Final answer:
A billboard that states 'Thomas Realty - A Name You Can Trust' would be regarded as a factual statement, thus the correct option is c.
Explanation:
A factual statement is a statement that can be proven to be true or false. In this case, the statement on the billboard is claiming that Thomas Realty can be trusted, which is a statement that can be verified through evidence and testimonials from satisfied clients. The use of the word 'trust' implies that the company has a track record of honesty and reliability, which can be proven through their successful transactions and positive reviews. Therefore, the statement on the billboard is not a technique of persuasion or a form of psychological manipulation, but rather a fact that can be verified through evidence.
Furthermore, the statement on the billboard can also be seen as a form of positive advertising. Positive advertising is a marketing strategy that focuses on highlighting the positive aspects of a product or service, rather than using negative tactics to promote it. In this case, the statement 'A Name You Can Trust' conveys a positive image of the company and its reputation, which can attract potential clients who are looking for a trustworthy and reliable real estate agency. This positive advertising approach is more effective in building a strong brand image and gaining the trust of customers, as compared to negative advertising which often creates a negative perception of the company.
Moreover, the use of the word 'trust' in the statement on the billboard can also be seen as a form of emotional appeal. Emotional appeal is a persuasive technique that appeals to the emotions and values of the audience, rather than using logical arguments. By using the word 'trust', the statement on the billboard taps into the emotions of potential clients, who may be looking for a real estate agency that they can rely on and feel comfortable working with. This emotional appeal is a powerful tool in marketing, as it can create a strong connection between the audience and the company.
In conclusion, the statement on the billboard, 'Thomas Realty - A Name You Can Trust' is a factual statement that can be verified through evidence and positive reviews. It is also a form of positive advertising and emotional appeal, which can attract potential clients and build a strong brand image for the company. Therefore, the statement is not an example of negative advertising, a technique of persuasion, or a form of psychological manipulation, but rather a factual and effective marketing strategy.