Now a days, it takes more than a “For Rent” sign out front to capture the attention of renters. We’ve entered an age where smartphones are king and access to information is almost instantaneous. Reaching mobile consumers has never been as important as it is today. More and more people have come to rely on their mobile device for information gathering and purchasing decisions and apartment communities have to keep up with the times.
According to a 2015 Forrent.com survey, 84% of consumers said they use a mobile device to search for apartment listings. But it doesn’t end there—they’re using their handy mobiles to view floorplan images, contact communities and even read property reviews.
So what does all of this mean for your property? How can you get a piece of the pie? Well, for starters, you can try these three things:
Have a mobile friendly website
The first step to ensuring your property is seen on a mobile device is to first make sure it is responsive. This means your website loads quickly, easily adjusts to various screen sizes, provides quick and easy navigation, and offers minimal scrolling for users on a mobile device. When designing your site, be sure to incorporate large headlines and HD photos, create a clear call-to-action and always utilize keywords when you can. Remember, functionality and accessibility are key to ensuring you capture your prospects’ attention in the right way. Not to mention, you’ll get more love on the search engines with a responsive, mobile friendly site.
Invest in mobile advertising
You’ll also want to integrate some mobile tactics throughout your advertising portfolio. Some tactics you may want to incorporate include text messaging, QR codes, Click to Call, Google AdWords and targeted Facebook ads. You’ll also want to review your current advertising channels, like your ILS listings and even Facebook, to ensure your phone numbers and links are both correct and clickable.
Get Creative
Your main goal is to make it as simple as possible for your prospects to contact you should they be interested in your property. So—do just that! Add live mobile chat features to your site or try out a click-to-text option. You can even take it a step further by offering live video apartment tours or information sessions. No matter which option you choose, just remember—convenience is key!
Delve into the possibilities.
Not sure where to start with your site? Don’t worry, we have your mobile covered. Each Rentbot site is already designed with mobile in mind. With fast-loading pages, search engine optimization and well-formatted, custom designs with floorplans and HD photos, your Rentbot site will be able to handle any device. Throw in our HD photos, online rent payments and resident maintenance portal, and you’ll be well on your way to renting in no time.
Times are changing, and fast. Make sure you keep up with your renters and reach them right where they want it. Let Rentbot help you capture your mobile searchers and secure more leads in the process—we guarantee!
About the Author
Jonsette Calloway joined the Rentbot team in 2015. With a background in public relations, advertising and copywriting, she has helped a multitude of clients achieve their marketing and communications goals within various fields, but she particularly enjoys working with the apartment industry.