For the first time, WhatsApp is allowing estate and letting agents to use WhatsApp to respond to their leads.
The new service is being rolled out in the next few months by lead response technology Olivia.
The firm utilises a team of real people to respond to agents’ online enquiries in under two minutes, 24/7, in an effort to speed up response times and move away from outdated communication channels.
Launched in August 2018 by co-founders Sachin Pabari and Kisan Kansagra, the platform has processed over 250,000 messages for estate and letting agents nationwide.
It hopes that being able to interact with consumers via WhatsApp will allow agents to improve their lead management, customer experience and communication.
WhatsApp will also be integrated into Olivia’s client dashboard, providing estate agents and consumers with a platform for two-way communication.
Agents will now have access to all of their portal, instant valuation, call overflow and other email leads in via the platform.
“This is a huge opportunity for estate agents to get ahead of the curve. Over the next few years, WhatsApp is increasingly going to become the go-to communication platform for consumers and businesses,” said Pabari.
“In the next few months, our agents will be able to let potential vendors know that their agency is using unrivalled technology, making it easier for them to convert valuations, sell homes faster and satisfy customers.”
Brands including Netflix, Booking.com and Deliveroo are currently testing the WhatsApp API (Application Programming Interface) for communication with customers.
“It’s easy to get a single business profile, but to be allowed to build on the WhatsApp API as a third-party application is a massive coup for Olivia and took some time to get over the line,” added Pabari.
The exclusive WhatsApp pilot programme has a limited number of spaces as Olivia has a finite number of WhatsApp numbers available, with its existing clients being given first option.
Launched in August 2018, Olivia has now processed over 250,000 messages from applicants on behalf of UK estate agents, including well-known firms Power Bespoke, Urban & Rural and Sure Property Group.