Well this is not so tough – it is usability.
Too often Agents think of themselves when developing a website. Think of what the user wants first and make your own demands second. For the the majority of agent websites, users come to the site to view properties – so make this process as easy as possible. If you are a small agency with less than 50 listings at any one time, you do not need a search facility, just list them! A search facility will only waste your visitors time.
Do not – Have a Splash Screen or Flash Introduction to your site! Have a Splash Screen or Flash Introduction to your site! Can I be any clearer?
Do – Make it easy to get to your information
Do – Have your menu at top or left hand side. Users are human and we all read from left to right, so make sure you think of the human aspect. Most important information from left to right.
Do – Provide as much information to the user as possible, you want users contacting you when they are interested not for more information like photos, land or building sizes. Try to think of what you would like to know about a property!
Design – Make sure your brand reflects your standing in the marketplace. If your brand is not consistent, from windows, to print to web then you are only letting yourself down.
Finally – Develop your site using web standards, do not try to be too clever, remember that many buyers become sellers and impress them with your ease of use and quality of information.
