Matthew Rathbun’s Share-Spot

What is a QR Code

Some of you have have been reading TheAgentTrainer.com for a few years know that I’ve written a version of this once-upon-a-time.  However, as mobile devices have been slowing edging toward the center stage as a new marketing tool I feel the need to revisit what it is and who it can be useful.

A QR (Quick Response) code is define by Google Dictionary as:

A QR Code is a matrix code (or two-dimensional bar code) created by Japanese corporation Denso-Wave in 1994. The "QR" is derived from "Quick Response", as the creator intended the code to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.

In short it’s a UPC type code that sends your mobile device’s browser to a specific website, say a website for your listing.

BTW:  It’s FREE!

Where Can I get QR Codes?

There are a large number of webpage where you can generate QR codes, but the easiest place I’ve seen is http://qrcode.kaywa.com/.  It’s free, easy to use and allows you to gauge the size if you want to embed it on your webpage. 

All you have to do is enter the URL (web address) that you want the mobile device to go to and hit “Generate” and BOOM, on to the left is the code.  Now, you can copy the HTML code at the bottom and embed it in your webpage.  That maybe a bit advance for some, so the other option is to use screen capture tools. 

Your computer comes with a tool to create a .jpg picture file, for Macs hold Command-Shift-4, then select the code and you’re done.  For a Windows user, you’ll

need to go to Start – Run and type “snip” in the “open” line.  If this doesn’t work, you might not have the free tool from Microsoft and you can download it from their site for free.  It’s a useful tool, even if you aren’t using it for this particular technique.

Once I have the .jpg file I can add it to my fliers, posters and even my For Sale Sign.   Yes, your For Sale signs.  Why?  Because it’s more trendy, relevant and easier than stuffing flier boxes once a week without any idea what’s happening to them.

How Do I Use It?

Now that you have this code,  your questions maybe is anyone using it and how are they?  Those are good questions, and like most technology it starts off with a few users who like the tool and then evangelize it.  In a recent trip to Chicago I saw a number of real estate offices that had posters in the front window that instructed the passer-by to use their mobile device to search for homes.  And yes, there were people pointing their phones at the posters and checking listings.  How much more powerful is it to give the consumer access to listings on their phone than a one-page flier for your one listing? 

When the consumer gets their phone, most of us try to install all the tools that we think we’ll use.  For my Droid it’s an app called Barcode Scanner.  For Blackberry is the Kaywa Reader and iPhone it’s the (aptly named) QR App. These are just some examples.  There are many.

When you see a QR Code (the UPC looking thing, like at the top of the post), you’ll open the app and with the same steps of taking a picture on your phone, take a “picture”.  Each app acts differently but similarly.  In the case of the Droid App it looks like this:

Choose Barcode Scanner

Point the Mobile Device at the QR Code

The device will scan the code and show the associated URL (web address).  Chose “Open Browser” and the device will go to the associated webpage.

Practical Application for Realtors

I think there are obvious benefits to this technology in reaching a culture of buyers and impressing a number sellers.  Consider these options:

• Print the QR Code on half of an 8×11 and put it your For Sale sign with contact paper.  Better yet, order unique signs with interior pictures of your home, with the QR code.  (Check with Broker and Franchise agreements for limitations.  Don’t forget state required disclosures.)
• Put the QR code on the labels that you’re using for the CD’s you leave at the home; or the cover of the Homebook.
• Add to posters outside of your office windows with QR code linking to your IDX listings.
• Add to the Widgets on your sidebar linked to webpages for each of your listings
• Put up Posters (with permission) of business and in the Kiosks of your local Mall or Shopping Center
• If you use car-wraps or windows lettering, considering placing it tastefully on your car.
• Add to the back of your business cards
• Get the picture?  Put it everywhere that you’d like to have people get to your webpage!

I know that some of you are overwhelmed with technology as it is, so if this isn’t you than don’t force it, but it’s still essential that you know what your competitors are or will be using in the future.

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Tagged as: blackberry, code, droid, iphone, maketing, mobile, qr, realtor, technology