Recently I was in the market for a new apartment. Like all people, I checked Craigslist first to see what I could find.

In the process, I learned two things.

First, I found out that Craigslist is not the way to go. There are some wacky people out there. Instead, even if you’re just looking for an apartment or duplex, find yourself a good realtor.

Second, and more apropos to this blog, I discovered that many realtors on Craigslist (and some who aren’t) have terrible skills in the following areas:

• photography, especially when it comes to images of apartment interiors (one actually posted photos of the corner of a closet);
• photo editing (these folks need Aspect Ratios for Dummies);
• making their contact information easily available (I want copy/pasteable text, not one huge blurry jpeg);
• client interaction (seriously, if I don’t call you right back, it’s not a good idea to call, text and email constantly like a jilted lover);
• effective communication (don’t tell me you “called 100s of places” in a single afternoon, because I’m not going to believe you);

and the worst offense of all:

• atrocious web design

Holy HTML Batman. These people are in sales?

Admittedly, there’s a certain grassroots style that comes with Craigslist. Long ago I came to the conclusion that having good grammar and correct spelling in a Craigslist ad goes against tradition. Maybe it’s meant as a rejection of corporate, slick sales sites, I don’t know. So I can handle weak CL postings. But if I click on a business URL, I do expect the quality to improve. I expect, at the very minimum, to be directed to a site that explains the realtor’s services, the kinds of properties/clients they handle, and basic contact information. Bells and whistles like property searches, photos, or MLS listings are nice, but not essential.

Sadly, most of the Craigslist realtors failed on even basic navigation and information, and design was apparently something they put on their Amazon wish list.

So I guess this is a lesson to all entrepreneurs of any profession. If you’re trying to win over clients, spend a few minutes (and maybe a few bucks) on your web presence (p.s. WordPress is free!). Oh, and don’t act clingy and desperate when potential clients call.

That’s not too much to ask, is it?

By the way, if you’re looking for an apartment in Austin, I recommend Nanette at Rock ‘N’ Realty, who does not resemble in any way the people I just described. She’s awesome, and does everything right… including saving you from crazy Craigslist realtors and finding you a great place to live!