Some real estate ads that we come across despite media are ridiculously awful while some stand out so much that we share them with others. In all cases, we take a mental note not only of effectiveness but of how much money companies have likely spent on their horrible (or awesome) ads.
The above video ad
The above ad by Landmark Realty is great. Really awesomely great. We’ve seen a lot of Old Spice parodies, most of which are horrible, but after watching the above, I really want to do business with this brokerage. I may be the fringe Gen Y consumer that is addicted to internet culture, but if you contrast the above ad’s budget and likely return with what is up next, you’ll see why we would highlight this video.
Next up, a bad ad
Marketers, prepare to cringe. Real estate marketers, prepare to have part of your soul ripped out as you view this wasted opportunity spotted in Brooklyn (click to enlarge):
The above ad attempts to be edgy with unused space which we usually like, but the picture chosen is embarrassing at best and the price as well as contact info are so small that a passerby couldn’t possibly see it much less commit it to memory.
Both ads cost money
When you’re putting your branding on anything from a flyer to a video, ask yourself if it’s even worth the time, energy or money you’re putting into it. Lazy real estate advertisements are common, but really great gems are out there that literally make people want to do business with your brokerage.
Of the ads featured above, which do you think will get the most bang for the buck?
Lani is the COO and News Director at The American Genius, has co-authored a book, co-founded BASHH, Austin Digital Jobs, Remote Digital Jobs, and is a seasoned business writer and editorialist with a penchant for the irreverent.

Artur
March 21, 2011 at 12:41 am
The video is excellent. The print ad embarrassing.
Liz Benitez
March 21, 2011 at 7:48 am
The video of course. I however can’t afford a nice spiffy video ad. I like to think however the fliers I put out are more eye catching than that poster. 😀
BawldGuy
March 21, 2011 at 12:01 pm
I’m the guy who’s always makin’ artists cringe. “I don’t know art, but I know what I like” etc. Anyone who knows me realizes I can’t market my way out of a wet paper bag. But that video rocks, and a half.
stephanie crawford
March 23, 2011 at 2:44 am
Great vid. They have 8 others on their YouTube channel that are equally good.