
from number to narratives: real estate marketing for the digital age
903-933 N CENTRAL AVE, UPLAND, CA 91786 - CENTRAL PARK, 24-UNIT INDUSTRIAL PARK
Every deal teaches us something new, and the journey of this recent transaction was no exception. It’s easy to fall into the trap of accepting industry assumptions without a second thought. Among these were beliefs that platforms like Instagram have no place in commercial real estate or that investors are solely fixated on the cap rate. But what if these assumptions were limiting our creativity and potential?
This transaction challenged me to rethink everything. How should we market an industrial park in today’s digital age? Do we adhere to traditional methods, or do we explore new platforms like Instagram, where a dynamic visual story can captivate a different audience? And when it comes to selling, is it merely about presenting a number, the cap rate, or are we truly offering an opportunity—a vision of what could be?
Questioning these assumptions led to a refreshing perspective on connecting with clients and presenting properties. While data certainly matters, the narrative behind the investment—the potential it holds—is equally compelling.
This experience has fundamentally reshaped my approach, emphasizing the importance of weaving together both data and story, and exploring unconventional channels to reach and resonate with a broader audience. It’s a reminder that the true essence of a deal lies not just in its figures but in its potential to inspire.
On a personal level, I encountered my own set of assumptions, particularly regarding my youthful appearance. In an industry where age is often equated with wisdom, I was challenged to assert my expertise and experience in other ways. While appearing young is not advantageous during listing appointments, I was determined to not let others’ perception define me. Marketing this transaction on Instagram was a deliberate strategy to stand out and showcase my proficiency in digital marketing and videography. While there will always be biases, it is ultimately up to us to challenge and change them. My aim was to reshape perceptions of younger agents as being efficient and tech-savvy. I really wanted to show the world that age is just a number, but innovative thinking is timeless.