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Originally Posted by Las Vegas Real Estate
As far as website design goes, would you say that "more is better", or that "simple goes a long way"? I am unsure as to how far I should go with marketing on my website. Should I have a ton on flashy ads, tips, and tools, or go with a more plain and bold approach?
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Who is your target customer? If you say "everyone" then you may need to re-think your site. Your site is an ad for your services and expertise. Ads sell when they target a direct demographic.
If you are targeting inexperienced or first time home buyers then you should use a lot of background and research articles. It is especially helpful if you write (or re-write) these articles in your own words and in the first person (I/we/you). Make it as if you were talking to them or presenting a seminar. It helps builds bonds and reassurance.
Take a look this
Hilton Head real estate that we just developed for a new client. The key info on this target demographic is:
1. Out of state homebuyers
2. 45-65 years old
3. College educated
4. Waiting for grandchildren or about to be empty nesters
5. $350,000+ annual income
6. Prefer oceanfront or ocean view, but will also look at other luxury homes
7. Experienced homebuyers
8. Target demographic leads an active and busy life. They are always pressed for time. This may lead to impulsive or impatient behavior. They need to de-stress as much as possible in their lives.
9. The have to find a way to contend with low inventory and inflated prices for homes that they consider desirable.
There is actually a a much more comprehensive list to the target demographic of this agent, but I do not want to reveal too much of how far I help my clients drill down in their marketing campaigns.
The ad copy and information on this site is tailored to target this demographic - nobody else. If the agent wants to target a different demographic (let's say, over 55 golfers) then we would build another web site.
If you're catering to a younger demographic, then a hip, flashy site with lots of color (what is it with that lime green color every design TV show is painting walls with these days?) is the way to go. If you're catering to single mothers, then a pastel hued site with lots of school info and afterschool clubs and activities info is the way to go.
If you're catering to illegal aliens, provide a map back to Mexico or the local ICE (INS) office
The final answer is: your site should appeal to your target customer. If you try to sell to everyone, you will rarely sell to anyone.