Is wasn’t that long ago the re.pundits were discussing the implications of Google’s entry into real estate. Now, it’s time to talk about their retreat. I’m sorry to see them go. I thought Google’s entry into RE was a good thing because competition is good. Since that time, Move has completely overhauled REALTOR.com into something that Google doesn’t feel they should compete with. Coincidence? Maybe, maybe not.
Google notes, “low usage, the proliferation of excellent property-search tools on real estate websites” as two reasons for the retreat. I think the low usage part is telling in that it suggests that SEO is not the total solution for winning the real estate game. After all, they control those results. Most people aren’t thinking to go to Google to look for listings. I think SEO is important, but some perspective is good as well.
That’s all I have, time to get ready for work.