You know the feeling when you're trying to choose the perfect Netflix series to binge-watch? The sheer amount of options can be overwhelming. Well, finding the right apartment marketing agency for your apartment might give you a similar vibe. But don't worry; we're here to walk you through this process with this simple guide. Whether you're on a mission to fill those vacant apartments, attract more potential tenants, solve problems, or just save precious time and resources, a great marketing partner can be your game-changer. So, let's dive in.
Think of an apartment marketing agency as the Avengers of the marketing world. They specialize in digital marketing for apartments, using their superpowers to help property owners and managers with lead generation, branding, and operational efficiency. Their mission? Attract leads, create irresistible content, and ensure your occupancy rates hit peak performance.
When choosing an agency, look for one with experts in design, online ads, content, and analytics. These experts create visually appealing ads, engage your target audience, and refine campaigns based on data. Many agencies outsource a lot of work over seas to save money on labor -- be sure to ask who will be working on your account so you understand what type of service your project will be getting.
They should excel in online marketing, staying up to date on the latest in SEO, online ads, and social media. These tools are always changing, so be sure you find a team who stays up to date on what's current in the market.
You want an agency that really knows your target market. There are many multifamily "marketing" services out there with low rates and cookie cutter packages, and they can work great for cookie cutter apartments, but many situations call for more than cookie cutter marketing. For example, unique buildings, premium or luxury builds, properties in crowded markets, or Lease Up projects can all benefit from hands on marketing.
Choose an agency that uses creative strategies and visuals to make your property stand out. They should be the artists in your marketing masterpiece.
Just like the Avengers work together as a team, good communication between your property management team and the agency is vital. Find an agency that values this partnership and invites your input. Regular communication and collaboration help you achieve better results.
At Lease Engine, we meet with our partners and clients between 1 and 4 times per month, on top of ongoing communication via email or Slack. This focus on face time and active communication allows us to fully understand how our work impacts their business, keeps us aligned, and helps us to address threats or take advantage of opportunities faster. It also helps our clients understand what's going on with the marketing front.
Different agencies will have different pricing strategies. Cookie cutter agencies will likely be the most affordable, but you may be trading off face to face time with your agency, or custom solutions that truly fit your market. Other times, big name agencies will command a very high price point that will feel out of touch for the average management companies.
At Lease Engine, we are somewhere in between.
Apartment marketing can be complex, and a good agency will take their time to understand your unique situation and the resources you already have in place before giving you a quote. Regardless of the type of agency you decide to go with, make sure the agency is clear about their pricing -- this helps you budget and understand the return on your investment. Avoid agencies with hidden costs or unclear pricing structures.
Find an agency that aligns with your company's culture. If you are a numbers oriented firm, it might make sense to go with a numbers driven agency. If you value relationships more than anything else, find an agency with similar values.
Look for an agency that uses data to make informed decisions and track results. For many campaigns, there is a lot on the line. Find a partner who looks at the data with a critical eye -- this helps you measure success and helps the agency optimize your budget.
Consider agencies that offer a range of services, from branding to online marketing. This ensures a coordinated approach that resonates with your target audience.
Look for agencies that can demonstrate increased lead numbers, higher occupancy rates, and improved conversion rates in their portfolio. This is key to success in a competitive market.
Your agency isn't just a service provider; they're your partner in marketing success. Whether you're just starting the search for a new agency or evaluating your current one, remember these insights to guide you in making informed decisions. In today's competitive real estate market, it's all about choosing the right team to save the day.