This document discusses the importance of social media and online marketing for real estate agents. It provides statistics on consumer home buying behaviors and internet usage. It also outlines Virginia laws regarding real estate advertising and marketing online, including required disclosures and prohibited activities. Agents are advised to follow industry ethics codes when using social media. Several recommended industry blogs and websites for staying informed are listed.

1. Matthew Rathbun , Broker ABR, ABRM, ASR, AHWD, CSP, e-PRO, QSC, GRI, RECS, SRES Director of Education

3. What is Social Media? Social media is people talking with other people on the internet!

6. Source: 2008 NAR Profile of Buyer and Sellers

11. It’s Like an Episode of Seinfield…. They are talking about -

12. anything.

13. everything.

14. yes, even real estate.

16. Marketing is a Conversation

24. Virginia Code 18VAC135-20-190 “ Advertising” means all forms of representation, promotion and solicitation disseminated in any manner and by any means of communication to consumers for any purpose related to licensed real estate activity. Disclosures Required: 1. Firm’s name, city and state of main office 2. Licensee’s Name 3. License Status 4. Jurisdiction(s) Licensed

25. Virginia Code 18VAC135-20-190 All Advertising must be under the direct supervision of the principal broker or supervising broker, in the name of the firm and, when applicable, comply with the disclosure required by 54.1-238.1 of the Code of Virginia. The firm’s licensed name must be clearly and legibly displayed on all advertising. Online Advertising (Section C of the Code) 1. All Online Adverting applies to this Code 2. E-mail message are included in regs 3. Instant Message are included 4. Chat and Internet based Dialogue 5. The “web” 6. Voice Over Net 7. Banner Ads