Social media has become an essential part of any modern marketing strategy, especially for real estate agents. You can use social media to perform targeted advertising campaigns and build relationships with potential clients. Real estate agents can also use social media to grow their network and, of course, to showcase properties. In short, using social media increases a real estate agent’s visibility.
If you’re just getting started in the industry, you may be overwhelmed at the prospect of building your online presence. We know it’s a huge undertaking when you are just getting started. As encouragement, we would like to remind you of the benefits of social media for real estate agents, share the top sites, and give you expert tips on how to use your accounts.
Benefits of Social Media for Real Estate
Entire courses have been taught, and books have been written on why and how to use social media for your real estate business. Here are a few reasons why you need to add this task to your ever-growing to-do list.
1. Awareness
Use social media to remind your network of friends and family that you are there to help with all their real estate needs. At the same time, you can present yourself as an expert by sharing valuable insights, market updates, and home tips.
2. Reach
Social media platforms allow real estate agents to reach a broader audience, increasing visibility and potential client engagement.
3. Lead generation
Social media offers opportunities to generate leads and maintain a healthy sales pipeline.
4. Networking
With your social media accounts, you’ll also be able to connect with other real estate professionals, mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and related professionals. You can also use your profiles to connect with community leaders and business owners. Expanding your network is easy with social media.
5. Targeting
Utilize social media advertising tools to target specific demographics, interests, and geographic locations. When you buy ads on social media, your marketing efforts will be focused on the most relevant audience.
6. Build relationships
By actively engaging with followers and responding to comments and messages, you will build relationships and foster trust with potential clients.
The Top 5 Real Estate Social Media Platforms for Real Estate Agents
As daunting as navigating the digital space may seem, staying up to date on the latest trends can provide you with an edge over competitors who aren’t taking advantage of the full potential of these channels. So, here are some social media platforms to consider.
1. Facebook
With its large user base and robust advertising options, Facebook is a versatile platform for real estate agents to showcase listings, share valuable content, engage with followers, and run targeted ad campaigns. Its diverse user base allows for broad reach and engagement.
2. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a valuable platform for networking and establishing professional credibility. Real estate agents can use LinkedIn to connect with other industry professionals and potential clients by sharing insights and showcasing expertise through thought leadership content.
3. Instagram
Known for its visual appeal, Instagram is a great place to showcase property listings through high-quality photos and virtual tours. Real estate agents can also use Instagram’s hashtags and location tagging features to reach a targeted audience.
4. YouTube
YouTube is the second-largest search engine globally. Video content is highly engaging and effective for showcasing properties, providing virtual tours, and sharing educational content.
5. TikTok
TikTok’s short-form video format is popular among younger demographics. It allows real estate agents to showcase properties creatively and share behind-the-scenes glimpses while engaging with a younger audience.
The luxury market is blowing up on TikTok thanks to good old-fashioned voyeurism. Brokers who post walk-throughs of glossy penthouses, quirky interior features, unique properties, and million-dollar views make a massive social media impact.
Social Media Tips for Real Estate Agents
We’ve told you why you should use social media to promote your real estate business, and we’ve discussed the best social media platforms for the industry. Now, we’ll give you a few quick tips on how to use your accounts.
1. Develop a real estate social media strategy from the beginning.
Building a social media presence takes time and consistency. Starting early allows agents to establish their brand and presence on social media platforms, laying the foundation for future growth.
2. Keep branding consistent across all online platforms.
Make your content instantly identifiable by employing a fixed visual identity of colors, graphic design elements, and language. You can position yourself as a trusted industry expert by being easily recognizable across all platforms.
3. Post consistently.
Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and maintain visibility on social media platforms. However, prioritize quality content that provides value to your audience over quantity. Share well-crafted photos, videos, and informative posts that showcase your expertise and offer market insights.
4. Save time with automation and scheduling tools.
Use scheduling tools to plan and schedule posts in advance for greater efficiency.
5. Encourage social media engagement.
Actively engage with your audience by promptly responding to comments, messages, and inquiries. Foster two-way communication, ask questions, and encourage interaction to build relationships with potential clients.
6. Utilize video to increase reach.
Over 90% of businesses say they’ve acquired new customers by posting videos on social media. It doesn’t have to be professionally done, and it doesn’t have to be time-consuming—smartphone quality is just fine. In some cases, it even comes across as more authentic than a high-budget studio production.
Each of the platforms previously listed allows you to use videos in posts. No matter the type of content, maintain a professional tone and demeanor on social media platforms. Avoid posting videos or any other content that would damage your professional reputation.
7. Reach a targeted audience with social media ads.
Don’t be afraid of paid media—it costs less than you think. Set aside a part of your advertising budget and watch your reach extend.
8. Use testimonials.
Agents can use social media to showcase client testimonials and positive reviews, building credibility and trust among potential clients.
9. Increase exposure with tags and hashtags.
There are many ways to use hashtags to promote your real estate business. You can use tags to connect with your target audience or capitalize on trends. You can also use them as a part of your brand or use location-specific hashtags to target local buyers. Use hashtags to find your niche or create hashtag campaigns.
10. Use social media to promote the area – not just the property.
Use your social media platforms to showcase local small businesses, family-friendly spots, and features that make the location unique.
11. Offer serviceable content.
Looking to dispel the myth that getting a real estate license is a long and cumbersome process? Do you want to explain what various real estate terms mean for first-time buyers or sellers? Find a concise way to package your knowledge and post it.
12. Measure results and improve your strategy.
Analytics tell you everything you need to know about what’s working and what isn’t. Monitor the numbers and be ready to pivot if some strategies don’t get you any results.
Social media for real estate professionals doesn’t have to be a challenge. Follow these best practices to get started and follow your own intuition about what feels authentic to your business.
We’ve just scratched the surface. Learn more about using social media to promote your real estate business by checking out our guide for creating a social media marketing strategy. Filled with actionable strategies, our guide will help you make the most of your time on social media.
McKissock Learning can also help you renew your real estate license. Enroll in our state-approved https://www.mckissock.com/real-estate/continuing-education/ to stay current in the industry and serve your clients better.
