Listing of the Day - Montgomery AL

In an effort to improve the impact of the marketing of listings, I randomly choose current listings around the country in a variety of price ranges and comment on their effectiveness. No current clients of mine are used, nor do I know any sellers or buyers or have any additional information about the property.



6619 Meadow Lark Drive, Montgomery, AL $161,900

http://www.postlets.com/res/2760035

A potential buyer gets a very good first impression of this listing. The photos enhance the property, while the lists and description copy each contain a nice variety of selling points.

This photo spread is one of the better ones. I like the balance of 3 exterior and 3 interior shots, especially since both have good selling points. (Some properties are much better inside than outside and vice versa.) The only one I question is the one of the patio. Not the photo itself, but not having chairs and/or plants, a grill, a hanging light, or anything to show a potential buyer what the patio looks like in use takes away the functionality. For example, if the patio is shown with a grill on it, a potential buyer that does not grill could create their own vision of how they might change it if it becomes their home. One that does grill would be pleased to know they will have the ability to do so. Whereas having nothing on the patio makes me wonder if there really is enough space to appeal to a new owner.

I have a slight concern about the condition of the lawn in the primary photo of the front of the exterior since it looks worn in several spots, given that this listing is up at the end of summer when the lawn should be at its peak appearance.

The list description at the top is very good, highlighting the relative newness of the home and it having a 2 car attached garage (easily noted based on the description and the primary photo). I also like how the upper description segment profiles the exterior, while the lower description provides a good mix of information.

Features such as the "double vanity in both baths" and the "garden tub" in the master bedroom are unique and excellent selling points for the interior. These add a touch of luxury not often found in a home priced under $200,000 on a big lot. A definite plus. Adding that the area is "adjacent to Somerhill" is (probably) a good idea. Although I know nothing about Somerhill, I would think that a potential buyer looking in that area probably knows.

However, saying "separate dining & laundry rooms" takes some of the air out of the balloon. I would hope that people don't eat next to the washing machine. Mistakes happen, but someone should have caught it by the time I saw this ad. It could cause a potential buyer taking a serious initial look at this ad and another home in the same area to be hesitant to contact this agent first.

The "Property Features" bullet points below are quite strong, hitting on the fireplace, central air, and breakfast nook among other solid selling points. There is also one of the better uses of Google Maps, giving the potential buyer a reasonable view of the major roads that lead in. Many of the maps on property descriptions are not accurate, too far out, or require clicks and steps to navigate.

Overall, this listing ad is thought out and well put together. The photos enhance, the positive points are well distributed and reinforced, and this ad will help sell the home. Something to show a patio and taking out the laundry reference are all that is needed to make this an "A" listing.

Grade: B+


Note: This commentary is uncompensated and for marketing purposes only and is no reflection on the featured property and is its accuracy is not guaranteed. Neither Dave Kohl nor First In Promotions shall be held responsible for any representations.

At this time, I have openings for more realty agent/office clients to critique current and brand new listings on an hourly basis. No current or past client listings are featured on this blog.Random listings are chosen around the country.

Your comments are most welcome!