Here in Aspen, searching for properties remains “on mountain time.” That is, while residents and visitors alike might be internet savvy, traditional methods are still used to market properties. Whether in one of two daily newspapers, nearly ten glossy magazines, or in locally produced television commercials, the audience is broad. Targeting a specific geographic location, age demographic, or lifestyle interest of a buyer in such a saturated and transient market is much more of a challenge.

The social networking authority unveiled a major update to the Property Rentals section of its Marketplace, implementing a new front-end interface allowing mobile users to search for properties using more filters than ever before. In official partnership with Zumper and Apartment List, potential renters can search directly through their Facebook newsfeed with the touch of a screen or click of a button.

Top producing Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty broker Pat Marquis has emerged with a competitive edge by investing the majority of her marketing efforts away from print into social media channels and custom produced content.

“Historically, we have to admit that advertising and engaging on social media reaches more people period,” says Marquis. “I’ve quickly found that it’s faster and more beneficial for my clients. It’s only the beginning here in Aspen of how things are changing.”

Her first major new media project in embracing her new focus was a full-scale film shoot to highlight her highest profile listings. After meeting top-producing Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty agent Seth O’Byrne last fall during a social media seminar he hosted, Marquis was instantly, well, sold.

Regularly traveling to teach tricks of the digital trade to Sotheby’s International Realty offices across the country, O’Byrne has skyrocketed to success through storytelling. For many of the O’Byrne Team’s properties, he plays director/producer for mini-films enlisting high profile industry crews and actors from nearby Los Angeles to shoot, produce, and collaborate. A self-described “shameless self-promoter”, he often steps in front of the camera with his marketing director / photographer Frank Glaser capturing every behind-the-scenes moment for even more content. He’s amassed more than 20,000 Instagram followers for his electric persona, honest commentary, date nights, travelogues, and dream-worthy real estate posts.