March 2023 | Page 28

MARKETING
Live Videos
Did you know the video streaming market is projected to hit $ 184.3 billion by 2027 ? Currently , internet users watch 1.1 billion hours of live video , which means a large portion of the market can be reached with the use of live videos . They consistently see more engagement with followers than any other form of content , making it a powerful tool for multifamily marketers to connect with their target audiences .
As such , video content will continue to be essential for multifamily marketing in 2023 . Videos should be optimized for mobile devices , as well as social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram , to ensure maximum reach .
The best sites to utilize for live videos are Facebook and YouTube , because they can be viewed even after the live streaming has ended . Live videos are an effective and engaging way to show off resident-exclusive events , grand openings , or other celebrations that bring excitement to your brand .
Live videos invite your followers to see and be part of what you are all about , letting them get to know the faces behind the brand . And while live videos are a fun way to interact with your audience , they can also be used to provide information about upcoming events , specials , or new properties in the works
Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality
Augmented and virtual reality are technologies that are continually on the rise . From virtual tours of apartments to games like Pokemon Go , augmented reality has a lot of potential in increasing your brand awareness and engaging residents . Augmented reality ( AR ) and virtual reality ( VR ) offers consumers a chance to interact with the world around them without leaving the comfort of their home , which is an idea marketers need to capitalize on .
The idea of virtual reality was introduced to consumers through smart technology that can be brought into their home . Both of these advancements make

" The opportunities with AR and VR are endless ,

allowing for creative digital marketing campaigns and features that appeal to target residents "

marketing efforts more impactful , and allow the consumer to interact with your brand in exciting ways they have not been able to before .
In the multifamily industry , AR and VR can be used to display property renderings and allow customers to interact with them before construction begins . You can create a virtual tour for people who may not live close-by or are simply browsing options , allowing them to explore floor plans and amenities without the travel . The opportunities with AR and VR are endless , allowing for creative digital marketing campaigns and features that appeal to target residents .
Native Advertising
Native advertising , while considered an older method , is proving to be useful once again with the rise in technology . With the use of ad blockers and the avoidance of everyday ads , apartment marketers are looking to native advertising . It blurs the lines between advertising and content , coming off as less promotional and more as a casual nod to the brand and how it can benefit consumers .
Some examples of native advertising include sponsored ads seen on Facebook and Instagram , or product placement . The native ad should be able to fit in with the host ’ s media if your company ' s logo is removed . This strategy builds your brand ' s credibility and trustworthiness because you ’ re not bombarding your target resident with promotional content . Instead , you ’ re leading them to your site organically and building that relationship . This year , it will become crucial to take advantage of sponsorships on social media and other platforms in order to maintain and grow your target audience .
Artificial Intelligence ( AI )
Artificial intelligence ( AI ) will continue to be important in multifamily marketing . AI is complex and advanced , making it similar to augmented reality and virtual reality . AI is redefining the customer experience , but is a concept that apartment marketers have to experiment with . Developers and properties that are willing to accept the challenge of adopting AI will see great payoffs in the future . AI can be applied in many ways , but has been used to build websites , segment customers , and in the automation of big data . AI can also be used to automate processes such as lead generation , providing multifamily marketers with more efficient and cost-effective ways of reaching their target audiences .
26 | TRENDS MARCH 2023 www . aamdhq . org