Use YouTube for video marketing efforts

Using a YouTube video to sell a home isn’t yet widespread. Only four percent of real estate professionals post videos on hosting sites such as YouTube, according to the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) 2012 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers.

About 90 percent of buyers use the Internet to search for homes. Using video saves time, helps the buyers decide faster, and is a powerful way for you to differentiate yourself from the competition.

Here are seven tips for video marketing success:

1. Keep it brief. Buyers look at hundreds of properties and don’t have a lot of time or patience. Highlight only the best features of the home and keep the video at a one to two-minute maximum.
2. Highlight the “wow” factor. Highlight special features of the home, such as the sweeping staircase, backyard or pool. Save the other rooms for later.
3. Lighting. Use natural light as much as possible rather than artificial lighting. Shooting in the late afternoon when the sunlight is softer provides flattering surfaces.
4. Use a tripod. When in a stationary mode, consider using a tripod. Even the steadiest hand has a tendency to wobble from time to time.
5. Background music. Avoid using music ripped from iTunes or any other source. Sites such as Royaltyfreemusic.com allow you to purchase royalty-free music.
6. Promote on social media. Once your video is finished and uploaded to YouTube, it can easily submitted to the MLS website for distribution on Realtor.com and social media channels.
7. On a budget? Use still photos. If you lack the budget for a high-quality video, edit photos into a clip that looks great. Great still shots with a slow zoom into the room give viewers just enough time to imagine themselves living there. Free programs such as Apple’s iMovie or Windows Movie Maker make it easy to assemble and export videos.

YouTube is a great way for real estate professionals to expand the reach of their brand. It also allows for a lot of creativity that, in turn, will help people remember who you are.

What are some innovative ways your business is using YouTube in their marketing efforts?