I was reading an interesting interview in a Tacoma, Washington newspaper, The Ledger. The subject was real estate coach Michael Russer who was discussing how real estate agents can use the internet.
What caught my eye was this question.
Where do you see things headed in relation to how the real estate industry uses the Internet?
A. There has to be some serious training out there. Here’s how I see it playing out: Real estate agents are all independent. It’s like herding cats. You’ve got cool cats, tomcats and fat cats.
Cool cats represent 5 to 10 percent of an organization. They are not identified by their experience or age. They’re identified by their attitude. They see change as a strategic advantage. They’re the most trainable. You’re talking about relearning how to sell in a different context. Tomcats are 70 to 80 percent. They’re the fence-sitters. The fat cat, they’re the top producers. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Leave me alone, and that’s what you do. They’ll retire soon. …
Real estate companies have been trying to get them to adapt to technology for 20 years, and it’s not in their DNA. What makes them good, their people skills, precludes them from being great technology people. That’s why we talk about virtual assistants. via TheLedger.com.
As a real estate blogger I get the opportunity to deal with the Cool Cats. They look at technology and blogs as cutting edge and the place they want to be, but how many other agents are out there on the fence? According to this interview it is 70–80 percent.
To be a first mover you have to stay ahead of the curve. Right now it is the internet, blogging, and mashups as I see it. When the tomcats start blogging we know it is time to find the new thing.
But what will the new thing be in internet marketing? My guess is that it will have to be in the mobile space.
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I pride myself on being a "Cool Cat". It's true that the industry is evolving into more technologically advanced forums. Personally I've started tapping into the international market by working with web based listing services. http://www.buysafecostarica.com has given me the ability to work with investors and even individuals who are just trying to locate a vacation home. I think that in order to reach a board base of buyers these types of services can truly benefit any agent.