Having a strong online presence isn’t an option; it’s a necessity. Gone are the “good old days” when a static site, designed more like a brochure, would suffice. Even if most of your clientele comes from referrals, your site still needs to have your information clearly outlined if you want to be taken seriously.

Website design is the new currency, the new standard of evaluation – especially by millennial's. You need a website that makes a strong first impression and reinforces potential clients’ initial desire to work with you. If your site was designed more than five years ago, it could be holding you back! And if you haven’t updated photos since then, it’s time for a renovation!

Here are five small changes that make a big difference to home builder websites.

Artistic Integrity

Remember, you’re not selling homemade soap on eBay or Etsy – you’re selling homes. You need high-quality visuals that represent your work. Potential customers need to recognize the potential in your builds. To facilitate that, you need a clean, streamlined website that showcases your artistic integrity. If you can’t coordinate a decent site, potential clients will wonder how you can build their dream home. Take some clear photos and pop them on your site. Frequently!

Mobile Compatibility

It may seem obvious, but businesses continuously fail to meet this basic requirement. Your website must be fully viewable on both mobile devices and desktop platforms. If your site isn’t currently viewable for mobile, you have to make the change. And if your site was designed more than five years ago, there's a good chance it isn't mobile friendly.

Content, and More Content!

If you don’t update your site on a regular basis, consider putting up a few evergreen pieces that can attract unique visitors to your site for an extended time frame. Make sure visitors to your site have the option to sign up for email newsletters and subscribe to website updates.

Questions & Answers

By providing precise information about subjects like warranty details and what to expect during a new build, you’re answering client questions before they can even ask them! And that means no unnecessary phone calls or emails demanding your time. With attention spans shrinking almost daily, by anticipating a home buyer’s needs, you’ll keep them on your page – and that puts you a step ahead of the competition!

Lead Generator

At a minimum, you need a way to record potential buyers’ contact information to analyze and evaluate your return on investment (ROI). You can add in a client relationship manager (CRM) system to fully optimize your site, but having a basic call to action will still impress. Consider these easy options to capture information from potential clients:

• Include your contact number – too many sites overlook this fundamental method that’s still one of the best lead generators out there
• Add “Trust” seals to your site to inspire additional confidence
• Don’t use a standard, cookie-cutter template – stock designs repel more often than not
• Add forms or a comments section to your site – you’ll also get some great testimonials this way

Provide potential customers with the opportunity to sign up for your newsletters and stay apprised of new developments. Every time you add new photos of current projects, subscribers will get an email blast to check out your newest creations. Every minute potential clients spend on your site increases their likelihood of spending money with you.