Master the Art of Listing Videos
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Why Listing Videos are Important
- How to Script a Listing Video
- Tips for Shooting a Listing Video
- The Importance of B-Roll in Listing Videos
- Writing the MLS Description
- Creating an Engaging Opening for your Video
- The Inverted Pyramid Method for Video Scripting
- Including Important Details in your Video
- The Call to Action in Listing Videos
How to Create Standout Listing Videos
Are You looking to create listing videos that grab Attention and set you apart from the competition? In this article, we will guide you through the process of crafting compelling listing videos that not only showcase the properties you represent but also demonstrate your unique personal brand. With over 10 years of experience as a news reporter, Kelly LeClair is here to share her expertise on scripting, shooting, and editing listing videos. Keep reading to discover how you can make your listing videos stand out in a crowded market.
Why Listing Videos are Important
Listing videos are more than just a way to showcase properties; they are an opportunity to establish your brand and attract clients who resonate with your style. As LeClair explains, "Listing videos set the tone for who you are and what you offer to the world." By presenting yourself authentically in your videos, you can appeal to the right audience and differentiate yourself from others in the industry. LeClair emphasizes that listing videos not only sell the property but also sell you as a real estate professional. They serve as a powerful marketing tool, both online and offline.
Pros:
- Helps establish your personal brand
- Sets you apart from the competition
- Can be repurposed for various marketing purposes
Cons:
- Requires time and effort to create high-quality videos
- May require collaboration with a professional videographer or editor
How to Script a Listing Video
Crafting an effective script is crucial for creating engaging listing videos. LeClair recommends starting with the logistics, such as determining the best time of day to shoot and coordinating with the sellers' schedule. She also stresses the importance of including "b-roll," which refers to visual footage that complements your narration. The visuals should Align with the content of your script to provide a Cohesive and captivating viewing experience. Additionally, LeClair advises against burying the lead and suggests incorporating a strong opening to capture viewers' attention within the first few seconds. By following these scriptwriting tips, you can create listing videos that captivate your audience from the start.
Pros:
- Allows you to plan and structure your video effectively
- Provides a clear direction for shooting and editing
- Helps you avoid common pitfalls, such as burying the lead
Cons:
- Requires careful thought and attention to Detail
- May need revisions and adjustments to create a polished script
Tips for Shooting a Listing Video
You have your script, and now it's time to bring it to life through video. LeClair shares valuable insights on shooting listing videos, whether you have the assistance of a professional videographer or choose to shoot on your own. She suggests paying attention to the logistics, such as the best features of the property and the time of day to capture them. Additionally, she highlights the importance of showcasing yourself in the video to establish your personal brand. LeClair also explains how listing videos can be repurposed as part of your listing presentation, impressing potential sellers with a visual tour of their property.
Pros:
- Allows you to showcase the property in its best light
- Builds a connection between you and potential clients
- Demonstrates your expertise and attention to detail
Cons:
- Requires access to professional video equipment or skills
- Can be time-consuming to shoot and edit the footage
The Importance of B-Roll in Listing Videos
When it comes to creating engaging listing videos, b-roll footage plays a crucial role. B-roll refers to the visual imagery that accompanies your narration. As LeClair explains, b-roll helps create a more captivating viewing experience, ensuring that what you say aligns with what viewers see. Whether you're highlighting the features of the house or showcasing the surrounding neighborhood, incorporating compelling b-roll footage can significantly enhance the overall quality of your listing video.
Pros:
- Adds visual interest to your video
- Enhances the impact of your narration
- Creates a more immersive viewing experience
Cons:
- Requires additional time and effort to capture Relevant b-roll footage
- May require coordination with the property owner or access to additional locations
Writing the MLS Description
Your MLS (Multiple Listing Service) description is a crucial element of your listing video script. LeClair advises starting with the essential information typically included in MLS listings and then transforming it to suit a video format. This includes highlighting key features of the property, such as the location, floor plan, and amenities. By optimizing your script for video, you can provide potential buyers with an informative and engaging overview of the property.
Pros:
- Allows you to repurpose existing MLS descriptions
- Provides potential buyers with relevant information
- Helps create a cohesive narrative throughout your video
Cons:
- Requires adaptation of traditional MLS descriptions
- May require condensing information to fit the video format
Creating an Engaging Opening for your Video
The opening moments of your listing video are crucial for capturing viewers' attention. LeClair shares various examples of effective openings that immediately pique interest. By starting with a captivating statement or highlighting the property's unique selling points, you can grab viewers' attention within the first few seconds. LeClair also emphasizes the importance of including your name and branding at the start of the video to establish a connection with your audience.
Pros:
- Hooks viewers' attention from the beginning
- Establishes a connection between you and the property
- Sets the tone for the rest of the video
Cons:
- Requires careful thought and creativity to create an engaging opening
- May require experimentation to find the most effective approach
The Inverted Pyramid Method for Video Scripting
To ensure your listing videos effectively convey the most crucial information, LeClair suggests using the inverted pyramid method. This approach involves starting with the most attention-grabbing feature of the property and gradually working down to the finer details. By organizing your script in this way, you capture viewers' attention from the start and then provide them with the essential information they need. The inverted pyramid method helps maintain engagement and ensures that viewers stay interested throughout the video.
Pros:
- Organizes your script in a logical and engaging manner
- Highlights the most important aspects of the property upfront
- Keeps viewers interested and informed throughout the video
Cons:
- Requires careful planning and structuring of your script
- May require condensing information to fit the video format
Including Important Details in your Video
While the opening of your listing video captures attention, including important details is crucial for serious buyers who watch the entire video. LeClair suggests including key information such as square footage, bedroom count, and other pertinent details that potential buyers may want to know before contacting you for a showing. By providing these details, you can attract serious buyers and save time by addressing common inquiries upfront.
Pros:
- Demonstrates transparency and thoroughness
- Helps filter out potential buyers who may not be genuinely interested
- Saves time by proactively addressing common inquiries
Cons:
- Requires research and accurate representation of details
- May require condensing information to fit the video format
The Call to Action in Listing Videos
At the end of your listing video, it's essential to include a strong call-to-action that Prompts viewers to take the next step. This could be directing them to your Website, social media profiles, or encouraging them to contact you for more information or to schedule a showing. LeClair advises having a clear and concise call-to-action that aligns with your Current marketing goals. By providing a way for viewers to engage further, you can convert their interest into actual leads and potential clients.
Pros:
- Encourages viewers to take action and engage further
- Provides a direct means of contact for interested buyers
- Converts video views into potential leads and clients
Cons:
- Requires a clear and concise call-to-action statement
- May require regular updates to reflect current marketing goals
Highlights:
- Creating standout listing videos that set you apart from the competition
- Scripting and shooting listing videos like a pro
- Maximizing the impact of b-roll footage in your videos
- Writing compelling MLS descriptions for video format
- Crafting engaging openings to capture viewers' attention
- Organizing your script using the inverted pyramid method
- Including important details to provide a comprehensive overview
- Implementing a strong call-to-action to convert viewers into leads
- Tips and insights from Kelly LeClair, a seasoned news reporter-turned-real estate professional
- Repurposing listing videos for various marketing purposes
FAQ:
Q: Do I need professional equipment to shoot listing videos?
A: While professional equipment can enhance the quality of your videos, you can also shoot impressive listing videos on your own using a tripod and basic video recording tools. It's more about the content and storytelling than the equipment you use.
Q: How long should a listing video be?
A: It is recommended to keep listing videos concise, ideally between one to three minutes in length. Remember, most viewers may only watch the first few seconds, so capturing their attention early is crucial.
Q: Can I use music in my listing videos?
A: Yes, incorporating background music can help set the mood and add a professional touch to your videos. However, ensure you have the necessary rights to use the music or choose from royalty-free sources.
Q: Should I include a narration or voiceover in my listing videos?
A: Including a narration or voiceover can provide additional context and enhance the viewer's experience. However, make sure the audio quality is clear and professional to maintain the video's overall quality.
Q: How frequently should I create new listing videos?
A: The frequency of creating new listing videos depends on your inventory and marketing strategy. Aim to create videos for your most significant and unique properties and update them as necessary to reflect any changes or updates.
Q: Can I repurpose my listing videos for social media and other platforms?
A: Absolutely! Repurposing listing videos for social media platforms allows you to reach a broader audience and attract potential buyers. Make sure to optimize the videos for each platform's specifications and goals.
Q: Are there any specific video editing tools or software you recommend?
A: There are numerous video editing tools available, both free and premium. Some popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, iMovie, and DaVinci Resolve. Choose the one that best suits your needs and familiarity with video editing software.