In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is no longer optional for REALTORS®—it’s essential. Buyers and sellers are increasingly turning to the internet to research agents, view listings, and make informed decisions about who they want to work with. While there are many digital marketing strategies available, we recommend focusing on and setting up these four foundational platforms as the best way to establish online credibility, attract leads, and grow your business.
- Website
- Google Business Profile
Website: Your Digital Storefront
A Realtor’s website is their online headquarters—a place where potential clients can learn more about them, browse listings, and take action. Unlike social media platforms that are constantly changing, a website is a stable and customizable space that allows Realtors to control their branding and messaging. A well-designed website instills professionalism and trust, providing valuable information such as market updates, client testimonials, and contact details. It also serves as an effective lead-generation tool by integrating forms for inquiries, home evaluations, and consultations.
Facebook: Building Community and Trust
Facebook remains one of the most powerful tools for Realtors looking to engage with their audience. With its mix of personal and professional content, Facebook allows Realtors to showcase their expertise while connecting with potential buyers and sellers in a more casual and interactive way. Posting market updates, home listings, client testimonials, and success stories helps build trust and establish credibility. Additionally, you need a Facebook account to access their powerful and often inexpensive advertising tools to reach the right audience on several other platforms.
Instagram: Showcasing Visual Appeal and Lifestyle
Real estate is a highly visual industry, making Instagram an ideal platform for Realtors to showcase their listings and brand. High-quality images, virtual tours, and behind-the-scenes content help create a compelling and engaging presence. More than just a place to post photos, Instagram allows Realtors to highlight the lifestyle aspects of the communities they serve, positioning them as local experts. Features like Stories, Reels, and IGTV provide opportunities for storytelling, market updates, and engaging with followers in real-time. Instagram’s algorithm also favors consistent and high-quality content, making it a great platform for organic reach and brand growth.
Google Business Profile: Dominating Local Search Results
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a crucial yet often overlooked tool for Realtors. It plays a key role in local search visibility, ensuring that potential clients can find an agent when searching for real estate services in their area. A fully optimized profile increases credibility, as it prominently displays contact information, reviews, business hours, and photos. Positive client reviews on Google help build social proof and trust, influencing new clients to reach out. Additionally, posting updates and featured listings to the Google Business Profile helps Realtors stay relevant in search results, giving them a competitive edge in their local market.
Why These Four Platforms Matter as a Starting Point
Realtors have countless digital marketing options, but these four platforms — a Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business Profile — provide the strongest foundation for an online presence. They offer a balance of credibility, engagement, and visibility, ensuring that potential clients can easily find and connect with an agent. By establishing a strong presence on these platforms first, Realtors set themselves up for long-term success, allowing them to expand into more advanced marketing strategies as they grow. In a world where first impressions often happen online, having these essentials in place is the key to standing out and thriving in the competitive real estate market.
