TMCnews Featured Article

Live chat has played a role on consumer-facing websites for many years. However, the technology is innovative in the homebuilding industry space.

Recently, PulteGroup Inc., one of America's largest home building companies, announced the addition of live chat on its Pulte Homes, Centex (News - Alert), Del Webb and DiVosta websites, to make it easier for homebuyers to shop for a new home.

“After a successful pilot on Pulte.com increased contacts by 25 percent, PulteGroup has now placed the Contact At Once! live chat technology on all its consumer websites,” Julie Mynster, director of consumer engagement for PulteGroup, said in a statement.

Officials said that with the help of the live chat, online real estate shoppers can now easily connect and schedule appointments in real-time.

“PulteGroup is definitely leading the charge with homebuilders by offering live chat across the board on a national level," said John Hanger, Contact At Once! president and CEO. "They will have a competitive advantage now that online shoppers are able to chat from their websites."

The new chat function is certainly a great opportunity for the company to increase website engagement and capture leads without cannibalizing leads from other website sources.

"Live chat is paying dividends for us in multiple ways," Mynster said. "We're generating additional leads, but we also believe the option will appeal to those shoppers who might be reluctant to reach out by phone or e-mail. Through live chat we can actively engage consumers earlier in the sales process and assist those homebuyers who want more immediate answers and information."

In related TMC (News - Alert) news, shares of Pulte Homes have bearishly opened below the pivot of $15.51 and have reached the first support level of $15.38.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO Austin 2012, happening now in Austin, TX. Stay in touch with everything happening at ITEXPO (News - Alert). Follow us on Twitter.