As a real estate agent, you’re probably all too aware that you’re one of many people offering a similar service. Chances are, there are a number of agents working in or near your area with whom you need to compete. So how do you make sure you stand out?

In any marketplace, the idea of the “unique value proposition“, or UVP, is key. UVP might sound like a hazy marketing term, but all it refers to is the thing you do differently to your competitors. Identifying your UVP can help you focus your business and ensure you don’t waste too much energy covering the same bases as everyone else.

In terms of online marketing, your UVP could be the fact that:

- Your website gives people the best information about a certain area;
- Your website is somewhere people can find trustworthy advice about the buying and selling process;
- You’re an active, helpful member of an online social network who strives to help home hunters;
- Your portal listings are the most detailed of any agent in your market, complete with good photos and great copy;
- You send out a well-written, informative email newsletter once a week that people really want to read.

In defining your UVP, infomarketerszone.com points out that you don’t need to limit your thinking to your own industry. “Study successful companies of all types,” they advise. “Seek to understand their unique value proposition. How are they different in the market?”

One last tip: your UVP should be based on something you’re good at, and ideally enjoy doing. You could aim to be your market’s best real estate photographer, but if that’s not where your strength lies, you’re much better off emphasising areas where you know you can deliver.

This article has been provided by PropertyAdGuru.com helping agents make the most of their online advertising.