Using your XSite to connect with Generation X

Generation X – those born roughly between 1965 and 1979 – have become the most prominent home buyer group today. In fact, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) research on consumer preferences indicates that 37 percent of Gen-Xers and 27 percent of echo boomers (those born after 1979) intend to buy homes in the next two years, compared to just 13 percent of baby boomers and 6 percent of seniors.

What's more, Gen-Xers have very different tastes in homes and the home buying than their baby boomer parents. Here are a few ways they differ from previous generations and how your XSite can help generate more business from this growing group of buyers:

Gen-Xers are the most highly educated generation in American history. In fact, almost 60 percent have some college education and 6.6 percent have a graduate degree. This means they do their homework – especially before making a decision or major purchase. Your XSite's content pages come into play importantly in this aspect. A Gen-X buyer may come across your site because of its wealth of information and tools on mortgages and the home buying process and, in turn, contact you when they're ready to apply for a loan.

Gen-Xers are proficient users of the Internet and e-mail. They were the first to use the Internet and they now rely on it heavily for communication and research. You already have a leg up in this area with your XSite and CertMail! But because Gen-Xers are so used to having a wealth of information at their fingertips whenever they want it, they also expect prompt replies to their e-mails. With your XSite's Mobile Tools, you can end and receive e-mail, manage your contacts, schedule closings anywhere you go – allowing you to give your Gen-X clients the instant gratification they need.

Gen-Xers grew up with technology. The first generation to start out with analog technology and see everything go digital, are now comfortable using new technology, especially if it makes their lives easier. Consequently, they're likely to embrace your XSite's digital signatures capabilities since it will eliminate paper clutter and make closing their loan easier and more seamless. Plus, your site's Flash intros, videos and modern, professional themes will appeal to any Gen-Xer's high-tech mindset.

Gen-Xers tend to have a "move up mentality" and want larger, more luxurious homes. According to the NAHB, both Gen-Xers and echo boomers want a home that is about 50 percent larger than their current residence. Therefore, they may be more open to balloon, adjustable rate and interest-only mortgages if it means they can purchase a larger home. Fortunately, your XSite has plenty of pre-built content pages describing various loan types and 18 different mortgage calculators so your Gen-X clients can configure different loan situations to find out which one appeals to them the most.