Web Design Is Not Safe As Houses
This story happened a few years ago. A friend refers me to his mother, a real estate agent who wants a new website for her business. I call her to set up an appointment.
Client: “So, what is your expertise in real estate?”
Me: “I’ve done two real-estate websites in the past, and they’ve been quite successful. I can provide you with a searchable database of listings where buyers can filter by price and other factors, as well as a homepage with featured listings, your bio, and anything else you’d like to include.”
Client: “Yes, but have you ever sold a house before?”
Me: “No.”
Client: “Why not?”
Me: “Because I’m not a real estate agent. I’m a web developer.”
Client: “So how do you expect to do a website for me if you don’t know anything about being a realtor?”
Me: “I know enough to build a website with a listing database which you can very easily populate with descriptions, photos, and any other info you wish to provide the buyers with. I can also provide other tools, such as a mortgage calculator and a lead-tracking system that allows potential buyers to contact you with listings they are interested in.”
Client: “I really don’t think you know what you’re doing. I think I’m going to have to pass and find someone who knows how to sell a house.”
Later, I discovered she had finished her website. On Geocities. Yellow background. 50pt font. Seemingly designed by a ‘real’ real estate agent…
Question of the Week
Tell us your story about a customer who couldn't understand the most simple concept.