SEO for Estate Agents: predictions for 2013

 

In 2012 Google took some strong actions and we expect them to do the same again in 2013. The best way to stay on track with SEO is to cover the fundamental basics by offering high quality, relevant information to its users but how can you get ahead with SEO in the New Year?

Reflecting back on what we learnt over the years

In the beginning of online search tactics like link exchange, link popularisation and forum posting were enough to see your website achieve high ranking results but as the web grow so did the competition. This lead to black hat SEO practices like keyword stuffing, link spamming and duplicate content which manipulated the search engine algorithm into ranking these website highly.

Google made two major algorithm changes this year, Panda and Penguin. The new algorithm changes were put in place to penalise websites with low quality content. 

Your 2013 SEO strategy should take ideas from what Google recommended back at the beginning:

• Original, unique and informative content development
• Ethical link building
• Keyword optimisation
• On site or on-page optimisation

Listen to Google

Although Google is very secretive about their algorithm it doesn’t stop them hinting certain practices. These are the SEO strategies you should put in place in 2013:

• Google+ engagement – a high-level of engagement within this social network will have a positive effect on your websites exposure. Google+ is just as important as Facebook these days, so be sure to update it just as often.
• Produce and share different content – Google doesn’t have any limitations when it comes to indexing content. There are many types of content you may have overlook but can be very valuable such as articles, blog posts, graphics, videos and many others.

Use Social media more

Social media has proved to be able to influence the search engine results. In 2013 you should push as much content through these channels as possible.
Follow these steps:

• Use Facebook and Twitter to constantly promote quality content which is aimed to help your audience. Provide suggests, news and any other information you can about your industry that your users may be interested in.
• Encourage your blog visitors to share your content and provide feedback.

By Luke Stanley
SEO Consultant