible Remote Work Infrastructure: Supporting remote work through digital solutions not only reduces commuting-related emissions but also enhances employee well-being and work-life balance. By investing in secure and efficient remote work technologies, companies can attract a wider talent pool from different geographical areas, thereby diversifying their workforce. This approach aligns with the trend of flexible work arrangements, showcasing a forward-thinking and adaptable organizational culture.

Waste Reduction and Recycling Programs: Establishing comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs within the office space can significantly minimize the environmental impact. Encouraging employees to reduce single-use plastics, recycle properly, and engage in waste reduction initiatives fosters a culture of sustainability. Such efforts resonate with younger generations who prioritize environmentally conscious employers and can play a pivotal role in recruitment and retention strategies.

Green Commuting Incentives: Promoting green commuting options, such as cycling, public transportation, and carpooling, not only reduces carbon emissions but also contributes to employee well-being. Providing incentives like subsidized public transportation passes, bike storage facilities, and flexible work hours can encourage employees to adopt eco-friendly commuting methods. This approach aligns with digital platforms for organizing carpools and managing commuting schedules, appealing to tech-savvy generations and reflecting a commitment to a greener future.

Eco-Friendly Digital Practices: Embracing eco-friendly digital practices, such as paperless workflows, cloud storage, and video conferencing, not only reduces paper waste but also minimizes the energy and resources required for physical infrastructure. Transitioning to digital documentation and communication methods showcases a commitment to efficiency and sustainability while also meeting the preferences of digitally adept generations. This approach also supports employee well-being by streamlining processes and reducing administrative burdens

 

Andrew Stanton Executive Editor – moving property and proptech forward. PropTech-X

Andrew Stanton

CEO & Founder Proptech-PR. Proptech Real Estate Influencer, Executive Editor of Estate Agent Networking. Leading PR consultancy in Proptech & Real Estate.

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