Online Video Streaming Surges in 2007

According to the latest ComScore/MediaMetrix report, nearly 75 percent of U.S.
Internet users watched an average of 158 minutes of online video per user
during May 2007. Notable findings from May 2007 include:

    -- Online viewers watched an average of 158 minutes of streaming video per streamer.
    -- The average video stream duration was 2.5 minutes.
    -- Nearly three out of four (74.3 percent) U.S. Internet users streamed video online.
    -- More than one out of three (35 percent) U.S. Internet users streamed video on YouTube.com.
    -- The average online video viewer consumed 63 video streams, or more than two per day.

With online video consuption becoming the norm, I would expect to see rapid proliferation of video advertising across verticals, particularly in Real Estate.

The Growing Power of Women Online

I found this article a fascinating look at the growing influence of women online. We know the importance that women have in the home-buying process (and in any big-ticket purchase for that matter), but I had no idea this growth was so pronounced. Key points: Women have dibs on home computer use: Two-thirds of women (66.3%) say they are first in line to use the home’s computer. For products they might purchase, 54.5% of online women say the internet is their primary source of information. Among women 65+, three of 10 (31.8%) say the internet is their primary product-information resource. http://www.marketingcharts.com/interactive/women-internet-is-indispensable-894/?camp=newsletter&src=mc&type=textlink Enjoy. Dan

Move Reveals Social Networking and Video Plans

Move Inc. announced a broad reaching plan to integrate user-generated content and social networking functionality across its sites. Move Inc.'s new President, Lorna Borenstein, will focus on drawing a larger base of consumers to Move Inc. site.  They have traditionally concentrated on consumers that are actively buying, selling or renting real estate. They will now also focus on consumers that are passively seeking, researching, or otherwise not considering a purchase. Some interesting new features were announced:

A video destination featured home and garden video content

A social networking portal where users can discuss neighborhood issues, asking and answering questions

Neighborhood Search with detailed demographic information, heat maps, photos and video

Looks like Move is really branching out, in a direct response to functionality already live on Trulia and Zillow. They see those newer sites as a threat, and rightfully so.