Survey Says.
A recent survey conducted by 1000watt revealed more than a few interesting insights. Over 60% of respondents admitted to indulging in reality shows about real estate. When asked about the impact of these shows on their perception of real estate agents, the responses were varied. Notably, nearly 80% of respondents claimed that these shows either made them more trusting of real estate agents or had no impact on their opinions of agents.
1000watt’s commentary on these statistics raised an interesting point. They noted that while real estate reality shows can sometimes offer a "cartoonish" representation of the profession, a sizeable portion of viewers either consider them purely entertainment or end up feeling more trusting towards agents as a result of their depictions on screen.
And this is where the authentic power of real estate entertainment shines through - and not just in the twinkling cityscapes at dusk. Authenticity and education are essential to building trust, especially in an industry where transactions are often monumental milestones in people's lives.
Image by: Chad Griffith
Captured from: Thisoldhouse.com
The real deal.
Here's the thing, most of us enjoy a dash of drama from time to time. It's part of the entertainment factor. But beyond the spectacle of luxury homes and hard-nosed negotiations, we have a craving for authenticity. Take, for example, shows like This Old House. In all its years on air, it has never shied away from the real, sometimes gritty side of home improvement. It educates viewers about the nuts and bolts of property renovation, demonstrating the authenticity and expertise required in the industry. It’s all steak, limited sizzle. Unless you get sizzle from watching two guys install a heat pump.
Similarly, shows that highlight the true nature of an agent's role, beyond the glamour and gloss of Selling Sunset, have an opportunity to cultivate trust and appreciation. It's not just about a posh lifestyle and sharp negotiation skills. It's about the countless hours of market research, the knowledge of local neighbourhoods, the understanding of a client’s needs and desires. It's about the sleepless nights trying to close a deal, the endless paperwork, the dedication to ethical standards, and helping someone take the next step on their real estate adventure.
A greater purpose.
To sum it up, reality real estate shows have the potential to serve a greater purpose beyond entertainment. By balancing dramatic elements with authentic depictions of the industry, they can enhance viewers' understanding and trust in real estate professionals. But remember, while you’re sinking into your sofa with a box of those new balsamic-flavoured Triscuits in hand, these shows are not the reality of every agent or every property transaction. They're an invitation to learn and understand the world of real estate.
Keeping it real.
Tune in, enjoy the show, but don't forget to look for the authenticity behind the entertainment. Keeping it real paves the way to genuine trust and fruitful relationships in the world of real estate. It helps guide the audience home. As viewers and homeseekers, we don't just buy property. We buy into the people who guide us on our real estate journeys.
