[Eric Blackwell]

Integrated Voice Response-Also known as those yard signs with a code on them. Our office has now been using a system for about 6 months...it has shown some pretty good results lately (REALLY good IMO).

My benchmark for what these things will do has always been "does it generate more activity than a cell phone rider on a sign. The system we are using clearly does that.

I am just looking to compare numbers with other who have tried or are using one of these systems and getting some "best practices" together... (Since we have about 500 listings in our office) we have generated just under 1000 inquiries in a month (Jan), and I think that's awesome... but I really would now like to look at the details of it.

#1) Does removing the flyers help and how much?
#2) Does using separate signs (a second sign with the IVR #) help and how much.
#3) Many of these solutions in the past have been sponsored by Mortgage folks...that seems to be on the decline...does this stuff merit use on it's own.
#4) The one we are using inputs the data from the MLS...no need for our agents to input it. Does this help and has this been a roadblock for others (it sure has been for our office.
#5) Our solution uses the house number as a code instead of an "assigned" code...not sure if that (in and of itsself) is CAUSING an increase in response over just using a code.
#6) More than anything, I'd like to benchmark with / against other IVR users and see the response rates and actual conversions to sales
#7) We do NOT use an 800 #. We use 425-6100, where the main # to our office is 425-6000...is that a key?

Too many questions...That fact that this is working well for us only leads to more question...(kind of like SEO does, most days...)

So if you are currently using one of these systems...let me know! I'd love to talk with you and compare notes (confidentially-of course) and try some "best practices" testing together.

One of my goals is to get this system running at peak performance for the start of the spring season and wanted some input on doing that.

Thoughts?

Best

Eric

[Discover Davis Homes]

Eric I haven't used this type of system, although I definitely see the benefit of it. Just a comment on the phone numbers, I think with the use of cell phones, people don't really care if they dial an 800 number or a local number. I hope you get some good responses from others.

[jerome]

It would be interesting to hear Folks' opinion on this type of System vs. the 1-800 # Call Capture Concept, Driving the Buyers to a Website for Info on the Home, or to a phone number (local) with a Live Person.
Also: No Flyers vs. Flyers without the price vs. Full Info. Flyers in a Flyer Box outside the Home?
I see the Benefit in 24 hr. Info. for the Prospect, but wonder if the Serious ones would call a Live Person # anyway to get Info.?

[rmasse10]

The bigger question I think is what are you doing with these phone numbers...are you doing follow up right away and what is the conversion rate of call to qualified lead.

[Eric Blackwell]

@rmasse10;

Exactly...in January for example...we had just under 900 people call in on the signs...with ZERO print ads...just yard signs...

Of those folks...173 (if memory serves) pushed "1" and talked to the listing agent directly. I have no way of tracking how many are going to turn into sales, but it got my interest piqued ..

Best;

Eric