In today’s digital age, marketing has become easier and more accessible for home builders. With the rise of technology and the changing preferences of consumers, traditional methods of marketing are no longer enough to stay ahead of the competition. That’s where SMS marketing comes in.
Today’s consumers are constantly connected to their phones, and SMS marketing for home builders is quickly becoming a powerful tool to reach potential buyers where they are. SMS marketing allows builders to connect with potential customers, keep current ones informed, and ensure their message is heard.
Ready to get started with text message marketing? This guide will explain how home builders can use SMS marketing to boost their business and connect with customers.
Understand your audience
Before you start SMS marketing, it is important to understand your audience. Who are they? What are their needs and wants? What is their communication preference? Do they prefer text messages to emails or phone calls? You can get this information through surveys or by analyzing your customers’ behavior. Once you have a better understanding of your audience, you can create targeted SMS campaigns that are more likely to grab their attention and interest.
Build your subscriber list
The success of your SMS marketing campaign depends on the quality and size of your subscriber list. You can build this list by promoting it on your website, social media, and other marketing materials. Offer incentives for signing up like VIP access to updates, promotions, and special offers. Be sure to communicate the value of subscribing to your texts, and make it easy for them to opt into and out of this service.
Segment your contacts and personalize your messages
The next step is to segment them into different groups based on their interests and where they are in the home buying process. This allows you to send personalized and relevant messages. For example, if someone is interested in buying their first home, you can send them messages that provide tips for first-time homebuyers.
Craft compelling messages
SMS messages should be concise and straight to the point. That’s why it’s essential to craft compelling messages that are engaging and informative. Keep the message simple and easy to understand and use action-oriented language to encourage customers to take action. Always include a call-to-action, such as clicking a link to your website, scheduling a tour, or contacting you for more information.
Timing is key
Timing is everything when it comes to SMS marketing. You don’t want to bombard your subscribers with too many messages, but sending timely and relevant messages can help keep your brand top of mind. For instance, if you have a new development in the works, you can send a sneak peek to your subscribers before it’s announced to the general public. You can also use SMS to promote open houses, share photos of available homes, and send reminders about mortgage application deadlines.
Avoid sending messages too frequently or at inconvenient times, such as early in the morning or late at night. Consider your audience’s schedule and behavior when determining the best time to send messages. Experiment with timing and analyze the results to determine the optimal schedule for your SMS campaigns.
Use sms as part of a bigger marketing campaign
SMS marketing is just one component of your overall marketing strategy. It should be used in conjunction with other tactics, such as social media, email campaigns, and paid advertising.
Measure your results
It’s crucial to measure the results of your SMS campaigns to determine their effectiveness. Use analytical tools to track open rates, click rates, conversion rates, and unsubscribe rates. Analyze the data to identify what’s working and what’s not. Use this information to improve future campaigns and make data-driven decisions.
How to use SMS marketing messaging
Now that you know how to start building your SMS marketing program, here are some messages you can build your strategy around.
Promotions and special offers
One of the most effective ways to use SMS marketing for home builders is by sending promotions and special offers directly to your customer’s phone. This can incentivize potential buyers to act quickly and reach out to schedule a consultation or visit your models. Sending deals on quick move-in homes or packages on upgrades can create a sense of urgency and drive action from your customers.
Meeting reminders
Home buyers often need to schedule many meetings, like consultations, showroom visits, or other appointments. Sending messages with reminders can help ensure these meetings are not forgotten and improve the likelihood that the prospect will show up. It is an effective way to keep in touch with leads and manage scheduling.
Follow-up with recent visitors
Sending SMS follow-up messages to recent visitors to your model or sales centers helps keep your company top of mind. It’ also shows you care about their business. Following up can also serve as an opportunity to gauge interest and schedule more substantial appointments for the future.
Communication with existing customers
Once your buyers move into their new homes, they still want to hear from you. SMS messages serve as a great way to make announcements on events, create surveys, ask for referrals, review comments on their experience, and generally maintain a relationship with your homebuyers.
SMS marketing can be a game-changer for home builders looking to increase sales and promote brand awareness. It’s an effective way to reach potential buyers and nurture relationships with current homeowners. Whether you are a large national builder or a small private company, integrating SMS messaging into your marketing strategy is a business decision that should not be ignored.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new strategies to optimize your SMS marketing efforts. With the right approach and mindset, SMS marketing can help you reach your goals and stay ahead of the competition.
Boost your digital marketing strategy in 2024
Graphic Language has helped homebuilders thrive online for the past 27 years with thoughtful and creative marketing strategies that drive real-world results. We can partner with you to boost your digital marketing strategy in 2024. Contact us today to schedule an exploratory call to see how we can help.