Buyers Are Researching You And What They Find Could Be Killing Trust

You’ve launched your campaign.

The renders look sharp.

Your ads are driving clicks.

But something strange is happening… enquiries are slower than expected.

Here’s what most developers forget:

Before a buyer fills out your form, they’re Googling you.

And what they find or don’t find could be the dealbreaker.

In a digital-first world, your online presence isn’t just important.

It’s make or break.

What Today’s Buyers Do Before They Enquire

They’ve clicked your ad. They’re interested. But before they commit, they do what everyone does a quick search.

They’re looking for:

• Your project on Google Maps

• The developer’s name

• Your Apple Maps listing

• Reviews (or the absence of them)

• Social media accounts

• Your builder’s reputation

• Your track record

  
  

And if the results are inconsistent, outdated, or missing altogether? They start to lose confidence. Fast.

Why Digital Presence = Buyer Trust

Buying off-the-plan means buying before something exists. So buyers are searching for signals of legitimacy things that make them feel like this is a safe, credible, professional purchase.

And let’s be real: If you’re asking someone to drop $800k on a future apartment, your digital footprint needs to match the ask.

What Most Developers Miss

1. No Google Business Profile 

If your project or brand doesn’t show up with a map pin, photos, business hours, and a phone number you’re invisible to half your audience.

2. No Apple Maps Listing 

Many buyers use iPhones. If your development’s not mapped on Apple, you’re cutting yourself off from an entire device ecosystem.

3. Outdated Social Media 

f your Instagram or Facebook page hasn’t posted in six weeks or is full of generic renders buyers assume you’re not serious.

4. Inconsistent Branding Across Platforms 

Your website says “Coastal Luxe Apartments,” but your map listing still says “Lot 84.” Confusion = hesitation.

5. No Developer or Builder Credibility 

Buyers want to know who’s behind the project. If they can’t find anything about you, it raises red flags.

What You Should Do Right Now

1. Set Up and Optimise Your Google Business Profile 

Use the project name. Add images, contact info, links to your site, and regular updates. It’s free and massively increases credibility.

2. Get Listed on Apple Maps 

Use Apple’s “Maps Connect” to ensure your development appears for iOS users. Bonus: sync it with your Google listing for consistency.

3. Align Your Brand Everywhere 

Website, social media, digital ads, directories make sure everything looks and sounds like it’s from the same brand. No mixed names, no broken links.

4. Post Regularly and Meaningfully 

It doesn’t have to be daily. But your project’s feed should look active and professional. Think behind-the-scenes, progress shots, local lifestyle content, and team intros.

5. Add Social Proof 

Highlight previous successful developments. Share testimonials. Feature trusted partners. Show that people have bought from you before and loved the outcome.

You can run the best campaign in the world but if your online presence looks sketchy, buyers won’t take the next step.

Because before anyone buys what you’re selling… they’re buying your credibility.

So control what they see. Show up everywhere. And turn a quick Google search into your best sales tool.