Reflecting on 2010 as We Move in to 2011

According to the Illinois Association of Realtors here are some encouraging facts about buyers and sellers in 2010.

According to the 2010 Illinois Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers,

• 53% of people who purchased a home in Illinois this year were first-time buyers, compared to 50% nationwide
• When considering the purchase of a home, commuting costs were considered very or somewhat important by 78% of buyers
• 93% of homebuyers used the Internet to search for homes
• The typical home buyer searched for 12 weeks and viewed 15 homes
• 85% of buyers purchased their home through a real estate agent or broker
• 87% of buyers would use their real estate agent again or recommend the same agent to others.

So, what does this all mean?

• Don’t forget about reaching out to first-time buyers and educating them
• Be sure to include commuting information in all descriptions when promoting a listing
• Client relationships are future business, so under promise and over deliver!
• MOST IMPORTANTLY – have an online marketing plan! If you need any assistance in that area, let me know.

Having an online marketing plan is crucial.