Do you schedule your real estate “blog time”? Do you have a plan or just squeeze it in on nights, weekends and between activities? And how do you decide what to write about?

Juggling all our commitments to make time for blogging is a job in itself. But when you’ve finally gotten home from writing a contract and putting the kids to bed, the last thing you need to think about is a new topic for your blog post. Content ideas may come easily for some, but not all of us can just throw up an article in 30 minutes. Thoughtful and resourceful bloggers think about adding value to their niche and their community with every post.

I find that when I get an idea for a post I spend a good amount of time researching the topic first. When I was teaching elementary school, my lesson plan book kept me on track and prepared for all my lessons. Therefore, I decided to create a “content posting plan” so that I could better ready myself for upcoming posts. This way, if and when I encounter items of support for my posts I add them to my content arsenal now, giving myself a head start on future posts.

It’s simple really. To get started, grab a monthly calendar. Whether you prefer a Google or Outlook calendar, or a desk or wall calendar…it’s all the same. Make a list of all the content ideas you have for your blog. Or check out the idea list below. If you are an ambitious blogger than shoot for 2 quality posts a week and at least one “read and research” session. I utilize my read and research time for checking out support resources and reading other blogs. (Note: Checking your Google Reader each morning with a venti hot coffee in hand will keep you up-to-date on all your favorite blogs. Alternative: Check it each night with a glass of your favorite wine.) Anyway, schedule at least 2 blog content ideas per week on your monthly calendar. (see my example below) You know your schedule, so you choose the days that work well for you. 

So why haven’t I planned the whole year you ask? Well, we all know that plans change. Be prepared to swap ideas out for others you come across. Motivation reigns and usually produces a better article. If you find your interest being sparked in another direction…go with it! And remember to continually blog your listings in between your selected niche posts.

CONTENT POSTING PLAN EXAMPLE:

CONTENT IDEAS FOR YOUR POSTING PLAN:

(1) Community Events Update: Post a monthly event calendar or list of events with all the local event information and links.
(2) Local Market Update: Give us your forecast, graph the changes, share local statistics, and give us some tips for adapting to this changing market.
(3) Industry Article: Share the latest trends in real estate and highlight new products and services.
(4) Seasonal How-to: Post informative guides on how to clean out the gutters, winter prep your pool, holiday décor, spring cleaning, etc.
(5) Buyer Info: Provide helpful posts with tips and suggestions for buyers.
(6) Seller Info: Provide helpful posts with tips and suggestions for sellers.
(7) Client Q& A: How many questions are you asked during one transaction? Keep a list of all those questions and answers and share them one at a time with your readers.
(8) Community Focus: On a local business, restaurant, charity, historical facts
(9) Interview: Post short interviews with industry professionals, local business leaders, local heroes, etc. Include testimonials from past clients.
(10) School Scores & More: Post recent testing scores, school achievements (ex: Distinguished School), local benefits and fundraisers, and even sporting events for high schools and colleges in your area.
(11) Neighborhood Spotlight: Showcase a specific neighborhood…the homes, parks, schools, stores…oh, and your listings too. Give us your top 10 reasons for living in each neighborhood. Interview local neighbors and connect with your farm at the same time.
(12) Rate Update: Get the latest info from your lenders and provide tips for buyers on finding the best rates.
(13) Realtor Recipe Share: Share recipes from you, other agents in your office, or clients. Give suggestions for serving and choose wisely according to what’s in season. And give a shout out to your local farmer’s market!
(14) Local Builder Highlight: New construction is always a hot topic. So whether local builders are making the news headlines or just getting started on a new development, keep your readers in the know.
(15) Photo Collage or Slideshow: Show off the beauty and uniqueness of your area with a monthly collage of photos taken in your market area. Choose a different theme each month.
(16) Listings: Update your blog frequently with your newest listings and perhaps highlight ones that need additional exposure.
(17) Investment Insights: Post informational articles on how to select an investment property, interview of an analyst, local suggestions from your tax professional, etc.
(18) Book Club: Whether it’s a book your reading or a suggested reading list, sharing “good reads” and helpful resources is always a plus!
(19) About You: Write an occasional post on a special experience, holiday wishes, or fun events that recently occurred in your life. Are you involved in a charity or fundraiser? Tell readers about your involvement and how they can help too. Provide a little personal transparency to your blog and give readers a chance to relate to you.
(20) Go Green: Post articles about local initiatives toward sustainable practices and building. Share tips for reducing, reusing, and recycling at home.

Got content ideas? Tell me what works for you.