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Hit Router - How To Set Up Your Own Click Campaign

This is much simpler than you may think, so don't complicate it or get frustrated until you have reviewed this entire post.  This was written to walk you through the process with little or no pain.  Let's see how I do.

Hit Router is really a simple Pay Per Click system, very similar to Google Ad Sense and Ad Words, the difference is that it is housed within the AR Network and it revolves around members Blog pages and IDX Listing Sites.  The traffic this will help generate to your sites will be easy and measurable now.

  • Members can buy visitors/traffic to their IDX sites for $x.xx amount per click-through which is determined by amount needed to be bid to win the auction. (like Ad Words).  

  • Members who have visitors land on their blog pages who subsequently search for property in a city (outside of their own market place)  get credited a % of the $x.xx amount.  
  • Members can then use those credits to purchase visitors/traffic back to their IDX sites, and so on...

Another major highlight to this Hit Router program is that we have other resources who will buy any traffic AR members don’t choose for themselves, yet the AR member delivering the traffic will still receive the credit into their account.  This is a win win for you and for them.

IMPORTANT NOTE

The "Hit Router" will ONLY show up on your pages when LOGGED OUT of ActiveRain.

Follow these 5 steps to setup your own campaigns for your market areas.


This next post will show you How to "Opt-Out" but I can't see any reason you would.  :-)


Related Posts:

The ActiveRain Hit Router

The Hit Router (Video) Whiteboard Explanation

Hit Router - How To Setup & Save Your Own Traffic

Hit Router How To Opt Out

 

 

 

          

 

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138 commentsBrad Andersohn • October 29 2008 12:56AM

Comments

Brad- In the true spirit of Active Rain! Paying it forward by rewarding those who contribute to Active Rain. This is truly appreciated likewise.

Posted by Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Homes For Sale (International Properties and Investments LLC) over 3 years ago

I just played with it.  The ease of use is incredible.  I really thought I would be confused, but I wasn't. 

Thanks so much!

Edit: Finished it all, once again, easy!  However the search link box isn't showing anywhere.  (I do have the box in settings clicked)  Could the customizer be interfering with it?

Posted by Kris Wales - Macomb County MI real estate blog & homes for sale search site (Keller Williams Realty - Lakeside Market Center) over 3 years ago

Kris, I am having the same problem, the box was there when I logged on. Then went and set up my campaigns, then my cities and the box is gone.

Posted by Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor-Realtor® Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams-Ann Arbor) over 3 years ago

I think you worked late into the night! Thanks for all the new features.

Posted by Shane O'Gorman Eau Claire Wisconsin Real Estate Agent & Realtor- Buy or Sell (Eau Claire Realty, Inc.) over 3 years ago

Brad - I have mine set up and DONE !!  Check out my latest post as I have a small question - when you have some time....   Thanks

Posted by Christine Bohn, Gainesville, FL Realtor® (RE/MAX Professionals) over 3 years ago

"Another major highlight to this Listing Router program is that we have other resources who will buy any traffic AR members don’t choose for themselves, yet the AR member delivering the traffic will still receive the credit into their account. This is a win win for you and for them."

I'm very much in favor of everyone winning but could we please have some examples of who the other 'winners' are?

Posted by Jim Lee, Seacoast Realtor Portsmouth, NH, Jewel of the NH Seacoast (RE/MAX Coast to Coast) over 3 years ago

Brad, right now I'm directing traffic to my broker's IDX site.  How do I change the url when I get IDX set up on my own website?

Posted by Heather Goodwin Nest Realty (Licensed in Louisiana, USA) over 3 years ago

Heather:    Once you get IDX set up on your own site, just log  back in to AR and change it in the campaigns and settings. 

Go to to your own website after you've installed the IDX and pretend you are a consumer.  Click on your search for homes feature and copy the address in the URL bar at the top of your screen.

Then paste that address into the settings of the listing router campaign on AR and save it.

Hope this helps!

Posted by Kris Wales - Macomb County MI real estate blog & homes for sale search site (Keller Williams Realty - Lakeside Market Center) over 3 years ago

Katerina - thanks, this is 110% value to AR members.  Creating clicks to strong "lead capturing" IDX sites is the key to helping members convert clicks to leads and leads to clients. 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Another way to aide in the battle, thanks.....

When does this happen and will it be rolled out like the Localism states?

Posted by Dan Brudnok-REALTOR,e-PRO,ABR,GREEN,CSP Chester County RE Professional (Keller Williams RE- Exton - PA License Number #RS225179L ) over 3 years ago

Kris - just hang in there, I just got an error page which means they are working on it now.  They just launched at midnight so I'm sure a few of our guys had to pull an all-nighter.  It will be up shortly.  I have seen it a couple times already, but then it disappeared.  Hang in there, be patient, you've got your part done now.  It really was pretty easy huh?  Awesome!  Mine is setup too, just waiting to see it now....   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad, this all seems clear enough. I should be able to get it set up w/out driving you crazy! Thank you.

Posted by Connie Harvey Realtor Nashville TN Real Estate (Pilkerton Realtors) over 3 years ago

Missy - You broke it, good going!!!  LOL~ 

You know how these things go, it will be up as soon as they wake up and realize it's not there.  haha!  :-))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Shane - how did you guess?  I actually passed out before I could finish the 3rd tutorial and send out the newsletter last night.  I normally only do 2-3 posts per week, but 3 in one day?  Yup, wore me out for sure.  Got a good night sleep though, and now I'm ready to go.... well, after I go get some coffee   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Christine - I'll be right over shortly, gotta try and get a couple thing fixed here real quick.  My "Search For Homes" box and "custom link" have gone MIA, they must be hiding with the "Blogs" link somewhere this morning!  LOL~

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad -  Ok here goes I'm diving in. Let's hope this works. Love the concept. Bob H

Posted by Robert and Lisa Hammerstein, Realtors® Coldwell Banker, Pascack Valley Area (Bergen County New Jersey Homes For Sale 201-218-6802) over 3 years ago



IMPORTANT NOTE TO ALL MEMBERS
 

The "Listing Router" will ONLY show up on your pages when LOGGED OUT of AR.

Currently, the Listing Router is displayed only to consumers. There's little value in showing a listings search to our logged-in members :) The customized link is also meant to be displayed exclusively to consumers. We wanted our members to be able to continue playing in the rain without the distraction of a floating bar at the top of every page that would have absolutely no value to them. Hope this makes sense.  :-)

 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

This is great!  I've set it up, and already cost myself $3.78 while testing it.  Oh well, a small price to pay and at least I know it's working! 

Brad, you must be exhausted!  If I could, I'd buy you a big cup of coffee and supply some toothpicks to prop your eyelids open after working so hard on this stuff.  :-)   Thanks!

Posted by Jeannie Kontis over 3 years ago

Hi Brad, I set up Naples, Florida and put in my website link and my credit card info and clicked on start the campaign and I must have done something wrong....it didn't work because when I logged out and did the search for Naples it said no city found...then I sent a help email to active rain and got an email back that I was spaming....can you help me I am blond so I must be having a blond day....Thanks Ginny Lee

Posted by Ginny Lee, CRS,Americas Best Agent,Naples,FL (Americas Best Agents, Inc) over 3 years ago

Jim - that information has not been disclosed at this point, but not to worry, just go ahead and setup your campaigns, then we'll see what areas are not being serviced by our members.  The roll-out on this will take a few days, so be patient.  I'll keep you posted as information becomes available. Thanks.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I got mine all set up and it seems to be working fine.

I do have one question through: "Another major highlight to this Listing Router program is that we have other resources who will buy any traffic AR members don’t choose for themselves, yet the AR member delivering the traffic will still receive the credit into their account. This is a win win for you and for them."

I'm unclear at to how this works.

Could you please expand on this also answer who the "other resources" might be?

Thanks in advance.

Posted by Jim Lee, Seacoast Realtor Portsmouth, NH, Jewel of the NH Seacoast (RE/MAX Coast to Coast) over 3 years ago

Heather - see comment by Kris, that's how you'll change your campaign.  Remember to Logout of AR if you want to test the Search Feature and your Customized link.

@Kris - thanks for your fast response to Heather, I'm trying to manage comments on three posts today. LOL~  You're my new assistant, checks in the mail.  :-)))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Dan - it's "LIVE" now.

We launched at midnight PDT.  If you need any help, just let me know.  Seems to be working well, some members are already having searches done from their pages.  That was fast!!  Looking forward to "Success Stories" popping up shortly all over the "rain!"  :-))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Connie - "CRAZY" is my middle name LOL, I'm here if you need any help at all.  It really is simple to setup and easy for consumers to use.  Just remember, the power of your IDX site is SOOOOO Important.  If your IDX site does not have a good "LEAD GENERATION" tool setup, you won't experience the true value we're hoping this tool will deliver. 

IDX Lead Generation is really the key to the success of every members' Listing Router.  I know many members are looking at their IDX sites now, and testing them like a consumer to see whether or not they are capable of generating leads, or just letting visitors browse listings, and then move on.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Jeannie - you are so sweet, thanks for that comment, it really is the most rewarding part of my job getting comments like that from you.  You're the best!!  Let's see if we can't generate a couple leads and a closing by the time that $3.78 gets to around $50.00.  Another small price to pay for a 6% commission and a closing on a $1,000,000.00 home!!!  :-O

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Bob - this is where I get to say, "The Cat Came Back" right?  LOL!  Let me know if you need any help my friend.  Operators are standing by....   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Ginny - let me go have a look.  I'll try it from your page and see what I come up with....  Be right back...   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Ginny - here it is, works like a charm.  Took me to your IDX site too.... I almost bought a house!  LOL~  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad, what I'm not getting is how the system decides who gets the referral when there are more than one person competing for a market.  For example, if I go to some "do-nothing" members in my market (who haven't set up listing router) and enter a city I've set up on the click program, I get redirected to another agent in my market.  Then I go to another members profile and so the same thing, and am redirected to an IDX page from an office not even in our market.  Is this a round robin?  I don't see any place where I can up my bid to get first crack at leads.  What am I missing?

Thanks as always,

Jef

Posted by Jeff R. Geoghan - Marketing Evangelist and VP (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) over 3 years ago

Brad, I am all set up - and have checked out my "free" cities - but I don't want to check out the Click Campaign - don't want to pay that fee! How do we know it is working?

Posted by Jo Soss | Designated Broker West and South Puget Sound (HomeFront Realty) over 3 years ago

Getting lots of error messags. 

Posted by Ken Montville -- the MD Suburbs of DC (RE/MAX Advantage Realty) over 3 years ago

here we go, i hope i need 2 umbrellas from all the rain.

Posted by Overland Park Real Estate and Homes for sale :: Michael Russell (Overland Park KS Realty Executives ) over 3 years ago

Thanks for the easy to follow instructions but Ill try back, still getting error messages.

Posted by DeAndrea "Dee Dee" Jones (Blu Skyy Realty, The Hampton Roads Real Estate Lady! ) over 3 years ago

Jeff - let me explain the best I can here.  If I understand correctly what you're asking (which I may not) First, you won't be searching other members sites, we're only talking about your Blog, profile and posts.  If you go search another "Do Nothing" member who has not setup listing router on their site, you'll be directed to either someone who has, or to a third party site that has taken the opportunity to offer listings in that area.  You will still be credited for the lead coming from the search that was done on your site. 

The idea of the campaign is to generate searches on other members sites to your IDX site via the CPC campaign you setup in that particular city.  Let me know if that makes sense, if not, I'll try another way.  Be sure to watch Bob's video, and Read Jeff's post too, they both did a great job explaining how this all works, I'm just the tutorial guy on this round!  :-))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Jo - just logout of AR and go test it out.  You'll know it's working by going to your Blog or Profile, doing a search, then seeing that it lands you on your IDX landing page, or wherever you are sending traffic.  You have to logout of AR first to test it.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Ken - I have only heard that from a couple members, it may be your browser, but I'll make sure they look into it.  Can you help us out by letting me know where you are getting errors?  Can you be a bit more specific? I used to be good at reading others minds, but then I switched to the internet which unfortunately lost all my special super hero powers. LOL.  :-) 

Let me know and we'll take a look to see if it's the network or something on your computer.  Thanks.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Michael - Sing in the rain my friend, sing sing sing.  Throw the umbrellas out, go ahead and get wet and have fun while doing it!  :-))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Dee Dee - can you tell me where you're getting errors?  Since you're making me guess, I'll just throw this out there.  Try restarting your computer first.  Second, try clearing your cache in your Browsers memory.  Third, try switching to a real browser like Firefox.  Fourth, take two aspirin and call me in the morning.  A fifth! Only drink a fifth if one through four aren't working.  LOL~ 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Still not getting the concept with the search campaigns.  Here's the scenario:

  1. Customer is looking at your blog (or any other member's who hasn't set up for my city) and types in my city in the property search bar.
  2. There are 4 activerain agents who have claimed my city as a paid campaign.
  3. The system redirects the customer to who?  Is it a rotation?  points?

I actually tried this on your blog, Brad and was redirected to a competitor of mine, even though I had a campaign set up for that city.  I don't see any option to up my per-click bid a la Google to beat out my competitor.  I tried a few others and got redirected to some other IDX pages of brokers who apparently have claimed my city as well.

Does this make more sense? 

Posted by Jeff R. Geoghan - Marketing Evangelist and VP (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals) over 3 years ago

I am sooo excited about this!!

Posted by Katharine Carey (eXp Realty) over 3 years ago

How do you delete a campaign? The campaign I created only captured the http:// and nothing else...

Posted by Brett over 3 years ago

Brett - I can tell by your comment you're not logged in. Login first, then go to your "My Home" page, then click "Listing Router" on the left side of your screen, then just remove or delete the campaign or edit it to show the full URL of your IDX site.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Hi Brad...I'm set up, Lets keep our fingers Crossed, It should also help with our SEO in Google. I'm not using the idx link as all the listing agent have their links on eachMLS listing etc, so I forwarded the link to my listing page on my points2 site which can capture leads.

Oh... will the different communities in our towns and cities be listed too?

Posted by Victoria Realtor Fred Carver ACRE 250-598-2963 Accredited Consultant (Re/Max Camosun Real Estate) over 3 years ago

I'm pretty excited, not quite "sooo excited" yet. ;-)

If it generates some actual cash I can deposit in my bank I will then become very, very excited.

Posted by Jim Lee, Seacoast Realtor Portsmouth, NH, Jewel of the NH Seacoast (RE/MAX Coast to Coast) over 3 years ago

Hey Jeff - makes much more sense, thanks for the clarification, it will be based on rotation. You can't beat out a bid or bid a higher amount.  The points only help get you discounts when setting up campaigns.

 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad:

My cities don't show up when I enter them. Then what do I do?

Richard

Posted by Richard Stabile Bergen County New Homes Builder Realtor (REMAX real estate associates) over 3 years ago

Fred - just cities right now.  I'm glad you have some type of lead capture on your site, otherwise it may be hard to track whose coming to your site that's serious about buying homes.  The SEO is cool too, but not as cool as clicks and leads and closings!  (Huge Smile)  :-))

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Jim - you need to get Soooo Excited, unless of course you don't get paid from leads converted to closings!  That's as good as money in the bank if you ask me.  The winners of the Olympic Gold Medals had to get excited before the race too right?  Better get excited my friend.  I would.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Richard, just type the City name, no spaces, and click search. (No State) They should show up in links below the search box.  If not, let me know what Cities, and I'll take a look for ya. 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad.. this all looks great.. just alot to take in. I look forward to this program

Posted by Roland Woodworth,SFR - Clarksville Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (Keller Williams Realty) over 3 years ago

Mana - I see you were here then gone. Let me know you got the credit card thing worked out ok? Thanks. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Roland - I understand, let me know if you need any assistance at all. 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad - This is just awesome.  I got everything set up early this morning with ease.  There were a few glitches with some error messages but I found if I just logged out and logged back in again, everything was working fine.  I'm sure we'll be hearing some great success stories from this in the very near future.  Thanks for the great tutorials you put together! :-)

Posted by Donna Bigda REALTOR® Greater New Haven CT Homes & Condos (RE/MAX Alliance) over 3 years ago

AR as usual has stepped the game up a notch and brought a well timed service for all of us. Lets see how everyone does and good luck

Posted by James Engel KW Beverly Hills (Keller Williams Realty Beverly Hills) over 3 years ago

This is worth looking into.

Posted by Kevin Wood, Tucson, AZ Realtor (Keller Williams Southern Arizona) over 3 years ago

Brilliant! So when you set up your budget amount.........do you do that by credit card?........I guess I should go look before I ask huh? lol

Posted by Liz Moras ~ Chilliwack Realtor, Garrison Crossing,Chilliwack, Abbotsford (Harrison Hot Springs, Cultus Lake) over 3 years ago

Your blog has been really helpful. thak you for looking out for all of us who are trying to catch on-Dinah

Posted by Dinah Lee Griffey (Windermere Peninsula Properties) over 3 years ago

Donna - we're all looking forward to YOUR success stories, so don't make us wait too long!!!  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

James - it will be interesting to see for sure, but I don't think luck has as much to do with it as skill, planning, preparing, and implementation. We are most definitely stepping the game up a notch. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Kevin - I would do more than just look into it.  It took me two days to write these posts, you better get your butt in there and start getting some leads and closing some deals dog-gonnit!!  LOL~

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Liz - you can setup your campaigns and use your credit card, but the first 2 weeks are free.  I just added that to this post about an hour ago. (Got Jon's Blessings on that one) The clock is ticking so go for it, see what you can generate over the next couple weeks. Be sure to report back here and let me know, I don't want to have to come looking for you.... :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Dinah - if you're reading this post, you're caught on and up with the rest of us already.  Just let me know if there's anything you don't understand about all this Listing Router stuff, I have become an expert in the last 48 hours!!  haha  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Can I sign on in a couple of weeks - I know I won't get the free period.  But I'm changing things around and the new IDX will be up shortly.  I don't want to swtich around just for a week or so.   Thanks for the advice.....I think this is very exciting.  I was getting pretty poor traffic - which is why I've backed off so much.  Too much work, for not much results. This might be helpful with respect to traffic.

Posted by Ruthmarie Hicks (Keller Williams Realty - White Plains NY) over 3 years ago

Can I sign on in a couple of weeks - I know I won't get the free period.  But I'm changing things around and the new IDX will be up shortly.  I don't want to swtich around just for a week or so.   Thanks for the advice.....I think this is very exciting.  I was getting pretty poor traffic - which is why I've backed off so much.  Too much work, for not much results. This might be helpful with respect to traffic.

Posted by Ruthmarie Hicks (Keller Williams Realty - White Plains NY) over 3 years ago

I'm almost there.  I keep getting 'kicked out' when inputting my information.  Probably a result of thousands of members trying to input theirs as well.  I'm excited about the prospects of this new tool.  ;)

Posted by Colleen Lane Kennewick Realtor® 509.438.9344 www.LaneRealEstateTeam.com (Kennewick Richland (and West) Pasco WA Homes For Sale) over 3 years ago

Makes sense for members to get their points increased.  So if I get to 200K my discount will be much better.  I love the way AR always has incentives built in for members.  Keeps up motivated as well as interested.

Posted by Diane Bell, Hilton Head Real Estate, Bluffton (Charter 1 Real Estate, Hilton Head, Bluffton, SC) over 3 years ago

Brad, your explanations are always so clear cut.  Now... if I can just find time to read all these posts and get started (in the midst of changing companies).

Posted by Margaret Woda, Maryland Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., Crofton, MD) over 3 years ago

Although this does not effect me, I think its a great option and hopefully your Realtors see the benefits.  I watched the video completely by Bob Stewart which provides a very basic, simple, and detailed explanation of how this system works.  Excellent idea for Realtors.

Posted by John Cannata - Supreme Lending Frisco Texas Home Loan Originator (214-728-0449 http://TexasLoanGuy.com) over 3 years ago

Brad... where do you see the credits?  Do you have to give your credit card before you see any of this info... I can't believe you work so hard... Do you ever ever sleep

Posted by Judy Greenberg- Coldwell Banker- Buffalo Grove- Long Grove Homes for Sale (Coldwell Banker Buffalo Grove- 350 Half Day Road ) over 3 years ago

agents can not have a separate IDX in our mls... I don't believe that has changed anyway.  We have to display the brokers IDX.

;- (

Posted by Maureen McCabe Columbus Ohio real estate (Real Living HER - HER Realtors) over 3 years ago

Excellent idea, sorta like showing a consumer what they are going to see, before they give up their email and phone number. Very wise of the AR dudes to do this.

Posted by Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor-Realtor® Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams-Ann Arbor) over 3 years ago

Hi Brad...I clicked through twice and billed myself, oh well, I just wanted to check to see it was working. Looks great, still no SEO boost from Google ...Yet. I'm on the edge for traffic being outside the USA and most members in AR, however I still want to try it for a while,

Cheers, thanks everyone at AR, Thanks for thinking about us.

Posted by Victoria Realtor Fred Carver ACRE 250-598-2963 Accredited Consultant (Re/Max Camosun Real Estate) over 3 years ago

Brad, one more question...

I did get the IDX part but it took me to start a campaign five times to get the right one. Will AR charge my bank for all of those times? The campaign does not allow to the option to correct any mispellings in the IDX URL - that is why I did it four times before the 5th time was correct.

Also, I did a search for my city and another company came out which I understand that every city search will go to the next company 'in line' but I also noticed that by searching for myself to see when I will come up next and to test the system, has this added or deleted money towards the campaign? Is this money added or deducted from the company that I did a search on? I didn't mean to do that, just testing the system...thanks!

Posted by Diana Perez (Majestic Properties) over 3 years ago

Very cool Brad! I think that I like the Listing Router concept. As I told Rich, I think that a strong call to action at the top of the page is a good thing for everybody. Keep that AR think tank going guys!

Posted by Ryan Martin - Bellingham Commercial RE Broker (Windermere Real Estate / Whatcom Inc.) over 3 years ago

I just set myself up. Thanks so much for the simple instructions.  I will see what happens next.  :)>  KM

Posted by Kristin Moran, San Antonio,TX~Real Estate 210-313-7397 (Owner - RE/MAX Access - KristinMoran@Remax.net) over 3 years ago

Brad,

I believe I got it up.....we"ll see....thanks for the assist.

Posted by Dan Brudnok-REALTOR,e-PRO,ABR,GREEN,CSP Chester County RE Professional (Keller Williams RE- Exton - PA License Number #RS225179L ) over 3 years ago

Brad - A little bit overwhelming but I did signed up for the listing router, I don't see it showing up on my outside blog and on localism?

Posted by Petra Norris - Lakeland Florida Realtor® Lakeland FL Homes for Sale (CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.) over 3 years ago

Brad-  I entered the setup, for my own traffic, the other day.  Today, I tried to take you up on your offer to set up a free pay-per-click trial.  I've filled it out a half dozen times, but each time I've gotten the dreaded proxy error when I've hit "start campaign."  :-(

Hopefully, I'll be able to get it entered before the trial period is over.

Posted by Marilyn Katz - ABR, e-PRO - WestportCTProperties.com (The Heddings Property Group, LLC) over 3 years ago

Brad- Ignore above comment,  I tried, one more time.  Not only did it take, but the campaign showed up twice.

I know...I've already suspended one of the entries...it wouldn't be fair to be the first AND second choice, in my market ;-)

Posted by Marilyn Katz - ABR, e-PRO - WestportCTProperties.com (The Heddings Property Group, LLC) over 3 years ago

Brad - my campaign won't start... need HELP.  E00027

Posted by Georgina M. Hunter R(S) e-Pro Maui Real Estate Sales (Jim Sanders Realty Inc. - Maui) over 3 years ago

Brad- Looks promising but since I do not have an IDX feed I am not sure I can use the router to my advantage. Fred mentions pointing it to our Point2 sites to capture leads. I am confused can we do this?

Thanks,

Scott

Posted by Scott Cowan (RE/MAX Four Seasons) over 3 years ago

Brad, Thanks so much for this! I can require sign in when someone goes to my site to search for listings, but when I use the same idx link here, it seems to disappear. I am not sure what I am doing wrong. 

Posted by Jen Bowman - Atlanta GA Realtor - Cobb County - Smyrna, Vinings, Marietta (Keller Williams Realty Cityside) over 3 years ago

Brad....You're killing me here! I'm trying to Twit, Face, Link, RSS, Delicious, Reader and now you want me to Router? I can't get my Blog on Twit, my Twit on Face, My Link on Blog, my Tags on my Delicious, and now I've got to Route?

What WILL you have me doing next?

Posted by MyMidtownMojo.com Thomas Ramon Realty over 3 years ago

Brad,

Thanks for the post and keep the tutoring material coming. This will create great value for the site.

Posted by William Collins, Vice President (FirstService Residential Realty) over 3 years ago

Hi Brad.  Thanks for writing.

I have set up my campaigns!!  I love kicking tires.

Ken

Posted by Ken Tracy Naperville Illinois Real Estate (Keller Williams Infinity - Naperville) over 3 years ago

Brad,

You're doing a great job. You are such a kind and patient man.  Keep up the good work.

Posted by Fran Gatti - Realtor®, CDPE®, RDCPro®, Crescent City CA Real Estate (RE/MAX Coastal Redwoods) over 3 years ago

Brad, I have a question when you have time.  I set up my campaign for my city.  When I go log-out & put in search by city it comes up w/a website of someone else.  I assumed this is what I signed up for, is the idea that whomever picks that city the search will rotate their websites or is my thinking way off?  Thanks for your assistance!  KM

Posted by Kristin Moran, San Antonio,TX~Real Estate 210-313-7397 (Owner - RE/MAX Access - KristinMoran@Remax.net) over 3 years ago

RuthMarie - yes, you can sign up anytime. This should be much more helpful generating you some traffic.  We're hoping all members see an increase in traffic and visitors to their sites.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Colleen - we were having a couple issues yesterday with errors and proxy's but I think it should be working ok now.  Try it and let me know.  I think they are still working on some of the credit card issues that are not allowing members to edit or remove their into as well. 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Diane - the incentive and discounts based on points is a really good idea, it gives those who have contributed and earned many points a chance to redeem and have use for them. 

Someone told me a while back that points are useless on AR, but here's an example of where those points come in handy and actually save you money which makes them worth money.  I guess it all depends how you look at it.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Margaret - take your time and let me know if you need any help. Good luck on your move, I'm looking forward to hearing or reading all about it on your Blog.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Although this does not effect me, I think its a great option and hopefully your Realtors see the benefits. I watched the video completely by Bob Stewart which provides a very basic, simple, and detailed explanation of how this system works. Excellent idea for Realtors.

John - thanks.  I think there may be an opportunity for this to bring you value as well.  Though you may not have an IDX site or listings for sale, you still get to use the additional customizable link that floats on the right side of the screen.  You can also setup other agents in your area using credits you've earned from people searching from your page.  We'll find other ways you can use those credits as well.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Hi Judy - the credits will show at the bottom of the page on your "Listing Router" link.  Once you setup some campaigns, there will also be a history of clicks and usage at the top of the page in your "My Campaigns" section.  BTW - Sleep has been the coveted thing these past few days for sure.  LOL~

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Maureen - Can't you have one of your own outside the company?  I guess if you want to drive traffic to the broker's IDX site, someone will be getting the leads, but I wouldn't pay for a campaign to do that, which you obviously know already.  Is there a way you can get hooked up on anything different than the Brokers IDX site?  There's some really good ones out there. (and some really poor ones too)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Missy - I am really looking forward to hearing how this works for you.  I know how you jump on this stuff when you see value, and I'm always excited to hear the success stories that come from your experiences.  It was great taking with you the other day on the phone, sounds like things are going ok in your area. I'm looking forward to seeing you at NAR, maybe we can go have that breakfast we didn't get in SF.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Fred - hopefully you'll start seeing some results from your campaigns and an increase in traffic, leads, SEO, and business soon.  I'm looking forward to some of the success stories that should be coming soon from members participating in this.  Very exciting!!   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Diana - you will not be billed for your attempts at setting up campaigns.  You can't edit them if you make an error so just delete them and start new ones till you get the url for the IDX sites correct.  I just go to the IDX page you want in your browser, then copy and paste the URL into the space where the link goes in your campaign, this makes it less likely you'll enter a typo.

Regarding your testing, the first 2 weeks are FREE so have at it. It will cost that company or member money if you do a search and click on their campaign IDX link, so we want to only do that to test.  You will show up on a rotation and as others click on yours, it will cost you as well.  You are earning credits though from anyone searching other areas from your Blog, Post, or Profile page.  Those credits will build quickly as more consumers start using this feature.  Tell your readers and visitors to start searching areas for homes using your Blog as their starting site. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Ryan - we think this is going to be a very successful addition to AR and our members.  In time, I think we will start seeing some incredible results, and increased traffic to our members sites which will hopefully turn into more leads that they can convert to closings! Very cool stuff, thanks for the kudos.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Hi Brad - Is this for agents only? Can this benefit Stagers, Home Inspectors, Mortgage brokers, etc.?

Posted by Magi Roth, SIMPLY3 (Simply3) over 3 years ago

Not sure if this was noted somewhere already, but listing router search link redirects from firefox don't seem to work.

Posted by Temporarily off-line over 3 years ago

Magi - not really, there's a few comments above discussing other ways to use this.  Gotta get creative, :-)  I'd use the customizable link at the top of your Blog for sure. That link can be directed to any site you choose. 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Rod - not sure I know what you mean? If you type in a City only, then click search, it's not opening a box for you to choose from? ReDirects are based on the links people setup for those redirects in their campaigns. I don't think it's firefox or maybe it's your settings. Call me if you need some help with this.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Ken - that was fast!  Great to see you got setup and with no issues, this is a very good sign! :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Brad -  When I went to the listing router typed in Chandler, Arizona a box popped up and it was blank.  Does that mean that someone already has taken the city for a campaign?

Cheron Lange

Posted by Michael Lange, Associate Broker and Cheron Lange, GRI (Solutions Real Estate) over 3 years ago

Michael - if you just type Chandler with no State or spaces, it will work fine. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Thanks Brad!  It was right in front of my eyes....you know how that goes! :)

Posted by Michael Lange, Associate Broker and Cheron Lange, GRI (Solutions Real Estate) over 3 years ago

Brad, what is up with the missing backgrounds on the blogs?  Everything is white... I am not looking pretty....:(

Posted by Sherry Scales, REALTOR - Austin TX Real Estate (HomeNet Realty) over 3 years ago

Oops,

Missed that. Trying to comprehend the whole thing. I hope I would be  able to set the limit, which in this market is not going to be really high (LOL)

Posted by Jon Zolsky, Daytona Beach, FL. FunCoast Realty, 386-405-4408 over 3 years ago

Brad - Thanks for the information.  I think I'm going to have to come back to this to go step by step...  :)

Posted by Debi Ernst GRI, e-PRO, Broker/Sales Associate (St. Charles County, Missouri - Prudential Alliance Realtors) over 3 years ago

Brad, I'm pretty stupid about this. I have set up both the campaign and my market using my website url, where they can search for houses. Is that correct or am I missing something?

Posted by Connie Harvey Realtor Nashville TN Real Estate (Pilkerton Realtors) over 3 years ago

Connie - that's perfect!!  It's good to have a lead capture on that IDX site as well so you can convert your traffic.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Sherry - huh?  I don't see what you see, all the backgrounds and headers are all there.  Is yours not showing on your screen properly?  Let me know.  Thanks.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Jon, you can set the limit based on the budget amount, then use your credits later to help offset the fees.  I'm just sayin...   :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

No, mine is not showing up. The headers are there, but no backgrounds...on anyones! I went into my setup..everything is there..I hit save...but nothing... ???

Posted by Sherry Scales, REALTOR - Austin TX Real Estate (HomeNet Realty) over 3 years ago

Sherry - I see your background fine, the water falls over the stairs.  It might be your browser or your computer memory.  Have you shutdown and restarted your computer lately, or maybe tried another browser like Firefox or Flock? I can't really fix what I can't duplicate.  Let me know if there's anything I can do to help. :-) 

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I get the concept and I'm fine with it.  My IDX is set-up for Triangle Homes or specific home searches or neighborhood searches.  I may need to redefine the city searches.  There is a big difference between a neighborhood IDX and a city IDX - Too much informaiton.  I'd rather see - cary townhomes between x and y than an entire city.

Posted by Tracy Santrock-Cary NC Realtor (Fonville Morisey/Santrock Realty Group, Inc. ) over 3 years ago

Thanks Brad! I downloaded Firefox and it seems to be working!

Posted by Sherry Scales, REALTOR - Austin TX Real Estate (HomeNet Realty) over 3 years ago

Thanks for the great info... just set mine up!

Posted by Nick Good www.TheGoodHomeTeam.com (The Good Home Team with Keller Williams Realty) over 3 years ago

Tracy - I think you can set that up any way you like. Just provide the links to the proper locations and you should be set. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Sherry - I thought that might be the problem, glad you got it fixed.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Nick - awesome!  Hope it gets you more leads, hits, clicks, traffic, and business. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I've read through a number of responses. I am a busy REALTOR and I don't like being refrred to as a " do nothing."

To all members, because another member is not blogging does not mean they are a 'do nothing".

I could say the same to all of the members who only seenm to be blogging all day and not out working with customers.

Please change from 'do nothing' to those that are 'busy with cusotmers.' All us 'busy' agnets will agppreciate it!

 

thanks!

Posted by Linda Just over 3 years ago

Working great so far.

$18.25 in click charges

$23.95 in Listing Router credit!

How cool is that; I'm not only getting clicks, I'm make a net profit with them.

Posted by Jim Lee, Seacoast Realtor Portsmouth, NH, Jewel of the NH Seacoast (RE/MAX Coast to Coast) over 3 years ago

Getting ready to set mine up...thanks for the information - it looks easy to set up !

 

Posted by Sonja Adams (Samson Proprties) over 3 years ago

Linda Just - the "Do Nothing" refers to "Not setting up Listing Router or Campaigns," it in no way implies anything negative about anyone or Agents, nor does it stereotype as you've made it sound.  It was a response to another members comment, and based on the terms and intent in which it was written, it will stay.  Thanks.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Jim - in the business world with all the P&L, looks and sounds like you're making yourself a little profit center there.  Congrats my friend. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Sonja - it's a piece of cake, let me know if you need any help. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I am stuck right off the bat...I type in the city name click search and nothing happens....I cannot get any campaigns started if I cannot search the cities, is it me, or AR????? Kelly Willey

Posted by Kelly Willey SHORT SALE Agent HARFORD COUNTY MARYLAND REAL ESTATE (Long and Foster BEL AIR MARYLAND) over 3 years ago

Kelly - make sure you are only typing the city.  No spaces, no state, no commas etc.  I just checked and it is working ok.  Maybe when you tried last, it was when we were having some glitches on the network. Try again and let me know.  Thanks. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I'm not clear on what website I add when I create a campaign? I hit campaign, put in the city, and then I'm suppose to add a URL, is that my URL to my website?

Step 4. Add the url of the IDX site to direct traffic to.... (That's my website correct)

Thanks Coni

Posted by Coni Otto, CRS Selling in DC/MD/VA (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.) over 3 years ago

Hi Coni - the site or URL you'll want to enter is the one that goes to your IDX site.  This is the key to the success of capturing leads when visitors use this tool.  I'm in NYC, but will be happy to help you if you need when I return. :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

I would love for you to help me out when you get back from New York..  email me at coniotto@yahoo.com or call me at 240-483-7556 my cell...

Thanks so much, Coni Otto

Posted by Coni Otto over 3 years ago

Hi Coni - I am back from NYC but leaving again for Omaha.  Feel free to call me on my cell and I'd be happy to answer any questions that you may have.  Just click my name below, you'll find my number under my photo on my profile page.  Thanks.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Thanks for your help, I finally figured it out.  Keep up the good work, Coni

Posted by Coni Otto, CRS Selling in DC/MD/VA (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.) over 3 years ago

Coni - awesome! :-)  Thanks.

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) over 3 years ago

Interesting concept.  I didn't know such a thing existed on AR until now.

Posted by Marian Pierre-Louis - Metrowest Boston (Fieldstone Historic Research) over 3 years ago

Looks good Brad...but we stagers need this too, although we do not have an idx site, it would be nice to have them directed to our personal website.  There could be a search bar, "City looking for a stager in"  or something like that.  This would do a world of good for the real estate staging and redesign profession.

As always, thank you for your easy to understand posts and tutorials Brad.

Posted by Aron Bailey Bruser (Win-Win Home Staging & Redesign) about 3 years ago

Aron - you could also hook up with your REALTOR® clients and send them some love using their IDX sites.  I hear what you're saying, we'll be coming out with some stuff that will benefit Lenders, Stagers, Title Co's etc.  We can only build and make changes so fast, none of us sleep as it is.  Thanks.  Great comment.  :-)

Posted by Brad Andersohn (Zillow - Outreach Manager) about 3 years ago

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