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The trusty real estate signboard might seem like the kind of basic marketing tool that just can’t be improved on. But there are plenty of possibilities if you’re looking to enhance the effectiveness of your boards. 

Many agents are reluctant to get too tricky with boards – there are still agencies out there who refuse to consider photo boards. But it’s not as simple as sticking the necessary details on a sign and then installing it out the front of the home. The board is a point of contact for passersby and should communicate, quickly and effectively, the information that buyers want: if the property is for sale or auction, inspection times and agent contact details. Keep in mind that if someone is driving past they’ll have only the briefest of moments to absorb the detail.  A well-thought out board can be a highly effective marketing tool. 

The point is not to have flashy, high tech signs screaming out the front of every property you’re selling, but by acknowledging that different types of boards have different effects, you can install a board that will attract the right kind of attention to whatever home you’re selling.

We predicted last year that new signboard developments were afoot, so here some ways to add wow factor to a basic board. 

Solar powered lights

These are are a brilliant addition to many boards. There are no cables, they’re environmentally friendly, and particularly good for isolated or rural properties. Some installation companies even provide state-of-the-art battery systems that hold charge for up to three days in overcast winter weather. A board with solar lights promotes the property all day, every day.

3D lettering

The popularity of 3D lettering on signboards exploded in 2013. Various materials can be used, including acrylic, aluminum and metal, and they’re a great way of emphasising details like your logo or brand name. They also add an element of luxe to the board, which works especially well for prestige properties. 

External wall vinyl

A neat solution when installing a board isn’t practical or even possible. The vinyl can be applied to concrete or brick walls with no need for screws, which makes it perfect for inner city properties or heritage-listed homes. It’s fast to put up and remove, and depending on the surface can last from three to 12 months. 

Digital signboards

Digital signboards are a whole new twist on the boards of old. QR codes were once considered a clever way of linking a static signboard to the digital listing, but the limitations (that people had to have a QR code reader installed on their phone, and then get close enough to the code to scan it) made them little more than a gimmick. 

Illuminated LCD screens mean that all the information is right there, on the board. It’s highly visible at all times, although they can come with timers and be switched off during periods when people are less likely to see them. In addition,  the data can be easily customised or updated by the agent from their own computer. The risk of vandalism can be minimised with the inclusion of alarms, GPS trackers and cameras. 

Digital sign boards are a great way of grabbing and holding the interest of passersby with movement and colour, and they can showcase more than a regular board – you can program a slow moving slideshow of photos and floorplans to get attention, and highlight the next inspection time. 

They have their limitations too (like getting council approval). They’re also only appropriate in certain areas. For instance, a such high visibility board may not go down well on a quiet residential street. 

When it comes to signboards, are you willing to try something different or do your prefer to stick to basics?