Well, as a real estate professional you can easily showcase your expertise and knowledge about your market area and industry trends. One of the ways I suggest doing this is by posting status updates that offer relevant info and/or tips your network would find helpful. Now some of you are already REALLY GOOD at sharing this type of info…and you might be so good at it that you decide to create a Fan Page to focus more intently on business.

Fan Pages are becoming more popular among real estate professionals for several reasons. Most importantly, it is more widely accepted (and preferred by Facebook) to utilize a Fan Page for promoting your business and sharing comprehensive listing data. NOTE: There are some people that truly ROCK the essence of Facebook and have mastered the art of the 3 P’s (personality, passion, profession) from their profile and don’t need to maintain the separation of church and state….or personal and professional. However, for many the draw of a Fan Page breaks down to the ability of sharing listing data, as well as relevant market data in a more appropriate fashion…with an opt-in network of interested folks.

Up until now adding real estate specific applications to a Fan Page has been, to say it nicely, less than effective. Many of the listing applications copy Website functionality and seem to have forgotten the nature of this network. Ideally, these applications need to offer more than just listing information but a way to provide interaction….or a rich data set of relevant information.

And that is why I was very excited to hear about  a new application for agents that launched this week! The Roost Social Real Estate Application is the first app of its kind to offer agents the opportunity to:

• Showcase their expertise from a Fan Page
• Provide valuable market data and information for a particular area (city) to their network
• Easily customize and install on your own Page (in 5 minutes!)
• Avoid the cost of hiring a professional to customize a local resource tab for you (this app naturally integrates local market trend info via Altos Research, active listings via Roost, mapping via Google, school info via Education.com, and neighborhood info via Walkscore).

The Roost Social Real Estate Application is clearly a value-add now…but there are more goodies to come with this app! Derek Overbey and Alex Chang of Roost took some time to share some important details about using this new app, as well as what’s in store in the future! In the coming months, Roost will add the ability to share market data for up to 5 cities! In addition the feature scope will widen to include featured properties, testimonials, and IDX compliant MLS search (inside Facebook)!!!

I have to say it’s very refreshing to witness a company like Roost incorporate Facebook functionality and real estate expertise…and deliver it to agents for FREE! Yep, this app is currently available on Facebook for FREE. You can add it to you Fan Page today, simply search “Roost Social Real Estate” once logged in to Facebook. Several agents have already taken advantage of the opportunity to add the app, check out Brad Coy’s Page,  Heather Elias’ Page, and Engel Real Estate Page for great examples of customization.

To add the Roost Social Real Estate Application to your Fan Page, follow these steps:

(1)    Visit the Roost Social Real Estate Application Page inside Facebook, and click on “Go to Application”.

(2)    You’ll be prompted to customize the app to your selected Fan Page by selecting: “Create Profile”

(3)    Next customize the application with your contact information, logo, and informational verbiage. NOTE- You can update the marketing verbiage periodically to share the latest trends and tips with your local network.

(4)    Finally, you’ll need to add the app to your Page. FYI- Facebook must render some images of the app so if it doesn’t load completely at first, be patient!

Once the tab has loaded onto your Page, you can direct your clients to the info by announcing it via a status update on your Profile, and even on your Fan Page! Also, be sure to share your Facebook Page URL on all your marketing. Write a blog post letting your clients now about this new feature on your Page, or create a postcard to share with your farm.

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First and Foremost

Smarter Agent is a mobile app platform that can be utilized and branded by agents and brokers. The app can be downloaded by consumers to search all MLS listings in their area. And it’s important to know that Smarter Agent works on virtually all mobile phone devices.

The Skinny

When a real estate professional signs up with Smarter Agent, he/she is provided with a personalized text code that consumers use to download the custom app. But now that same text code can be used to create both a branded badge and tab on your Facebook Profile or Facebook Fan Page.  In fact, your Facebook friends can even add your personalized Smarter Agent badge or tab to their profile.  To get started or learn more about this new Facebook Integration option, login to Facebook and search “Smarter Agent” to view the app. You can also contact Smarter Agent directly.

A few examples:

Customized Smarter Agent Badges

Customized Smarter Agent Tab

MyTechOpinion: I’m already a fan of Smarter Agent, and this new feature also gets a “thumbs up”. I especially like it for Fan Pages. But I wouldn’t be put off by seeing it on a Facebook Profile either. I think it’s just one more way to contact the expert you know and trust in your area for real estate advice and listing search. In addition, the tab is very informative and provides a demo on how consumers can best utilize the app!

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Agents that already utilize Realtor.com to post their listings will be able to sync with their account via the app. Branding and contact information is carried over so that interested buyers can easily reach out to the agent, or even add the agent to their iPhone address book. In fact, an interested buyer can contact the listing agent in a number of ways with a single tap: ask a question, call agent directly, visit agent Website.

Consumers can easily search for homes and upcoming open houses, explore neighborhoods using the map view, and utilize the advanced search criteria. And when I say “easily”, I’m particularly referring to the GPS feature which allows users to drive around a neighborhood they like and view all the current listings in the area (which are also updated every 15 minutes).  BTW- You could also search using the MLS number.

Once you’ve selected a home you like, the listing detail page offers up a good amount of info, as well as up to 25 photos of the home (which can also be viewed in landscape mode). The home buying process itself can become a more organized and efficient process with this app by saving favorites and using the Notes and Ratings features.

Now when it comes to sharing listing information, buyers using the app can simply email their favorites to friends or agents,  or….share to Facebook or Twitter! I appreciate the fact that I can add a personal message along with the listing I share, making the sharing experience more personalized.

It’s important to note that although this app was created specifically for iPhone users, Realtor.com will be exploring options for other mobile sharing devices this year.

To get started, you can download this app from the iPhone App Store by searching “Realtor.com”…oh, and it’s FREE!

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On the 9^th Day of iPhone Apps

About the Animoto app:

It should be no surprise to you that we think Animoto rocks! So endorsing the Animoto iPhone app is something we’ve been meaning to do. With it,  you create free 30 second animated slideshows, or a 90 second slideshow for $3. The app also syncs with your Animoto.com account. So all the slideshows you create from your desktop will be accessible. The Animoto app also sports share controls, making it easy to share your slideshow from your iPhone to social networks or via email with a special message to your recipient.

Why we like the Animoto app:

This is a great tool for showcasing your listings with pizzazz! Tech savvy mobile agents can easily snap a few photos, choose a song, and share their listing slideshow to Facebook and/or Twitter…as well as to their client. You can also embed your Animoto slideshows on your blog.

Animoto slideshows don’t just have to be a listing, you could also showcase neighborhoods, a downtown, seasonal events, etc. And being that we are amidst the holiday season, you could easily create a holiday slideshow wishing your clients, friends, or family peace and joy! Today, I selected a few recent photos of my kids throwing snowballs, then selected a holiday song from Animoto’s music collection, and presto…I had slideshow a ready to share with family! Or, go back through the year of photos taken at events and choose favorite photos with colleagues and clients! And for those of you that enjoy sending template holiday greeting cards, Animoto.com even offers a holiday pack of various slideshow greetings for $30, or 30 second single greetings for free! Now that’s one creative last minute greeting!

Cost: FREE

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On the 7th Day of iPhone Apps,

About the Webex iPhone app:

Remote meetings just got even easier with the WebEx app. Now, if you have to attend an online meeting but can’t be near a computer you can attend from your iPhone. Log in using the app and it automatically dials into the audio portion of the meeting. You can even see the presenter’s screen on your iPhone. This app really makes WebEx standout from its online meeting competitors.

You should know that although you can start a scheduled meeting from your iPhone and assign another presenter to take over, you cannot present from the iPhone itself. And to attend a Webex meeting via iPhone you will need OS 2.0 or above and a Wifi connection.

To start a scheduled meeting on your iPhone, open the Webex app and enter your Webex account information on the Profile page. At that point you’ll be able to launch and view your meeting. If you’re on the go but arrive back in the office, you can seamlessly handoff the meeting from your iPhone to your desktop computer.

Why we like the Webex iPhone app:

It’s just plain cool! Mobile agents and industry professionals on the go can dial in automatically and participate in meetings. Don’t put off tomorrow what you can do today….while you’re standing in the mother of all lines at Starbucks, waiting at the doctor’s office while your child is having a Barbie shoe removed from her nose, or stuck in traffic (with someone else driving of course).

Cost: FREE, if you’re joining as an attendee. But if you plan to start scheduled meetings you’ll need a Webex account.

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On the 5^th Day of iPhone Apps,

Okay, if you know me well…you know I already favor HootSuite as the ultimate real-time drip tweet tool. So  you may be surprised that I’ve chosen to write about Tweetie 2, and not the new HootSuite iPhone app that debuted last week. I’ve had some time to play around with the new HootSuite app and I do like it, and will probably use it occasionally. I also recognize that scheduling tweets and viewing trackable link stats is very helpful.

However, practicality comes into play when dealing with mobile apps vs. desktop apps.  I’m really not sure that I scheduling tweets via mobile phone is practical when doing it from your desktop is so much easier (yet already takes time to set up and plan).  Also, scheduling tweets should be focused more on resourceful shares (like great articles and media), which again seems a bit more work via mobile. When it comes to sharing resources on the go, I like Regator Premium.

All that being said, I still felt HootSuite was worth the $2 just to have the option to schedule tweets if I were stranded somewhere without my laptop and had 4 hours to kill (like at the San Diego airport, thanks a lot Virgin America). But I also love the fact that the app brings over my settings and scheduling from my desktop account, so I can easily view what’s in cue, what’s been sent, and check stats for shared links. Stats rock! Measure what you share and you will know if what you share is even worth the time and effort!

About Tweetie 2:

Okay, on to Tweetie 2! I was already a fan of the original Tweetie app (which is free), but Tweetie 2 brings it home for those looking for a comprehensive Twitter app for iPhone! Let’s start with the interface….ah, it rocks! Simple to manage with obvious feature placement. Other bling I should mention: saved searches, twitter lists, message indicators, live-filtering search, draft manager, landscape mode, rockin’ refresh, translate tweets, short URL preview, threaded direct message view, offline mode, link to address book, nearby tweet search, Safari Bookmarklet, text expander, etc. The list of features is extensive and completely worth $3 for a Twitter app!

Why we like Tweetie 2:

Honestly, what’s not to like with this app! The user interface is simply “AWESOME” and highly intuitive. You don’t have to go searching for obvious features, they are actually where you’d expect them to be. Building Twitter karma is easy with Tweetie 2 because the retweet feature is painless, but also offers “requote” so you can add or modify your retweets. You can also manage multiple accounts with Tweetie 2, for those of you tweetin’ double time! And just when you didn’t think this app could get any better it gives you the option to tweet both photos and video. Yes, video…I know! Happy dance!!! Okay sit back down now! When it comes to sharing your video tweets you can even select your preferred image/video host (i.e. yFrog, TwitVid, MobyPicture, Posterous, Vidly)! Woohoo, I love you Tweetie 2!

Cost: $2.99

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On the 4^th Day of iPhone Apps,

About Ustream Live Broadcaster:

Ustream Live Broadcaster may not be the first official app providing streaming capability from your iPhone, but the features and functionality are absolutely noteworthy! You’ll need the 3G network and wifi, but both 3Gs and 3G iPhone users can download this free app (running OS 3.1 or higher). Shoot and share your live video via Ustream, Twitter, Facebook or YouTube. You could also embed a Ustream player on your blog. Viewers can interact with your live video via chat. You can even launch a yes/no poll and receive real-time results!

Now this app isn’t free of a few glitches, like the fact that you need to change your auto shut-off setting otherwise you’ll be left tapping the screen time and again for long streaming sessions. Also, I tested sharing my videos to various networks which seemed to work just fine…minus a couple that were cut off just after a few seconds. Was planning on blaming that issue on user error, but I wasn’t the only one experiencing that problem.  I am happy to note that I haven’t had any recent streaming problems and still think this app rocks!

Why we like Ustream Live Broadcaster:

To start, 3G users who don’t normally have the option to shoot video (like their 3Gs cohorts), will be able to with the Ustream Live Broadcaster app.  Most importantly, this app turns your iPhone into a mobile TV studio, making it easy to share video from important events, like a fundraiser or even an open house. Even remote showings for relocation clients are a possibility with this little freebie! In fact, shooting and sharing video is so simple that I’m sure we’ll be seeing more and more “on the fly” videos from our friends Michael McClure and Ian Watt!

Cost: FREE

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Let’s start with obvious failures inside Facebook…at the moment!

MyRealEstateListings (there are 2 of them, as well as a few more similarly named cohorts) but they essentially all do the same thing- create a “MyRealEstate” or “MyListings” tab on your profile. You can then click on the tab (when was the last time you clicked on a tab) to view a lack luster interface of your manually entered listings from which you can then decide to click further to obtain details, which lands you on a third party site outside of Facebook. Click for more details, really!?!

My Listings, or Realtor Listing Application, displays your listings on a tab or box on the side of your profile. But again when you click to learn more you are taken to a third party site away from Facebook. Third party site. Really!?!

CenterStage for Real Estate, a failed, failed attempt to charge you $8 for displaying listings inside Facebook. Don’t even get me started! $8, really!?!

Oodle Pro aims to solve the listings inside Facebook issue. The tool can distribute listings to online communities like Facebook Marketplace & MySpace Classifieds. I’m sorry, when was the last time you were on MySpace.  Really!?! Oodle Pro can upload your listings to your Profile and Fan Page, yet they recommend to keep personal and professional identities separate from one another.  Listings on both, or is it one or the other, really!?!  And Oodle Pro will run you $15 a month! Really!?!

I will throw them a small “woot” for displaying links back to social profiles from wherever your listings get posted online.  And I do see great value in listing syndication to numerous online marketplaces and listing aggregators…don’t get me wrong! But the Facebook MarketPlace is not where I’ll be turning to search for my dream home. Really!?! I’ll turn to a reputable source…like the agent, broker, or one of the major real estate portals.

Apparently, the best options…

Posting your listings as status updates on a Fan Page dedicated to your local market, where locals can choose to participate seems like the best choice to me! This strategy is non-invasive, opt-in, and informative. It can even be more friendly and creative since you can add your own take via text in the status bar along with a link to the listing…preferably one that takes you back to the agent/broker blog or site.  Check out the example from Heather Elias.

Now if you don’t host listings on your own domain, the next best option is creating a single property site or posting to Vflyer or Postlets. Once you’ve created a detailed packed site with all the trimmings (local info, pictures, video, etc) you can post the URL to your Fan Page Wall and include a brief message. Some services include an autopost to Facebook feature.

SeeMyListings from Realtor.com is a widget that can be added to your Facebook profile and displays your listings. To view more details you are derailed to a 3^rd party site, but it is a more reputable site (at least in the eyes of consumers) and also displays listings in a much more user friendly manner.  See the example I grabbed from Mariana Wagner’s profile on the left.

Now if you are looking for a more organic way to share listings inside Facebook, I would recommend using photo albums. You can create photo albums of active and sold listings. I have to say, The Rains Team, does a great job of sharing listings via photos on their fan page.  But don’t forget to include a few details about the home, and important contact info.  I also came across Lesley Lambert’s photo of a recent listing via Posterous inside Facebook. She emailed the photo from her phone which was posted to her Posterous site as well as her Posterous photo album inside Facebook.

Last but not least, if you like to have stuff that no one else has you can create a custom tab for your listings with FBML (Facebook Markup Language).  You could brand the landing page with links to your blog or listing sites.  Check out  the Los Gatos Real Estate & Homes Fan Page via Mary Pope Handy. She includes a great deal of area info, market reports and listings with links to her blog. But again, I worry that tabs get looked over. Nonetheless, I know where to look for Los Gatos housing info inside Facebook.

My opinions on all this…really!?!

Personally, if and when I’m ready to move again I wouldn’t go to Facebook to look for listings. I’d go to a resource that rocks…like the agent or broker Website or a national aggregator. I go to Facebook to make connections and build relationships….to chat and find out what’s new in the lives of my friends, family, colleagues and clients! Search listings, really!?!

But if you’re goal is to show everyone the listings you’re currently managing, then go ahead and share them at Facebook too. But consider posting them to a Fan Page dedicated to your market area with links back to you, your site, or your company…not third party sites. Third party sites, really!?!

Don’t fail at implementation! If you post photos about the listing on Facebook don’t forget critical contact info or brief details. No contact info, really!?!

So, what’s your opinion…

• Do you think listings should be posted inside Facebook?
• If so, what’s the best way?
• Where do you post listings ? Profile and/or fan page?

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What are Twitter Lists?

Twitter Lists are nothing more than groupings of your tweeps based on categories you choose. For example: I have 3 lists thus far, (1) RE Rockstars, (2) Tech Influencers, and (3) Keepin’ It Real. Tweeps can exist in multiple lists, but at this point it looks like you are limited to creating 20 lists.

How to create your Twitter Lists:

(1)   When the feature is available to you, you will know! A happy blue bird will invite you to “create a new list” right on your home page.

(2)   To get started, select the “create a new list” button at the top of your profile. Or check out the right sidebar under Lists, and choose “New List”

(3)   You’ll be prompted to name your list and decide whether you want to make it public or private.

(4)   Once your list has been named, you can then add your chosen tweeps to any of your lists from the drop down on their profile.

How to manage your Twitter Lists:

(1)   If you like to be organized, consider making a list of possible lists prior to going hog wild.

(2)   Identify what is most helpful or relevant to your network. When it comes to real estate, you should “think local”. Lists of local businesses you recommend and/or local tweeps are a great way to connect your community.

(3)   Identify your hobbies and interests (i.e. travel, photography, dance, etc.) and consider making a list or 2 of those.

(4)   Identify topics and tweeps that help you be better at what you do or feed you with relevant content. You may want to create both public and/ privates lists for these categories.

(5)   You should know that once you have created a list, you can re-name.

(6)   Create 3 lists to start so that’s it’s easy to add tweeps in real-time and as you think of them!

Why Twitter Lists ROCK!

(1)   You can better focus on conversation with your target network/locals, similar to the way lists are used in the Facebook Live Feed.

(2)   Stay tuned in to those who influence your business practices or the real estate industry. Get to the good ideas and relevant content faster.

(3)   Connect with your friends and family by filtering them out for easy access!

(4)   If you make good lists, tweeps will share them and look to you as a resource.

Finding Twitter Lists that ROCK:

(1)   Visit your favorite tweeps and scan their lists.

(2)   Go to Listorious, a directory of lists by category where you can scan the most popular Twitter Lists.

(3)   Go to TweetMeme which aggregates the most tweeted Twitter lists.

(4)   Tlists lets you launch, curate and distribute twitter lists. <Coming Soon!>

Promoting your Twitter Lists:

(1)   Write a blog post containing links to your lists.

(2)   Create a badge on your blog that links to a favorite list.

(3)   Create a page on your blog dedicated to your lists.

(4)   Promote a list on your offline marketing.

Twitter Lists – Best Practices:

(1)   Don’t ask people to add you to their list. Unless they’re holding open additions! @Scobleizer did, but I didn’t beg him to be on a list…rather I asked him to be the judge! And I’m quite honored he found a place for me on his Tech Pundits List!

(2)   Don’t create lists that are inappropriate or mean spirited…you won’t make many friends that way!

(3)   Try not to take it personally if someone doesn’t add you to their list.

(4)   Stay focused on building relationships through conversation and offering helpful resources. The better reputation you create, the more influence you will have amongst your peers…and yes, the more lists you will find yourself on.

(5)   Thank those tweeps that add you to their lists. You can view the lists you’ve been added to easily, just look next to your follower count. Select “listed” and reply with a simple DM or perhaps public “thank you”…depending on your level of excitement!

MyTechOpinion

This feature is still in BETA and it will be interesting to see what happens once everyone has it. I have a feeling that being “listed” is going to be of great importance to some…but remember it’s not always about the numbers, it’s the quality of the list created and who’s doing the creating that really matter!

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I’m accustomed to presenting in a why-to, how-to style, but it was still fun to hit the audience fast and furiously with 20 takeaways for their real estate business. You may not like all of the following tips, but I wouldn’t expect you to. This list represents a wide scope of online marketing ideas, so (1) you’ll need to consider your current marketing plan and (2) decide which of the following can assist you best with your business goals.  If you have a specific question about any of the tips, leave me a comment and I’d be happy to expand further!

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Tweetups also give small business owners a chance to reach out to consumers (in a non-spammy way) and gain more exposure. Some local businesses will even take it a step further by sponsoring or hosting a tweetup. For real estate professionals who understand the current marketing and communication shift taking place, tweetups offer a unique way to engage with likeminded locals and grow your network. But there are many more reasons to tweetup, here are my top 10:

10 Reasons to Tweetup

(1) It’s fun!

(2) Gets you off the computer and facilitates meeting your online friends in person! Face to face!

(3) Connect with other likeminded tech folks and make new friends with similar interests.

(4) Connect with local business leaders which can lead to more referrals or cooperative business endeavors.

(5) Learn more about your local community – local needs, new businesses, upcoming events, etc.

(6) Support a local charity or fundraiser. Rally supporters, organize donations, or host an event.

(7) Promote your business authentically via networking. Your business will undoubtedly gain more exposure from word of mouth and via the media (photos, videos, etc) being shared from tweetups.

(8) Share your love of Twitter with others who know EXACTLY what you are talking about – favorite apps, cool tools, new tweeps, etc.

(9) Swap twitter business strategies, as well as other social media tools and tips. Share what has worked for your business, talk best practices, and ask questions.

(10) Reconnect after the tweetup on Twitter, support local endeavors, pay it forward with RTs, and foster your new friendships.

If you haven’t been to one, or wish to start a regular tweetup group in your local area, check out these 10 tips for success!

10 Tips for Continued Tweetup Success:

(1) Create a Facebook Page for an online hub, inviting others, and fostering community.  Invite several admins to participate by sharing helpful links, creating future events, and regular communication.

(2) Identify media makers! There will always be that one guy or gal who loves taking pictures and/or video. Dub him or her as your media mascot and invite anyone who enjoys sharing media to take a lot of photos and video at the tweetups. And be sure to post to Flickr and Facebook, tag tweetup members and promote commenting!

(3) Center the evening around an optional activity or fun contest! This will help kickstart conversation. Draw upon your local attractions, restaurants, activities. (ex: bocce ball, star gazing, wine tasting)

(4) Name tags!  Okay, it may seem dorky, but how else will you remember the names (and usernames) of your new Tweeps! Check out these super cute “Tweetstickers“! An alternative option would be to create a fun sign-in sheet or board.  The usernames can be made into a list and then shared via Facebook, email or your own tweetup blog.

(5) Invite speakers or “sharers” meaning someone shares a helpful twitter tool, social media strategy, OR provides a fun demonstration. Could even be a local restaurant sharing a favorite recipe, a nurse sharing flu-shot clinic hours, or real estate pro giving some helpful advice or tips. But remember to keep it short & tweet! Tweeps are there to connect and converse, not to sit and watch a speaker all night.

(6) Create an official local tweetup blog (invite several tweeps to contribute), OR  lifestream local member tweets.

(7) Create an event page, either as a Facebook Event, Twtvite, or a page off your tweetup blog. Be sure to share with your local network, invite newbies, and connect with new tweeps ahead of time!

(8) Get a local business(es) to host the tweetups. A local restaurant owner who uses Twitter or has the benefits explained to him/her will usually offer up their location for regular use (especially if your tweetups take place during the week). Our local Tri-Valley Tweetup Club has invited several businesses to take part to help provide exposure to a variety of locals in our community. I happen to live in an area with over 40 local wineries who are happy to participate. For example, our October 8th Tri-Valley Tweetup is being hosted by Wente Vineyards. In fact, they are so excited to host us that they are pouring our first glass of wine for free and setting up a star-gazing center for attendees!

(9) Involve local businesses as sponsors (prizes for contests, host activities, freebies). Again we reached out to our community and our friends at Diablo Magazine bring free mags to our tweetups, our Tri-Valley Visitors Bureau brings local treats and wines for prizes when we have contests/activities, and other local business owners, like Swank Mommy provide special giveaways from time to time!

(10) Everybody loves a T-shirt! And they can help promote your local tweetup club! Even better when you add fun phrases like “wearing my twitter shirt” or “show me your tweets”!

Now these are my tips and suggestions. You could really go in a lot of different directions here. There is no one true formula for tweetups. I have attended tweetups that were organized specifically for real estate professionals, or in conjunction with a local conference. In fact, I’ve attended a tweetup that was itself a unique learning event hosted by a speaker. However, in my experience I’ve really enjoy my local tweetup group, because I get the chance to connect with people who live, work and play in the same community. The tweeps I’ve met have shared their reviews of fun events and activities, suggested new local resources which I have benefited from, and most of all….I’ve made many new local friends! Oh, and did I mention…it’s fun!

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When it comes to online branding, remember the 3 P’s: personality, professionalism, and passion! Your blog, social profiles and avatar should be consistent but also showcase your 3 P’s! Now when I happen upon these visual missteps, the teacher in me wants to fix it immediately. Fortunately, I can do one better….give you the tools to fix it yourself, as well as a few basic guidelines to consider.

Avatar: This is the image that can be associated with everything from your tweets on Twitter and your status updates on Facebook to your business cards, LinkedIn profile and other professional marketing. I suggest selecting a photographer than can shoot both a headshot and more relaxed or natural pose. Then you can use both versions for all your marketing needs. NOTE: When it comes to Twitter and Facebook, you can and should have a little more fun with your avatar. Take your professional pose and magically enhance it with one of these sites: BeFunky, Blingee, PhotoFunia, Picnik.

Social Profiles: Some social profiles like Facebook and LinkedIn will only allow you to upload your avatar. But others like Twitter and YouTube, allow you to completely customize your background. A custom background can imitate your professional blog/Website branding, but should also be infused with personality and passion! Here are a few examples of some of my favorite custom backgrounds: @SellingPeoria and @Cyberhomes.  If you liked these, then visit TwitterPinch for truly amazing Twitter and YouTube backgrounds. It may cost you $150, but it’s worth every penny! In the interim, try these free branding tools: Twitbacks & BackgroundTube.

Blog/Website: Your business home base. Should be highly professional, showcase your expertise, include your logo, branding colors, highlight niche or local flavor. Consider hiring a professional designer to create your logo and/or header image.  Once you have those pieces in place, it’s pretty easy to take your logo on the go….by adding it to the design of your social profiles.

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With that said, my Twitter for Real Estate Twits ebook is back! I’ve updated the first version (released March, 09) to include new tools, new tips, a new tweet plan, and even success stories from real agents using Twitter for business.  In “MyTechOpinion”, Twitter for Real Estate Twits v. 2, is one rockin’ guide that clearly explains how to not only get started with Twitter, but also learn key strategies for becoming your network’s trusted advisor. But don’t just take my word for it, check out what these real estate pros have to say…

To download your free copy of “Twitter for Real Estate Twits v.2″, click here! And please drop me a tweet if you want to let me know what you think about the ebook, have any questions or just want to “get your tweet on!”

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DemandSpot

Manage your leads and even create a PPC campaign to target locals based on your current listings and expertise.  Click on the “Ad Campaigns” tab to get started. You’ll be prompted to give your campaign a name, enter a location, set your budget, create and schedule your tweets.  Although these campaigns are fee based, users do not get charged unless their tweet with related media is interacted with. No clicks, no charge! PLEASE NOTE: Use this feature wisely and don’t spam people with repeated overtly sales-like messages. Engage with relevant listings or specific local info.

MyTechOpinion

In my opinion, DemandSpot is truly the most progressive and comprehensive twitter tool that I have come across for real estate professionals. And even more localized features are on their way! Soon users will be notified of a lead in their market area that matches the agent’s market/farm criteria. DemandSpot will monitor, match and notify users automatically! Because this tool launched recently in July of ‘09, it is still very new and we have yet see how the real estate industry will react and implement it.  But I see some serious potential if used properly.

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Back in November of 2008, I created the Tweet Plan in order to streamline the resourceful side of twittering. I sent it to Darren Rowse (aka @Problogger), and he was intrigued and understood the value of better organizing your tweets to reach your network. Rowse published my tweet plan on his Twitter tips blog, Twitip.com. Shortly after, I modified the Tweet Plan specifically for real estate professionals and shared it here on MTO.

Well, the Tweet Plan is back and super charged with a new handy tool. In this new version you will drip your resourceful tweets using an auto-tweet tool called HootSuite throughout your day, but also share some spontaneous thoughts and experiences when you have time to! Let’s get started!

Step 1-  Start a Tweet Topic List

Start with a tweet topic list, which is nothing more than an on-going list of topics you are passionate about, as well as your expertise. Here’s a quick example:

Step 2- Identify Your Resources

Visit and bookmark your favorite sites that provide great articles and media related to your topics and expertise on your Tweet List.  Here are a few of my favorite sites:

Step 3: Schedule Your Drip Tweets

Now that you know where to find resourceful content, all you need is a great tool to automate your drip tweets to your network. My favorite auto-tweet tool is HootSuite. To get started, visit HootSuite.com and login with your Twitter info.

Next drag and drop the “Hootlet” into your toolbar.

Now you are ready to visit your favorite resource sites and set your drip tweets. For example, let’s say you  visited the Cyberhomes Good Reading Blog. First, scan the site for a relevant article you’d like to share with your network.

After selecting the article you like, click on the “Hootlet” shortcut in your toolbar.

The Hootlet window will pop up and automatically create a tweet for you, including the article title, name of the Website, and shortened URL. You can then choose the “send later” link to schedule when you’d like that tweet published. You can also modify or customize that tweet with your own verbiage if necessary or even add you own opinion.

I recommend scheduling 5 drip tweets a day and staggering them out (i.e. 6:30am, 9:00am, 11:30am, 2:45pm, 7:00pm). And in order to better manage your time effectively, consider blocking time daily for a “Twitter Check-in”. During that time you will add new followers, send welcome messages, and schedule your 5 drip tweets for the day (or following day).

Step 4: Supplement with Spontaneous Tweets

Now if you’re sharing resource or drip tweets you ARE providing value to your network via broadcasting. But in order to become your network’s trusted advisor  you should also be listening and responding. So try to make a little time each day (even if it’s only a few minutes) to scan your network’s tweets and respond back if you can relate, offer assistance, provide help, or just laugh along! Everyday moments and occurrences are very easy for people to relate to and engage with.

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For example, you could be at a closing and simply record a brief testimonial from a happy client. With the right iPhone app, you are only a few clicks away from sharing that testimonial on Facebook. Likewise, you could be working with a stager who offers some super advice for homeowners. With your iPhone 3Gs, you could record the stager’s tips and share them with your network on Twitter in a matter of seconds! Basically, you can turn around and share just about any engaging moment, interesting occurrence, random thought, helpful tip or even your favorite dance moves with your iPhone 3Gs.

Here are a few more video ideas for savvy mobile real estate professionals: community interviews, neighborhood characteristics, local business info, quick homeowner how-to, event reporting, candid expertise tips, inspirational thoughts, etc.

To get started sharing video from your iPhone 3Gs, you’ll need to visit the app store and download an application that makes sharing possible. FYI- You don’t need an app if you just want to share video via email or to YouTube as those features are available from the iPhone 3Gs itself. You can even set your emailed videos to go to Twitter, but I’ve found the video sharing experience to be much easier with a video friendly app.

Which apps make sharing video from your iPhone 3Gs possible?

Twittelator Pro: $4.99 Share video in the form of Tweets. This is a full service app. You literally have all the features a mobile Twit requires along with the video feature. Twittelator Pro allows you to select your photo/video preference from a variety of providers in the settings. Note: both Yfrog and Moby are used to send video, and if you choose a different photo provider like Twitpic, Twittelator will automatically select Yfrog to send your videos.

Twitvid: FREE Share video tweets.  It’s that simple. Your one off video twittering service. It’s an super easy app but it leaves me needing more Twitter features from another app. However, I love that Twitvid pulls in my branded  Twitter background so my video tweets are displayed atop my own Twitter profile, which adds a nice personal touch.

TweetReel: $2.99 Also a very simplistic video and photo tweet sharing option. But for the price, the only other option you get here vs. Twitvid is multiple accounts. I’d save your $3 for now.

Video Up: $ .99 An easy solution to send your videos directly to Facebook.  This app uses Facebook Connect to seamlessly upload your iPhone created videos to your Facebook profile. For those of us waiting for the new Facebook app, Video Up is definitely a great interim solution at a reasonable price.

Video Uploader:  $ .99 Upload video to YouTube, Blogspot, & Facebook. Clearly a great choice with several options but that depends upon which networks you share video to.

Kyte Mobile Producer: $4.99 Upload and share video to your Kyte Channel. This app is noted for its high speed and quality video. You can also tweet your videos from this app by adding your Twitter login within the Kyte settings.

Pixelpipe: FREE Upload videos and photos to Pixelpipe and then pipe them to over 95 Web destinations: Facebook, MySpace, Bebo, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube, Viddler, etc. Although this app costs you nothing, it’s not free of occasional glitches and perhaps a hefty setup process for the video sharing newbie.

12 Seconds Video Messenger: Recently unveiled at the Real-Time Stream CrunchUp but not yet available in the app store, 12 seconds brings you their video twitter messenger.  Ideal for sending short video tweets via direct message. Stay tuned as we’ll bring you more info on this app!

The NEW Facebook App: Stocked with 15 new hard hitting features, one of which will also be video upload and share. Once this baby launches, you can bet I’ll be first in line at the app store (along with millions of other users)!

Qik: If you’re a hard core RE techie you may want to consider jailbreaking your phone for live-streaming with Qik. That is, if you’re okay with your iPhone warranty becoming null & void (although there are ways to work around this). many happy tech-stars are enjoying the utility of Qik. Yoo-hoo Apple & AT&T, I think it’s time you hop on the live-streaming app bandwagon!

MyTechOpinion: I favor Twittelator Pro for video twittering, as well as for its numerous other features. This app meets all of my mobile tweet needs and comes with rockin’ online support via @twittelator!  As for video sharing to Facebook, Video Up is as easy as it gets. But as I mentioned I’m parked out front of the app store with my high beams shining on the new Facebook app!

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1. Update your business cards with your social profiles
2. Sponsor a local event or fundraiser
3. Create swag- t-shirts, pens, etc. & give them away to clients and friends
4. Attend and/or host local meetups & tweetups
5. Get a vanity plate for your car
6. Focus on word of mouth wherever you go (grocery store, hair salon, etc.) & carry those business cards
7. Create or sponsor a local business or resource guide
8. Mail hand written client appreciation & thank you cards
9. Create a neighborhood newsletter/ “weekender” (mail or walk it)
10. Direct mailers with comps & social profile callouts (offer a coupon/deal)
Email Marketing
11. Create a drip email campaign, focusing on your niche (offer tips & advice)
12. Send a weekly or monthly email newsletter
13. Send flash animated birthday, holiday, special occasion cards (check out ZingDing)
14. Work with local businesses to co-brand an email offer (send to both your contact lists)
15. Invite sphere to a local event or Free online Webinar for homeowners (based on your niche expertise)
16. What’s happening this weekend? Special weekender tips for your local area (include a coupon for local business attraction)
17. Rate updates and info (work with a local lender)
18. Seasonal homeowner reminders & safety tips (storm drains, garden tips, etc.)
19. Invitation to your social profiles or exclusive Facebook Group (based on local interest)
20. Survey or poll your clients and share results with further relevant info
Blog/Website
21. Create an ebook, require name & email address for free download
22. Video/podcast blog series on a specific topic/niche
23. Offer client Q & A via a contact form, highlight in sidebar
24. Offer a free IDX search tool
25. Add Facebook Connect to your blog
26. Host a contest with prizes from local businesses
27. Comment back timely and create dialogue within posts
28. Post articles about others on your blog (local businesses, interesting people, neighborhoods, etc.)
29. Create a local special interest landing page (i.e. wineries, schools, non-profit, etc.)
30. Feature your listings, use a single property Website solution like MyMarketWare that syndicates your listings to several reputable listing aggregators
Facebook
31. Create a profile and import your contacts
32. Send daily birthday wishes
33. Comment or Like 3-5 posts from the Newsfeed daily
34. Update your status with fun and value once a day
35. Create a Facebook Page for your business
36. Post helpful and relevant resources from your FB Page
37. Leave comments on local business pages or groups (NO SPAM, or self interest linkbacks)
38. Comment on others’ status updates
39. Create a past client photo album with testimonials (tag clients that are on Facebook & post on your business page)Vu Manh Thang – I Am Superman
40. Create Animoto slideshows or a photo album for listings (post on your business page)
Twitter
41. Create a Twitter profile, use Twitterlocal.net to connect with locals
42. Use the “Find People” feature to find people you already know on Twitter
43. Tweet homeowner tips (easy repairs, projects, upgrades)
44. Tweet funny, interesting, inspiring, engaging experiences and info
45. Tweet local market info, updates
46. List yourself on Twitter directories: NearbyTweets, WeFollow, etc.
47. Break news as it happens
48. Tweet local event information
49. Tweet your blog posts
50. Tweet your professional expertise & activities (niche advice, relevant tips, open houses, new listings, broker’s tour, thoughts & experiences)

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Let’ start with the basic understanding of what social media marketing allots us.  Creating profiles on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and the like offers you a unique connecting experience, otherwise referred to as “ambient awareness”. This is not a new term. In fact, social scientists have been talking about this online phenomenon steadily since 2006. Ambient awareness is the feeling we infer and relate to from what is being shared by those connected to us via online networks.

Thanks to Twitter, we can learn that our friends are wine tasting in the Napa Valley the moment the wine touches their lips! Thanks to Flickr, we can see the wine as it’s being poured , favorite bottles being purchased, or the lunch accompanying the tasting. Thanks to Facebook, you can instantly connect with new friends who have joined existing friends on their wine tasting adventure. And you can do all this from the comfort of your own home using social media tools.

The social media tools that create ambient awareness are also creating an opportunity for you as a business professional. By better understanding what your network is doing, feeling, making, and essentially how they are living and interacting with others….you can better assess their needs, wants, and desires. So as a real estate professional, the more you listen, the easier it will be for you to anticipate needs and predict what your network requires from you.  And if you become your network’s trusted advisor by providing helpful resources and relevant information, you can build more relationships that may translate into business….improving your bottom line.

However, social media is not about transactions…it’s about interactions.  Every connection you build through community interaction affects your social capital in one way or another.  Your social capital is similar to the concept of karma. Basically, you get what you give. Participating in communities is a lot like balancing your checkbook. When you share resources with your network that others benefit from, help others promote their endeavors, solve collective issues, and befriend others authentically….you create positive social capital, or a deposit in your favor. If you are only interested in what you do, promote only yourself, and ask for favors from others without giving back, you negatively affect your social capital. Selfish community interactions translate into withdrawals.

In order to build and maintain positive social capital you must carefully balance your social interactions with give and take. To do this, you can start by listening in the communities you participate. Learn about others as they cross you path. If you notice someone asking a question relevant to your expertise, by all means, answer and create dialogue. When someone friends or follows you, take time to view their profile and respond with a brief welcoming message. Regularly share helpful resources, but also promote others’ resources by commenting or giving them a “like” on Facebook, retweeting them on Twitter, and/or linking back to them via your own blog. You can take this concept further by cultivating your own authenticity. Take what you know, and pay it forward. For an example, I love to dance so I create dance gram videos when I have a little extra time. Sometimes I do this for people I know, but I also make a point to create dance grams for those I want to get to know. I don’t make money from creating dance grams, but I build new relationships one wacky interaction at a time.

MyTechOpinion

This may all seem overwhelming and irrelevant to your business marketing plan, but the same could be said for forking out a wad of hard earned cash to send thousands of mailers in hopes that business will come knocking. Instead, take it slow and steady, foster the connections you create within online communities one interaction at a time. Listen and connect with people as the person you are, with the expertise you know….and you will experience the real “pay off” that social media offers: a large prospering network of people that trust you as their advisor and turn to you when the time is right to make one of the biggest decisions they will ever make, buying or selling their home.

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If hiring an assistant or marketing coordinator is not in the cards for you right now, you need to find a way to organize your marketing efforts and concentrate on sharing your expertise with the right network. One simple way to elevate your expertise above the competition is by obtaining a designation or specializing in certain types of real estate transactions. Do you have several green builders in your area, as well as knowledge of sustainable home features?  You may want to consider becoming an EcoBroker, a special designation for environmentally concerned real estate professionals.

Recently, I was invited to dinner by my friend John Harper, who introduced me to Ginny Mees. While enjoying our “wine & dine” evening, I asked Ginny and her husband Paul (both agents) how they’re able to be so successful in such a challenging real estate market. Ginny smiled, and responded with, “I do what I know best!” What she knows best are the challenges facing independent women homeowners.  She focuses her marketing efforts (both online & offline) on women who are going through divorce, widowed, etc.

In fact, Ginny created an online network (SingleWomenHomeowner.com) that brings together experts in women homeownership issues and consumers with questions based on location. Ginny also shares tools and resources that can help others who want to focus in this direction. FYI- Ginny didn’t do this alone, she consulted with 2 top experts, Kelly Lise Murray and Wendy Waselle of DivorceThisHouse, who educate real estate agents by providing a CE/CLE course to learn about the specific laws affecting divorced women.

I’m not suggesting you go out and create an online network overnight, but you can easily connect with locals in your area based on your expertise or topic via Facebook, Twitter, ActiveRain and other existing social media tools. For example, create an interest based group on Facebook (i.e. Living Green in Danville). Share your FB Group/Fan Page on all your marketing pieces, as well as a few tips for sustainable living. Join local environmental interest groups, offer to speak on green living at events, create an ebook for download on your blog, be the green living local advisor to your market area. If you blog, share articles about green initiatives, new recycling laws, local sustainable businesses, people making a difference, etc.

MyTechOpinion: Finding your niche means drawing upon your own skill-set and developing your prior knowledge so that you can provide your top-notch expertise to clients who are looking for someone just like you. It doesn’t mean that you become a jack of all-trades with your hand in every cookie jar so that you can display 42 designations on your business card. Remember, do what you know best and success will follow!

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New features include:

(1) MarketSites to go! Download any single property Website created by MyMarketWare for offline use.  Showcase your online listings during a listing presentation or copy any of your MarketSites to a CD for a thoughtful closing gift.

(2) Enhanced sign riders made from corrugated plastic provide increased durability for all type of weather conditions.  Sign riders cost $22 with reduced shipping time at no extra cost!

(3) FREE SMS texting service! I’m not naming names….but some SPS solutions will charge you as much as $25 per listing per month for this service.  But MyMarketWare will provide you with unlimited SMS texting service free to go hand and hand with each and every sign rider! Incoming leads are circulated in real time to the listing agent’s mobile phone as well as via the “Activity Center”.

(4) New custom site design center! Create your own MarketSite design within minutes using our new design tool. You don’t need to be programmer, just have an eye for design and personal branding!

(5) Got Feedback? You’ll get it with our new feedback mechanism.  Interested buyers can provide their thoughts (anonymously if so inclined) via each MarketSite providing the agent with specific and valuable information.

(6) New “My Leads” tool keeps track of messages delivered by your MarketSite (via the contact forms).

(7) Increased agent branding & contact information! Add contact info and branding for up to 3 agents on a MarketSite! Brand your team or co-brand with your favorite lender(s)!

(7) Enhanced slideshow! Showcase your listing with a full screen slide show!

(8) Monitor your site with not only MarketSites Statistics, but also Google Analytics!

(9) New syndication partners and valuation tools! MarketSites currently syndicates to:  Trulia, Google Base, Oodle, Propsmart, Local.com, Homescape, Vast, Zillow, Homes.com, and Frontdoor.

What do agents like about MyMarketWare?

(1) MarketSites cost only $39 each for an entire year! AND if you use the MTO coupon code “mtoagent“, you can try out the service for only $32 a site for the next 30 days!

(2) Huge bank of professional non-branded, franchise, commercial and customizable designs! Current franchise designs include: Advance Realty, Alain Pinel, Better Homes, Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Crye Leike, Empire, Envirian, ERA, Frank Howard Allen, GMAC, Intero, Keller Williams, Long & Foster, Lyon, Pac Union, Prudential, REMAX, Real Living, Realty USA, Realty World, Royal LePage, Soreno, Sotheby’s, Weichert, and Windermere.

(3) Add up to 100 high quality photos, video, unlimited property details, and even 50 related documents!

(4) MyMarketWare auto-populates census and community info, school info, maps, and links to over 70 area amenities based on the property address provided.

(5) Add your blog, RSS feed, and even change the automatic SEO settings if you wish.

(6) Sign up and create your site for free, pay only when you publish online.

MORE TO COME!

More exciting features are already under development! We’ll be integrating the Cyberhomes API to bring you even more stats and valuation tools. We’re also working on increased share controls in order to bookmark and share your MarketSites on social networks like Facebook and Twitter. The next release will include a voice over feature and language translation tools.  We’ll keep you posted! And in the meantime, feel free to ask questions or leave your comments or suggestions below.

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