How Century 21 is using tech to help you succeed
Category Technology
As technology evolves at breakneck speed, it's shaping industries across the world. Real estate has changed, making it even easier to find or sell your property. Century 21 South Africa is proud to be part of the revolution says Eva August, National Operations Manager.
"Technology has already changed as much of our business as possible", she observes. "We have to have a presence digitally. It's where the eyeballs are."
Online penetration rates continue to grow in South Africa. In 2020, 56.3% of the local population were internet users. It's safe to say many - like yourself - are heading online exclusively during the search for real estate help.
Tech use that sets the pace
Century 21 South Africa's brick and mortar offices are extending into the digital world in exciting ways. According to August, Century 21 South Africa and its franchisees are using tech to meet the needs of clients.
"We engage with and attract clients through technology. It's how we communicate our service and how we solve problems for our clients.
"Our state-of-the-art website makes buying, selling, renting property, or moving abroad an effortless experience. There's a handy search tool with options to narrow down your search. We've added area profiles to give you useful information about your desired neighbourhood. Our calculators help you figure out bond and transfer costs, bond affordability, and bond repayments. If you need further advice, market trends, or neighbourhood insight, check out our constant stream of news articles.
"We also use advertising on Google and social media sites for greater exposure. If there's a property you want or a seller you want to reach, our spend on adverts will help you meet your goal.
"It's also simple to get in touch on a platform you're comfortable with - simply email, call, message on social media, or chat with us on WhatsApp."
Tech use adapted to today's realities
COVID-19 and the lockdown have impacted how you buy, rent, or sell your property. It can be a challenge for buyers or renters to view a property in person or sellers to allow people into their space. August believes the way Century 21 South Africa has embraced virtual reality has made a difference.
"Many aspects of our business were done virtually", she says. "From mandate presentations, client engagement, consulting, virtual house tours, to online marketing, we truly took advantage of tech."
Although all Century 21 South Africa branches rallied, August highlights those who pulled off some exceptional initiatives. Century 21 East London started promoting virtual show days on Facebook. In a show of compassion, Century 21 Western Seaboard launched an online challenge to help feed those in need during the lockdown. Century 21 Upper Highway ramped up their digital marketing for those listing properties with their team.
It doesn't stop there. August says Century 21 South Africa will keep working on its approach.
"We are investing in the formation of our own intranet for the group. It will act as an online business planner and tracker. Century 21 South Africa agents will be able to run their entire business from one dashboard, from anywhere. Of course, the time and effort this will save will benefit our clients."
Tech use for ongoing learning
Century 21 South Africa recognises the role education plays in creating capable property professionals. All agents on the team have access to the Century 21 National Training Academy, one of the most comprehensive online education and training platforms in the industry.
The National Training Academy provides entry-level and advanced online courses and training. The platform has a number of tech-forward courses including Digital Marketing Systems and Social Media How-To Videos. Century 21 South Africa's agents leave each course with more 'energacity' to serve clients on their real estate journey.
"Our agents are passionate about people and real estate and it filters everywhere", says August. "I think energacity is born when an agent marries their passion to our world-class training academy. This foundation sets them apart."
Tech use complements core principles
Tech is important but it's not the defining feature of Century 21 South Africa agents. August believes the use of tech simply adds to the overall positive customer experience.
"The customer journey experience has become more important than the end product. Century 21 South Africa agents understand that the details and professionalism are critical and in a world of "now" quick action and rapid results are part of the experience."
Meet our SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.™ team
Century 21 South Africa agents use the latest platforms and tools to get the job done. Buyers, sellers, and renters are welcome to contact their nearest branch for assistance. Agents and potential franchisees can also get in touch to learn how they can join the team.
Author: Century 21 South Africa
