How many Google Base users are out there in reader land?  I know many of you web savvy real estate agents and brokers out there have already implemented this one into your strategy.  But for those who haven’t tried it yet – you’re missing a golden opportunity and here’s why:

Sneak In Google’s Back Door.

Google is the irrefutable king of online content.  Starting a search, where do you go?  I bet you just answered “Google.”  When it comes to getting your stuff to show up for Google searchers, it’s not usually this easy.  In fact, sometimes it takes years of painstakingly tedious work to get listed in Google’s results. 

But here’s the secret.  With Google base, it’s the other way around!  Google is asking you to upload the properties you represent (if you have the right to do so, of course).  When Google asks users to help them build content, it’s a request that shouldn’t ever be refused!  They’re offering you incredible exposure for free.

Put Your Listings On The Map.

Add your listings to Google Base and they’ll automatically be added to the side view Google Map.  Google Maps are nearly always the favorite among map providers because of their ease of use, simplicity, and growing compatibility with gadgets other than traditional computers (i.e. iPhone).

Once all of your properties are punched in to the database, go ahead and search the database with your specific name in the “Keywords” field and the zip code and a mileage radius that’s just wide enough to cover your territory.  The results will be your specific listings and they’ll also be pinpointed right on their very own Google Map.

RSS Effortlessly.

If you’re an RSS user, you already know why RSS subscriptions are so great.  But for beginners, consider the possibilities.  What do you use for your personal homepage?  Chances are, it’s either iGoogle or MyYahoo.  Statistically, those sites are also what most of your potential customers use.

Now consider the ability to have your listings posted right on that homepage.  It’s as simple as clicking the little RSS button in the upper right hand corner of the Google Base search result screen as detailed in the last map step above.  You can either follow the directions for setting up your own subscription or copy that long link and have it added to your real estate website or blog.  Whenever a person clicks on the link, they’ll be able to add your latest and up to date listings right to their home page or favorite RSS reader.

Really, this might be the best opportunity ever to get started with Google Base.  Actually your MLS or national brokerage organization might already be pumping mass listings to the site, but you should at least take control and check any already there that you represent for accuracy and quality.  Good luck with your Google Base!