For those of you who have been around when Joe and I speak, you have probably heard us mention improving your online marketing results by getting into Directories.  The main challenge with getting results through directories is finding a quality directory to join!  Many of the traditional real estate directories out there have been down graded by Google as they offered little value other than being a link farm.

Before I get in to what makes a quality directory, let me share a little about a directory that has had a tremendous success over the years.  The Real Estate Library continues to be much more than a directory.  Michael Shafer, who runs the directory, continues to keep up to date on the needs of the real estate community across the entire U.S. 

How does he do it when others have vanished from Google?  Here are some of the items that have kept his website competitve:

  • Great Content - He keeps the library fresh with a balance of information.  Everything from REO’s, Mortgages, and Internet Marketing is covered in the library.
  • Volume of Content - The library doesn’t have just a few pages online.  The library actually boats of 100,000 free resources…WOW!
  • Not Just Links - Although the directory is a part of the business, each link also gets some description text so there is value to the visitors before they ever click.

We have been a member of the Relibrary for over 5 years now and have seen results each year.  We are certainly happy to share that we have had the opportunity to contribute Real Estate Internet Marketing Articles to the Library!!  Check out this new section :) 

In addition to the real estate library we recommend directory marketing as part of your overall attack of online real estate marketing.  When you want to join other directories, hold them up to the standard that ReLibrary has put in place.  Some key points to consider before joining a directory are the following:

  • More than a Link - Does the directory provide room so you can have a description about your website?  Make sure you get some space so you can let the visitor know what your website or blog is all about.
  • Page Rank - Does the page that you are going to get posted on have page rank?  Check out the page of California Real Estate page on the Real Estate Library.  This page has a PR3!
  • Cost - Is it affordable?  Some directories are charging too much money for what they are providing.  Make sure it fits into your overall online marketing budget.

Most of all, get out there and join a few directories to increase your traffic, and keep climbing to the top of the search engines. 

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