Hanging signs are a popular choice for real estate signs. They serve the same purpose as a yard sign and are made up of a hanging signpost or “swing post” and a hanging sign panel. Many realtors prefer hanging real estate signs to traditional yard signs because hanging signs, arguably, present a more stylish look than other yard signs. As part of their branding, some franchises have gone entirely to hanging signs.
Real Estate Sign Posts
A hanging signpost can be made of a variety of materials, but the best swing posts are made of steel or aluminum rather than plastic. If you’re using a steel post, powder-coating is especially important because it prevents rust from forming. Most swing posts, regardless of the type of metal they’re built with, are powder-coated for stylistic or brand identity reasons.
The main sign panel is suspended from a crossarm, which is a part of the post. With the majority of sign posts, there is space for a rider above the crossarm. The crossarm must be sturdy enough to support the sign panel as well as any riders placed on top. This is critical because riders are frequently hung from the bottom of the main hanging sign panel.
Hanging Sign Panels
The part of a hanging sign which actually shows information is called a sign panel. There are two primary types of sign panels. The largest is called the main panel. Additional signs hung from the main panel, or added to the top of the post, are called riders. These are smaller signs which add additional details to what’s included on the main panel.
Are Hanging Real Estate Signs Right for Me?
As with most things, there are pluses and minuses to every type of real estate sign. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using hanging signs.
Advantages
While hanging signs are becoming more prevalent, they’re still seen as unique from the countless yards signs homebuyers see. This means a hanging for sale sign will help differentiate you from the competition. There are lots of agents out there, so it’s crucial to set yourself apart. Signage is one way of differentiating.
Several models of hanging signs are taller than their non-hanging counterparts.This makes hanging signs more noticeable to a potential home buyer driving by.
While it’s subjective, many agents and homebuyers feel that hanging real estate signs have a more elegant look than standard yard signs.
Disadvantages
Hanging signs can be slightly more expensive than traditional real estate yard signs. Still, for most agents, the aesthetics and differentiation are worth the investment. However, because less of a hanging sign’s frame is in contact with the ground, a hanging sign does tend to last longer than its more common counterparts. As a result, the costs tend to even out over time.
Due to their vertical height, hanging realtor sign posts tend to be more cumbersome to transport than non-hanging sign frames. Many hanging signs are assembled in a way that allows you to break them down into smaller parts before transporting them. This is particularly useful if, like most agents, you drive a vehicle which isn’t built for carrying large cargo. Nevertheless, size is another factor which is frequently outweighed by the advantages of hanging signs.
Standard Real Estate Hanging Sign Size
Sign panels for hanging signs are most commonly 24 inches wide, but sign posts to hold other panel widths are also available. You can typically find swing posts intended to hold 18-inch and 30-inch wide panels as well.
The vertical length of a sign panel on a hanging sign is not as important as it is with a panel intended for a sign frame. This is because the only limiting factors are the panel touching the ground or being too heavy for the signpost to support. Even still, there are typical sign heights for hanging sign panels. For shorter sign posts, 24 inches by 24 inches is common. For larger sign posts, panels are often shorter than they are tall.
Custom Hanging Real Estate Signs
As we’ve discussed in past articles, the vast majority of real estate signs are made-to-order. Simply adding your name to a sign makes it “custom” rather than “stock.” While most franchises have strict design constraints on what can be added to signage, including custom hanging real estate signs, it’s uncommon for agents to order signage that is completely generic. For this reason, most real estate signs are custom real estate signs.
How To Assemble a Hanging Real Estate Sign
Setting up a real estate hanging sign post is not as difficult as you might expect. Check out the instructional video below for step-by-step instructions on how to assemble and install a sign post for a hanging sign. These instructions are based on a Dee Sign Model 880 sign post. Assembling other hanging signs won’t be exactly the same process, but it will be similar.
How To Install a Hanging Real Estate Sign
Similar to assembling the hanging sign, installing the sign is relatively simple. The video we’ve included below will walk you through the whole process. Again, these instructions are based on a Dee Sign Model 880 sign post installation, but the process will be similar for any hanging sign installation.
Conclusion
Hanging signposts and their accompanying sign panels are a terrific way to set yourself apart from your competitors as a real estate agent. Hanging real estate signs are unique and have a distinctive feel that can’t be reproduced with traditional yard signs. While all sign types have unique strengths and drawbacks, hanging signs are a fantastic option for promoting your listings.
Wondering what signs are best for your real estate marketing needs? The real estate sign specialists at Dee Sign are standing by to guide you through the process.