Web Is The New Real Estate

During the real estate bubble, people were leaving their jobs in droves and taking on a function in the real estate industry. New lenders were popping up everywhere and making a fortune. Realtors were being turned out by the armful and only had to say “hi” in order to make a sale. It seemed, during this time, that the only qualifications for being a general contractor was having a pickup truck and a dog.

Then, in 2007, everything started to change fast. Most of those who made the jump that were in the business because it was a good financial move failed because they really weren’t that good at it. They didn’t really know what it took to truly succeed in the business when the business was going down hill fast.

About the same time the economy was taking a dive, I made a bold move to start a Web company. I had spent 15 years in graphic design and marketing. I already had my MBA. I understood technology (my undergraduate is in IT management). Creating a Web company was a natural next step for me. I didn’t think anything of it. The opportunity was there and I seized upon it.

As I worked hard, I experienced explosive growth and I hired a staff to help me. Year over year we have grown quite a bit. I would say that 2011 was our roughest year but we still were up 15%.

I have noticed a significant increase in people leaving their familiar surroundings and entering the Web space. I’ve noticed that people from all walks of life start selling search engine optimization, social media marketing and Web design… apparently because they can’t do anything else.

My three favorites that I’ve seen recently are companies that come from real estate lending, software sales and residential painting.

Nothing says you are qualified to build a Web site, perform search engine optimization and consult on social media like “I couldn’t work in my past field so I started my Web company.” It was this attitude that prompted my blog post last year titled, I Tweet Therefore I Consult.

I’m not sure we are in a Web design bubble but the barrier to entry is low and business can be good. In fact, even those who are very bad at this can make a sale. However, the quality of work will be sub-par.

So, buyer beware. Choose someone with demonstrated experience and save yourself a lot of headaches.