QR Codes in Real Estate Marketing

Quick poll:

1) Have you ever heard of/seen something called a QR code?

2) Do you currently use a QR code reader on your smart phone?

3) Would you utilize QR codes when looking for your next house?


A QR code, short for Quick Response, is a type of two-dimensional barcode. First developed in Japan to track inventories, the technology is quickly gaining ground here in the states through a wide variety of applications. Not the least of which is mobile marketing, essentially a quick and convenient way to transfer information from a print advertisement to your mobile phone using the device's camera. Whether you know of them or not, you're likely to see more in the near future as marketers here in the US begin to find more uses for the technology.

As this recent trend makes its way into the world of real estate, agents like this one (doing the double thumb point to myself) are looking for ways to implement the technology that will add value to the home buying/selling experience. Some of the ways I've seen them used in real estate marketing are on flyers leading the customer to a listing's information page, or even business cards leading to an agent's personal website. Another use, that I find particularly useful, is on a yard sign in front of a listing that will direct the buyer to a webpage with additional information, pictures or a virtual tour. I do think you will begin to see more and more of these to advertise listings, but I also realize that not every buyer has the capability to read the codes on their phone. Therefore, I think it will be a while (if ever) that they make some of the traditional forms of marketing, such as, the "24 hour voice recording" obsolete.

Would you find these uses for QR codes helpful? Or do you have other ideas? I would love to hear from you, so please leave a comment.

Posted by Mike Cromie on Beyond Realty - St. Louis Real Estate Blog.

Tips For Home Buyers #3

Check your cellular phone coverage.

Imagine you just closed on a new home and have been handed the keys. Maybe the moving van is out front and you're starting to unpack some boxes. You couldn't be more excited. Perhaps you want to share your excitement, so you call a friend or loved one.

But wait a minute. What? This can't be. Nooooooooo!

Not a pleasant time discover that you receive little or no signal on your cell phone at the new house. I recommend checking to make sure you get decent reception at any house you're considering before signing a contract. To some, this may only be a minor factor in choosing the right house. But, if you're like me and don't use a landline, it could be something you need to seriously consider.

It only takes a second, so next time you're at a showing or open house, make sure to check how many bars your getting while walking through the house.

Posted by Mike Cromie on Beyond Realty - St. Louis Real Estate Blog.