In last month’s StraightTalk, I discussed the purpose of an MLS and what separates the MLS from mainstream advertising options. This month, I would like to speak to the issue of data distribution and the different ways this can both benefit and become a disadvantage to the REALTOR®.

REALTORS® have many different opportunities for marketing properties through the Internet. As these new options continue to present themselves, I want to share some of the lessons we have learned about Internet data display by outlining a few of the pros and cons that come with mainstream Internet advertising options.

Pros
• Additional exposure for sellers;
• Additional exposure for agents and brokers; &
• Many Internet sites are free.

Cons
• Some sites charge for the leads that are generated;
• Some agreements include the rights to redistribute the listing information to other sites (make sure you read the fine print);
• Many sites mingle REALTOR® listed properties with “for sale by owner” properties; &
• You may need to update listing information on several different sites each time there is a data change.

These are just a few ideas to consider when making business decisions on data distribution. As more and more online advertising avenues become available, be sure to evaluate each option individually and weigh the benefits and disadvantages of data distribution. We want to make sure that you, the REALTOR®, remain in the center of the transaction!

Please let me know if there is specific subject matter that you would like to see addressed in this column. And, as always, let me know how we are doing!!  You can reach me by phone at 248-699-9120 or by email.

View Archived StraightTalk Articles