Making social connections has always been a big part of a realtor’s job. As times change, though, the way to make those connections changes, too. Social media has become a powerhouse for reaching people, but if realtors don’t use it optimally, it doesn’t generate results – or worse, actively puts your target audience off.
To maximize the potential of social media for generating leads, real estate agents should follow a set of best practices tailored to this dynamic environment.
Choose the Right Platforms
Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter can all help agents reach a broader audience, engage meaningfully with potential clients, and establish their brand so they are remembered. However, the different social media platforms cater to different demographics and purposes. You need to identify who your target audience is. For realtors who maintain a niche area, this will be easier; for others with a range of properties, a strategy to maximize reach will help.
Facebook is ideal for community building and sharing detailed posts, photos, and videos, and Facebook groups and ads can be particularly effective. There are over 3 billion active monthly users, so it’s an excellent way to reach people, although it’s most popular with people over 30.
Instagram is highly visual and perfect for showcasing properties through photos and short videos. Users expect this, so it’s important to keep your posts very short, and feature high-quality pictures and videos. Instagram Stories and Reels can capture attention and drive engagement. This platform tends to attract the under 35s, so is a good choice for first-time homes.
LinkedIn is best for professional networking and sharing industry insights. It’s useful for connecting with other professionals and potential clients in the corporate sector.
Twitter is most useful for quick updates, news, and engaging in real-time conversations. Hashtags can help in reaching a broader audience, but use these sparingly and strategically.
Create High-Quality, Engaging Content
High-quality content not only attracts attention, but also establishes your credibility and expertise.
Share visually appealing photos, videos of properties, and virtual tours for an immersive experience.
Keep your audience informed, with regular updates on market trends, interest rates, and local real estate news. Include a range of educational content, too. This positions you as a knowledgeable resource.
Build your authenticity and trustworthiness, by sharing success stories, client testimonials builds trust and authenticity, and behind-the-scenes content for a personal connection.
Leverage Videos
Video content is very effective on social media due to its engaging nature. The obvious way to do this is to include detailed video walkthroughs of properties; increasing numbers of home buyers are unlikely to view a property in person if they haven’t seen a video of it.
However, other types of video content are useful too, to create connections, such as Q&A sessions, client interviews, or neighborhood spotlights to highlight local amenities, schools, and attractions.
Engage with the Audience
Actively engaging with followers is crucial for building relationships and trust. Promptly replying to inquiries and comments shows your professionalism and attentiveness. Live streams and virtual open houses can attract potential buyers and create immediate engagement. Try running polls and surveys, to provide valuable insights into audience preferences and increase interaction.
Paid Advertising
Paid social media advertising can significantly boost lead-generation efforts. Advanced targeting options on platforms like Facebook and Instagram reach specific demographics based on location, interests, and behaviours. Retargeting campaigns help you re-engage users who have previously interacted with your content or visited your website.
Analyze and Optimize
Regularly analyzing performance metrics allows you to know what’s working and what isn’t. Engagement indicators, including likes, comments, and shares, reflects your overall interaction, while impressions numbers show how many people are seeing your content. Click-through rates and conversion rates show how effective your efforts are and how many leads are being generated.
Facebook Insights, Instagram Analytics, and LinkedIn Analytics can provide detailed reports on these metrics.
Be Consistent
Consistency in posting and engagement is critical to maintaining an active and engaged following, and to keep your name top-of-mind. Use a content calendar to help plan and schedule posts to ensure regular activity.
Build a Personal Brand
A strong personal brand makes you stand out. Consistent use of colours, logos, and fonts across all platforms helps with this, and helps you be remembered. Ensure all of your social media profiles are complete, professional, and consistent. Also, clearly communicate what you offer and what makes you unique.
Collaborate with Influencers and Community Groups
Partnering with local influencers and community groups extends your reach and increases credibility. It increases your authenticity, while reaching a broader audience.
