New Blog Nears Completion

We are approaching the completion of our new Boston Condos blog, and I was looking for some feedback on its functionality, looks, and any constructive feedback on ways to improve it. We attempted to stick with a clean design, and have happily been able to implement some unique Web 2.0 functionality that adds some cool features to the blog (little things that aren't terribly widespread yet).

[kensmith]

Looking good! Time to start pumping out some content.

[Mert]

p.s. I want the number of your design guy.

Your footer links are repetitive of your side category links, it is not necessary. Where is the contact me information or call this number to reach me info on the whole blog? I mean live chat is cool but there is no contact me info or a meet the expert page or am i missing it.

[Jim Messenger]

Originally Posted by Falcon Living Where is the contact me information or call this number to reach me info on the whole blog?

I have three suggestions:

1. Mert is correct about the contact information. Put your contact information at the top of each page. (only if you want business)

2. Get rid of the Live Chat. Right now, it is the focal point of the page. Your content should be the focal point. Also, I've yet to see you "online." It's a waste of good "real estate."

3. You need some type of call to action on the homepage. How about creating an ebook titled "The Boston Condo Guide"? Available for Free to all subscribers.

It look nice. Keep making changes.

Jim

[kensmith]

Great suggestions Jim.

I appreciate the suggestions, all very good.

- I have removed the live chat, I agree, it's inconsistent in terms of when I am online, and when I am not, so it's best to simply remove it, and make the focus content, rather than fancy contact mechanisms.

- I have added a contact us page that should now provide a mechanism for visitors to reach us.

- I have updated the footer links to give greater strength to the homepage itself.

- I like the idea of 'The Boston Condo Guide', any high-level suggestions on viable content here?

Thanks!!!

Originally Posted by kensmith Looking good! Time to start pumping out some content.

Oh yeah, and the content is being pumped. We're really trying to bring some useful and concise information to our visitors.

[naplesrealestate]

From a former Bostonian - the blog has some great stuff that brings back memories to me.

Sure you don't need a trip down memory lane. LOL

You might want to consider some before and after photos of the buildings. For some the transformation is interesting. Especially, the transformation of the South End.

[kensmith]

One thing that can really make a post stand out is a few photos. Always seems to catch my attention and sure it does for others as well. Naturally I say that and never add any photos, but who says you need to listen to your own advice .

[naplesrealestate]

HMMMM - will have to start finding illustrations to add my blog posts.

For those using WordPress for their blogs, do you have any issues with loading photos? When I add a photo it throws off the blog's alignment. It does not automatically resize the photo to fit the blog's width.