QR codes have been around for a while now — a Toyota subsidiary created them in 1994. They are now making a big splash in the U.S. and in the world of residential real estate marketing.
First Preston Listing Brokers tell us they use QR codes as a key tool in their marketing strategies. Brokers are using codes on business cards, yard signs, websites, etc. With an oversized QR Code on a yard sign, a prospective buyer can scan the code from the car and take a virtual tour on their smart phone. Some brokers use them to provide profiles of similar properties in the area to increase the odds the prospect may find a property they want to purchase and contact the agent.
What’s a QR Code?
According to PCMag.com Encyclopedia, a “Quick Response [QR] Code is a “two-dimensional matrix bar code that is used to identify products. QR codes are increasingly used to identify the URL of a company’s Website so that mobile phone users can photograph the code and retrieve information about the organization.”
What Advantage Do They Offer Me?
This medium gives you a way to get the prospect to put your website, virtual tour and/or contact information into the memory of the buyer’s phone with one simple scan.
Smart phone or Android users simply download a (free) reader, scan the codes and connect to video, text, URLs, photos, demos, virtual tours, etc. Retailers attach demo codes to products to answer product questions. Products with codes demo themselves. Retailers that generate QR codes can also track usage and location information about specific inquiries.
According to a NAR survey, the age of the typical first time home buyer is 24-31. They are tech savvy and appreciate useful innovation. QR Codes are a great way to capture their attention.
HomeTelos Using QR Codes for Marketing
As of March 31st, 2011, fliers generated via the HomeTelos Marketing Detail screen, include QR codes. A prospective buyer can scan the property profile, store it, share it and replay it at will.
Let us know what you think of this exciting technology tool! Enjoy decoding the QR code in this article.