Why You Should Use HTTPS for a Safe and Secure Site

Do you have HTTPS or SSL enabled on your real estate website?

By implementing HTTPS, you can further protect the integrity of your site, as well as data you are collecting. With HTTPS enabled, you will gain an immeasurable advantage over your competitors by instilling trust in potential leads.

First things first: What is SSL?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) creates an encrypted connection between your web server and your visitors' web browser. This allows for sensitive information (such as passwords or email addresses) to be transmitted without being hacked, tampered with or intercepted. If someone were to capture the data being transferred via HTTPS, it would be unrecognizable.

Why do you need it?

Perhaps most importantly, Google Chrome displays a 'Not secure' warning for all HTTP pages. By enabling SSL, you'll proactively prevent pop-up warnings and increase the amount of time users spend on your site, resulting in more lead capture opportunities. Not to mention, since security is a top priority for Google, HTTPS enabled sites are automatically given a minor ranking boost!

Why should you want it?

Google isn't the only one who cares about your website's security; so do prospective clients! According to the National Association of REALTORS® Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends, home seekers rated honesty and trustworthiness as the most important factors when choosing an agent. Well, since 44 percent of home searches start online, this sense of security begins with your real estate website.

To sum up, the benefits of HTTPS/SSL compatibility include:

• Gaining an unparalleled advantage over competing real estate websites by providing visitors with peace of mind.
• Ensuring you remain at the leading edge of SEO functionality and Google's Chrome browser updates with SSL functionality.

Keeping visitors coming to your real estate site is important, and they are more likely to leave if they encounter any roadblocks or feel their security is at risk. Enabling HTTPS or SSL ensures your leads feel safe and secure, while enhancing the credibility of your real estate site.

Your visitors will love knowing you take their security seriously!

To view the original article, visit the IDX Broker blog.