If you read anything about real estate marketing, you probably can’t miss all the buzz and hype surrounding QR codes. It’s reached epic proportions. QR codes are apparently going to be the saving grace for all things real estate. Walk a real estate trade show floor and you’ll be inundated with opportunities to scan QR codes. They’re popping up on business cards, home flyers, for sale signs, even on web pages (which makes zero sense).
If you don’t know what a QR code is, it is basically a bar code that you can scan with a smart phone application and it will take you off to the internet to view a web page, video, images, text, whatever. QR = “Quick Response” and they were originally created by a Japanese company to track inventory.
Don’t get me wrong. As a technology lover, I think QR codes are cool. They are pretty amazing little pieces of technology. It’s the hysteria I see in the real estate community that has me baffled. You’d think they were the second coming of blogging, Twitter and Facebook. You know, those things that are going to create vast amounts of untold wealth for real estate agents with no effort or work involved on their part. QR codes are apparently the next delicious magic pill for success!
Whatever. I’m not saying there is no place in real estate marketing for QR codes. There probably is. The use of QR codes is becoming more prevalent across many places, not just real estate. The other day I was in Best Buy looking for a computer monitor and used their QR codes to send a link/web page to my wife. It was probably the best practical application I’ve seen for QR codes to date, though to be honest it would have been far simpler and more efficient to call my wife and say, “They have one for $99 and one for $139. What do you think?”. After all, you can talk on a smart phone too”¦
Recently Realtor Magazine published an article by Michael Russer, aka “Mr. Internet” titled, “Your ”˜Code’ to Mobile Marketing Success”. In this article, Mr. Russer recommends placing a QR code on your car. It should point to your website, or even better an “irresistible offer” on your web site. The recommended size of this QR sticker on your car is 10 inches by 10 inches. This size is needed “so it can be scanned easily by other drivers”.
Let’s just hope the agent sporting a 100 square inch QR code sticker on their car doesn’t get a letter like this:
From: Willy Suehim, Attorney at Law
Subject: Auto Collision Liability and Invoice
Dear Amazing Real Estate Agent –
As you are aware by now, my client Joe Imanerd was driving his 1971 VW Microbus down U.S. 60 the other day when he scanned the rather large and obnoxious QR code on your car. Mr. Imanerd was distracted during the scanning and viewing process and as a result of that, slammed into someone driving a 2010 Lamborghini Murcielago. Fortunately no one was injured and Mr. Imanerd’s Microbus came out relatively unscathed. The Lamborghini however was totaled.
Please see the attached invoice for $374,000. Payment in full is expected within 14 days. Cash or cashier’s check only.
Respectfully,
Willy Suehim, Esq.
Mr. Russer also suggests using QR codes on your for sale sign riders. This is probably the most commonly discussed application for QR codes in real estate (rivaled only by using them on business cards). I’ve often struggled with the whole QR codes on sign riders concept.
- Someone drives by a home with your for sale sign on it.
- They stop”¦
- They get out of the car”¦
- take out their cell phone”¦
- scan the QR code”¦
- wait for it to process and then are sent to a web site or video about the home.
About the home they are standing in front of. Wouldn’t it be more efficient to just take a flyer out of the flyer box? Put a QR code on that if you really want to impress the geeks who dig QR codes. Do people really want to watch a video on a cell phone about a house they are standing in front of? Sure, that appeals to some people, but it’s hard to imagine it having a lot of appeal to the masses.
Mr. Russer does solve the getting out of the car part of the QR codes on a sign/rider dilemma. He once again suggests a 10×10 code be placed “so it can be scanned from the comfort of a prospect’s car”.
But that doesn’t really work so well. Here is a short video I made that shows the potential issue with this suggestion:
Just in case you don’t watch the video, I’m not trying to pick on Michael Russer. I like him. He interviewed me for an article once. Super nice guy, and wicked smart. I’m (obviously) just not on the QR code bandwagon.
I suppose one reason I’m a little wary of this is I have no idea what the adoption rate will be in the general public. QR codes are apparently wildly popular in Japan, but I sell houses in Phoenix. I took a little poll on Facebook today to see if people just knew what a QR code was. I posted an image of a QR code and asked non-real estate people to say if they knew what it was. So far, I have 25 responses (including 9 who are in real estate. Read people, read”¦ 
).
Of the 16 people not in real estate, 11 said they knew what the image was, 5 said they did not. Of note, in this group of 16, four had connections to real estate but weren’t technically in real estate. They were real estate web developers/designers, consultants and spouses. All four of them replied “yes”. A few other non-real estate types that replied yes are people I know to be confirmed geeks. (Of note, I use that term in the most endearing way. Geeks are cool).
Of the nine real estate types that answered, 7 knew the QR code, 2 did not.
There were more “yes” responses from the non-real estate group than I expected. Granted, this is FAR from a statistically significant survey. And the data may be confounded because most of my non-real estate friends are geeky and tend to know about things like QR codes. I would LOVE to see a large, statistically significant survey taken across a wide swath of the general population to see what percentage of people know what a QR code is, and what to do with one. If anyone knows where to find such data, please let me know.
Adoption rate aside, the main reason I have issues with QR codes in real estate is the hype. Oh the freaking hype! It seems like every time some tool, technique or process comes around, the spin maters crank up the machine and start spewing how the latest gizmo is going to save the planet. I know I’m not alone in tiring of the QR code hype, I’ve had conversations with several in the industry that feel the way I do.
Here are two great posts that highlight some of the ridiculous hype:
QR Codes: You Don’t Need An Elephant To Tie Your Shoes
The Quite Ridiculous Use of QR Codes
In the name of fairness and balance, I should link to some “pro QR code” posts, but it’s hard to pin down just a couple of examples. Here is a link to 42,200 results in a Google search for “QR codes real estate”. Enjoy”¦
Maybe the cartoon below solves the riddle of why so many real estate agents are falling over themselves to embrace this latest fad”¦
Courtesy of Jeff Turner, aka @respres, on Flickr. CC Licensed.
What do you think of QR codes? Will they really have a long-term impact on real estate marketing and communication? Can there possibly be any more hype? Is the hype good? Are you on the QR code bandwagon? If so, do your clients really care? Can anyone anywhere attribute selling a home to the use of a QR code? Help me understand this craze”¦
The Phoenix Real Estate Guy was started by Jay Thompson, and I have a little blogging problem... he liked to say...
I agree that the hype is Quite Ridiculous. For real estate, it's a passing fad that can't pass soon enough. It's another panacea that will keep a lazy agent wrapped up with anything other than prospecting.
The on web pages makes sense if you're trying to pass info to the mobile device. Example: http://www.trillian.im/get/android/
If an agent had a mobile app to distribute to clients/prospects, giving a QR code option on the web page makes sense (at least to me).
The next cure-all will be out within months and QR will be nothing more than a Quiet Reminiscence.
Ok Robert, that is a reasonable use of a QR code on a web page. Thanks!
What I'm starting to see on some real estate sites though is a QR code displayed in a sidebar area. Scan that, and it points….. right to the web page you're already on! What. Is. The. Point? I've also seen them point to a little "introductory video" about the agent. Well, why not just embed the video itself? Or put in a link to the video? The last thing i want to do if I'm reading a web page is scan a QR code that takes me to another page on that site. It's ridiculous.
some agents are clearly using the code for in the wrong ways. It would be smart for them to put the code on the individual house pages for each house with the address on it so when you scan it it give you GPS directions to the house, or even place your contact information on it just so the potential client has your info in his or her phone. again its a connivence thing as far as contact info goes. Now that I have a QR code reader im more likely to save your contact info if i dont have to manually put it into my phone. but there are some good uses for the QR code, dont think a webpage is necessarily the best place to be posting it in the first place.
One word. Amen.
Jay – I didn't comment on FB – I read the question 🙂 I haven't jumped on that bandwagon yet, I just haven't had time. There was a local company here in Indy who put QR codes on their signs and marketing. That was last year and they have since abandoned it. I give them credit for being early adopters, but what a waste!
Love the new look!
They may have a long term impact but I don't see why people are wetting themselves trying to get everything switched over right quick. I did a QR code experiment and people are NOT clicking on these things so there is no rush to go out and order new signage or new business cards.
I can see the potential of posting it on signage so you can scan and send to the wife (like you did at Best Buy) – it isn't happening just yet. Maybe some day. Not now. Great marketing ploy for Vflyer to sell those water resistant stickers though!
So very true!
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I'm a techie geek like most of your sphere. I'm in the process of trying to figure out where I actually want to apply QR code technology. Currently, I feel like more than anything else, it's just another tool in my arsenal that I can brag to sellers about. Something to differentiate me, from my competition. As opposed to a tool that's actually effective in converting prospects to real homebuyers for the property the QR code was utilized for. I just think opening up an app on a phone, waiting for the camera to focus, snapping the photo, then waiting for the web page to load, is all a bit of work to get to a web page. There are examples, such as those mentioned in other comments, where it is/could be super useful. I'm thinking though, that it'd be quicker to just type the URL into the browser directly. And that's what most people will opt for – because it's not hard! How about you make a video Jay, showing who can get to the URL first (url of reasonable length). A person typing it in directly, or the person scanning the QR code? =)
Typing in the URL might be quicker, but scanning the QR Code will be easier. I have a hard time typing on my phone w/o grabbing my bifocals, so if I can scan the code, it would be much better for me. We have to keep in mind that a QR Code would not used in a vacuum. It would be (or should) be mixed in with other marketing. Then, let the consumer decide how they want to make contact. Call, scan, text – take your pick.
Jay – I must say I agree with you – but I do feel there are a few great places in my market for QR codes – if you are spending money on print ads – they can be a great way for the reader to capture your site – now remember about 80% of my buyers are second home buyers – they come to the area visiting decide to buy and sometimes they come here multiple times – before contacting an agent – so having a QR code does give the potential to a bread crumb with the consumer. I could only see putting them on a flyer to maybe take you to the virtual tour – but if they are in front of the home with a flyer a call would be a better call to action then having them feel like they saw the house before entering it. As for business card – I would only consider putting a QR code on the back – for those that wanted it – there are a lot of people without this technology and even those that have no clue -without the info you stand to lose the ability to connect with the person altogether by limiting who can gather your info. I am on your bandwagon – are they cool, hell yes – but they certainly are not a fix all or the way I will get my information out to the world.
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Jay, I enjoyed your video and your fb poll (funny). And you are absolutely correct, many re agents will grasp at the next cool thing (and probably spend money) for any panacea that cures all and does nothing instead of working the business. I don't have any signage on my car and the idea of a 10×10 anything is ridiculous but in my opinion, a *discreet* QR code on a flyer or sign is a killer app to direct an interested re consumer to more info. As to my next business card, yep, it will be there because, yes, my friend, the future is mobile.
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Great post, Jay – I've been baffled about people using QR codes. I can definitely see them being used on a flyer or print ad, but using them on signs or cars simply doesn't make sense.
Why not just use a single property URL which is easy to remember or write down?
QR = Quickly Redundant?
How about using old technology such as the telephone? Many time the right tool is the simplest one!
Hi Jay,
Thank you for the post. It is always good to get both sides of a story. My company Clikbrix.com offers a QR Code and Mobile Web solution to Real Estate Professionals and Brokerages. I am also the founding partner in QRe8.com which offers mobile solutions to other types of brands (unrelated to real estate) that often include QR Codes.
What I think the biggest misconception about QR Codes is that they are being viewed as a shiny new tool. This always baffles me. The reason it baffles me is that it is not really a tool. A QR Code is simply a link to a mobile website. The tool for Realtors in this equation is their mobile web presence which 95% do not have and 100% need. The QR Code is a useful and "cool" way to get people to that mobile site…and so is a short URL, or a radio commercial, or a direct mail flyer, or a business card, or twitter, etc, etc, etc. The QR Code is not a tool, nor a shiny new toy. It's simply a link.
QR Codes could disappear tomorrow (which they certainly will not) and Clikbrix would still be in business offering a best of breed mobile website solution for the real estate vertical.
To respond to your point about simply grabbing a flyer out of the flyer box – the QR Code is a Green technology. One of its purposes is to reduce the amount of paper, ink and printing an agent has to do. This will save them a bit of money in the long run, but most importantly it allows agents to market themselves as "Green Marketers." This is a differentiator and can help win a listing for them if they can connect with a seller that shares the same values.
To respond to your point about mass adoption, you may be interested in these blog post and studies.
22% of Fortune 50 companies are using QR Codes in their marketing (slide 8) – http://www.slideshare.net/BMGlobalNews/burson-mar…
15% would scan a QR Code for more information – http://2d-code.co.uk/how-many-would-scan-a-qr-cod…
101 huge brands using QR Codes – http://blog.greattv.com/2010/11/list-101-major-u-…
50 massive US Media Companies using QR Codes – http://blog.greattv.com/2010/12/great-list-50-maj…
The list goes on and on. One thing that must be noted is that a person only needs to be educated once on what a QR Code is and how to scan it with their phone. Many of these huge brands are helping educate your home buyers and sellers on your behalf.
We are certainly at the infancy of the mobile web but this is where (and I think you would agree) all REALTORS need to be in the very near future. Lets assume that REALTORS agree with me and will develop their mobile website one way or another. Now the question becomes how do you get people there? The QR Code certainly seems like a legitimate link.
Thank you again for your post Jay. I would love to discuss this topic with you further if you have some time.
Sincerely,
Erik Goldhar
Partner, Clikbrix.com
Technology catches on quickly, sure QR codes are not well known yet, but they are becoming ubiquitous, they're on everything in Best Buy now, you said it yourself, you used them there. Once the majority of people know what they are, they will be standard on sign riders, like 800 numbers or text #'s are becoming, they don't need to be 10×10 to be read, so they can easily fit on a rider.
I look at it as just an other tool to utilize. I have added to the back of my traditional business cards and on my blog. I am going to add it to some sign riders but I'm not thinking this is the saving grace for all things real estate. I will tell you in my market it's different and that alone gets noticed and getting noticed is not a bad thing at all.
I am SO over the QR hype. I had one guy get all up in my face because I tried to question his (IMO) complete absurdity of having CUSTOM sign riders for each and every listing he had with the homes dedicated QR code. Like you mention in your post – um, dude, put it on the flyer if you are so hyped up about it!
I will admit that I liked them in a real estate mag I had picked up while on vacation. I didn't have my laptop handy but did have my smartphone so I was able to quickly scan the code and see interior pics and tours of homes.
Oh well, when the QR fever dies down there will be another fad waiting to fill it's shoes and, it too, will be the easy, end all, magic pill for real estate.
I have a split opinion on these. I DO think that they are over-hyped, but I also see a lot of non-real estate firms jumping on them (Best Buy and even Target and Toys R Us). I think that a business card is kind of pointless, unless there is a specific purpose (trade show targeted video, for example).
I think that a sign rider (or custom sign) is a better option/ Flyer boxes run out. Some people don't like to collect paper. And there is a LOT more flexibility with changing data on the landing page than changing an outdated flyer.
I'm starting to use them, but I also think that we are a year ahead of the curve in regards to adoption by the general public.
I'm with you and I blogged about this a few days ago myself. Useful, but over hyped and overused.
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Excellent post, video and links Jay. Doing everything I can over here in California to add to the hype….don’t hold that agin’ me!
Yeah, I’m still trying to wrap my mind around the practical application of these as well. I can tell you one thing … if you were in minnesota right now, what are the chances you’d be able to get close enough to the for sale sign to scan the code?
On the other hand, they do lend a certain potential for tracking responses to otherwise non-trackable items… such as signs, flyers, business cards. I too was brainstorming ways to use them in a way such as suggested by Mr. Russer (scan this code for special or extended information, special offers, etc.). We’ve seen this enough in the past by the “free newsletter” concepts. Do those work? (I’ve always thought they were cheesy but had many agents state that they got traffic and leads from them).
In the end Jay, you’re just reminding us of the typical real estate industry response to new concepts like this … GET RICH WITH LITTLE EFFORT! There’s no such thing. There is no shortcut to making a good business plan and then working HARD on the plan. And this is the time to plan. If it fits into your plan, great.
I’m sure in time we’ll come up with some applications for these that will accomplish one key goal: Get someone to respond in a trackable way that wouldn’t have otherwise (for sale sign – “scan the code to get room dimensions” or square footage or anything else they can’t tell from the street).
Good on ya’ Jay – QR codes represent one tool of many that need to be employed. These by themselves are not going to magically skyrocket someone’s sales career into the stratosphere.
I utilize QR codes as do the agents whose marketing I manage. I have gotten business directly from QR codes. Before I employ technology (which is JUST a tool btw), I must have clear understanding & measure ROI (which includes time a…s well). Unless smartphones don’t work in MN, QR codes will convert ROI. If only used on yard sign riders, that alone is practical application (instead of) worthless paper flyers that disappear, get soaked, can’t display full size photos, video tour, etc. Keep in mind, QR codes are NOT about us real estate agents. They are about our CUSTOMERS (read: buyers and sellers). A RE agent-client told me the other day she scored a listing when the seller LOVED the concept. When all else appears equal, what is the difference b/t agent “a” and agent “b”? In this case, it was QR codes. Valid or not, I tend to stick with what WORKS and experiment with what makes sense & tests out.
Nice points (as always). I think qr codes on flyers or biz cards (not for the purpose of driving people to a website, but instead as an easy way to get imported into their address book could be an effective use.
I agree though – are they the next easy button? Hardly.
PS – Does a marketing guy who happens to own a real estate company, but hasn’t actually been active “in” real estate for about 5 years count as one of your 9 who didn’t read your request? 😉
One more thing, and I apologize if this was already said: QR codes will soon be the next breeding ground for annoying, misleading spam.
My recent post The Possible- the Impossible- and the Nuts
Jay,
I think you're right about adoption being a key issue, but I believe that will come around in time. QR codes are a tool, that's it. If there is no creativity in their use, then you're wasting your time. To use your example of a prospect outside a house…why not grab a flier from the box?! How about if the QR took you instantly to a site for that property with a video of the INSIDE of the home and an info capture squeeze page with a video auto-responder? Ya' with me?!
As far as scanning a QR code from a website? At first, I thought the same thing. Then, I scanned a few to have them instantly in my iPhone, for future reference.
They're cool tools! If nothing is done creatively to use them to one's advantage, then yes, a waste of time and annoying as well. I just hope that the masses don't get cold on them after viewing a lot of possibly, uncreative examples.
All the best to you in Phoenix!
@BrianMorgenweck
Might work in the "geeky" cities where technology is more entrenched but down here in South Texas not so much.
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Great points about QR being an overstimulated trend. Couldn't agree more. I will say however that the mobile platform is a "trend" that agents should get excited about and make moves towards. QR goes hand in hand with mobile because it is a unique way to drive traffic and it is "special".
I have some signage solutions that look a little better than the crappy 10 x 10 solution as well 😉
As far as adoption… who knows how long it will take, but personally I say it will be quicker than we think with companies like Best Buy, Google, Nike, GoDaddy, Sears to name a few that are into the concept.
The biggest issue for real estate is… What are you directing mobile device users to. I don't care how you are directing them… URL, QR, smoke signals… Just what is the experience on the mobile when they get there.
If you want to see how QR codes are being used in other parts of the world and other industries, here’s a blog that focuses on applications. Stamps in Spain. License plates in Croatia. And more. It’s written in Spanish, and the Google Translator does a good job. The author contacted me awhile back to share what he was doing. Some cool ideas, for sure. http://blog.macanudos.es/
I think that QR codes will become much more common place and more quickly than we expect. Maybe the real estate community has jumped on the bandwagon a little bit earlier (and with more enthusiasm) than other industries, like with blogging and social media. I don’t think it hurts our industry to be innovative. I love hearing about other’s creative ideas. I may not use them, but I admire that they tried something new and different.
For the record, I was turned onto QR codes by a non-geeky, non-Realtor type person, who thought they were the coolest thing and a great way to get video his phone. He loved that he didn’t have to type in a URL!
(PS, I couldn’t leave this comment on your blog… too long!)
I wondered to myself one day why we didn't have QR license plates. It would completely easy for a cop to scan those things from the car.
Jay – I am with you on the hype thing – an unnecessary evil, in my opinion. QR codes can and certainly have been used as intended, and that would be as shortening the road for a smart phone user to information or allowing for instant vcard download. As for business cards – these things tend to be extraordinarily ugly, and there is pretty much no design that they integrate well into, considering you need one square inch in order to actually scan it. Never mind the bizarre concept of asking someone to scan a card with your contact information to get, gasp, your contact information. That said, we've had a few requests to incorporate these puppies into some of our recent designs.
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Maybe related. Canadian client last weekend said back home you can scan the code of your favorite cup of coffee in Starbucks (QR code or bar code, I don't know which) and save it on your phone. Later you can send the code to your local Starbucks before you arrive, the coffee is ready when you arrive and it's charged to your phone bill. Or something. Didn't quite understand it. Sounded uber cool though whatever it was!
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Thanks Jay, I does seem pretty cool, but the hype can be put to better use.
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I'm with you on this Jay. I do not understand how using QR codes in the way they're being presented to us by Mr. Russo or the Expo vendors is of any value added to me or my clients.
It would be fun to explore other uses of QR codes. For example, what if we were able to use QR codes pasted on different fixtures or rooms in the Open House. Every time, a buyer walked through a room and "read" the QR code, they would get add'l information about that item, i.e. what kind of plumbing does the home have and when was it upgraded? when was something purchased and what kind of warranty does it have? How expensive are the utility bills for this home, etc.
Don't know… just brainstorming. There must be a much better use of these QR codes than trying to stick them on signs and flyers.
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The QR is the icing on the cake of a bigger need: a better listing, or at least better photos. The couple I’ve got to scan from listing ads ended up showing lots and lots of lousy photos of the inside of the house. All that shows to the consumer is an agent attached to technology, not to producing results like a sale. What consumer likes looking at images on their smart phone of backlit windows? In terms of measurables, that’s a big deal. QR’s will be nice, but there are so many more vital steps to work on in promulgating a listing and creating valid points of differentiation that make the house worth BUYING. Who cares if the QR gets the property more showings if the feedback is “it’s overpriced” or “it looks like junk”? I think to that end, Jay’s point is dead-on: place these things in their proper perspective. They’re getting hyped right now like they’ll sell more properties. Maybe they’ll get more leads, maybe they’ll give you more to measure, but proper pricing, brilliant presentation and extensive seller education are far more critical to getting inventory moved than technological break throughs. In 11 years, I have never once heard a buyer say they bought a house due to the website, the flyer, or the sign in the yard. These things only get them in the door.
"but proper pricing, brilliant presentation and extensive seller education are far more critical to getting inventory moved than technological break throughs"
I wish I'd said that.
QR codes are to technological longevity as avocado colored appliances are to kitchens.
Jay, there is definitely a use for QR codes – they are very popular in other parts of the world. But maybe it's just that there's nothing really new on the horizon that has catapulted QR codes to ridiculous heights. Kind of like when the media goes ad nauseam on a disaster…
I hadn’t checked out the article in the Realtor mag yet… on the car? How funny. It reminds me of a car that passed by me the other day with a business card holder glued to the back saying ‘take one’
I don't know, Jay, I don't think you're giving QR codes a chance. Imagine Mr. & Mrs Homebuyer scanning a QR, either from a sign, or next to the door of a home their agent shows them. That code brings them to a link for that house, which provides them with the numbers, but also photos (and maybe even videos!) of the home they can access even after they are no longer in front o the home.
"Immersive" is the name of the game, and something like this is a paradigm shift away from a) MLS printouts with [maybe] one photo, and a whole bunch of information that may or may not matter to the buyer [that's if they can even decipher the realtor-speak], and b) custom web links like '123mainstphoenixaz.com' that are WAY too long to expect someone to write down to check later, when they are in front of a computer.
As much as buying a home is a a decision that requires a lot of thought and consideration, the choice of *which* home to buy is very much an emotional one. As much as we'd like to think otherwise, people don't buy homes based on the square footage of the bedrooms, the year it was built, or any of the 'numbers' in the MLS; they buy based on what they see.
QR codes may or may not work out in rural areas like Montana, Idaho, Nebraska, etc., but with tech companies like Intel being here in Chandler, I wouldn't underestimate the tech/geek/early adopter factor in the Phoenix market. Granted, putting a QR code on your car, yes, I agree with you, that's kind of lame. But don't dismiss them entirely.
Hey Dan! Didn't mean to imply I've dismissed them entirely. I just grow weary of the way this industry tends to hype "new" things and people jump all over it likes it's going to change the world. We'll use them on signs and riders (NOT at a 10×10 size though) and continue to explore other uses as well. QR codes have a place, but they won't cure real estate. JMHO
Love the comments!
I liken the QR code craze to the "text for info" sign riders. I was an early adopter of those and see great potential in them, but the overwhelming majority of consumers in my market just aren't quite ready for them. I expect the adoption rate of the QR code to take off even more slowly. Great in concept, cool for us geeks, but overall probably not worth the investment of new sign riders and marketing materials anytime soon.
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@Dru – you said “(PS, I couldn’t leave this comment on your blog… too long!)”. I’m confused. There is no limit to the length of comment you can leave on the blog. (and, comments left on Facebook are pulled into the blog, check it out, your comment here is there too…) Thanks for the link to Códigos QR, very interesting!
I've seen them in stores during the Christmas Shopping. Lots of hype as evidenced on the floor at NAR. I know that other countries use them more. Lots of hype true…but I think they will catch on. Not sure yet how I will use them.
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HUMmm QR codes Where could I possible use them?
The Banks Bulletin Board seeking Buyers and Sellers!
My for sale signs with Follow me updated code that direct the "lookey Lou" directly to the slide share or photo stream, or website; Printed Material extending its shelf life.
One application @DaveChomitz has them being reusable to different web pages as your inventory changes; (landing page redirects) Why would I buy a card scanner to enter details if the QR code for contact details is on the back of my card, Not front the way you depicted, What benefits would it have?
Texting and messaging doesn't work either, So lets go back to flyers and yellow pages,
Trying to use technology to make my phone ring can be called Lazy prospecting Lets rephrase that to be Google Farming and Localism.
David Pylyp
Living in Toronto
QR codes are NOT a panacea. They are but another TOOL, albeit a convenient (novel) tool for gadget (i.e. smartphone) hungry consumers including HOME BUYERS & SELLERS. If QR codes (ONLY) enabled me to get more people into my funnel, I would be ecstatic. However, QR codes are creating paydays as well. Why do people buy smartphones? QR codes are here, whether or not some of you adopt. Frankly, many agents still use a template website and don’t blog (regularly), don’t submit articles, don’t submit videos & don’t become the authority figure in their niche. Why would I (or you) be surprised with doubt/trepidation? Already, I have told you my clients and I have gotten business with QR codes serving as the tipping point. I’m not some rah-rah cheerleader parading up & down the sidelines extolling all agents to adopt. Mobile phone use will continue exploding. Novelty and convenience will prompt people to USE QR codes. Fundamentally, I see benefit & value. Therefore, I’m using already. Good luck to all.
Love the devil's advocate position! And so right in many ways.
The best use of QR codes for real estate (in my humble opinion) is to connect the person standing outside the house with pictures or video of the inside of the house and the ability to pass those pictures or listing information on via email or chat. QR codes only add value if they offer something that traditional marketing/flyer can't.
The one other (HUGE) value that comes with a more sophisticated use of QR codes is the ability of the agent to receive reports of each scan, so that they can determine the most popular days and times or even show up immediately after a scan knowing that the person is literally standing there in front of the property. Creepy, maybe, but utterly unattainable data with paper.
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Love the devil's advocate position! And so right in many ways.
The best use of QR codes for real estate (in my humble opinion) is to connect the person standing outside the house with pictures or video of the inside of the house and the ability to pass those pictures or listing information on via email or chat. QR codes only add value if they offer something that traditional marketing/flyer can't.
The one other (HUGE) value that comes with a more sophisticated use of QR codes is the ability of the agent to receive reports of each scan, so that they can determine the most popular days and times or even show up immediately after a scan knowing that the person is literally standing there in front of the property. Creepy, maybe, but utterly unattainable data with paper.
My recent post Kuglar Law Website Launched
Thank you for the post.
What I think the biggest misconception about QR Codes is that they are being viewed as a shiny new tool. This always baffles me. The reason it baffles me is that it is not really a tool. A QR Code is simply a link to a mobile website. The tool for Realtors in this equation is their mobile web presence which 95% do not have and 100% need. The QR Code is a useful and "cool" way to get people to that mobile site…and so is a short URL, or a radio commercial, or a direct mail flyer, or a business card, or twitter, etc, etc, etc. The QR Code is not a tool, nor a shiny new toy. It's simply a link.
QR Codes could disappear tomorrow (which they certainly will not) and this would not change the fact that each REALTOR and Brokerage will need still a best of breed mobile website presence.
To respond to your point about simply grabbing a flyer out of the flyer box – the QR Code is a Green technology. One of its purposes is to reduce the amount of paper, ink and printing an agent has to do. This will save them a bit of money in the long run, but most importantly it allows agents to market themselves as "Green Marketers." This is a differentiator and can help win a listing for them if they can connect with a seller that shares the same values.
To respond to your point about mass adoption, you may be interested in these blog post and studies.
22% of Fortune 50 companies are using QR Codes in their marketing (slide 8) -http://www.slideshare.net/BMGlobalNews/burson-marsteller-proof-fortune-50-mobile-study
15% would scan a QR Code for more information – http://2d-code.co.uk/how-many-would-scan-a-qr-cod…
101 huge brands using QR Codes – http://blog.greattv.com/2010/11/list-101-major-u-…
50 massive US Media Companies using QR Codes – http://blog.greattv.com/2010/12/great-list-50-maj…
The list goes on and on. One thing that must be noted is that a person only needs to be educated once on what a QR Code is and how to scan it with their phone. Many of these huge brands are helping educate your home buyers and sellers on your behalf.
We are certainly at the infancy of the mobile web but this is where (and I think you would agree) all REALTORS need to be in the very near future. Lets assume that REALTORS agree with me and will develop their mobile website one way or another. Now the question becomes how do you get people there? The QR Code certainly seems like a legitimate link.
Thank you again for your post Jay.
Sincerely,
Erik
Well said Jay. I'm usually an advocate for anything mobile but I'm not on the QR code bandwagon either. It's not really solving a problem for the consumer… it's really a tool for businesses to collect info from consumers (or in the RE case, buyers). I've heard all sorts of arguments about speed or ease of access to info for consumers. Hmm… really? I see people fumbling around to load their QR code reader and align the image so it works. In that amount of time, I can launch my phone's browser and type in the URL… novel idea, right?
In my opinion, a better solution in real estate is to make use of a "mobile-friendly" URL shortener. Users know what to do and have to type less. Possibly couple that with some location-aware services and then you really have a powerful solution.
One follow-up comment… one place I do see usefulness in QR codes is when businesses send QR codes to consumers so they can redeem discounts or special offers directly from their phones. i.e. consumers flash their QR code to the cashier who scans it from the phone. This also works well at the airport… I've used QR code boarding passes and that's slick. But… that's not what you were talking about above.
Slam dunk quote of the day: "After all, you can talk on a smart phone too…"
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Slam dunk quote of the day: "After all, you can talk on a smart phone too…"
My recent post Real Estate Investors – Let Me Ask YOU A Question Or Two
A lot of agents have a tendency to overdo things to the point that you can't recognize the most valuable elements on their signs or even web sites. If I were a realtor, I'd like to test different signs and would start with a big prominent price tag, because that's the bottom line and that's what people want to know even if they are not curious enough to get out of their car to pickup a flyer.
May be in 2015 scanning QR code will be as easy as pointing your phone at the sign with immediate results, but till then, I would stay away from a big-ass QR code signs 🙂 Most of the information that agents provide on the sign is important, as well as flyers. I don't see a reason to make a 10×10 QR code, but I see how it can be of value to some people, and therefor it should be available.
Then again, what does your QR code provide? A link to your web site or to the Listing Details page that has more information then provided on your flyer? Agents' flyers are mostly marketing pieces that have a few selectively picked small images, crafted descriptions etc., but very often they don't provide all the details that the actual MLS does. I would link my QR code to the listing detail page that has everything from sales history, taxes, square footage of each room etc etc etc. A person that takes time to get out of the car to pickup a flyer, may as well take the time to scan the QR code of your sign/flyer to get all the details. I would say this person is a good prospect.
In Europe they have QR codes on bus stop banners and ads, but they are very small and serve as additional infomation and not as primary sign of geekiness 🙂 Besides, using dummed-down free tools to generate QR codes doesn't really define a high level of "geekiness" – a child can do the same 😉
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A lot of agents have a tendency to overdo things to the point that you can't recognize the most valuable elements on their signs or even web sites. If I were a realtor, I'd like to test different signs and would start with a big prominent price tag, because that's the bottom line and that's what people want to know even if they are not curious enough to get out of their car to pickup a flyer.
May be in 2015 scanning QR code will be as easy as pointing your phone at the sign with immediate results, but till then, I would stay away from a big-ass QR code signs 🙂 Most of the information that agents provide on the sign is important, as well as flyers. I don't see a reason to make a 10×10 QR code, but I see how it can be of value to some people, and therefor it should be available.
Then again, what does your QR code provide? A link to your web site or to the Listing Details page that has more information then provided on your flyer? Agents' flyers are mostly marketing pieces that have a few selectively picked small images, crafted descriptions etc., but very often they don't provide all the details that the actual MLS does. I would link my QR code to the listing detail page that has everything from sales history, taxes, square footage of each room etc etc etc. A person that takes time to get out of the car to pickup a flyer, may as well take the time to scan the QR code of your sign/flyer to get all the details. I would say this person is a good prospect.
In Europe they have QR codes on bus stop banners and ads, but they are very small and serve as additional infomation and not as primary sign of geekiness 🙂 Besides, using dummed-down free tools to generate QR codes doesn't really define a high level of "geekiness" – a child can do the same 😉
My recent post West Valley Market Conditions- November 2010
Haha, great article, and I think I'll agree with you. Why would QR codes be that useful in real estate? I mean, I can see applications for it, but it isn't a game changing development.
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Jay ~ Once again you write a post that has been right at the top of my mind! How do you do that?? I'm totally blown away by the hype surrounded by this thing. Does it have its uses? Sure. Is it the next best thing since sliced bread? Nope. It definitely isn't. Beats me why agents have gone overboard about it. It's another tool in our toolbox. Nothing more. Nothing less.
BTW, you actually had me laughing at the part where you used one at Best Buy. Yes, one can talk on smart phones too.:-)
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Your blog is very informative and appealing to the readers. It helps people in finding good property to invest on. Investing in properties is very risky and your blog helps the reader to minimize the risk they might face in buying one. There are properties in Spain that are good to for investment like in Costa del Sol Property. Thank you for sharing
Jay,
Good article and interesting views from your readers. So what do I think about QR codes? … well if you have a smartphone, they sure beat the heck out of pecking out almost any URL … and I haven’t yet found a faster way to get someone’s contact info into my phone. I think someone above asked why you’d want one on your business card? At least for me, i’ll put you’re contact info in my database for sure with a QR code, whereas with a business card, far less likely.
So can there be more hype? It’s possible, but let’s hope not. Let’s hope that the dialogue about and the use of QR Codes is more informed. They’re really about providing smartphone users with a way to obtain additional information without having to peck, backspace, end up at the wrong URL … we’ve all been there.
Yes, I’m on the QR Code bandwagon … just not the hyped-up wagon. ;D I’m all for giving customers options as to how they want to receive information, especially solutions that will save them time and help them make more informed decisions.
Funny story … over the last two weekends I was out supporting a few holiday events where I live and had probably a few hundred visitors pass by. Just as a test, I placed a QR Code inside an 8.5 x 11 lucite in a prominent location and not one person pulled out their smart phone to capture or even asked … “What is that?” So, “No”, my consumer clients really don’t care, yet, but my real estate professional business partners do … they’re looking for the best, most intelligent ways to utilize them to promote their business and like above, give their customers/clients options as to how to get the information they want.
So has anyone sold a home because of a QR Code; doubtful, but it does sound as though some have used them in their listing presentations and they at least thought that it may have had some impact in their success in getting the listing … my guess is that it would have been only marginally.
Where I would like to see the entire QR code dialogue go, though, is in the direction of WHAT are we sending the QR code user to? I find it absolutely insane when someone uses a QR Code to send a user to a site that isn’t mobilized … like the facebook post that uses a QR code to direct a reader to their blog article about QR Codes or whatever … only to have to pinch the screen, turn it sideways and scroll… scroll… scroll, pinch … “Heck i don’t want to read this anyway.”
Thanks again for your article, Jay … and let’s get ’em all to mobilize! ;D
Jay, thanks for your humor and good sense on the RQ code issue. Have read several posts (mostly from bloggers wanting blog food) and have even created several codes myself. Having them everywhere is certainly overkill. BUT, there may be good applications:
1.) put one behind the last flyer in the yard post flyer box directing visitor to an on line flyer. Granted, will have to be on 8.5 X 11, but may convey information until you can get more flyers printed.
2:) Where appointment only / 24 hour notice required situations exist (and they still do in SoCal – Minimally thank heavens), a link to a Virtual tour QR on the yard sign as a rider may encourage compliance with restrictive showing requirements…. if the home is "REALLY a winner".
Also, Love your new site format! Well done!
My recent post Claremont- CA Real Estate Market Report for November- 2010
as far as getting actual info about a house you're physically in front of, it's definitely one of the dumbest ideas ever invented. but for purposes of showing the house you're physically in front of to everyone you know on facebook, twitter, and god-knows-what-else, it'll probably catch on just fine.
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For anyone who actually keeps a contact database, QR codes on business cards are genius – instead of entering the information into my database, I just scan it into my phone. My smart phone is set up to automatically put it in my database (most database software has a mobile version/app that you can use for this). Put the QR code on the back of your card, using MeCard to generate it (the only one I've found so far that works for iPhone, Droid and Blackberry) and voila, your contact info is automatically scanned into your potential client's phone! They can just click your # to call you. Also, on listing signs, we use QR codes for the signs along the pedestrian/bike paths (we have a lot in our community). The code often just includes the MeCard to the listing agent's details…if the person is interested the agent's info is automatically in their phone.
Are QR codes being overhyped? Yes, and no. I look at it kind of like what happened with the iPhone when it came out. There was a lot of buzz and hype and at the same time a lot of naysayers. Now the smartphone market is exploding with many of the mobile phone manufacturers looking at doing away with the simple cellphones and just producing smartphones. Mobile marketing is starting to take off right now just like the Internet did about 10 years ago or so. So I think that in the next few years things like QR codes will become more and more a part of everyday life.
The points being made about QR codes are valid, right now, but this really is an early adopter technology at this point. Putting QR codes on signs may not result in every person who drives by that is interested pulling out their mobile phone to capture it. But hasn't anyone had a client who drove by a house that looked interesting to them stop to see if there were any flyers in the box (and then get annoyed there weren't any)? Or try calling the agent's number on the sign and either never get a call back or have to wait days to hear back? How about if they write down the address to try to find it online when they get home?
If they have a smartphone with a QR code reader they could just as easily pull out their phone, scan the code and then drive off and pull up the information on their phone when they get to where they are going.
The thing about QR codes is that they are just one part of mobile marketing. Some people may make them out to be THE next big thing but really they are just a part of the next big thing which is going to be mobile marketing.
Hmmmm …. where have I read a similar thought about QR codes.
Oh, yeah, that's right …
http://www.realestate1point5.com/2010/09/stepping…
Needless to say, I agree with you. 😉
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I think QR codes are all hype. I seriously doubt the general public in Phoenix will know what they are or how to use them. Even if they do know what they are, I agree with you that they will probably just pull a flyer instead. I just drove by a QR for sale sign in PV last week. It looked ridiculous. 10 x 10 was the majority of the sign.
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QR codes are ridiculous.
Twitter is ridiculous.
Facebook – who the hell knows, but my vote is it's equally as useless.
Real Estate agents are ridiculous lemmings. Always have been, apparently always will be.
Figure out a way to attract (and KEEP) lots of quality prospects and go sell some real estate. All the rest is a complete waste of time.
"QR Codes"….if I hear that BS one more time…
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I'm a real estate agent in Minneapolis, but I'm also a full-time engineer in the medical device arena. I've seen these QR codes for a long time to track assembly of medical devices, however, outside of that context, I'm not sure if I would recognize a huge QR code on a vehicle or yard sign. And if I did, I think I would more easily just make a note of the address to look up online, versus trying to scan the QR code in low-light conditions, or at night time, or snowing/raining, etc. Great post with lots of great illustrations as usual!
Merry Christmas Jay from TexasWildlifeGuy.com
Great post and as usual well thought out! I sell Texas ranches and am a Texas continuing education instructor. Being relatively new as a real estate licensee-less than 3 years (soon to change to being a broker Jan 6) I have pondered what tools and strategies I could apply that would be my POD (point of differentiation).
I am unique in Texas in one area of specialty ( I am a wildlife management consultant among Ranch REALTORs(r)) -Texas is the only state in the US that allows land to be appraised at a lower tax rate because the landowner is managing the land to benefit native Texas animals. (oops sorry -thought I was teaching in class) That skill set most definitely places me in a better position as compared to my senior more experienced (time in RE biz) contemporaries.
The market I cater to is 60 years old plus, wealthy and usually has an assistant of some sort help locate property and brokers.
QR Codes in my opinion are convenient for the consumer to use if an explanation is printed near the code explaining where to get a reader and what that code is for (video of property, etc) The great thing about a QR code is it's FREE.
It is a tool I plan on utilizing as one of my other PODs in my ranch business. I have beta tested the use of the QR codes in my wildlife management business and have gotten several clients because of how I used the code. It gave a “wow” factor to my clients.
In the residential market as one drives down a street and all they see are "normal real estate for sale signage" where is the visual POD? That QR code on the sign may get more views because it is viewed as a new and different way of marketing (at least in the US). The agent that is an early adopter could capture a neighborhood market by simply using a tool that differentiates him/her from the others in the area.
I call the QR code the techarrow in the quiver of arrows an agent carries to bag that ever illusive endangered species called the "dollar".
Jay thanks for sharing your thoughts and advice! Gregg Collum –aka TexasWildlifeGuy.
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There are some silly uses of QR codes, that's for sure. But they can be useful, too. The biggest problem is that they usually rather unattractive. Not always, though. Take a look at some of these wacky QR designs from BeQRious… wild stuff! (Of course, its gonna cost you!) http://www.beqrious.com/show/custom-qr-code-desig…
A tool is only as good as the carpenter using it. However, the number of tools pronounced to be essential has become dizzying. I am still trying to find a good place to buy some 8 track tapes (boy I need some new ones).
Disco Lives!
This is so true and I was wondering how many others felt the same way. I just do not get it. Mr. internet…we can forgive him as it is his job to prop up new ideas to brokers and sell his wares.
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I also agree with most of this article. But I have been in this business for over 24 years and have seen thing take off after I have said no way!
The only people I have seen in this industry excited about QR codes are the agents that are using QR codes. I have not heard from a buyer, seller, or general smart phone user that has had anything to say about them…good or bad.
QR Codes are just like websites. It they point to content that is useful to the user, then they are great. If they give irrelevant content they stink. The trick for marketers is to think through what a user standing in that place wants to know and provide it in creative and entertaining ways that link the user to you or your product.
If all you do is give an “ad” your client will feel like the boy in “A Christmas Story” when he finally get his Secret Society decoder from the Little Orphan Annie Radio Show. When he deciphers the code and it says “Drink More Ovaltine” he is disappointed. It took some of the luster off Annie for him. If I put a QR code out somewhere I need to give the person who takes the time to decode something he couldn’t have gotten otherwise that is useful to him.
Yeah, why qr codes, Text Message Marketing the service we affer is a million times better than qr.
Jason Forehand
Come on guy get up to date and stop being such a curmudgeon. You can bet your ass QR codes are no mere fad and will be used widely in the near future. Certainly they are not known to many folks now but thats changing quick. Your bad mouthing them sounds like my parents bad mouthing cell phones when they first came out. Or IBM’s famously shortsighted opinion of personal computers.
Jay,
Most of the new ideas in technology lead to the best long term strategies for generating leads in real estate. I find your post to be little bit negative. I get the feeling that many of those who have commented, struggle with implimenting new effective ideas. I am not using QR codes, yet, but I recognize that people want as much instant information as they can get. The QR code technology can deliver a very large volume of information with one click. I also see the younger generation more open to new changing technology. I understand your point of view, and I believe this post will be popular with those who grew up using MS-DOS.
Green real estate communication using QR Codes, SMS/MMS Text messaging. Auto schedule appointments, create an online presense with your mobileURL. BEST SEO search ranking and dynamic real estate listing updates to potential buyers, all done automatically from RealtyGo; Your real estate listings best friend!
You already have one of these http://WWW.?%&#@?.com You may as well have one of these too! Yes were referring to a QR Code. Its really that simple everyone. Why wouldn’t you use QR Codes? Its like every other new piece of technology that you say, “i’ll never use that, what a waste” then 2 months later you have 1,000 songs on your 2GM ipod nano and your 10 year collection of CD’s have been shelved, etc.. . Remember a good sales man uses tools that other people gravitate toward to be successful. Just because you may not believe QR Codes are a necessity right now doesn’t mean a first time buyer (which in 2010 was half of all the sales in the U.S. ; median age of 33) may prefer to use a QR Code to see all your listing info, use the complimentary mortgage calculator provided, get updated relevant information, photos, price, square footage and all your savvy online presence right from the get go without trying to track the listing agent down by phone or email. RealtyGo enables the end user to contact you when and how they feel comfortable doing so. If you just put your phone number on a sign, thinking ‘oh i’ll just wait by my phone every second of every day, being the best Agent there ever was’, etc.. then you are not only wasting your own valuable time, but doing a disservice to your career by making your self available by phone all the time, even neglecting continuing education classes or seminars due to the worry factor of not being able to answer each and every call on the first ring. Don’t act like you don’t know exactly what I’m talking about agents. It is humanly impossible to always be 100% available at all times for you real estate listings. I always think of the safe auto commercials that have been running lately, technology when you want it, people when you don’t! – such a great, great example of letting the end user decide, but make sure you offer all channels and make it count, you may only get one change to earn someone’s business or make a sale over a competitor in today limited resource market. RealtyGo boosts your web presence, makes all your real estate affairs look dynamite within any mobile device, Smartphones, iPads, Tablets, etc.. , and you can promote Green real estate communication in regards to your professional and responsible conscious business.
Get more, do less – RealtyGo – Your Real Estate Listings Best Friend! $9.99 a month!
I agree with everything written here about QR codes. I was just at a REMAX sales event and you would have thought these things are going to save us all. I just do short, simple, 3 page .mobi web sites with about 6 pics and a few graphs of info – put this web site address on a sign topper with the line “Take a Peek Inside.” These web sites are built – optimized for smart phones, so they load quick – no width scrolling needed and also have links to my blog and other web sites. I am getting hits to these sites but, again, i skipped the QR thing.
(and yes that is my name)
I am not in the RE industry but since October 2010, I have been looking at houses and condos. The most ANNOYING part in this market (Las Vegas) is the apathy on the part of the agents to actually show a house.
If I’m driving by, chances are the house is vacant so I can’t get out of the car and go look at it as suggested in the article other than peering in the windows and since most of the houses here are at least 2 story, I’d have to be Alice to see in the second floor.
2ndly.. I have zero desire to take the flyer if I don’t have too. Chances are it will be lost in the back seat of my car.
Ditto writing down the URL.
Lets face it… change is hard. Even if you are the most cutting edge geek. But having a QR code on the flyer that directs to the Youtube video of the house (and if you aren’t using a Flip to YouTube the house– you are farther behind than just QR codes) so i can get the specs & see inside without having to sit for 30 minutes to see if the RE agent is actually going to show up.
and that is the word from a buyer.
BTW.. I ended up with a condo from the owner because I couldn’t get the RE agent to do their work. No wonder we have 14K new houses/condos coming online vacant every month here in Vegas.
You should try http://www.SignQRcode.com they supply a customized QR code sticker for your Real Estate signs and Riders for under $20. No need to buy a new sign. Just add the sticker and you are all set. Thanks for an informative blog.
I just don’t get why everyone isn’t getting the QR Codes. People keep commenting about it beinbg new and people not knowing what to do with them . . . blah, blah, blah. Well, what else is new? People don’t know aout ANYTHING until some time has passed. Heck, there was a time when all businesses weren’t using regular bar codes. There was a time when most people didn’t have a cell phone. There was a time when everyone didn’t have a TV. So what. That doesn’t mean the item wasn’t useful to the people who did have it and know about it.
I think back to when I was looking for a house 5 years ago. I was only looking for new construction in a development. So mawny times I would visit a sales office when no one was there – for whatever reason. It is rare where I live that agents place brochures outside. Don’t know why. It just is. But if I could have scanned a QR Code to view a video of the property, it could have helped spur me to return & a possible sale. AND, I have the info in my phone to retrieve later. Goodness knows where a brochure would wind up. As it was, I never went back to some of those developments. Everyone talks about not needing a QR Code because you’re standing outside the home. But the agents are not there 24/7. In addition, we must keep in mind that everyone is NOT like us. People also said here that QR Codes are useless because we can just type in the web address. Typing in the URL might be quicker, but scanning the QR Code will be easier. I have a hard time typing on my phone with my fat fingers and w/o grabbing my bifocals, so if I can scan the code, it would be much better for me. We have to keep in mind that a QR Code would not be used in a vacuum. It would be (or should) be mixed in with other marketing. Then, let the consumer decide how they want to make contact. Call, scan, text – take your pick. I’ll close by saying omne of the best uses of QR Codes would be in fashion merchandising. People shopping can quickly scan the code and send the pic to a third party for a review and opinion. For me, this would have been helpful countless times. These codes can accomplish amazing things.
I must have missed the QR code lead capture part of the post. I think most people have failed to realize that QR codes are a great way to set up lead capture. Most people miss this step. A QR code with out lead capture is just as worthless as putting a for sale sign in a yard with out a phone number. I want people call for info. I want to try an sell them something. I have a quick little video about how we do this. share if you like. http://goo.gl/jqVgZ
Those who are capable of smartphone + QR code usage at this moment are not capable of buying a house yet. We have to wait for these young “educated” ones get to that stage of life, but by then, NFC or something else will take over the hype and QR code will be down in the shadow already…
Csi signs have the best real estate signs in Indiana.
use of qr codes is generational…the younger client uses it.
as far as real estate.
I have a qr code on my office sign that will take a scanner to my website. I’m on the lake!..I have a qr code that takes a client to a search with all the listings on that lake branded to me!. I think the qr code use will continue to grow as the age that uses it gets older!