7 Outdated Real Estate Strategies Illinois REALTORS® Must Stop Using in 2025
The real estate landscape constantly evolves and demands real estate strategies that work, and what worked yesterday may not work today. Yet, many Illinois REALTORS® continue to rely on outdated strategies that no longer yield results. If you want to stay ahead in the Chicago and suburban market, it’s time to pivot to more effective, modern approaches.
Let’s dive into the seven outdated strategies you should retire and explore better alternatives that will help you win more listings and close more deals.
1. The “3 P’s” Approach: Post, Place, and Pray
Why It No Longer Works
The days of simply putting a listing in the MLS, placing a yard sign, and praying for a buyer are over. This passive marketing approach is ineffective in today’s market, where competition is fierce, and buyers have more options than ever.
The Modern Approach
Instead of relying on hope, implement an Active Marketing Plan that includes:
- Social Media Ads: Targeted Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn ads reach the right buyers.
- YouTube Video Tours: High-quality walkthroughs attract serious buyers.
- AI-Driven Email Campaigns: Personalized emails boost engagement.
- Google PPC Ads: Capture high-intent buyers searching online.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use ChatGPT to generate 20 creative listing marketing strategies in seconds!
2. Just Listed & Just Sold Postcards (The Old Way)
Why It No Longer Works
The traditional “Just Listed” and “Just Sold” postcards often end up in the trash, and consumers are bombarded with generic mailers that fail to capture their attention.
The Modern Approach
Reimagine these campaigns with a story-driven marketing approach:
- Highlight real client success stories instead of just the sale.
- Use QR codes that link to testimonial videos or virtual tours.
- Create personalized handwritten notes for a personal touch.
💡 Bonus: If you want an effective Just Sold campaign that gets results, email [email protected] for ideas!
3. DIY Listing Photos & Videos
Why It No Longer Works
First impressions matter. Blurry, unedited iPhone photos can make even the best listings look unappealing. This not only hurts your sales but also damages your reputation.
The Modern Approach
Invest in professional real estate photography and videography:
- Drone photography to showcase properties and neighborhoods.
- Twilight shots for luxury appeal.
- High-resolution video tours for a premium experience.
📸 Fact: Listings with professional photos sell 32% faster than those with amateur images!
4. Relying on Door-Knocking
Why It No Longer Works
Door-knocking has drastically declined in effectiveness, with homeowners increasingly avoiding unsolicited visits. In today’s digital age, more innovative ways to connect with prospects exist.
The Modern Approach
Leverage online platforms where your prospects are already spending time:
- YouTube & Podcast Marketing: Create valuable content for sellers.
- Instagram & Facebook Live: Engage with your audience in real time.
- Targeted LinkedIn Outreach: Connect with high-net-worth clients.
🎙 Pro Tip: Illinois buyers and sellers consume more social media content than ever—meet them where they are!
5. Blogging for SEO Alone
Why It No Longer Works
With AI-generated content flooding the internet, traditional blog-driven lead generation is losing its impact. Ranking on Google has become more competitive than ever.
The Modern Approach
Shift your content strategy to high-engagement platforms:
- LinkedIn Articles: More organic reach for local real estate topics.
- Video Blogs (Vlogs): YouTube ranks higher in searches than text-based blogs.
- Interactive Content: Use polls, Q&A sessions, and webinars.
📹 Fact: Video content generates 12x more shares than text and images combined!
6. Waiting for Interest Rates to Drop
Why It No Longer Works
Many agents paused their efforts in 2024, waiting for interest rates to dip. The reality? Rates fluctuate, but motivated buyers and sellers always exist.
The Modern Approach
Shift your focus to need-based transactions:
- Divorce & Probate Sales: These clients must sell, regardless of rates.
- Job Relocations: These buyers need homes, regardless of the economy.
- Downsizing & Upsizing Clients: Life changes drive real estate decisions.
🏡 Mindset Shift: The best agents control what they can—daily prospecting, follow-ups, and marketing.
7. Unprofessional Buyer Agents
Why It No Longer Works
The NAR settlement changed the buyer-agent landscape, making professionalism a must. Agents who fail to articulate their value are losing out.
The Modern Approach
Stand out by positioning yourself as a true expert:
- Offer structured buyer consultations to explain your value.
- Use AI tools to provide detailed market reports and insights.
- Stay ahead with continuing education and negotiation skills.
🎯 Remember: Buyers are more discerning than ever—elevate your game to win their business!
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📅 Schedule a call with Larry Shakman to learn how the top Illinois REALTORS® are using this to win more listings! Book a time that works for you on Calendly.
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