Facebook Ads: A Step-by-Step Guide for Creating High-Converting Ads
Do Facebook ads still convert leads? They do if you know what you're doing, according to real estate agent and coach Mike Sherrard. In this video tutorial, Sherrard walks viewers through the exact steps needed to build and deploy Facebook lead ads — with special attention paid to pre-deployment preparation and to finding leads afterwards. This tutorial offers handy, actionable tips like targeting custom lists of homes under a certain price point, and using images in your ads from homes that are slightly above the targeted price point to intrigue viewers and increase engagement. Watch the video to get other great tips and detailed guidance, like: Setting objectives, budgets, and targeting parameters Using campaign end dates to prevent unintended long-term spending Tips for targeting the Spanish-speaking market The top four ad placements work best Image tricks for increasing engagement Where to find leads from your ads in Facebook And more! Related Reading Paid vs. Organic Search for Real Estate Sites 8 campaign ideas for finding more listings 10 Questions Home Sellers Ask Google (and 40 Key Phrases to Target Them)

Real Estate Social Media Strategy: How to Boost Engagement in Your Online Community
In the realm of real estate, having an online presence has become more crucial than ever. Enter social media, the digital playground where potential buyers, sellers, and investors gather to explore properties, seek advice, and make connections. However, having a social media account is just the beginning. To truly stand out and succeed, you need a well-crafted social media strategy that fosters engagement within your online community. In this post, we'll unveil the secrets to boosting engagement in your real estate social media strategy. Know Your Audience, Be the Audience Take a moment to tap into your inner detective before you jump right into content creation. Who are your ideal customers? What are their inclinations, routines, and problems? Once you've figured it out, make sure your content speaks to their interests. Share articles that address their queries, allay their worries, and highlight homes that fit their ideals. The secret is to think like your audience, foresee their needs, and give them value that keeps them coming back for more. Consistency Is King Imagine living in a society where you only ever brush your teeth when you feel like it. I know, it's not a pretty picture. In order to be effective on social media, consistency is necessary. Make a posting schedule and follow it. A consistent posting schedule, whether it be twice a week or every day, not only keeps your audience interested but also increases your credibility. A consistent stream of content also keeps your brand top-of-mind for potential customers, increasing the likelihood that they'll think of you when it's time to buy or sell a home. Content Variety: The Spice of Engagement Variety is essential for success on social media as well as being the "spice of life." Avoid limiting yourself to just real estate listings. Blend it up! Send out eye-catching images, educational infographics, captivating videos, and even behind-the-scenes peeks at your real estate journey. Engage, inspire, and educate your audience. Think about giving virtual tours, taking questions from the audience in real time, or sharing achievements. A variety of content keeps readers interested while showcasing your knowledge and personality. Harness the Power of Hashtags Think of hashtags as your friends on social media. They enable a larger audience outside of your followers to find your content. Don't, however, overdo it and overuse hashtags in all of your posts. Be judicious. Look up popular and pertinent hashtags for the real estate industry, then naturally incorporate them into your posts. This tactic not only increases the visibility of your content but also strengthens your authority as a subject matter expert. Engagement Isn't a Monologue In social media, communication happens both ways. Dialogue is what engagement is, not a monologue. React quickly to interactions, messages, and comments. Show a sincere interest in the ideas and questions of your audience. Actively interacting with your audience helps to build trust and loyalty as well as a sense of community. Encourage conversation, elicit thoughtful responses, and value every interaction because each one contributes to the development of solid, enduring relationships. User-Generated Content: Sharing is Caring Imagine the thrill of seeing your photo on a real estate agency's social media page. That's the power of user-generated content. Encourage your clients to share their experiences, photos of properties they've purchased through you, and even their home decor inspirations. Not only does this show that you value your clients, but it also adds authenticity to your online presence. People trust the words of their peers, and these posts act as real-life testimonials, bolstering your reputation. Storytelling: Where Magic Happens In a world saturated with information, stories cut through the noise like a breath of fresh air. Share your real estate journey, the challenges you've overcome, and the heartwarming success stories of clients you've helped. People connect with stories on a deep emotional level, and when they connect with you, engagement naturally follows. Use the power of storytelling to make your brand relatable, memorable, and inspiring. To conclude, in the vibrant landscape of social media, your real estate business has the potential to shine like a diamond. Crafting an effective social media strategy that boosts engagement in your online community isn't rocket science, but it does require careful planning and execution. Know your audience, be consistent, diversify your content, harness hashtags, engage authentically, share user-generated content, and weave compelling stories. By following these steps, you'll transform your online presence into a thriving hub of interaction, connection, and, ultimately, real estate success. So go ahead, take the plunge – your engaged online community awaits! To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

5 Habits You Can Stick to for a Consistent and Engaging Social Media Presence
As a real estate pro in this modern, smartphone-centered day and age, you already know how crucial it is to have a solid online presence. But it's not enough to simply sign up for a social media business profile, post here and there, and kick up your feet. You must draw audiences in and let them know you're always available through your social media profile. It's not another task to add to the pile; it's your real estate business's social media presence, an important pillar for your brand and your success. Why You Need a Strong Social Media Presence Social media is a unique beast: it's where impressions are made, influence is grown, and consumer opinions and actions are completely swayed. It's also a crucial piece of the real estate puzzle. After all, prospective clientele might be browsing your profile, so you want to ensure you're consistent and engaging. As we said, it's not just to check a box. On social media, you're not just competing for space with other real estate agents, you're competing with countless other online users, influencers, famous figures, and business profiles. It's not to discourage you; the algorithms used by social media profiles will help ensure your content is seen by users who would think it's relevant. 5 Impactful Habits to Help You Form a Consistent and Engaging Social Media Presence So, how exactly can you cut through the social media noise? Enter: being consistent and engaging. By posting and updating consistently, and engaging with interactions you receive, the algorithm will be more likely to push your content so the same audience — and similar ones — will see your posts and updates more often. In turn, your engagement increases, and your social media presence grows. It's not as hard as it sounds, and we'll guide you with these five easy, impactful habits you can start using to accomplish just that. 1. Set a Reminder on Your Calendar We're emphasizing easy, so start with a bite-sized first step. Go over to your work calendar and block out 15 to 30 minutes in the first half of the day and the second to engage on social media. Leave comments, like or react to posts, respond to messages — you get the idea. Then, block out at least one hour per week you'll dedicate to creating content. Aim to create content that speaks to and resonates with your target audience, is educational, and makes people want to engage with what you post. 2. Create Content That Makes People Want to Engage How can you make content that spurs action, inspires users, and gets engagement? One recommendation is to create content from a place of authenticity. By being authentic on social media, users will feel more like they can relate to you, and be more likely to engage with what you're posting. Create polls or ask for questions on your Facebook posts or Instagram Story. Post a brief video on your opinion on the latest real estate trends, or your take on market shifts in your local area. Or, share your very own curated local guide to the best things in your ZIP code. Use hashtags to help these posts get found more easily, post these types of content consistently, and watch as engagement rolls in. 3. Use a Content Calendar and Use it Regularly Consistency is key to cutting through social media noise. The more you post, and the more engagement you capture, the more likely the social media algorithms are to push your content to broader, but relevant, audiences. Download a content calendar template, fill it out, and stick to it. Using a content calendar will help you keep your content ideas in one place so you know what to create, and will also help you stay on the straight and narrow of posting on a regular basis. 4. Leverage Your Daily Life for Content Creation Inspiration If you're still scratching your head on what you can possibly create for social media content, or if you're ready and raring to fill up your shiny new content calendar, consider using your own daily life as a real estate pro to create content. Record your latest listing or open house with your smartphone, snap a quick shot of your latest clients in front of their new home, or consider recording a day in the life of a real estate agent. These are just a few ideas to get you going, and we know you have a ton more. So use them! 5. Respond, React, Reshare You've got content creation and posting down pat, so don't forget to actually engage. When people comment on your posts, respond to each one and give it a thumbs up. If you get a direct message, respond to it as promptly as you can — or even use it as an intro to take the conversation offline. Engage with similar real estate creators, in your niche or industry or even industry-adjacent pros, like loan officers or home construction builders. Think of this like fostering your digital community, especially as it opens the door to even more engagement with your social media presence. Ready, Set, Post! To view the original article, visit the Inside Real Estate blog. Related reading Mastering Instagram: Best practices for real estate agents A TikTok Trend to Revamp Your Pipeline: Tap Into the Triangle Method How Real Estate Agents Can Build a Professional Network on LinkedIn

How Real Estate Agents Can Use Instagram to Promote Their Services
In the dynamic world of real estate, where every property has a unique story to tell, standing out is key. In this digital age, social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to showcase your properties and services, and Instagram, with its visually-oriented approach, is a goldmine for real estate agents. In this post, we'll explore how real estate agents can use Instagram to promote their services effectively. Why Instagram? With over one billion monthly active users, Instagram is becoming increasingly popular. The platform is perfect for real estate because of its emphasis on visual content, such as photos and videos. According to the proverb, "A picture is worth a thousand words," and in the world of real estate, eye-catching images can fetch a high price. Create an Eye-Catching Profile Your Instagram profile is your digital business card. When prospective clients land on your profile, they should immediately understand what you do and what sets you apart. Here's how to do it: Profile Picture: Use a high-quality photo of yourself or your agency's logo. This helps establish trust and brand recognition. Bio: Write a clear and concise bio that includes your name, the area you serve, and your contact information. Don't forget to add a call-to-action (CTA) to encourage visitors to get in touch. Content Is King Now that your profile is looking sharp, let's dive into creating content that captures your audience's attention. Property Showcases: Regularly post high-quality photos and videos of the properties you represent. Show them from different angles, capture stunning interiors, and emphasize unique features. Before and After: Showcase transformation stories. Post images of a property before and after it's been staged, renovated, or redecorated. This is not only visually appealing but also shows your expertise in enhancing property value. Client Success Stories: Share testimonials and success stories from happy clients. These authentic stories create trust and build your reputation as a reliable agent. Local Highlights: Post photos of the neighborhoods and communities you work in. Share insights, local events, and attractions to give potential buyers a taste of the lifestyle in the area. Educational Content: Create informative posts about the real estate market, home-buying tips, or the selling process. Position yourself as a knowledgeable expert. Behind-the-Scenes: Give your followers a sneak peek into your daily life as a real estate agent. Show them the hard work, dedication, and passion you put into your job. Hashtags and Geotags In the world of Instagram, hashtags and geotags are your best friends. They help your posts reach a broader audience. Hashtags: Research and use relevant real estate hashtags like #dreamhome, #propertyforsale, or #realestateagent. Incorporate location-specific tags like #LosAngelesHomes or #NYCRealEstate for better reach. Geotags: When posting about a specific property or neighborhood, use geotags to increase visibility among local users. Engage with Your Audience Social media is a two-way street, so don't just post and disappear. Engage with your audience to build relationships and foster a sense of community. Respond to Comments: Promptly respond to comments on your posts. Engage in conversations and answer questions. Like and Comment: Interact with your followers' posts, showing that you're genuinely interested in their lives. This reciprocity can lead to increased engagement on your own posts. Collaborate: Partner with local businesses, influencers, or other real estate agents for shoutouts, giveaways, or joint events. Cross-promotion can help expand your reach. Stories and Live Videos: Use Instagram Stories and live videos to provide real-time updates, host Q&A sessions, and share unscripted moments. Consistency Is Key Keep to a regular posting schedule. Consistent updates keep your audience interested and demonstrate your involvement in the real estate market. Utilize Instagram Insights to track the most effective posting times and evaluate the effectiveness of your content. Advertising on Instagram Although organic growth is crucial, you should also think about running paid Instagram ads. You can target particular demographics, areas, and interests using Instagram's ad platform. This can be a powerful tool for promoting your services to a broader audience. Analytics and Metrics Keep an eye on your Instagram analytics to see which posts are performing well and which aren't. Use this data to refine your content strategy. Pay attention to metrics like reach, engagement, and click-through rates. Stay Informed The world of social media is constantly evolving, and so are the algorithms that determine what users see in their feeds. Stay informed about the latest Instagram trends, features, and updates to ensure your strategies remain effective. In conclusion, Instagram is a valuable tool for real estate agents looking to promote their services. With its visually-focused approach and vast user base, it's a platform that can help you build your brand, connect with potential clients, and showcase your properties and expertise. By creating an appealing profile, consistently posting high-quality content, engaging with your audience, and using analytics to fine-tune your strategy, you can leverage Instagram to boost your real estate business to new heights. So, go ahead, grab your smartphone, and start sharing your unique real estate journey with the world! To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

A TikTok Trend to Revamp Your Pipeline: Tap Into the Triangle Method
Sometimes, your follow-up method with leads in your pipeline can feel a little rinse-and-repeat. There's nothing wrong with keeping your tried-and-true methods in place, but sometimes things can feel a little stale. What if you could shake your outreach style up a bit to breathe new life into your pipeline? You may (or may not) have heard about the triangle method for dating that's going around on TikTok, but it got us thinking about ways to implement a three-pronged approach to prospecting — because, after all, prospecting is a little like dating, too. Stay with us: it all comes down to communication, and building a strong impression to make a lasting impact. A 3-Point Communication Method to Keep You on Leads' Radar Consider this a three-part recipe for a well-rounded approach to communicating with leads in your pipeline and taking it up a notch. This approach also helps ensure you have a strong presence that's front and center every step of the way. Step 1: Make a Great First Impression To kick off meaningful communication with any lead, you want to show them what you're made of with a solid first impression. You also want to take the guesswork out of why they should partner with you. For this first part of the three-point communication approach, start by collecting as much information about your lead ahead of time — with as little questions as possible. Not only does this make sure you're researching everything you need to know about the lead, it shows them you've put in the legwork to learn about them, too. To accomplish this, use online databases as much as you can to get key info about things like where they're from, what they're up to, and what their current neighborhood is. Go beyond typical conversation starters and show you've done your homework. Step 2: Craft a Short Video Message You've already heard about drip campaigns and follow-up timing, but how about taking it up a notch and infusing a more personal approach? For the second part of this approach to communication, consider making a short video message, a great, no-pressure way to get face time in front of your potential clients. It also adds an extra personal element to any outreach you do, beyond just an email or phone call. Our pro tips to do a video message well: Include a bright, cheery greeting, and wear something colorful (yet professional) so you look put together and approachable Face an open window or other bright light source so your video quality is crisp and clear Do a few takes to get the nerves and stumbles out before the final cut As always, include a call-to-action that's clear about what you want them to do, and also include a way for them to call you back When your leads receive your video, it adds in the convenience of allowing them to watch your message whenever it works best for them — and still see you as a person. Step 3: Say Something Valuable and Send a Little Something Their Way Last but not least, our third point in the three-point communication approach to your pipeline. Think of this like the bow on the present, or the cherry on top of the ice cream sundae. This step wraps it all up neatly and helps you leave a lasting impression. You'll inevitably need to reach out to prospects multiple times, and that's okay. It's what nurture streams, follow-up plans (like this one), and outreach tactics are made for. In addition to sending your prospects key data, like market reports or trends in the ZIP they're interested in, you can also send a gift their way. It doesn't have to be extravagant; really, it just needs to be tangible. Go the classic route with direct mail and send a handwritten card, or even a kit with information on their area. If you're able to, you may also send a piece of branded swag their way, along with a brochure about your areas of expertise in the local neighborhood. By tying your communication approach together with valuable information and a nice little gift for them to enjoy, you can leave a lasting impression. Think about it: we all love getting surprises in the mail, no matter how big or small. Something as simple as sending a magnet with your name and information on it can not only inform them about your status as a real estate pro, it'll help keep you top-of-mind when they see it on their fridge daily. To view the original article, visit the Inside Real Estate. Related reading How to Follow-Up with Leads 450% More Effectively The Ultimate Guide to Email Follow Up Is Your Real Estate Lead Follow-Up Persistent... or Annoying?

10 Ways Real Estate Agents Can Use Facebook to Promote Their Services
In today's digital age, the real estate landscape has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional marketing methods like yard signs and newspaper ads. Instead, savvy real estate agents are turning to social media platforms like Facebook to promote their services and connect with potential clients in innovative ways. If you're a real estate agent looking to expand your online presence and boost your business, read on to discover how Facebook can be your secret weapon! 1. Create a Captivating Facebook Page Making an interesting and professional Facebook page is the first step in your journey into the world of Facebook real estate promotion. This will act as your online storefront, giving prospective customers the crucial first impression. Use a professional headshot as your profile picture and a tasteful picture of the place you're representing for your cover photo. Give specific details about your knowledge, credentials, and the areas you serve in the "About" section of your page. To build trust online, keep in mind that transparency and clarity are essential. Don't forget to include your contact information so that potential customers can easily get in touch with you. 2. Consistent Posting for Brand Building When it comes to keeping an active presence on Facebook, consistency is the key. Create a content schedule that combines real estate listings, market-related articles, behind-the-scenes looks at your business, and client success stories. Use captivating subtitles and attention-grabbing images to draw viewers in. Don't be afraid to show off your individuality; sincerity can attract customers in a big manner. To keep your readership interested and informed, try to post at least once or twice per week. 3. Harness the Power of Facebook Ads For real estate agents, Facebook's advertising platform opens up a world of possibilities. You can target your ads to particular interests and even individuals who have recently interacted with content about real estate. Ads for your available properties, upcoming open houses, or informational articles about the home-buying procedure might be considered. The ability to create visually stunning and informative carousel ads is one of the unique features of Facebook ads. These let you display numerous images of a building while emphasizing its salient features. Describe the property's distinctive selling points in compelling copy, and include a clear call to action encouraging interested buyers to contact you. 4. Live Virtual Tours Utilize live virtual tours as part of your Facebook marketing plan to provide prospective buyers with a compelling experience. You can live-stream tours of the properties you have listed using a smartphone or camera, allowing viewers to ask questions in real time. This interactive approach not only keeps your audience interested, but it also establishes you as a tech-savvy agent who goes above and beyond to meet the needs of their clients. Additionally, virtual tours make it simple for busy people or out-of-town buyers to view properties from the comfort of their homes. 5. Engage with Your Audience Don't let your Facebook page become a one-way street. Actively engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and questions promptly. Building a responsive and friendly online presence can go a long way in fostering trust and building relationships. You can also join local real estate groups or community pages on Facebook. Share your expertise by answering questions and participating in discussions. Being a helpful resource within your community not only positions you as an expert but also creates opportunities for networking. 6. Use Facebook Analytics to Fine-Tune Your Strategy The ability to monitor your efforts and gauge their effectiveness is one of the best things about digital marketing. Facebook offers a comprehensive suite of analytics tools that let you learn more about the actions of your audience and the effectiveness of your posts and advertisements. Review these analytics frequently to determine what is and is not working. Are certain post types receiving more interaction? Do certain demographics respond to your ads more favorably? For maximum impact, use this information to fine-tune your content and advertising strategy. 7. Collaborate with Local Influencers Consider partnering with local influencers or real estate bloggers to amplify your reach. These individuals often have dedicated followings who trust their recommendations. By collaborating with them, you can tap into their audience and gain credibility in the process. Whether it's a joint Facebook Live session discussing the local real estate market or having them share your property listings, influencer partnerships can be a game-changer in expanding your online presence. 8. Showcase Your Expertise Through Facebook Live Q&A Sessions By running Facebook Live Q&A sessions, you can establish yourself as an industry authority. Select timely subjects like "First-Time Homebuyer Tips" or "Navigating the Seller's Market," and encourage the audience to pose questions live. These presentations not only demonstrate your expertise but also give your audience members useful information. To encourage attendance, advertise these sessions in advance and think about providing rewards like no-cost home assessments or special access to real estate listings. 9. Encourage Client Testimonials and Reviews Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients can be a potent marketing tool. Encourage your past clients to leave reviews on your Facebook page. Share these testimonials on your timeline to build trust with potential clients who may be considering your services. Respond to reviews, whether positive or negative, professionally and constructively. Address any concerns raised by clients to demonstrate your commitment to exceptional customer service. 10. Stay Updated with Facebook's Features Facebook is continuously evolving, introducing new features and tools that can enhance your real estate marketing efforts. Stay informed about these updates and adapt your strategy accordingly. For example, consider using Facebook Marketplace to showcase your listings, or explore Facebook Groups for real estate enthusiasts. The more you leverage these features, the more your visibility and engagement can grow. In conclusion, Facebook has become an indispensable tool for real estate agents looking to promote their services effectively in the digital age. By creating an engaging Facebook page, consistently posting valuable content, using Facebook ads, and embracing innovative features like live virtual tours, you can unlock new opportunities and build lasting relationships with clients. With a strategic and authentic approach, you'll be well on your way to Facebook success in the competitive world of real estate. Happy promoting! To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

[Podcast] Using Social Channels to Create Connections with Tamany Hall
Thank you to RPR for sponsoring this article on RE Technology: This episode of Decoding Real Estate welcomes Tamany Hall. Tamany is a real estate marketing and lead generation expert who brings a wealth of social media know-how to the table. Her company, The Simple Touches, specializes in helping real estate agents bolster their social presence, set up lead gen funnels, and effectively learn how to use video and design templates, especially Instagram, to establish a brand and grow a business. Tamany joins Reggie and Genie from RPR (Realtors Property Resource®) to discuss how REALTORS® can leverage Instagram to generate quality leads consistently. They talk about content creation, user engagement and analytics, with the aim of helping you achieve remarkable results. Tamany also shares insider tips on how to make the most of new tools and templates, conserve time while creating quality content, and gather potential leads effectively. She urges real estate agents to broaden their content horizons, emphasizing the importance of featuring local communities and personal narratives. Towards the end, the show switches gears to discuss Threads — the latest entrant in the social media scene. Hear what Tamany thinks of this new platform, and why it might be the next big thing in real estate marketing. Don't miss this month's Decoding Real Estate with guest Tamany Hall! Decoding Real Estate is hosted by Reggie Nicolay and Genie Willett. Subscribe/Follow And be sure to check out these helpful and relevant links: The Simple Touches Single Property Website CANVA Template Tamany Hall/The Simple Touches Instagram Realtors Property Resource® RPR Canva Templates Listen on: Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

Unleashing the emotional appeal: Creating an authentic brand story on social media
Thank you to iGuide for sponsoring this article on RE Technology: In today's digital age, social media has become an essential tool for real estate agents to connect with their audience and build a strong brand presence. By effectively telling a compelling brand story on social media, agents can attract and engage potential clients, differentiate themselves from competitors and ultimately drive sales. Understanding the power of brand storytelling Brand storytelling is the art of conveying your brand's values, personality, and unique selling proposition through captivating narratives. A great brand story not only educates and entertains, but also establishes an emotional connection with your target audience. This emotional bond can significantly influence their purchase decisions and foster long-term loyalty. Crafting a compelling narrative To tell a great brand story on social media, REALTORS® should follow these key steps: 1. Define your brand identity Before you can effectively tell your brand story, you must first clearly define your brand identity. Start by identifying your unique selling proposition and core values. What sets you apart from other REALTORS® in the market? What do you want your audience to associate with your brand? Once you have a clear understanding of your brand's identity, you can align your messaging and storytelling accordingly. 2. Identify your target audience Knowing your audience is crucial in crafting a brand story that resonates. Research and identify your target audience's demographics, interests, pain points and aspirations. This will help you tailor your content to their specific needs and desires, ensuring maximum engagement and relevance. 3. Be authentic and transparent In a crowded social media landscape, authenticity is key. Your audience wants to connect with real people, not faceless entities. Share personal anecdotes, experiences and success stories to humanize your brand. Transparency builds trust and credibility, so don't be afraid to show the behind-the-scenes of your real estate business. 4. Leverage visual storytelling Incorporate visually appealing content such as high-quality images, accurate floor plans, 3D virtual tours and videos into your brand story. People are naturally drawn to visual content, which can help convey your message more effectively. Showcase stunning properties, before-and-after transformations, and happy clients to capture attention and inspire your audience. 5. Engage and interact Social media is a two-way street, so actively engage with your audience by responding to comments, asking questions and initiating conversations. This not only strengthens relationships but also provides valuable insights into your audience's preferences and concerns. Use this knowledge to refine your brand story and better serve your clients. Optimizing Brand Storytelling for SEO While crafting your brand story, it's essential to optimize it for search engines. Here are a few SEO best practices to consider: 1. Research relevant keywords Identify the keywords your target audience uses when searching for real estate services. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your social media posts, captions and meta descriptions to improve your visibility in search engine results. 2. Create quality content Ensure your content is informative, engaging, and valuable to your audience. Search engines reward high-quality content, so focus on providing in-depth information, tips and insights that genuinely benefit your readers. 3. Encourage social sharing Make it easy for your audience to share your brand story on social media. Include social sharing buttons on your website and blog posts to amplify your reach and enhance your brand's online presence. 4. Optimize image and video descriptions When sharing images and videos on social media, optimize their descriptions with relevant keywords. This helps search engines understand the context and improves your chances of appearing in image and video search results. By effectively telling a great brand story on social media, you can establish a strong online presence, attract qualified leads and ultimately grow your real estate business. Remember to define your brand identity, be authentic, leverage visual storytelling and optimize your content for SEO. Embrace the power of social media to connect with your audience on a deeper level and create a lasting impression. To view the original article, visit the iGuide blog.

Instagram Filters and Tools: How to Use Them in Your Real Estate Marketing
We highlighted a lot of apps (and other magical things your phone can do) in our recent article, 52 Resources for Making Money with Your Phone. But the one app we didn't mention is one of the most popular smartphone apps of all: Instagram. We're going to remedy that oversight today by diving into Instagram's most popular filters and editing tools, and the specific ways they can be used in real estate marketing. Let's jump right in… Your Guide to Instagram Filters for Real Estate It's hard to think of Instagram without thinking of the word "filters." Since its debut in 2010, the social media app's extensive filter collection has simplified photo editing for the masses. And while the use of filters is commonly associated with selfies, filters can be used to beautify all types of photos — including real estate photos. While we discourage the use of Instagram filters on official listing photos — you want your representation of a home to be as accurate as possible, after all — filters are a great way to punch up your real estate marketing efforts. Here's a list of popular Instagram post filters and how you can use them to enhance your photos: Clarendon: This filter adds brightness and enhances colors, making it great for exterior shots with vibrant landscapes or photos with a lot of blue sky and greenery. Gingham: Gingham offers a vintage look and works well with photos that have a lot of white or pastel colors, such as classic-style bathrooms or charming cottage exteriors. Lark: Lark enhances the brightness of the image and is excellent for showcasing well-lit spaces, such as rooms with large windows or properties with ample natural light. Juno: Juno increases saturation and warmth, making it ideal for interiors with warm, cozy elements, like living rooms with fireplaces or kitchens with wooden cabinets. Ludwig: Ludwig adds a soft, pastel-like effect to photos and works well for capturing the elegance of a property, such as luxury bedrooms or sophisticated dining areas. Perpetua: Perpetua enhances blue and green tones, making it ideal for images with bodies of water, such as properties near lakes, rivers, or coastal areas. Amaro: This filter adds a warm, vintage feel to photos, making them look like they were taken with a film camera. It's a good choice for photos of interiors, as it can help to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Rise: This filter adds warmth and brightness to photos, making them look inviting. It's a good choice for photos of kitchens, living rooms, and other areas where people gather. Valencia: This filter adds a warm glow to photos and can be used to highlight beautiful sunsets, poolside shots, or cozy outdoor spaces. X-Pro II: This filter is a versatile option that can be used for both indoor and outdoor photos. It enhances the colors and gives photos a slightly retro look. Willow: Willow gives a monochromatic, desaturated effect and works well for artistic shots of unique architectural details or properties with strong lines and shapes. Sierra: Sierra adds a soft, slightly faded look to photos and is suitable for portraying rustic properties or capturing the charm of old-world architecture. Inkwell: This filter turns photos black and white and can be used for a timeless and classic look. It can work with a variety of property shots, especially if you want to emphasize texture and form. When it comes to filters, it's best to use a light hand, especially when sharing photos of current listings. Fortunately, Instagram has a "Filter Strength" option. After you've selected a filter, tap the filter again to pull up a slider. Here, you can choose the strength of the filter. 100 means the filter is a full strength; the closer you get to zero, the more subtle the filter's effect becomes. The Ins and Outs of Instagram Editing Tools Filters are a great start, but you shouldn't rely solely on them. Before you hit "Post," consider giving your photos a finishing touch with Instagram's built-in editing tools. Here are the app's main editing tools and ways you can use them: Brightness: The brightness tool allows you to control the overall lightness of your photo. Realtors should use this tool to ensure that interior and exterior shots are well-lit and showcase the property's features clearly. Avoid overly dark or overly bright images. Contrast: The contrast tool adjusts the difference between light and dark areas of your photo. Realtors can use this tool to make architectural details, colors, and textures stand out. Be careful not to overdo it, as excessive contrast can lead to loss of details or a harsh appearance. Structure: The structure tool enhances the image's sharpness and details. Realtors can use this to highlight specific features or textures in the property. Use it moderately to avoid an overly sharp or artificial look. Saturation: Saturation controls the intensity of colors in your photo. Realtors can use this tool to make colors pop and create a vibrant atmosphere. However, it's essential to maintain a natural look and avoid oversaturated tones. Warmth: The warmth tool adjusts the color temperature of your photo, making it cooler or warmer. Realtors can use this to enhance the mood of the image. For example, warmer tones can create a cozy and inviting ambiance for interiors, while cooler tones can work well for serene outdoor spaces. Vignette: The vignette tool darkens the edges of your photo, drawing attention to the center. Realtors can use this to focus on the property's central elements or to give images a classic feel. Use it subtly to avoid distracting from the main subject. Highlights and Shadows: These tools allow you to fine-tune the brightest and darkest areas of your photo. Realtors can use them to balance exposure and ensure details are visible in both well-lit and shaded areas. Tilt Shift: Tilt Shift is used to create a selective focus effect by blurring parts of the image. Realtors can use this tool to highlight specific areas of interest, such as a beautiful garden or a unique architectural feature. Crop and Rotate: This tool enables Realtors to adjust the composition of their photos. Use it to straighten horizons, remove distractions from the frame, or create a more visually pleasing composition. Best Practices for Using Instagram Filters and Tools Are you getting fired up to share new posts on Instagram? Before you unleash a slew of photos on your followers, keep these best practices in mind. They'll help ensure your enhanced photos look as natural and as accurate as possible: Consistency: Strive for a consistent editing style across your property listing photos to create a cohesive and professional look for your brand. To help, consider using an Instagram feed planner app like Preview, which lets you preview how a new photo aesthetically matches the rest of the posts on your profile. Natural Representation: Avoid heavy editing that alters the property's appearance drastically. The goal is to present an accurate representation that entices potential buyers. Showcase Key Features: Use editing tools to draw attention to the property's unique selling points and features. Balanced Editing: Maintain a balance between enhancing the photo and maintaining a realistic look. Avoid extreme adjustments that may detract from the property's appeal. Test Before Posting: Always preview your edits before publishing to ensure they look good on various devices and screen sizes. See item No. 1 above for an app suggestion that can help. Now that you know the finer details of Instagram's tools and filters, it's time to share your upgraded skills with the world. Ready, set…post!

[Podcast] Dividing Tasks with Your Real Estate Business Partner with Max Carr
Max Carr is a proud member of First Team Real Estate's Hall of Fame. Together with his wife, Kate, they make up an award-winning real estate duo that offers a full list of concierge benefits at zero cost to their clients. In this episode of Real Talk with Realtors, learn how to find the right partner for your real estate business, divide tasks and responsibilities, generate referrals through outstanding perks, treat your clients like friends, and how being a gamer has helped Max's real estate career. This episode covers everything from company family business to video games. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: How did Max get into real estate? Did the marriage or business come first? How do Max and Kate separate roles? What should Realtors think about before they partner? How do you inspire a referral? Do a lot of Realtors offer a concierge service? How does being a gamer impact Max's business? Real talk...not Real talk: The cost of lumber Connect with Max at MaxKateHomes.com and OCHomeEvaluation.com. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

[Podcast] Social Media Marketing for Realtors with Madison Gorgone
Madison Gorgone is a Realtor and RE/MAX top producer. She got her license after starting out as an admin at RE/MAX and seeing a gap in the market when it comes to social media marketing. Hear how to use social media marketing to drive your real estate business, grow your following and influence on social media, get sales and referrals, what to post and hashtag, and other types of advertising to consider. This episode covers everything from closing your first deals as a new Realtor to how to approach TikTok. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: How many real estate agents survive the first few years? What's an example of an educational piece of content Madison posted? How do you grow your following on social media? What's more important: Instagram Stories or Instagram posts? Has an opportunity slid into Madison's DMs and turned into business? How much of her business comes from social media referrals? What kind of volunteering is she doing? Real talk...not Real talk: LinkedIn as a marketing platform Connect with Madison on Instagram at @MadisonGorgone and on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

8 Real Estate Marketing Ideas for June
Ahhh… the kids are out of school and the weather's heating up. Summer is here, and with it comes a wealth of opportunities for promoting your real estate business. So let's dive in! Here are eight ideas for marketing your real estate business in June: 1. Highlight "staycation" and local day trip ideas Inflation has taken a bite out of everyone's wallet these past couple of years, and not everyone can afford the vacations like they used to. Do your followers a solid while cementing your reputation as a local expert by highlighting day trip ideas and staycation activities in your local area. 2. Participate in National Homeownership Month If ever there was a month for real estate agents to celebrate, it's June—National Homeownership Month! We won't go too into depth here since we just published an article on ways to participate last week. Check it out for resources and marketing ideas: 5 Ways to Celebrate National Homeownership Month. 3. Host a "Summer Home Improvement" contest Social media platforms decrease your reach when you don't use them regularly or get poor engagement. Help keep your accounts active by hosting a social media contest. Ask followers to share their favorite home improvement project for a chance to win a gift card or home improvement-related prize. 4. Sponsor a local youth sports team Have a passion for sports? Consider sponsoring a local youth team this summer. This means that your logo is featured on their jerseys or banners, which can increase your brand visibility within the community and generate goodwill. 5. Create a series of summer-themed content Do you like blogging or creating videos? Whatever your medium of choice, put your creative skills to good use by creating a series of summer-themed posts about local attractions, events, and activities. You'll position yourself as a local expert while promoting the lifestyle of living in the area. 6. Celebrate Pride Month June may be National Homeownership Month, but it's most known for being Pride Month. Celebrate by highlighting LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods or LGBTQ-friendly businesses in your area through blog posts, social media features, or local guides. This can be helpful for LGBTQ+ individuals or families who are looking for welcoming communities. You can also conduct a self-audit on your intake forms and marketing materials by making sure they offer inclusive language and imagery. Ensure that your website and advertising are welcoming and representative of diverse backgrounds and identities. 7. Launch a "Summer Seller Spotlight" campaign Summertime and the livin' is easy…especially when you have a home with an exceptional outdoor space. Create a campaign featuring properties with these types of exceptional outdoor spaces by highlighting backyard features, such as swimming pools, patios, and landscaping. For those in your sphere who are not ready to transact in the near future, stay top of mind by hosting a virtual seminar or webinar on outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Share design ideas, maintenance tips, and ways to enhance outdoor areas. This can attract both buyers and sellers interested in outdoor living. 8. Get ready for the 4th…of July? We know, we know — this is supposed to be a list of June marketing ideas, but hear us out. Independence Day is only four days into July, and there's just not enough time to plan ahead if you don't start in June! Whether you're hosting an event or planning an online campaign, this is the month to get started! You can, for example, compile a list of local fireworks displays, parades, and community events happening on July 4th. Share this information through your website, social media, or newsletters to keep your audience informed and engaged.

The 7 Deadly Sins of Facebook Ads
Results from your Facebook ads not living up to your expectations? Instead of looking at what you should be doing — most of which you probably already know — let's look at what you shouldn't be doing. To help you discover which aspect of your current ad strategy is hamstringing your efforts, Realtor Jaime Resendiz shares what he calls the "seven deadly sins of Facebook ads." These include: Not having a call-to-action Not testing ads Using bad multimedia We won't list the rest here. Instead, watch the video above and find out the crucial mistakes to avoid. After all, what you don't do is often just as important as what you do! Further Reading How to Create Real Estate Facebook Ads that Work The Best Facebook Ads to Target Real Estate Buyers One Simple Rule to Ensure Your Ads Don't Violate Fair Housing Laws

Why You Should Slide into the DMs of Your Real Estate Leads
Sliding into someone's DMs isn't just for amorous suitors on social media — it's also a great strategy to employ with real estate leads. And it's as simple as sparking a conversation with interesting posts on social media. Did someone comment on your post about the local real estate market? Reply briefly to them and then take it to their direct messages to get more in-depth. That's the simplified version, anyway. In the video above, real estate leaders Katie Day and Ken Pozek get more in-depth with Jason Pantana about how they use this strategy in their business. Watch it to learn the specific ins-and-outs of successfully winning leads via direct message on social media. This video explores: The content that sparks conversations Calls-to-action that work best The importance of social media avatars Identifying leads in your DMs Managing your direct messages And more!

Influencer Marketing: How Social Media Stars Can Aid Real Estate Agents
In recent years, influencer marketing has become a popular tactic for businesses to promote their products and services. Real estate agents have also started to use influencers to reach a wider audience and generate leads. Social media influencers can have a significant impact on real estate marketing, as they have a large and engaged following on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Let's explore the impact of social media influencers on real estate marketing and how they can aid real estate agents. Audience reach The ability of social media influencers to reach a large audience has one of the biggest effects on real estate marketing. Influencers have developed a devoted following that respects and trusts their judgment. Influencers' followers are more likely to notice and interact with content when they promote a good or service. To reach a larger audience and improve their chances of generating leads, real estate agents can take advantage of influencers' considerable power. For example, Ryan Serhant, a real estate agent and star of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing New York, has used social media influencers to promote his properties. In one campaign, he partnered with lifestyle influencer Olivia Palermo to showcase a luxury penthouse in New York City. The influencer posted photos and videos of the property on her Instagram account, which has over 6 million followers. This campaign generated a lot of buzz and interest in the property, leading to a successful sale. Social proof Providing social proof is another way social media influencers can help real estate agents. Social proof is the psychological phenomenon whereby people believe that other people's actions represent the proper behavior in a particular circumstance. Social proof in the context of real estate marketing refers to the likelihood that a property will be viewed favorably and is worthy of consideration by a follower when an influencer promotes it. For example, real estate agents The Altman Brothers partnered with YouTube personality Jake Paul to promote a luxury mansion in Calabasas, California. The influencer posted a video tour of the property on his YouTube channel, which has over 20 million subscribers. The video received over 10 million views and generated a lot of interest in the property. This campaign is a great example of how social proof can influence the perception of a property and drive interest from potential buyers. Brand building Real estate agents can develop their individual brands and reputations with the aid of social media influencers. Agents can reach the influencer's audience and position themselves as authorities in their field by collaborating with them. Influencers can advertise an agent's offerings and highlight their qualifications, which can help establish credibility and trust with potential clients. For example, real estate agent Tracy Tutor, star of Bravo's Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, partnered with beauty influencer Patrick Starrr to promote her services. The influencer posted a video on his YouTube channel where he received a makeover from Tutor and discussed her services. This campaign helped Tutor build her personal brand and establish herself as a reputable real estate agent. That's a wrap In conclusion, social media influencers can have a significant impact on real estate marketing. They can help real estate agents reach a wider audience, provide social proof, and build their personal brand and reputation. Real estate agents should consider partnering with influencers to promote their properties and services. However, it's essential to choose the right influencer for your brand and ensure that their audience aligns with your target audience. Real estate agents can generate leads and close more deals by collaborating with influencers. Real estate agents can reach a larger audience and improve their chances of success, and influencers can monetize their content, so it's a win-win situation for everyone involved. Real estate agents must change to remain competitive and relevant in the market today given the growth of social media and influencer marketing. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

How to Make Your Social Media Feeds Less Awful in 2 Seconds
Have you noticed how social media has lost its shine over the past couple of years? Once upon a time, social platforms were for keeping in touch with friends, family and your sphere. Now they seem more like places to be assaulted by ads and video posts from "suggested accounts" — with maaaybe a few posts from those you actually follow sprinkled in. It's a frustrating experience, to be sure. But did you know that there's a way to see posts from only the people and pages you follow? That way, you can get back to connecting with the people who matter most to your life and your business — without all the added noise. Here's how to accomplish this on the three major social media platforms: Instagram Ditch Instagram's feed algorithm and see posts in chronological order from only the profiles and hashtags you follow. It's super simple to do: 1. Click on the Instagram logo at the top left corner of the app. 2. In the dropdown menu that appears, tap Following. That's it! Now your feed will no longer be full of posts and videos from strangers. Facebook Unfortunately, we have to start this section with a caveat: there's no way to opt out of Facebook's feed algorithm on your laptop or desktop. However, you CAN see posts from only the profiles, pages, and groups you follow on the Facebook app. You can read about the particulars here, but here's the basic gist: 1. Tap your profile photo on the top right of your app. 2. This will take you to the page below. From here, tap Feeds. 3. This takes you to a screen with multiple tabs. Here's what you'll find on each tab: Favorites: Tap this to see posts from the accounts you most interact with. Friends: Tap this to see a chronological feed of posts from only your Facebook Friends. Groups: Tap this to see posts from only the Groups you're a member of. Pages: Tap this to see posts from only the Pages you follow. Twitter Twitter, Twitter, Twitter. It certainly has been on a, uh, colorful journey these past several months. Fortunately, it's extremely easy to avoid the more untamed parts of this wilderness (i.e., Musk musings and posts from the paid-blue-check crowd). Twitter has two tabs: For you, an algorithm-driven feed, and Following, which is composed of posts from accounts you follow. Stay away from For you and stick with Following to avoid being overwhelmed with posts from strangers. Easy peasy! That's all, folks — happy online socializing, and we hope you enjoy reconnecting with the people and organizations you truly care about! P.S. If you want to learn why social media platforms have become so terrible to use, see this post: The Enshittification Lifecycle of Online Platforms.

5 Facebook Hacks to Help You Grow Your Business
Social media has revolutionized how real estate agents can engage with their sphere. Among all social media channels available to real estate agents, Facebook remains the single most important one. Why? Because nearly all your customers are on Facebook. Three out of four Americans – that's 240 million people – are Facebook users. Let's explore five Facebook hacks that can help you grow your real estate business and reach more clients, and potential clients, than ever before. Hack 1: The Power of Cute The old marketing adage "puppies, kittens, and babies sell" still rings true today, as cute imagery can evoke strong emotions and create a connection with your audience. When used appropriately, cute images can be a powerful marketing tool. Share images of your or your client's pets, or if you are comfortable doing so, post a cute picture of your child and relate it to your work that day. When you have a listing with features most people consider cute, highlight those. How can cute help you sell real estate? Researchers have found that people show a higher level of concentration after viewing photos of puppies and kittens. In other words, it's a great way to engage your sphere on Facebook and get their attention. However, it's essential to keep authenticity in mind – don't just use cute images to be cute, as it may come across as insincere and backfire. Hack 2: Utilize Facebook Messenger Facebook Messenger offers a unique opportunity for immediate engagement with potential clients. Tie it to your Facebook-boosted posts by inviting users to send you a message for more information. Facebook research shows this is a great way to increase engagement, leads, and sales. Be prepared to respond promptly, as quick replies can make a significant difference in building rapport and trust with clients. You can also set up automated responses in Messenger to engage with users while unavailable, but remember to follow up personally as soon as possible. Hack 3: Boost Your Best Posts While organic reach can be powerful, advertising on Facebook by boosting your posts will expose you to a larger audience. Facebook's algorithms typically only show a small percentage of your content to your followers – just 2.2 percent! By boosting your best posts – those with high engagement or valuable content – you can ensure they're seen by more people, generating more leads and interest in your listings. Start with a small budget and experiment with different targeting options to maximize your advertising efforts. Hack 4: Create and Share Short, Engaging Videos Video content has become increasingly popular on social media, and it's an excellent way to showcase your listings and local knowledge. According to research, half of social media users prefer video over other types of content. More than half (58 percent) of viewers will watch a business' entire video if it's less than 60 seconds. Creating short videos is the key: highlight only a property's best features or showcase nearby attractions and amenities. Remember that "Top 5" videos are especially effective: think "Top 5 Restaurants in [Neighborhood]" or "Top 5 Instagram sites in [City]." Remember to upload your videos directly to Facebook – never linking to a video site – as native Facebook videos tend to get more views and engagement. Facebook video posts had an organic reach rate of 8.71 percent, higher than any other content type on the platform in 2019. Hack 5: Monitor Posts and Engage with Your Audience Interacting with your audience is essential for building relationships and fostering trust. Monitor your posts closely and respond to comments and messages thoughtfully and personally. Avoid generic responses and, instead, try to connect with users on a deeper level. For example, if someone comments on a post about a pet-friendly property, ask them about their pets or share a story about a pet you've had. Pets are a popular way to engage your audience, as more American households today have pets than children. This personal touch can make a significant difference in turning followers into clients. Bottom line Leveraging these five Facebook hacks can dramatically improve your social media presence, help you reach a wider audience, and generate more leads for your real estate business. By embracing the power of cute, utilizing Facebook Messenger, boosting your best posts, creating engaging video content, and interacting thoughtfully with your audience, you will help grow your online visibility and presence, and that's a sure way to help you grow your real estate business. And remember, when the time comes to process your real estate transactions, use Form Simplicity for a smooth, digital experience. This real estate transaction management software is a leading platform and available nationwide. Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns and operates Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.

How to Use Social Media to Grow Your Real Estate Business
Real estate social media marketing is definitely a unique challenge because your market is outside the typical production chain of manufacturing to retail. Instead, your products are property, your services are "concierge" and your clients are often one-time buyers. But that doesn't mean you can't build a powerful reputation for yourself as a reliable and rewarding real estate business to work with. Social media is one of the most flexible marketing channels available, making it ideal for real estate marketing. The platforms are often have a highly visual focus and also bring local community members together online. You can use these elements to build a social media presence and begin finding clients through social media for your real estate business. Ready to get started? Here's how to tackle social media marketing for a real estate brand: Build an Online Presence for Your Realty Office Your online presence is something like a resume for customers. Real estate customers are often careful, doing their homework on an agency or brokerage before choosing. The more profound your online presence, the more clout you will have with researching buyers and sellers. The key is to know how to use each platform to build the right kind of presence for either credibility, momentum, or both. Facebook Business Account Create a page and build rich content for your social media business listing Add each new home listing and announce when homes are sold Spotlight success stories Twitter and Instagram Activity Highly visual platforms for your best real estate photos Post eye-candy property marketing Build a presence and then a following LinkedIn Reputation Curation Create a professional presence for clients who investigate your brand more thoroughly Also great for networking with other real estate professionals Showcase Beautiful Property Photos on Image Social Media Social media is image-driven and so is good real estate marketing. When you have a gorgeous photo walkthrough for a new property, post that eye-candy on your social media channels. Make stories and collections on the most image-driven platforms, while detail platforms like Facebook can host the entire listing alongside your best images. You should also include shots and links to your 3D virtual tours. Share House Listing with Local Groups Many social media platforms help locals find each other through groups and interests. Join a few local groups for locals and especially for those house-hunting and looking to sell property in your area. Start sharing home listings, photos, and fun stories with local groups to build a rapport and grow awareness with locals about your available properties. Create a Feed History of Beautiful Homes Sold When a new lead first stumbles across your brand's social media profile, they may spend a few moments scrolling down through your past posts. Dazzle, delight, and entertain viewers who are keeping up in real-time and those reading your entire feed in one fascinated sitting. With beautiful and engaging social media content, your page can become a drat on entertainment value alone. Share Success Stories and Client Testimonials Use social media to share fun and personalizing stories about your past successes. Invite clients to share their testimonials through video, audio, or written stories of their experience with your team. These personal windows into your brand are the kind of content that makes audiences feel connected to you and confident in your ability to achieve more happy conclusions for future clients. Invite Past (and Future) Clients to Share on Your Page User-generated-content is a powerful marketing tool, especially for social media campaigns. Use your social media channels to invite past – and even future – clients to share their stories, photos, and ideas on your page. Encourage user-generated content that is uplifting and relates to your real estate sales and community. Network with Other Agents for Hard-to-Sell Houses Lastly, social media makes it easier to network with other local real estate businesses for the kind of partnerships everyone benefits from. Get the word out to buyers' agents if you have a hard-to-sell property that needs a special buyer. Find out about lesser-marketed properties for your hard-to-please buyer. Even B2B, social media is good for your real estate business. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

Your Social Media Game Plan for 2023
In a recent Real Trends feature on the five technology trends agents need to embrace in 2023, Stuart Sim of Chime Technologies touched on the power of social media and how it can help real estate professionals capture mindshare, build their brand, and gain the trust of potential buyers. You may already know social media is a critical business development tool, but how do you go about making it a power tool for business growth in 2023? Stuart offered five practical tips you can use right now in a recent webinar. Read on for the highlights or watch the full episode here. 1. Showcase your local knowledge. Listings alone will not build a successful social media channel. While they should be part of the content mix, be sure to incorporate meaningful local content that positions you as a valued resource beyond real estate. For example, offer insight on local events, restaurants, neighborhoods, schools and the like as it encourages people to follow, knowing they will gain the inside scoop. This will not only help build out your sphere of influence but help the community get to know you and build trust over time. 2. Don't be camera shy! Don't be afraid to take video of a new listing, an open house, a great new park, or local business. Your followers will appreciate an opportunity to get to know you better and are more likely to then comment, like, and share your posts! Adding a dynamic, personal layer to your social presence helps to differentiate from the status quo and build your local presence more quickly. 3. Let your fans do the talking for you. Capture and share positive testimonials from past clients to help build trust among your target audience. As consumers, we want to hear from people like us, so incorporate the client voice across your social channels whenever you can to emphasize the unique value you bring to your clients. 4. Dig into the data. Leverage built-in analytics to help guide your marketing plan. Review to understand not only how many people view your posts but which posts do the best, which content resonates with followers, how long they are spending on your page, where is the highest level of engagement, what time of day performs best, etc. With a clear understanding of which posts work effectively and when, you can better plan for and schedule meaningful posts regularly to maintain a healthy cadence of relevant content. 5. Stay consistent. Once you start on this social media journey, you can't slow down! As you build greater awareness, your followers will come to expect a regular cadence of content and we all know how fickle attention spans can be should your posts start to wane. While this requires dedication, there are valuable tools available to support you in this journey. To view the original article, visit the Chime Technologies blog.

Holiday Light Map Campaign: A Step-by-Step Guide to Seasonal Lead Generation
Give your seasonal marketing a bit of glitz and glimmer by highlighting holiday light displays in your area. This Facebook campaign idea can passively generate real estate leads for you all season long. All it takes is a little bit of set-up. And, don't worry, the set-up is not bad at all—especially with the step-by-step instructions offered in this video. Watch the video above for a dummy-proof guide to: Creating a holiday lights map Setting up a Facebook campaign (no landing page necessary) Funneling leads into a CRM, spreadsheet, or other app Holiday lights are a sure-fire crowd pleaser. This lead gen campaign fills up your sales funnel while showing off your local knowledge. It's a seasonally appropriate win-win strategy!

Keep Up with These Seasonal Trends for Google and Facebook Ads
'Tis the season — to master your digital ad strategies and scale your real estate business. Marketing your real estate business with paid advertising campaigns on Facebook and Google helps you gain visibility with internet buyers and online leads. However, the paid ad playing field isn't necessarily evenly distributed all year long. Just like the real estate market goes through its market cycles where the environment is determined by the levels of supply and demand, your paid ad experience will fluctuate over time, too. Depending on how many buyers are shopping online and the volume of advertisers at any given time, your cost-per-lead will adjust accordingly—another critical factor that affects your paid ads performance is the time of year. 2 Need-to-Know Trends for Google and Facebook Ads To prepare you for the changes that are going to impact your digital marketing and paid advertising performance, here are two need-to-know trends that real estate teams will be coming up against in the next few months. 1. Search Volume Matches Market Activity Every real estate professional knows that the high season is usually spring. In recent years, the pandemic did influence the sales cycle and disrupt the industry's normal market pattern. However, the holidays do typically slow down as buyers and sellers settle down to enjoy the holly-jolly end of the year. As fewer buyers typically hit the market in the fall, online searches tend to dip, too. Expect to see the demand fall in October and continue to slow down into December. The market begins to regain its momentum at the beginning of the new year, and it continues to pick up into the spring and summer months — kicking off the spring buyer's rush. If you start to see your paid ad performance decline during the holiday months, keep in mind that it's the natural pace of the market. 2. Expect the Expenses for Social Media Advertising to Rise Real estate professionals aren't the only ones who leverage social media ads to boost their businesses. Around the holiday season, retailers invest heavily in advertising on popular social media channels to capture digital consumers. What does this have to do with real estate agents? Since retailers are flooding ads onto social media, the prices increase. This means that agents who are continuing their usual real estate marketing strategy will see their marketing spend raise during the prime holiday gift shopping months. If you notice that the prices go up around October and November, don't be alarmed. They should balance out again at the end of December and into the new year. Pro Tip: If you're a new real estate team that's just getting started with paid digital advertising, keep in mind that the prices are inflated at this time of year. Don't think that these prices are the baseline and abandon this critical avenue for attracting and keeping in touch with your sphere! 2 Ways to Overcome the Seasonal Shifts Do you want to overcome the seasonal hurdles and establish a more solid paid ads performance to keep your real estate business top-of-mind? Follow these two best practices. 1. Diversify Your Marketing Plan to Balance Out Your Performance Since you know that your paid advertising on Google and social media may dip during the holiday months, you can overcome the seasonal cycle by diversifying your marketing efforts. Now is a great time to branch out and expand your marketing strategy to balance out your real estate brand's overall performance. This is a classic pivoting strategy that helps real estate teams stay on their A-game, even as the market takes its annual turns. By expanding into different areas, your business won't take as big of a hit as it would if you were fully relying on one tactic. 4 Digital Marketing Avenues to Explore Over the Holiday Months: Microsoft Bing Facebook Amazon Instagram 2. Don't Follow the Competition and Leave the Arena Many real estate businesses will see the paid digital ad market begin to stall and stop investing in it. Yes, demand may slow, and prices may even hike up. But, that doesn't mean the right strategy is to stop your digital ad campaigns altogether. The top-performing real estate teams know that this seasonal adjustment actually clears out the competition, giving your business and your message more visibility. Let your less strategic competitors leave the arena. Even if you continue to advertise at your usual pace, you'll stand out and get more eyes on your marketing campaigns. The logic is simple. As competitors leave, there's less traffic crowding the platforms you're creating ads for. Pro Tip: One paid ad area you should never surrender is Google. Why? Because Google Ads reward consistency. If you create campaigns that don't pause, Google will actually prioritize your ads — helping them perform better when the demand regains its usual pace. Marketing hack, unlocked. To view the original article, visit the BoomTown blog.

Friday Freebie: 42 Customizable Posts for Social Media
Ever wish social media had an easy button? So do we. Social media has long been an effective place to generate leads, advertise listings and open houses, and to connect with consumers in your area. But it's not always easy to come up with effective post ideas. Enter this week's Friday Freebie. Today, we're highlighting a collection of 42 easy-to-edit social media graphics that will engage your community all year round. 42 Free Customizable Real Estate Posts for Social Media, courtesy of Zurple Like we said, social media post ideas are not always easy to come up with. Sure, it's easy to think of posts to advertise your listings and open houses, but the last thing you want to do is share too many promotional items. Instead, it's best to follow the 80/20 rule: 20% promotional and 80% educational, entertaining or useful to your audience. Paired with that rule is another: it's better to post visual items rather than simple text-based posts. Fortunately, this Freebie is very visual. It offers 42 graphics that you can edit on Canva and post on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and beyond. Here's a sampling of the types of graphics available, with specific examples in parentheses: Flowcharts for Decision Making (Are You Ready to Sell Your Home?) Graphs and charts (What's the Best Season to List Your Home?) Infographics (5 Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector) How-tos (How to Buy a Home) Lists (Top 10 Reasons for Purchasing a Home) And more! All of these posts are designed to offer engaging—not salesy—information to real estate consumers in your sphere. Use them to build trust and your reputation as a real estate expert. Spice up your social media! Download 42 Free Customizable Real Estate Posts for Social Media now!

Real Estate Farming: Sowing, Growing and Expanding Your Business
Of the myriad lead generation strategies available to real estate agents, one of the most consistently successful is real estate farming. This type of strategy offers focus on a geographic area and the prospects therein. According to The Close, agents who use the farming strategy can capture at least 30% of all sales in a target area and turn leads into long-term clients. It seems like a solid marketing model, but is farming for real estate the right strategy for you? Even if you're happy with your current marketing plans, having a more profound understanding of farming methods and concepts can prove beneficial in any real estate market. How to create a real estate farming strategy The first step in any farming strategy is to choose your target area. You'll want to choose somewhere with high demand and a high turnover rate to focus your real estate farming idea. The next step is to plan the kind of marketing efforts you'll use on your target audience. Some popular examples include sending real estate farming postcards via direct mail, offering market updates via email and creating neighborhood websites. Think of this stage as sowing the seeds in your garden. Tracking your progress necessitates a customer relationship manager, or CRM. With a real estate-specific CRM, you'll have all the tools to create records of correspondence and the growth of your influence in your farm area. Once you have everything in place, focus on publishing or delivering your high-value content into your geographic farm area. Experts suggest using a mixture of long-term automated communication, like email newsletters, and personal follow-ups. What does it cost to start real estate farming? The most successful farming techniques do come with an upfront cost, but the more you invest in your farm, the better your returns will be. Real estate farming will likely require an annual budget of several thousand dollars. However, don't forget that commission from a single home sale will recoup your investment — and then some. While it might take some time to get established, even one home sold in your local real estate market means your farm is alive and growing. Real estate farming through social media Social media is an important tool for any real estate agent, but an essential one for successful geographic farming. With your potential clients spending so much time online, it's crucial to focus some of your real estate farming techniques in those particular spheres. One example of how to farm on social media is creating a community Pinterest board featuring community members, local business owners and other topics to add value. Host community events for your real estate farm area Don't forget to include face-to-face marketing among your real estate farming ideas. Organizing neighborhood or community activities can be an enormous source of both new leads and strengthened client relationships. If you're not sure where to begin, start with major holidays, school fundraising events and engaging local businesses. Real estate farming and relationship marketing Relationship marketing is the lifeblood of a successful real estate business. Whether primarily through word of mouth or online communication, it's relationships that form the basis for future transactions. Real estate farms make the process of creating and cultivating relationships even easier. As your prospects and relationships grow and blossom, they will spread to plant new seeds. All you need are the right real estate farming tools and a real estate farming area — your fertile soil. Want to boost your farming and overall marketing results? Download this 30-Day Marketing Challenge and put your skills to the test! The 30-Day Marketing Challenges provides you with eight steps to elevate your marketing in less than one month. [DOWNLOAD NOW]

Friday Freebie: 64 Graphic Templates for Promoting Your Listings on Social Media
What's eye-catching, easy to edit, and perfect for promoting your listings on social media? Why, it's this week's Friday Freebie! We're highlighting a free collection of 64 digital listing flyers that you can use to attract the attention of potential buyers online. All 65 templates are completely editable and professionally designed to make your listings look good. 64 Real Estate Listing Flyer Templates for Social Media, courtesy of Zurple No need to spend time designing graphics to promote your listings. This free collection of templates makes it easy to add photos of your listing, your contact info, property info (beds/bath, square footage/address/price), and — optionally — your headshot. You can also easily edit the "For Sale" headline to "Just Listed," "Sold!" or "Open House" to promote your services to local real estate consumers. Use the graphics to: Promote your listings to buyers on social media Engage sellers with "Sold" social media posts Create attractive ads or promoted posts And more! Download 64 Real Estate Listing Flyer Templates for Social Media now to make your listings stand out online!

Social Media and Kids: 5 Ways Realtor Parents Can Monitor What's Going On
As a parent, what can you do to protect your child from the potential dangers of social media? After all, while nearly all social networking sites allow users 13 years and older, it is not uncommon to discover children younger than 13 are active on social media. In fact, 95% of all teens use YouTube, and two out of three teens use TikTok, according to Pew Research. What's the best way to monitor what's happening when your child is online? Here are five ways you can keep dibs on your kids: Use an app Children are getting tablets and smartphones at a younger age more than ever. In addition, the pandemic accelerated the need for all school-age children to use the internet for schooling and schoolwork. This has made it particularly challenging for parents to monitor online behavior continuously. Thankfully, there are several different monitoring apps available that parents can use to protect their children from the unsafe elements of the internet and social media and monitor their screen time. One example is the top-ranked parental control app Bark. It's a paid application that monitors texts, emails, YouTube streaming, and social media platforms for signs of unsafe online behavior such as cyberbullying, internet predators, depressive behavior, threats of violence, and so forth. Its content monitoring tech will send you email and text alerts when it detects harmful issues, allowing you to talk to your child to ensure they are okay and staying safe. Bark offers two different packages: Bark Jr. ($5/month or $49/year), designed for families with young children, and Bark Premium ($14/month or $99/year), geared towards families with students of all ages. Each payment plan also comes with a 7-day free trial. Other monitoring apps include mSpy, Qustodio, and Net Nanny Family Protect Pass. Link your accounts Nearly half of all agents use Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, and know from experience that managing multiple social media accounts can be time-consuming. But did you know you can link your accounts to your kids? For example, Google Family Link is a free tool that links your Google Account to your child's account. This application allows parents to limit what apps their kid downloads and restrict their screen time. It also allows you to look through your child's browsing activity on Google Chrome and track where your kid is if they are using their device outside the house. It can be used on up to six devices and only requires you and your child have a Google Account. Facebook also allows parents to add family and friends with an existing Facebook account as friends for their child, using a Parent Dashboard. Parents can also create a Messenger Kid's account for their child and connect to their child's Messenger Kid's account. TikTok will automatically disable Direct Messages, disallow private accounts, restrict comments to friends or no one, and won't allow videos to be remixed or downloaded for children 13-15 years of age. If you allow your child of age to use TikTok, be sure the correct birth year and date are entered because once an account is created with that date, the birth date cannot be changed. Require password access to keep an account If you are not monitoring your kid's online behavior, you must be able to access their account information, especially with the abundance of cyberbullying. A recommended quid pro quo: if your child has online accounts, you will always need their current password. Child safety experts recommend setting ground rules for your child, which includes always having the ability to access their online accounts, including email, text, chat, and social media. A best practice is to sit down with your child and work with them to create their social media profile so you can set up their privacy and safety features to protect them from harmful behavior or content. Review their history Once you have access, you must keep track of your child's online activity regularly. It would be best if you went through your child's search and browsing history to ensure they are not being exposed to harmful web content or messages from others. Unmonitored internet behavior can lead to bad decisions. All major web browsers offer a "History" option on the top menu, so it's easy to do. Even smartphone browsers provide built-in history tracking. In addition, parental control apps can automate much of this process. One history app – Famisafe – allows parents to track browser history in both regular and private mode. It also filters out suspicious websites, alerts you on websites your child visits, and comes with screen time controls to limit internet time or lock them out of using a browser. In addition, Famisafe provides Home plans for under $50 a year. Restrict social use to a laptop or desktop: no apps on phones If your child has a smartphone, they can easily access content you don't want them to see. Instilling a house rule that only allows social media access on a laptop or desktop will give you control over what social media accounts your child can access. This means having a family rule that restricts the download of any social media app on their phone. If all of this seems a little harsh, consider that Facebook removed over 36 million posts that encouraged suicide or self-injury last year alone. As a parent, the safest rule for your child's online behavior and use of social media is to trust but verify. If you need assistance monitoring your kid's social media or downloading or setting up a parental control app, contact Tech Helpline, and one of our analysts will guide you through the process. To view the original article, visit the Tech Helpline blog.

Social Media Tools Every Real Estate Agent Should Leverage
Social media is one of the most reliable and powerful ways to find new leads and broaden your pool of potential clients. However, there's far more available to you as a real estate agent than being able to easily post your listings. By harnessing the power of the right social media tools, you'll master your marketing strategy and prospect with ease. Social media metrics There are over a dozen different social media metrics to track. However, one of the most important across all platforms is engagement. Engagement is essential to social media strategy because by tracking the total number of likes, retweets, shares or even simple emoji reactions, you gain actionable insights into your audience and their relationship with your content. In a perfect world, every member of your audience would interact with every post. However, the number of people who actually interact with your posts will always be smaller than your total follower count. Knowing this number — and the people behind it — is a powerful way to qualify your leads and gain new exposure. Promoters and post-boosters Most social media platforms utilize algorithms to determine which content reaches which feed. While these algorithms are built on some of the very same social media tools you're using, they're not always beneficial to your business. Sometimes it might be necessary to bypass the algorithm — that's where promotion comes into play. Promoters, boosters, blazers — all your social media platforms have an option for paid promotion. Even if you don't use everything in the social media management platform for a full-blown paid ad campaign, you can use these promotion tools to get your posts in front of more people. Two-way communications Successful use of social media tools also requires your regular input. Actively encouraging and engaging in conversations with potential clients on social media will grow your brand awareness and make you a trusted, familiar presence on their feed. Two-way communications can mean comments on your posts, direct messages and chat features. To encourage communication, include a question for your audience in your posts or invite people to comment and share their thoughts. Answer any inquiry via chat or direct message promptly and thoroughly, and the resulting conversation will be more effective. Content and hashtags All of these tracking strategies and use of social media analytics only work when you have something to share. You still need to actually create social media posts, so your audience has something to engage with. This is another area where it's essential to think beyond social media channels as a place to share listings — you also need quality content to succeed. For content creation, rely on your blog posts, Instagram Reels and engaging infographics. Regularly providing relevant content to your audience will boost your online presence and further your social media marketing goals. Adding relevant or trending hashtags to your content curation strategy will also help your audience grow. All major social media platforms have some sort of tagging system to help users follow trending topics or find information about their chosen subject. Use both concepts to your advantage — just remember to stay relevant to your audience's needs and interests. Having multiple social media accounts with built-in metrics and other strategic features can help you monitor the progress of your current strategies and find new opportunities for growth. Do you have social media performance included in your real estate marketing efforts? If not, now is the perfect time to dive in. Interested in learning more? Dig in deeper with this FREE DOWNLOAD Your free Social Media 101 Marketing Guide will give you fresh ideas for how to create awesome social media marketing content. Download this guide and get the tips and tricks to elevate your social media marketing content today! [DOWNLOAD NOW] Need help with your social media marketing strategy? Elm Street Technology's Elevate Platform automates your social media marketing so you can focus on what matters the most, growing your sphere and selling more homes, faster! Connect with an Elm Street Technology Success Coach today to learn more.

The Social Media Secret to Getting 2.5x More Leads
In the past, you've heard about the importance of social media when developing a business brand, finding new clients, and providing virtual tours or open houses. If you're evaluating your social media performance and creating a social media plan, you'll likely consider the classic social media dilemma: Do I focus my social media efforts on organic posts and engagement with potential clients? Or do I put my resources into paid social media advertising to turbocharge my lead generation? Here's the secret: That's a false choice. Agents should pursue organic and paid social media together, leveraging engaging, authentic, organic social media content to market themselves and their properties — while also pursuing paid advertising on social media platforms. We know this strategy works: Social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook have hundreds of millions of users and provide opportunity for direct contact with potential clients. Meanwhile, agents who buy paid ads see positive results, exemplified by Homesnap's data scientists' finding that agents who buy Facebook ads through Homesnap receive 2.5 times more leads from Facebook than agents without paid Facebook ads. That's why you should approach social media as a virtuous cycle: By creating strong organic social media, you can engage with consumers, demonstrate your expertise, and build your brand. Then, with paid social media, you can generate leads for specific listings and direct more people to your real estate services. Read on to learn how to create compelling organic social media and why consistent investment in paid social media will benefit your business. Use EAT Framework for Organic Social Media The first step to optimize your social media should be to burnish your social media profiles with organic content that follows the EAT framework. The first portion of EAT is engagement. With engagement, agents should focus on regularly posting on social media channels and responding to consumers' comments on the posts. Agents should also ask questions to spur audience engagement. Consider asking questions such as "Carpet or hardwood?" to get people talking about their preferences, or "What homes are catching your eye this fall?" to learn about why people are entering the market and the homes they're most excited to tour. The second component of EAT is authenticity. By producing authentic social content, agents can tell honest stories about the home selling and buying processes and the real estate market in general. For example, agents shouldn't solely post videos and photos of fully staged homes and tours. Instead, consider posting before and after photos, or a video of your open house preparations. This way, consumers see that buying or selling a house is a process, and that you're dedicated to the work necessary to make it happen. The final part of the EAT framework is thought leadership. For agents, social media provides the opportunity to display subject matter expertise, which is especially valuable knowledge to share in a complicated time for the real estate market. Consider the value that the EAT framework provides. For one, social media content that follows EAT principles helps you maintain a relationship with consumers and hear directly what questions or concerns they have about the market. Also, EAT content allows you to demonstrate your own knowledge about real estate, and establish yourself as a trusted voice about the market. More broadly, following the EAT framework ensures that when people view your social media content, they see a credible, engaged real estate professional. If a consumer sees one of your paid advertisements and later searches for your information, strong organic social media may help reassure them that there is substance behind your advertisements. With engagement, authenticity, and thought leadership at the forefront of your organic social media efforts, you can develop a solid foundation for social media success. Invest Consistently in Paid Social Media Advertisements After laying the groundwork with strong organic social media, you can use paid social media to draw large numbers of leads into your sales funnel. Our data scientists crunched the numbers and found that consistent investment in paid advertisements pays off for agents. In fact, agents who buy Facebook ads through Homesnap earn 2.5 times more leads from Facebook than agents who use social media but do not buy paid ads. Consistent paid social media ads will generate leads. And if your paid social media is complemented with strong organic social media, you will be able to introduce leads not just to a specific property or listing, but to an agent brand. Learn more about how Homesnap Pro Ads can complement your organic social media without breaking the bank or your schedule. To view the original article, visit the Homesnap blog.

Free Templates to Help you Create Social Media Market Updates
The media narrative during a changing market does little to instill confidence. Clickbaity headlines, based on national and regional statistics, speak to recession worries, a real estate bubble and even a real estate crash. However, if you take a step back and look closely at the data, it's clear there is much more of a story to tell. Real estate is local, and it always has been. This is why as a real estate pro, you should use your social platforms to cut through the confusion and deliver expert local advice. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other media platforms are the perfect place to add your voice with local market insights to earn the trust of your followers. And to help on this sharing journey, RPR (Realtors Property Resource®) has the perfect solution: new housing market charts and graphs. This collection of data, metrics and statistics is incredibly helpful in explaining local market trends. What market type are we currently in? Is housing inventory picking up? What are the month-to-month inventory changes? Are home prices softening? These are all questions your prospects and clients have on their minds. Share Regular Market Updates to Cut Through the Confusion RPR reporting is not always perfectly suited for sharing on social media. For starters, there can be too much data to share on your feed at any one time. Consider picking one or two data points and adding some context around them. And to make sharing easier, we've created a bunch of new templates that will cut your design time in half, and still come off looking polished and professional. We've created these templates in Canva so you can easily apply your colors, fonts, and even images when needed, to have aesthetics that match your brand. The How-To: Creating and Sharing Market Updates Found in RPR's Neighborhood pages, the new Market Trends chart helps to tell the underlying story of any market starting with the type of market (Seller, Balanced or Buyer), inventory trends, list-to-sold price ratio, median days on market, and the median sold price. Moving over to the Housing tab, you'll get a granular view at what's driving your local market. Here you'll see the activity and trends are broken up by each key status: New Listings, Active Listings, New Pending Listings, Pending Listings, and Sold Listings. Rounding out this section, you can also dive into Month's Supply of Inventory, which allows you to view inventory trends throughout the years and make any needed comparisons. Each chart is interactive, too! When you click on a tab, the chart updates with the underlying data. Now that you understand the new datasets available to you, it's time to deliver this important information to your sphere. Check out this collection of market trends templates that will help you showcase the data you're sharing. Browse through and choose your favorites. They're all professionally designed, and you can grab them for free. Once you have selected a design, simply search the neighborhood you are reporting on. Now write down the current metrics you'll be covering. For example, let's share the Market Trends for Scottsdale AZ 85255. We can see the zip code 85255 has 2.14 Months of Inventory, which is up 20.9% month over month. Homes are selling slightly below list price at 99.3%, which is a decline of 2.5% since the previous month. And homes are taking around 18 days to sell, which is an increase of about 20% in the last month. And the Median Price of sold homes is hovering around $1,150,000. With these numbers in hand, now click on the Canva template you'll be editing and begin to enter your numbers. Also, take a moment to click on any colors and update the layout to match your brand. Once you've finished updating your template, click "Share" in the top right corner of Canva. Now choose "Download" and select your file type. For social media, PNG will work great. But remember you can explore different formats based on your goals. The Wrap Up Delivering market updates through social media is a great way to let homeowners and potential home buyers in your market know that you are a local real estate expert. Right now, consumers have lots of questions about the market and their home values. Posting these social media market trends helps to position you as the go-to source for up-to-date information. To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

How ActiveRain Helps Real Estate Professionals
Have you ever thought about a website that connects thousands of professionals in the same field? Where can they share their thoughts, ideas, and questions? ActiveRain created this type of social networking website created in 2006. ActiveRain is a great platform for every real estate professional. But have you ever thought about how it helps real estate agents on their road to success? Here are the top eight ways that ActiveRain helps real estate agents: Community of Professionals Above all, ActiveRain is a community of professionals. Thousands of real estate agents actively use this platform to share their ideas and daily blogs to teach others and connect. Informative Blogs A variety of voices exist on ActiveRain! Each blog contains different useful information for real estate agents, brokers, and other professionals. Zoom Meetings Real estate agents try their best to explain different subjects to newcomers. They do it by posting blogs, answering various questions, and scheduling Zoom meetings related to various topics. Individual Contribution What makes ActiveRain the best platform for everyone interested in this industry? Quite simply, the community. These are the people who directly contribute to the development of this platform. Question and Answers Every registered user on ActiveRain can post a question and get answers from professionals. This section allows beginners and professionals to fulfill their knowledge, get answers on different topics and more. Do you have any questions related to the real estate industry? Post a question and be assured that you will have a good answer in a few minutes, posted by professionals. Trends and News Knowing all the news, information and trends in your area of activity is one way to achieve success. But where can you find useful information about news and trends? ActiveRain is a great place for real estate professionals to connect to any news related to the industry. Tips and Tricks Do you want to become more professional in the real estate industry? There are a few things you should know about that you can find on ActiveRain. First and foremost, there are tips and tricks to help you be more productive. This includes communicating with clients, making deals, and running a well-structured real estate website. Tech-based Information Technology is evolving, and so is the information about it. Real estate professionals, especially those who run real estate websites, should be aware of the changes, news, or tips and tricks related to web technology. On ActiveRain, you can find hundreds of blogs related to technology. Last Several Words Being a professional in the real estate industry requires knowing the professional community. As already suggested, ActiveRain is a strong platform for doing just that. Are you interested in blogging on ActiveRain? Check our article on how to write for ActiveRain and get more points. Do you have a real estate brand? Then you should check our article on how can ActiveRain improve your real estate brand. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

LinkedIn SEO for Real Estate Agents
LinkedIn is a platform that many real estate agents are using nowadays. But are you using it correctly? More importantly, are you harnessing the features and possibilities of LinkedIn? From the day LinkedIn was launched, it served its followers as a platform where they could establish valuable connections. Often, it was used as a glorified resume and nothing more. But many of us forget that LinkedIn is as much of a social platform as Instagram and Facebook. While the LinkedIn algorithm might play by a set of different rules, that doesn't mean we should ignore such a huge platform. We all know that buyers and sellers search agents online before making an important decision on who should represent them. We already know that Google ranks your real estate website based on how optimized it is, how well designed the on-page and off-page SEO is. But what many of us don't know is that social media channels are also search engine platforms that can rank our social media as well. In order to be first in the search results, it's important to have an optimized social media account. In this article, we will take you through the process of optimizing your LinkedIn profile. Let's get started. Optimizing Your URL Just like other content, your LinkedIn profile needs to have an optimized URL. What does that mean? It means if you have an option to claim a URL with your name in it, you should do it. Adding relevant keywords like real estate agent or broker will help you to differentiate yourself from other accounts with your name and help you rise above your competitors. So let's say your name is John Smith and you're a real estate agent. Your Linkedin profile URL will look like this: www.linkedin.com/in/john-smith-real-estate-agent. Using Keywords We already mentioned the importance of using relevant keywords. LinkedIn SEO is not that different from our usual perception of real estate SEO. Using keywords signals to LinkedIn what your account is all about. Your LinkedIn profile is somewhat similar to website landing pages. Therefore, it's important to not only add keywords in your profile link, but also to use them in your profile copy. Profile copy consists of many parts. We will mention the most important ones: Headline – The headline is a section where you indicate who you are and what your working experience is. The headline is more about precision rather than creativity. So be clear about who you are and use relevant keywords. For example: John Smith - Real Estate Agent/REALTOR, Real Estate Marketing Expert. You can even indicate the link to your website. Although we mentioned that the headline is mostly about precision, a little bit of creativity won't hurt. LinkedIn gives you about 120 characters for the headline section, so if you have some space left, let's not waste it. You can add a small promotional sentence about your services, indicating how you help real estate sellers and buyers find the best property for them. Summary – To understand what the summary is all about, just remember the About Us section that we've all seen in other websites. You probably have one too. It's one of the largest sections on LinkedIn where you can add even more information about yourself. Remember to first think about what your clients might be looking for in a real estate agent and try to write a summary considering these factors. Optimize your summary by adding how your clients can contact you. You can add a contact form or link to your website's contact information. Experience – This is a section that most of us use as a simple resume. We simply list our work experience, forgetting that that's not what our clients want to read. How might your clients benefit from your experience? What are the highlights of your working experience? These are the questions you should be asking yourself. Skills – Profiles that have skills indicated are most likely to be found. Education, Licences and Certifications, Accomplishments – All these sections indicate how qualified you are as a real estate professional. Profile Photo – There are a lot of opinions about profile images. Some say that a profile image should consist of a professional headshot. Some say that it should be casual. Whatever the case—casual or professional photo—it's important for it to be good quality. Endorsements – Endorsements are a way of showcasing that your skills are valued by others, and that they vouch for you. It's important to get many endorsements and endorse others as well. Endorse and be endorsed. LinkedIn Keywords So, how can you find the right keywords for your LinkedIn profile? As many of us already know, there are many ways to find relevant keywords with the help of Google. One of these ways is exploring the search bar. Since LinkedIn is not only a social media platform but a search engine as well, the same approach applies to it. We suggest checking out the search bar function on LinkedIn. You can use filters to broaden your search. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

Why Real Estate Agents Still Need a Facebook Business Page
Real estate is all about building personal connections, and the relationships you create today are the commissions you earn tomorrow. So, then, why should you NOT use your personal Facebook profile for real estate? Here are four reasons why you SHOULD NOT use your personal page: 1. Your Personal Profile is Personal To keep your sanity, you must be able to balance your work and personal life. This applies to social media, too. Using your personal profile for business will hinder you from keeping that balance. It will prevent you from sharing family photos, personal thoughts, or memes that might not be work-appropriate. If you build a friendship with your real estate clients, then by all means add them to your personal page! For new business, let your carefully curated real estate business page and IDX website be their first impression of you as a professional. 2. You Don't Have Analytics Despite some complaints about the algorithm, there are some real perks of using a Facebook Business Page. One of them is being able to see important statistics of your post and your page. You can measure your success based on the reach of your posts. Maybe people aren't commenting or liking your post, but maybe they are sharing it with others that you can't see due to privacy settings. By knowing which posts your audience is responding to positively, you can create similar content to help boost your engagement over time. 3. You Don't Have Access to Facebook Ads Facebook Ads can be confusing, but by adding a little bit of marketing spend, you can generate real estate leads easily. They have made a few changes on how you can target these ads to stay compliant with equal housing opportunity laws that might affect how you used to run ads. If that seems too complicated, Zurple can run ads for you to attract seller leads in your target market. 4. It Looks Less Professional There's a reason one is is called a "Business" page and the other is called a "Personal" page. Sending a friend request to a potential real estate client to be your personal Facebook friend is the equivalent of inviting them over for dinner with your family, instead of for a quick chat over coffee. For the people who value their privacy, they might not be quick to accept friend requests from everybody. With following business accounts, there is less pressure. To view the original article, visit the Zurple blog.

How to Successfully Market Yourself on Social Media
Have you reached a plateau in your real estate career where the prospect of improvement or progress seems unattainable? Are you struggling to connect with past clients or feel overwhelmed with the idea of lead generation? There may be several reasons for this, but social media can help. Social media plays an important role in how you market yourself as a real estate agent. This, however, has to be executed with care. 1. Post regularly, but be mindful of the content you post Put this into perspective. According to Facebook's statistics, over half of the population in the U.S use Facebook. Chances are, many of your clients or future prospects are active on their phones and are also active users of Facebook and other social media on their mobile devices. Posting regularly will help you get your name out into the public's eye. This could be a quick showing of a featured listing or a post that focuses more on client interests. As a result, your clients will see that you stay current, connected and openly communicate. Balance is important. Once a page becomes too business-y, it may repel your clients or future prospects. You may want to avoid trying to sell a home in every post. Follow the 80/20 rule, where 80% of your posts are focused on lifestyle content. This will prioritize your clients' needs over your own business needs. 2. Post more photos and videos and less words If you wish to stay current, you have to accept that much of your audience will not commit time to reading lengthy posts. A lot of what you post may be skimmed and disregarded. Focus on posting content that is more visual and less word-oriented. Your own video of a listing on Facebook or Instagram, or an article, accompanied with a quick and eye-catching key point rather than an extensive paragraph. All of your hard work and writing will be overlooked, so it's better saved for a blog rather than your social media. Put yourself in the viewer's shoes. 3. Be responsive. Period. You've set up your social media channels, you post regularly, and you post the right content. Now what? Why isn't your following growing, or perhaps, why aren't you hearing from your existing clients? Lack of responsiveness could be the reason. Social media is all about interaction and if you fail to respond, you'll turn people off. Any questions, concerns, positive or even negative comments need to be addressed promptly on your social media. Lack of responsiveness or response to only negative comments will hurt your image and people will lose faith in you. Summary Follow these key steps to build your social media following, position yourself as an authority on all things home and real estate related, and stay connected with your clients, and prospects. And when you do this, quality leads are guaranteed to follow. To view the original article, visit the IXACT Contact blog.

4 Social Media Fails and How to Avoid Them
Social media has become a key asset in business growth and development, which isn't surprising with 3.5 billion daily users. Over half of these users not only use social media for entertainment, but they are also using it to research products and services. It's clear that social media needs to be part of your marketing strategy, but are you utilizing it to the best of your ability? Did you know that there are some things you may be doing on your social media to turn away potential customers? Have no fear! We are here to help you identify those no-no's and make sure you avoid them in the future. Tone There is a certain tone businesses should and typically use when communicating with its customers and clients. Many real estate agents, however, don't share this same tone. Too many real estate agents come off as impersonal or pompous. You can be proud of your accomplishments, but you need to remember you wouldn't be where you are without your loyal clients. Next time you are about to hit send on that post boasting about what a great Realtor you are, maybe reword it to thank your clients for helping you obtain that success. Timing Throwing up a post at any time isn't enough anymore. Social media is inundated with hundreds, if not thousands, of posts that are extremely similar to your own. You need to make sure you are posting with purpose, and that requires some extra work to see what days and times your post will be more successful. Play around with your posts and see which ones are most successful! Attention Social media is centered around... being social! A mistake a lot of real estate agents make is that they focus too much on what they're promoting rather than who they are promoting to. Focus on using social media to strengthen and establish relationships. Instead of talking about a new listing, try offering solutions to a problem some clients may be facing. This presents you as someone who cares about their customers. Responses When someone responds to your story, comments on a post, or direct messages you, make sure you respond! Keeping the conversation going is really important to relationship building. The faster you can get to those messages, the better—you want to still be on their mind! To view the original article, visit the Wise Agent blog.

TikTok: Video Makes the Real Estate Star
TikTok became a rising star in social media at the start of 2020, and it has been going strong ever since. With more than a billion active users, it has quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, and creative real estate teams have found many interesting ways to integrate TikTok into their social media marketing. If you're new to TikTok, consider this your introduction to the platform and your guide for how to get started. Introducing TikTok, the Newest Social Media Sensation Before we dive into the details of how to use it, we need to answer one important question: What is TikTok, exactly? In short, TikTok is a social video-sharing platform focused on short-form content, which allows you to create, edit, and share quick video clips. Originally the platform allowed you to post videos up to 15 seconds in length, but the limit has since increased to three minutes. TikTok was first established worldwide in 2018 and surpassed two billion downloads for the first time in late 2020. Today, it ranks behind only Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in terms of active users for social media platforms. The fact that TikTok videos are short, to the point, and easy to share has made the platform especially popular among younger users. So if you're trying to do more to reach Gen Z and Millennial clients with your real estate brand, TikTok is an excellent place to be seen. While mastering TikTok takes time, its popularity also comes from how relatively easy it is to get started. You can quickly shoot videos on your phone, use editing features within the app to customize your video, and post it to the world. Video content is already such a great fit for real estate marketing, so TikTok is a natural place to invest some of your social media efforts. Want to Build an Audience? Start with Consistency While TikTok hasn't been "figured out" to the same extent as Facebook or Instagram, we do know some things about how the platform's algorithm works. For example, one of the most critical factors in growing your audience is posting content consistently. Like with many social media platforms, it's helpful to create a posting schedule. This might mean posting a video every day or posting a few times a week. Whatever schedule you establish, try your best to stick with it. Consistency doesn't mean overnight success, but it's a big key to growing your audience over time. Keep It Short and Sweet While the video length limit was expanded from 15 seconds to three minutes, the most popular TikTok content is still short, sweet, and to the point. The length of each piece of content that you post will naturally still depend on the topic. For complex topics, a longer video may be more fitting. But for most content, shorter is better. There are a few reasons why shorter videos tend to be more popular. First, TikTok started as a platform for sharing concise videos, and that's how many users still see it. But there's also the simple fact that your audience is more likely to watch a short video to the end and engage with the content. As you make more videos, your analytics will tell you more about which lengths work best for your audience. Be Authentic and Show Some Personality Whether you're browsing TikTok or watching a commercial about the platform, it quickly becomes clear that TikTok is all about self-expression. That means celebrating the authentic version of who you are, and many of the most popular TikTok accounts do just that. Put another way, it's hard to succeed on TikTok by pretending to be someone you're not. So, don't be afraid to show some personality, give people a peek behind the curtain at what life is like as a real estate agent, and be authentic with your audience. Make Complex Content Relatable Educational content is quite popular on TikTok, but users aren't necessarily looking for long, complex content that overwhelms with detail. The most popular real estate TikTok accounts tend to break down those complex ideas to make them as relatable as possible for their audience. YouTube might be the place for a 15-minute deep dive on a real estate topic, while TikTok is the place where you take the same idea, break it down to the essential concepts, and explain it in a quick, accessible way. While the shorter length of TikTok videos makes things easier in some ways, it can be challenging at first to break down big ideas into relatable concepts. Practice, check out what other agents are doing on TikTok, and experiment to see what types of videos work best for you. Experiment with Themes and Series to Keep Your Audience Coming Back No matter how well you break down a topic, some big ideas just won't quite fit within the 3-minute limit for TikTok videos. And that's okay! Creating a series of short, relatable videos about the same topic can be a great way to educate your audience and keep them returning to your account to check for fresh content. Themed posts are another powerful way to grow your audience while making it easier to stick to your posting schedule. For example, you could post advice for buyers on one day, home improvement posts on another, highlights of local attractions on another, and fun, personality-driven videos to cap off the week. The possibilities for themes are nearly endless, so it's well worth experimenting with and researching themed post ideas for real estate. Use Relevant Hashtags to Help Interested People Find Your Videos Now that you have some ideas for how to make great TikTok content, we'll close with a topic that will be familiar to any agent who's dipped their toes into social media marketing. Like with most social platforms, TikTok is big on hashtags. By tagging your posts with relevant hashtags, you can reach people looking for content related to those hashtags. Relevant is the key word there because you're trying to connect with people interested in real estate content. Using popular hashtags that aren't related to the actual post may provide an initial, artificial traffic bump but won't result in people sticking around to see what you have to say. The Bottom Line for TikTok Success One of the biggest themes of our TikTok advice is that it's crucial to experiment and find out what works for your brand. This is because TikTok is still a relatively new platform, but also because authenticity and self-expression are such integral elements of TikTok success. Of course, the agents who have already found success on TikTok are also excellent sources of ideas. Don't be afraid to check out their content, discover what works for them, and adapt the best ideas to fit your needs. By carving out a TikTok niche, you can ride the wave of the most popular new social platform in years while building connections with the Gen Z and Millenial audiences that are quickly becoming the largest demographics in real estate. To view past Real Estate Marketing and Technology articles and read more from the February 2022 issue, click here. Get a free, 30-day trial of DeltaNET 6 here. To view the original article, visit the Delta Media Group blog.

[Podcast] Decoding Real Estate: Social Media Marketing with Travis Thom
For many agents, social media and digital marketing as a whole are tough concepts to grasp, and they tend to have more questions than knowledge: How do I get started? Where do I get started? How much should I spend? What techniques help drive lead generation? One listen to Travis Thom, and you'll have the answers. He's the founder of Elevated REM, a full-service, digital marketing agency that specializes in helping real estate agents find their voice in the social/digital world. In our latest episode, Travis gives tips and shares strategic insight on how to break into social media marketing, what platforms to adopt early (hint: the clock is Tik-ing), and breaks down digital terms such as pixels, code, cookies, funnels, retargeting, discovery cycles and storytelling. It's everything you need to know to start or fine-tune your real estate digital marketing plan. Decoding Real Estate is hosted by Reggie Nicolay and Genie Willett. Subscribe/Follow And be sure to check out these helpful and relevant links: Elevated REM The Ultimate Guide to Facebook Lead Ads for REALTORS® Realtors Property Resource To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

20 Engaging Content Ideas for Your Real Estate Facebook Page
Our everyday lives have been increasingly reliant on the internet, including making house-hunting decisions. People search for their dream home on the internet. They match houses by watching YouTube videos, making social platforms a key point for prospecting and lead generation. With the number of people using social media each year, sites like Facebook, which has 2.23 billion monthly users, are a great way to reach out to more people and create more leads. Even the right social media hashtags can lead to a variety of options and results! Get innovative and discover new ways to connect with users on your Facebook page. To get started, here are 20 engaging content ideas for your real estate Facebook page. 1. Increase Page Traffic by Adding New Listings You never know who is next to buy a house. If you've completed the initial marketing and brochure development for your properties, post them on your real estate Facebook page and other social media platforms to draw in new home buyers. Fill in essential information about the property. How many bedrooms and baths are there? What does the interior and the exterior of the house look like? Finally, attach a link to your website listing. 2. Gain Insights Into Your Audience With Polls and Quizzes Polls and quizzes compel the viewers to participate directly and express their thoughts. This necessitates them doing more than simply reacting to a post and moving on without fully digesting the details. Make any insightful polling or quizzes about real estate or something else that is interesting to your target audience. When using polls and quizzes, you gain an understanding of your audience's likes, dislikes, and expectations, allowing you to understand the customer experience and design growth. You can connect your poll to a current linked article or a photo, or you can share it on your Facebook and Instagram stories. 3. Post Real Estate Testimonials Post testimonials of your successful real estate transactions to build trust with your clients and prospects. Let your customers talk about your past projects and how you assisted them in buying or selling their new home. Let your content stand out by using visuals and links to the post on your website. 4. Share Real Estate Tips With Your Audience Finding realistic tips on social media is often helpful, particularly for working clients who don't have time to do their research. Keep the list short, sweet and straightforward to make it easy to read and follow. 5. Keep Your Readers Updated by Sharing Blog Posts If you update your blog posts regularly, share them on your real estate Facebook page. Share topics that you know your audience is interested in — such as price trends, how to get a mortgage, and what to watch for during a home inspection to entice them to stop and read. 6. Post Neighborhood Features and Local Businesses Are there any attractions that your target audience will enjoy in the areas where your properties are listed? Potential customers want to view their neighborhood and see if it suits their personality and lifestyle. Be sure to post information about neighborhood features and highlight thriving businesses in the area. Post information about upcoming activities in the neighborhood. With this strategy, instead of scrolling down without absorbing any details, your followers are more likely to stay on your real estate Facebook page to get complete information on the neighborhood. 7. Post Pictures of the Major Features of the Community Another post idea for your real estate Facebook page is photographs of local businesses. Similar to sharing photos of key attractions and features in a city, post images of the significant features of the community. For example, you can add pictures of features such as schools, gyms, shopping centers, hospitals and pharmacies to your page. What's most important is identifying your audience's preferences and showing them your listings near the right business amenities. 8. Post Videos of Neighborhood Guides and Video Tours of Homes Uploading videos of home tours or community guides may draw prospective customers who cannot view a property in person. If you don't have any video shooting experience, it's okay! Several videography companies can do the job for you. 9. Share Your Business Info On your Facebook page, there is a section for information about your company. As a result, when people click on your page, they will immediately know where to find you and how to reach you. Another way to share more about your company is to blog about it. The more details about yourself and your staff that you share with your audience, the better. Before they work with you, the audience needs to learn about you. It establishes confidence and strengthens the bond between you and your clients. 10. Regularly Organize Giveaways Avoid presenting the page as if it is just a business promotion. Organize giveaways regularly for your loyal followers. Offer giveaways that consider the season and information that your followers are likely to be interested in. Timely giveaways provide the audience with something they can use right away, such as a summer home decor giveaway. Simply state the contest rules explicitly, reply instantly to inquiries, and don't forget to post a picture of the winner afterward. 11. Post a Weekly or Recurring Series Posting at least once a day on Facebook is vital for successful social media growth. An active account highlights your commitment to your audience and encourages them to return for new posts. The challenge is to create fresh content that is not just another listing. Starting a daily series is a perfect content idea for your real estate Facebook page that will keep your followers engaged. You can post a featured home once a week with key features that your audience will appreciate. This allows you to post a wide array of content beyond just listings. 12. Post Helpful News or Information on Your Real Estate Facebook Page Establish yourself as a reliable source of information. You should post real estate news or snippets about buying or selling in your region or the industry in general. Whenever you share any news, add some personal thoughts about it or add an excerpt from the article. Remember that people are most likely be interested in reading anything if it is informative. 13. Post Funny Content It can be as easy as asking a question about real estate or just any real estate joke to have your users and prospects laughing. The aim is to get people's attention and provide a foundation for constructive interaction. 14. Share Home Decor Inspiration Staging homes to highlight their best qualities is an essential aspect of selling them. In reality, staged homes are more likely to sell than unstaged homes. Though staging is worthwhile, it will cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Share tips with your audience on how to decorate their homes without breaking the bank. This will have your followers checking in often for new content and tips. 15. Share Posts About How You Serve the Community Are you personally involved in making your community a better place? It's not a bad idea to let people see what you're passionate about. However, don't put too much emphasis on your good deeds. Instead, concentrate on the cause and organization to raise social awareness. 16. Share Whitepapers to Generate Leads Remember that your target audience does research online before approaching you. They're reading blogs, studying various neighborhoods, and comparing bank rates. Share whitepapers with them to assist with the process. For example, share a homebuyer market study. Quick details will help your customers in their purchase decisions if this is what they're looking for. 17. Post Good Real Estate Memes Your posts don't always have to be business-related. Have some fun and share a few memes about real estate that your audience can relate to and enjoy. Memes have been increasingly common in recent years due to their ability to capture our interest, encourage a sense of belonging and connectedness with the one who shared it, and inspire us to share the meme with others who can relate to it. 18. Share Fun Facts Break up all the real estate chatter by sharing fun facts about your community or real estate in general. Fun facts about real estate don't always have to be boring and too serious. Add any trivia about the homes you sell that you wouldn't usually mention in your sales pitch. Finally, choose an appropriate and high-quality image to make the fun facts fun to look at. 19. Include GIFs in Your Posts GIFs are common on social media because the brief, looped clip is enough to capture the interest of your viewers. GIFs are casual and personable, and they allow you to interact with others who see them. Your audience's attention span can quickly dissipate. Thus, using GIFs in your feed to get them to stop scrolling and pay attention is an effective content idea for your real estate Facebook page. 20. Post Company News Have you started a new campaign? Have you and your team assisted an unprecedented number of buyers? Were you in the news lately? If that's the case, post it on your Facebook page. Conclusion While posting on social media can seem trivial, it will win you loyal followers and clients when done correctly. As you can see, there's plenty of content ideas for your real estate Facebook page. Start with these tips, tweak your posts as you go, and add more real estate social media content over time, and you surely will land the clients you're looking for. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

Why You Should Hire a Social Media Manager
Social media is one of the best ways to find new customers and keep past customers coming back. Having social media accounts is a great first step, but having someone who knows how to run those accounts and platforms to optimize your results is the best way to ensure the success of your business through social media. Most large companies have a social media expert working around the clock, monitoring social media for new trends and opportunities. As a real estate professional running your own business, you need to ask yourself if this is something you can do yourself or would you be better served finding someone to help. Here are a few things that your social media manager should be able to handle, whether that is you or someone else.

Market Like a Social Pro in 2022
Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 11:00 AM PST Have you ever heard the saying "It's not WHAT you know, it’s not WHO you know, it's about WHO KNOWS YOU?" This is a fundamental truth when it comes to marketing your business and your brand - you have to ensure current and potential clients know who you are, what you do, and why you matter! In this one-hour session, top social media trainers Stephanie Alfonso and Dylan Handy will showcase the top trends for social media marketing as we head towards 2022. Walk away with actionable knowledge: The hottest social channels for building brand awareness. Effective blogging principles to drive website engagement. What you should (and should not) be including on your real estate website. Should you consider pay-per-click lead generation. And more... 2022 is the year to turn your social media from a toy into a powerful marketing tool! Register now!

16 Real Estate Facebook Groups for Lead Generation and Advice
Are you leveraging Facebook for your real estate business? Facebook Groups are an agent's watering hole for real estate leads. Many prospective buyers and sellers seek out the advice of others online. Agents can use the world's number one social media platform not only for lead generation, but also advice. Use these groups below to grow your real estate knowledge and customer base. Join these 16 real estate Facebook Groups for lead generation and advice: Facebook Groups with Buyer and Seller Leads Buy, sell, rent your dream home (Closed Group) DIY Home Improvement Projects (Closed Group) Credit Secrets (Closed Group) The Holiday Edit (Closed Group) Flipping Houses Like a Ninja (Closed Group) (Insert City or State) Buy Rent Sell (e.g., Buy Rent Sell San Diego) (Insert City or State) Real Estate Investment (e.g., DFW Real Estate Investment, California Real Estate Investment Professionals) First-Time Home Buyers (Insert Your City or State) (e.g., Florida Panhandle First Time Home Buyers Group) For Advice from Other Real Estate Professionals Lab Coat Agents (Closed Group) Real Estate Rockstar Agents (Closed Group) Real Estate Closers (Closed Group) Real Estate Entrepreneurs Group (Closed Group) Next Level Agents (Closed Group) WhatsUp for Real Estate Resale Brokers (Closed Group) Tech Savvy Real Estate Agents Foreclosure and REO Tired of prospecting cold Facebook leads? Zurple's uses Facebook ad space to generate leads within your target markets. Check for availability in your market. To view the original article, visit the Zurple blog.

How to Actually Generate Good Quality Leads on Facebook
We all know that Facebook is a social media giant. But what if you started to look at Facebook as an inbound marketing channel that can pull in leads for you -- good, quality leads. Would you invest more time in it? Treat your Facebook page as an inbound marketing channel Inbound marketing focuses on creating quality content that naturally attracts people to your business. It uses digital content such as blogs and social media to create brand awareness and attract new clients. By aligning the content you publish with your target client's needs and interests, you can naturally attract inbound traffic that can be converted, closed and delighted over time. So, how do you actually do this on Facebook? Run Facebook Lead Ads Lead ads on Facebook (and Instagram) help you collect information from people interested in your business. The ads are designed to let people show their interest in your service by filling out a form in the ad with their details. By doing so, they are allowing you to follow up with them. The information collected in a lead ad includes, but isn't limited to, names, email addresses and phone numbers. You can even ask people custom questions that you care about (e.g., What services are you interested in?). To promote form completion, we suggest keeping questions short and sweet. Collecting names and email addresses may be perfectly sufficient to get the ball rolling. When you create your ad, use a high-quality, eye-catching image with minimal text and a clear call-to-action. Write a clear and engaging caption to accompany your image. An effective caption might look something like this: "Imagine coming home to this gorgeous 4-bedroom home in Lawrence Park. Click for listing." Before you launch your ad, view how it displays on desktop as well as mobile. You want to ensure that it looks great on both. Use Facebook Videos to Promote Lead Gen Offers Did you know that video posts have 135% greater organic reach than photo posts? Video gets solid engagement rates, and they are a great way to connect with your clients in a more interactive way. Create videos to help introduce and promote lead-generating content, whether they're offers, open houses, or something else. In addition to the text CTA, you can add your CTA in the video's description. Remember to also add a verbal CTA to the video. Remind your followers to "sign up for my newsletter" or "visit our open house," both early in the video and at the very end. And if you are hesitating because you feel awkward putting yourself on camera, guess what? So does everyone else! To conquer your fears, practice recording yourself at home, plan out what you're going to say in advance and work at getting more comfortable being on screen. Create multiple takes if you have to until you feel comfortable with the result. And remember, your video doesn't have to be perfect; believe it or not, people tend to respond well to authentic, uncut video. Post Relevant, Valuable Content When you attract new followers to your Facebook page, you want to keep them engaged so that when the time comes for them to buy or sell, they approach you to help them. Building trust with new prospects can take time, and posting relevant, valuable content on your Facebook business page can help. Content that "sells" your services, including your listings and testimonials, should make up less than one-third of all content that appears on your Facebook business page. Keep things interesting by posting a variety of topics on your page. Post relevant industry or local news, new blog posts, videos, photos, helpful tips, and other types of content. Think about the issues that are important to your target audience and create posts around those. Switch up your ads regularly so your audience is always seeing fresh content. Nurture, Nurture, Nurture The lead to customer conversion timeframe for a well-optimized Facebook Ad campaign is anywhere from one to 12 months or more. This means that at least 50% of the effort needs to focus on how you nurture your leads after getting them. Once you have acquired precious email sign-ups from your Facebook ads, build your relationship with these contacts carefully. Segment your email list, deliver targeted email content and avoid making these common mistakes. Facebook is a powerful tool for lead generation when used strategically. Even if you don't have a ton of "likes" on your page, if you start approaching your Facebook page as an inbound marketing tool you can build quality leads and watch your email list soar. To view the original article, visit the IXACT Contact blog.

The Best Facebook Ads to Target Real Estate Buyers
Facebook ads are a popular way for real estate agents to market their listings to potential buyers. But like any widely adopted advertising tactic, efficacy varies. Some agents generate scores of high-intent leads from each and every campaign. Others struggle to source a contact or two. As we've run tens of thousands of successful Facebook campaigns on behalf of our agents, we wanted to shed light on what strategies lead to greater resonance with buyers and more effective lead generation. High-quality photos With every agent carrying a state-of-the-art camera in their pocket, there's no excuse for a lack of crisp, high-resolution property photographs. It's the only standard, really. Many buyers, especially younger, more digital-adept ones, assume that poor photos are a deliberate attempt to obfuscate a less-than-desirable property or features. As a result, ads with poor quality photographs receive fewer clicks and, in turn, generate fewer leads. Read our tips for taking better listing photos. Inclusion of video A year ago, video wasn't an expected component of any real estate listing advertisement. After the pandemic, though, it's the norm. Why? Prior to the pandemic, prospective homebuyers would attend showings and open houses if they had even so much as a passing interest in a property. Facebook advertisements were essentially teasers, designed to get an agents' name out there and entice buyers into attending an in-person showing. No buyer expected to see every corner of a property displayed in a Facebook ad. But because of Covid, homebuyers are more choosy when it comes to in-person attendance. They'll only visit a property if they believe there's a serious chance they'll make an offer. Videos provide a way to approximate that in-person experience. Essentially, without video, you run the risk of a consumer not seeing enough value in the property and opting out of further pursuit. Read our tips for optimizing your video marketing. Immediacy + Humblebrag = Winning Copy Facebook (or social media in general, really) is never a place for humility. Successful agents leverage their past successes in their advertising. So, for example, when promoting your listings, try highlighting how a particular property won't be on-market for too long because your previous listings went under contract in days in your advertising copy. You'll convey both your prowess as an agent and create a greater sense of urgency. Highly targeted Facebook allows you to build multiple custom audiences. To do so, upload contact information for people you know, such as your sphere and any leads you've generated. Facebook will match the data to its user base and allow you to target this specific group of people (if they have a Facebook account). There are three advantages to making a custom audience for all your ads: It will keep you top of mind. The next time someone in your sphere is looking for a real estate agent or has a referral, your ads will remind them that you're an active agent. You'll build brand awareness for leads and cool prospects. Repetition is key if you want them to remember you over competitors. It improves the opportunity for organic reach. People who know you are most likely to hit the share button, giving you free placement in their feed. Only 3.5% of real estate agents target their sphere. But they are the best performing agents. Leverage lookalike audience feature Similar to the custom audience, Facebook's lookalike audience is infrequently used (only by 7.5% of campaigns). To access this feature, you must first create a custom audience as we described above. Facebook will mine that data for common characteristics so it can find a group of similar users who are most likely to be interested in your ad and services. This type of audience is more refined than blanket-targeting people based on interests and demographics. You can also layer location parameters on top of the audience to ensure your ad stays local. To view the original article, visit the Homesnap blog.

How to Create Instagram Posts for Your Real Estate Business with Canva
Ready to start sharing engaging real estate content with your network, but not sure where to start? If you want to share neighborhood market stats, new listings, open houses and client testimonials, this article will get you going. What is Canva? Canva is a simple to use, online design and publishing tool. With it, you can easily create designs without having professional design skills. All you need is an understanding of your brand colors and fonts, along with a clear idea of what you want to share. With a free account, you'll be able to use the templates shown in this article. But it will take a Canva pro account, or pay per download, to export the designs as graphics you can share on Instagram. If you're just kicking the tires, try signing up for the Canva Pro 30-day trial. That will allow you to have all of the features, free for a month. Benefits of Canva Templates With premade templates, you're not starting from scratch. You'll simply find designs that you like and then modify the overall look and feel as needed with your brand colors, fonts, and imagery. Simple Tips to Edit Your Canva Design Agents active on social media platforms such as Instagram often share market stats for their geographic farm area. So for this article, we're going to break down the how-to and provide a few specific templates to make the job easier. Change Colors Click Neighborhood Market Update to access one of our Canva Templates. Select "Use Template." If you have a Canva account, you'll be prompted to log in. If you do not have an account, you can create a free account using your email address. Click to select the element that you want to edit. Then click on one of the color tiles that appears on the toolbar above the editor. Then from the color editor panel, click the color that you want to apply. To choose a different color, click "New color" or the rainbow tile from the editor side panel to use the color picker. Add or Change Image With the template design open, look to the far left side panel. Click the "Photos" tab. If it's not showing, click the "More" button to locate it. Look for images by typing keywords into the search bar. Once you've found or uploaded an image, add it to your design by simply clicking on it. Any image you've added can be adjusted from the top toolbar. Make sure you've clicked on the image and then choose: Effects, Filter, Adjust, Crop or Flip. Social Media Friendly Market Update with RPR and Canva Now that you understand the basics of editing a Canva template, let's focus on customizing a Market Stats template using data from RPR. First, click this link and then select "Use Template." The design shown below will open. Next, we need to get the data from RPR to update our graphic. You'll need to visit RPR and search for the area you'll be covering. If the area is a neighborhood, try using the RPR Neighborhood search tool, or create a Market Activity report for any geographic area. For this example, I'll generate a Market Activity report for a neighborhood and we can use the data from there. Within RPR, select "Research" from the main navigation and then choose "Map Search."(Note: If the map is open to the correct area, simply pan or zoom the map as needed to get centered on your area. If it's not, use the search bar to enter your area.) From the top of the RPR map, select the "Show Geographies" pull-down. Select "Intermediate Neighborhoods," and neighborhood outlines will display on the map wherever available. Locate the neighborhood you'll be covering. In my case, it's called "Lake Forest neighborhood in Lake Oswego, OR." Select the area, and it will turn an orange color, and a map balloon will display. Click "Create Market Activity" report. Once the Market Activity report has been generated, open it and navigate to page #2. We'll use the Median Estimated Home Value and 12-Month Price Change for this template. Next, navigate back to Canva with the Market Update template open. Double click on the blue median estimated home value text. It will become highlighted. Now type the correct number from your Market Activity Report. In this case, it was $690K, so type that amount in. Then repeat this for the "Change Over the Last 12 Months." In this case, that was 26.11%, so type that now. See how easy that was? Now update the colors and image as needed using the directions from the start of the article. Downloading Your New and Finalized Sharable Design Once you've updated your colors, imagery, and market stats, it's time to export your design. With the design open, tap the "Download" (or down arrow) icon at the top right corner of your screen. A menu will open, then choose a file type for your download. Wait for the export progress gradient to complete. The design will immediately save to your computer or camera roll. Download 6 Free Canva Templates for your Real Estate Business We created a few real estate-themed Canva templates that are free for your use. You'll need to add your own colors and images, where appropriate, but these designs mean you'll spend less in design mode and more time sharing content in your feed. RPR and Canva—a Match Made in Real Estate Marketing Heaven Well, now you know the secret of how other agents create such beautiful, professional-looking images for their social channels. Combining Canva's low cost, easy-to-create image templates with RPR's data will make you look like the go-to neighborhood expert you are. Next time you post on Facebook or Instagram, remember this how-to and take your post to the next level. Your social posts shine and they'll get plenty of eyeballs, too. Good luck! To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

Twitter and Facebook Newsletters, Google Core Update: Everything Real Estate Agents Need to Know
The year 2021 is rich on updates. Many new features and updates rolled out this year, including Twitter and Facebook newsletters and a Google core update. Twitter Newsletter for Real Estate Agents Creating a Twitter Newsletter is possible with the Revue platform. This Netherlands-based company was acquired by Twitter in 2021. If you're interested in email marketing, this is the news you definitely need to check out. With the Revue platform you can: Compose and schedule newsletters – What is good with Revue scheduling is you can incorporate other social media links, like Facebook or Medium. This will help you get more visibility for other social media channels with just one newsletter. Create your own newsletter template – You can create your own design, choose the color scheme and the layout of your content. This feature is available in The Design tab under your Account settings. Email Lists – Aside from having the option to grow your email list with just native Twitter subscribers, you also have an option to import any email list you have acquired over these years. You own the rights to this list despite it being uploaded on the Revue platform. Analytics – Twitter Newsletter also gives you an opportunity to evaluate how your newsletters perform, by providing you with the insights data. You'll be able to check average open and click-through rates, unique opens, subscriber growth, as well as engagement and much more. How to Access Twitter Newsletter Function? To access this function you just need to do a few things. Sign up for a Revue account. You can sign up with both your Twitter and email account. Give Revue permission to access your Twitter. The next step requires you to create a profile URL to add the title of your newsletter, and to choose your country of residence. Twitter will provide you with the steps you need to follow. Note that for now Twitter newsletter is visible only through a mobile browser and not with the mobile app version. Paid and Free Newsletters Twitter Newsletter has a free and paid newsletter option. If you decide to have a free newsletter, Twitter won't take any cut from you. In case of the paid newsletters, Twitter will take a 5% cut from the money generated through Twitter paid newsletters. Facebook Newsletter for Real Estate Professionals Email marketing is on a roll this year. Yet another platform, Facebook, added a newsletter function. Bulletin is what the new newsletter is called, and it was created for people to find their audience, maximize their reach and monetize the content. What is cool about the new service is that Facebook doesn't get a cut from the money you accumulate through Facebook newsletter. So, if you're a real estate coach, or just a real estate agent trying to find an appropriate platform for your content, Facebook Bulletin is worth checking out. Aside from having an option for posting blog content, there is also an option for podcasts. Visitors don't have to log into Facebook to access this content. For now, Bulletin isn't launched worldwide and the number of content creators who can apply to Facebook Bulletin is limited. To learn more about Facebook Bulletin, check out their official website. Google Core Update As an owner of an IDX real estate website, the Google core update is directly impacting you as well. Recently, you might have noticed a spike or downfall in traffic. This might be caused by the new Google core update that is rolling out these past few months. What does the Google core update target? First and foremost, spam websites – Google is becoming more and more focused on a safe and secure experience for users. Websites that can't provide that are going to see a huge downfall in traffic. IDX website speed and load time – A positive experience is what matters now, and no positive online experience can be achieved without a good page loading time. Check out our article on page load time, and learn more about what you can do to improve it. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

How to Crush It on Pinterest for Real Estate
Kyle Hiscock, a top real estate agent in Pittsford New York, shares tips on how real estate agents can leverage Pinterest to grow their business. Here's Kyle: Here's How to Use Pinterest for Real Estate: A Realtor's Guide to Pinterest If you're in the real estate industry, you've probably heard the buzz surrounding social media. Real estate agents are killing it on many platforms. With the abundance of real estate marketing techniques to choose from, it's important that real estate professionals put their eggs in the right baskets. Here's how agents can use Pinterest to increase their online presence. Create Catchy Graphics In order to get your real estate brand recognized on Pinterest, you'll need catchy graphics. Pinterest is all visual. Graphics that are poorly designed or easily forgettable will result in poor results and a quick exit from Pinterest. It's vital to your real estate success on Pinterest that you create at least 2-3 memorable graphics relating to the topic you're writing about. There are several user friendly websites and programs that are available that make it easy to create great, eye-catching graphics. One website I use to create graphics for my content is Canva. Canva is a free website that allows users to create graphics of all sizes and also purchase photos for their graphics for as little as a $1. As a rule of thumb, the longer the graphic, the better it will perform on Pinterest. All of my articles are accompanied by at least three graphics that are 800px by 1200px. Here's an example of an article I wrote discussing why Realtors® ask for a pre-approval letter and matching graphics. These three graphics have been pinned almost 1,000 times, which is almost half of the 2,100+ shares. It's important to use only photos you have the rights too (either royalty free photos, or those you paid for). There are a handful of websites that allow you to get royalty free graphics and others that offer graphics as cheap as a couple dollars, such as Canva. Think Local Pinterest provides real estate agents the opportunity to showcase their local communities. Agents can easily gain a strong online reputation amongst community members by focusing on topics relevant to them. As one of the top real estate agents in Rochester NY, Pinterest has allowed me to show off not only the city of Rochester, but also the surrounding communities that I do business in. Pinning attractive photos of local establishments, landmarks, and other points of interest is social proof that you're in tune with your local community and further proves you're the local expert. Create Local Boards Your local boards shouldn't only be filled with your greatest and latest listing. These local boards should provide people who are interested in learning about your communities with some helpful information. On my Greater Rochester NY Pinterest board, I've pinned graphics regarding the local dog parks in Rochester, local real estate market reports, information for people who are moving to Rochester, Rochester landmarks, and other helpful Rochester related pins. In most cities, there are many surrounding towns, villages, and neighborhoods which you can also create seperate boards for. Join Group Boards One of the best ways to effectively use Pinterest in real estate is to join powerful group boards. There are dozens of excellent real estate group boards on Pinterest. Group boards are essential to Pinterest success, because the group boards expand the audience of pins. For example, if a group board has 10,000 followers, any pin you share with the group board will now have the ability to reach these 10,000 followers. Follow Other Agents Regardless of your reason for using Pinterest, all agents should follow other real estate professionals. This will not only help build your real estate brand, but also provide you with great ideas. There are several resources and articles that discuss who the best real estate professionals on Pinterest are. As you discover these real estate professionals on Pinterest, evaluate how they are using Pinterest. In most cases, these professionals are more than happy to answer questions you may have about Pinterest. "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em'" is a great saying to keep in mind as you're building your Pinterest presence. Don't Be a Super Sharer One of the most common reasons why real estate professionals don't succeed at Pinterest is because they are a super sharer. You're asking yourself, what is a super sharer? A super sharer is someone who pins content to one of their boards, shares it everywhere, then never shares it again. A super sharer on Pinterest will pin their graphics on their own boards and all of the group boards they belong to at once. This is a huge missed opportunity to reach the a large portion of the potential followers of these boards. Unless these group board followers happen to log in to their Pinterest account in the near future, your pin will likely go unseen by them in notifications. A great tip for Pinterest in real estate is to sprinkle your pins over a long period of time. For example, once I publish an article, I'll share one of my graphics on a couple group boards immediately. For the next several days, I'll share the same pin to a couple different group boards, keeping in mind to space the pins apart a few hours. This greatly improves the chances that more people will see my graphics, which will hopefully result in them pinning my graphics to their own boards. Some Final Advice Successfully leveraging Pinterest can be a game changer for your real estate brand. Building a strong Pinterest presence isn't exactly rocket science, but it does take time and effort. Good luck pinning! For the original post and more from Kyle, visit his blog at RochesterRealEstateBlog.com. To view the original article, visit the Zurple blog.

Keeping Your Facebook Strategy Up-to-Date in a Social Media World
Facebook is the most powerful social media platform for real estate agents, bar none. Why Facebook? As the real estate industry embraces digital marketing, it has become the no. 1 resource for building and maintaining long-term relationships. Twitter can be good for prospecting, LinkedIn is a gateway to luxury buyers, but nothing beats Facebook's overall utility. With nearly 2.4 billion monthly active users, including approximately 255 million in the United States and Canada, Facebook is still the go-to social media site for most people. Facebook also owns the photography-focused platform Instagram, a natural fit for real estate agents and brokers. If you master Facebook, you'll have an easier time maximizing Instagram. Many of the core features are similar, so it's almost like learning two different networks at once. Among the younger generation of real estate agents, many careers started with creating a Facebook page. Of course, most established agents and brands have also set up a Facebook business page. But what comes after that? All too many real estate pros haven't taken the opportunity to get hands-on with their account. And even if you use Facebook regularly, there are always ways to get more momentum from it. Facebook has evolved quickly over the last few years, and even experts don't always use it to the best of their ability. So, as the real estate market revs up for its post-pandemic bounce, now's the ideal time to take a second look at your social media strategy. Start by Tweaking Your Facebook Fundamentals Every social media network has profile elements you have to fill out to be taken seriously. Not having these is the equivalent of trying to sell homes while looking like the generic Twitter egg. However, once you set up all the different facets of your profile, it's a good idea to revisit and see how they reflect you now. Your headshot makes a vital first impression. It should convey confidence and professionalism, laying a solid foundation for trust. A high-quality, well-lit photo is essential. And it should be current: Even though there's no deceit involved, an image that's more than five years old can still smack of the old dating profile switcharoo. Your unique value proposition also comes through in the copy that accompanies your profile images. That includes both the plain text on the page and the cover image, where you can include your brand name, slogan, and a call to action. It's a great idea to showcase recent events or time-sensitive offers in your header, too. Ensure your text makes these points crystal clear: What you do Who you do it for What makes you different No one can be all things to all people, so give your ideal client something to connect with right away. Your Facebook page is the perfect place to publicize lead magnets, such as detailed local real estate market reports. Last but not least, be sure your Facebook page reflects your values: That is, the why behind what you do. When clients choose between two businesses that look similar to them, the one with values that resonate is usually the one they contact first. That's equally true for both large agencies and one-person operations. Consider an Interactive Cover Image Facebook has recently expanded the types of cover images you can choose from. In addition to the static cover images of yore, you can also design a video or slideshow cover. To qualify, your pre-recorded video must be: At least 820x312 Under 91 seconds long A maximum of 1080p In MP4 or MOV format Less than 1.75 gigabytes Music and other audio are allowed, but all videos start with the sound turned off. Users will have to click on your video to un-mute it, and many won't, even if they are interested in your message. With that in mind, aim to communicate without the need for audio. If you include dialogue, use subtitles. Video covers are effective because the majority of people browse Facebook on their phone. Videos are the most popular content on mobile devices: They can be consumed quickly and are far more memorable than plain text. Still, there's another visual option that's easier to set up on your page. To create a slideshow cover, all you need is a few beautiful, branded photos saved to a folder on your computer. Click the camera icon that appears on the upper left corner of your cover image, then upload your files in the exact order you would like people to see them. Voila – your new cover is ready. Technically, what Facebook offers is a "slider," not a "slideshow." Users will need to manually click through the images to view them. Still, you might be surprised just how many people do so, whether they're visiting your Facebook page on mobile or desktop. Make sure your shots are enticing! Add an Interactive Call-to-Action Button Many people write out a text-based call to action on their cover image, but Facebook has a built-in solution that may be more elegant. As you edit your page, you'll find "Add a Button" on the top right. This brings up a selection of targeted CTA buttons you can choose from, like "Schedule an Appointment." Name Your Page With a custom username, you can give your Facebook page a short, branded URL that visitors are more likely to remember. From your main business page interface, you'll find the "Create @username" option below your page's name. A short, catchy name that fits with your current branding is your best bet. Set Up Your Facebook Messenger Auto-Reply Facebook has big plans for Messenger as a primary point of contact between businesses and users. Messenger is being integrated across Facebook's digital properties on a variety of levels, and it can help you make a strong impression even when you're not around. One powerful way to use it is Auto-Reply. An Auto-Reply response can be directed to anyone who sends you a Facebook message from your page. In your "Manage Page" column, click on "Inbox," then "automated responses." In the right column, you'll see an option that says "Instant reply." Click the "edit" tag under this header and write your desired message. Configure Your Notifications If Facebook is a cornerstone of your digital marketing strategy, you'll want to optimize it to be highly responsive to activity on your page. Facebook provides options to receive a notification any time someone "likes" your page, makes a comment, or posts a question. Notifications can be in-app or issued to you as texts. At the left of your screen, find the "Manage Page" bar. From there, click on "Settings," then "Notifications." Select the option to get a notification any time there is activity on your brand page. Then, scroll down and pick text messaging as your preferred notification style to help you avoid notification clutter. Use Automation to Keep Your Facebook Page Active and Engaging You have a lot of information to share — but you probably don't have hours to update your page! Facebook automation is the answer. With a social media automation tool like Facebook Connector, you can easily configure instant, event-based updates. That means new listings, important property updates, and open house announcements will appear right on your Facebook page as they happen. DeltaNET® 6 users can also take Facebook to the next level with automation through the platform. Combine automation with these other crucial tweaks, and you're on your way to unlocking the full value of Facebook. From first impressions to closing day, your Facebook page can be one of your most versatile tools. RE Technology readers can try DeltaNET 6 FREE for 30 days. To view the original article, visit the Delta Media Group blog.

How to Start a Facebook Group
Already mastered the art of Facebook advertising and content creation? Ramp up your Facebook strategy by creating and managing your own Facebook Group. How to Start a Group Starting a Facebook Group is easy. Start by clicking the "Groups" button in your menu on Facebook. This will open up new options. Look for and select the one that says "Create New Group." From there you can input your group name, decide whether you want to make your group public or private, and invite people to join. Once you're happy with the initial details, click the create group button to publish your group. After your group is created, you can edit the details of your group from the Manage Group menu. Some items you can consider setting up include whether or not you want new members to automatically be allowed in or if they should be approved. You can also schedule posts, set up group rules, and update your group settings through the menu. Be sure to visit the Settings section of your Facebook Group to customize your Group's URL, manage membership, set up posting rules, and access additional features. Facebook Group Ideas Having and running a Facebook Group can be a very rewarding business move, but you have to have a goal and audience in mind. Here are some groups your Facebook Group can target to help attract buyers and sellers or to help grow your real estate business. Niches Having a real estate niche is a good way to start building relationships that can lead to referrals and new business. Consider starting a Facebook Group for pet parents, seniors, veterans, or whichever niche you specialize in. That way, when the time comes that someone in your group is interested in finding a home, you'll already have a connection with them. Agents Many real estate agents work alone, but that doesn't mean you can't find people to support you. There are already popular Facebook Groups, like Secrets of Top Selling Agents and Labcoat Agents that you can join to discuss the latest industry news and ask questions. However, you can also get a lot of value from creating a group for local real estate agents, mortgage lenders, and builders to connect and collaborate. Education Buying or selling a home can be confusing. Help clarify the process and meet people who self-identify as being interested in buying or selling by creating a group for prospective buyers, sellers, or investors. To view the original article, visit the Homes.com blog.

Win Clients with Real Estate Photography and These 6 Features on Facebook and Instagram
In real estate, buyers and sellers hope that the perfect home is out there—ideally, it's within an arm's reach. In 2020, 76 percent of home buyers initially viewed the homes they purchased online using a mobile device. Surprised? You shouldn't be. Pew Research says seven in 10 Americans consider using Facebook as a part of their daily routine. Knowing this, it's no wonder real estate agents cited social media as the best source for high-quality leads, followed by MLS websites. Now the question is no longer "should" you use social media for your real estate listings. Instead, it's "How do you use social media to portray your experience and personality in one shot?" For most real estate agents, the secret to a professional social media presence is using extraordinary photography. Done right, it gets high-value clients to envision working with you by bringing their thumbs to a screeching halt. From there, your job is to move the conversation into the real world. In this post, you'll learn how to use features of Facebook and Instagram to captivate serious buyers and sellers. It's a good idea to save this page now, so you can refer back to it as you learn the ropes of social media. Why Are Facebook and Instagram the Best Platforms for Real Estate Agents? Facebook and Instagram are two of the most widely-used social media platforms. There's a good reason for this: Here, content creation is user-friendly, versatile, and appeals to multiple generations of buyers and sellers. Research shows that people on both platforms, young and old, are more likely to interact with visual content like photos and videos. More importantly, people remember information better when it's paired with relevant images. That means people will remember the way a stunning house listing made them feel—days after the first impression. Facebook and Instagram both use multiple computer learning models, or algorithms, to personalize what people see on their news feeds. In other words, these social media platforms distribute your content based on how viewers interact with it—or don't. Social media success doesn't always come easy, but using professional real estate photography can help you conquer algorithms and delight homebuyers. For social media to be a worthwhile investment, you must know who your ideal client is, and what they're looking for as a buyer or seller. The visual component simply gives your hard work the credibility it deserves. 3 Features for Success with Real Estate Photos on Facebook Facebook is an enormous network—only second in the country to YouTube—with a user base of mostly adults between 30 and over 65 according to Pew Research. It's the most popular social network for older folks, and its steady growth means it's not going away any time soon. As a real estate agent, you need to create a Facebook Business Page. This is separate from the personal profile you might use to share family pictures, vacation photos, and information unrelated to your work. What People Like to See on Facebook People like Facebook for its informative approach to community development. There is more room for text, links, and smaller images. You should use Facebook to influence existing communities where your potential buyers and sellers are already active. According to the social media pros at Buffer, Facebook users want to see content that is immediately relevant to them, so it makes sense that the current algorithm for posts looks like this for most people: Family and friends Subscribed pages and groups Suggested pages and groups Paid advertising When using Facebook to promote property listings and other content, keep these features in mind: Facebook Reactions: Post extraordinary photos to influence emotions Facebook Groups: Connect with local enthusiasts Share Links, Multimedia: Create your business page experience 1. Facebook Reactions: Post Extraordinary Photos to Influence Emotions Scrolling through Facebook updates can be an emotional roller coaster. People enjoy aimlessly scrolling because the ups and downs of emotional reactions are seriously entertaining. Facebook users can react to posts and comments with a full slate of emotions — Like, Love, Care, Haha, Wow, Sad, and Angry. The more emotional reactions you get, the more favorably your content is sorted by the algorithm. Few things evoke emotion like stand-out photography! Aim to flaunt the "stunning curb appeal" of your listings by opting for professional real estate photos that stand out with color, perspective, and a dynamic composition. The concept of Facebook emotions seems silly, but it drives decision-making in the real world. It only takes one 'Wow' or 'Love' reaction to influence the high-quality leads of serious buyers. Other ways to get more emotional reactions with real estate photos: Write your brand story: Share advice, industry tips, and lessons learned as a real estate agent. Use photos from previous listings, or re-share posts from years past to celebrate new milestones, memorable properties, and advice for best practices 2. Facebook Groups: Connect with Local Enthusiasts When you manage a Facebook Business Page, all of your home listings and regular updates about work should be posted there. You can take your Page a step further by using it to join Groups of people with shared interests, locations, and careers—to name a few. The example shared here is from "Fairfax County Realtor Forum," a public Group with 5.4k members interested in what real estate agents have to say about the housing market there. Regular Facebook users can join these groups too. You should use your Business Page—not your personal profile—to join or start professional groups. This way, people interested in working with you have an appropriate place to contact you. In using social media, a little good judgement goes a long way. Some Facebook Groups are specifically made for networking, and others have strict rules against soliciting or self-advertising. You can still build a positive reputation and gain followers by joining conversations that aren't directly about buying and selling homes. This is a great way to ensure your page following keeps expanding. Learning more about your community can also give you good insight on what people are looking for in a home. You can learn to anticipate who's moving in, who's moving out, and the problems folks encounter along the way. One common problem for sellers doesn't appear until their items are long gone from the property. It's harder to generate interest in homes that aren't staged with furniture. It's easy to see why a buyer would hesitate to pass on an online listing where the function and feel of a space just aren't there. You can use virtual staging to show buyers how the rooms in a property will effectively end their search. A couple of Florida-bound retirees will be looking for a completely different layout from a young professional who needs a home office. At HomeJab, our team can take the lead on virtual staging, or real estate agents can choose some particular pieces or styles of furniture and decor from an online catalog. More tips for interacting with Groups: Use photo posts as conversation starters: Asking open-ended questions gets your followers sharing their ideas with you, and chatting with one another. Start a new group where one doesn't exist yet, if you see the need and the opportunity. Tag the people, businesses, and locations where relevant and appropriate: This can help grow your network of followers. Your clients get the satisfaction of sharing official updates for things like buying or selling a home, while you get an instant referral for like-minded friends, family members, and acquaintances that are seeking a good realty experience. 3. Share Links, Multimedia: Create Your Business Page Experience Stunning aerial views of this unique property are worth a double-take. The real estate agent here includes multiple photos, and links to different resources with information that Facebook users will appreciate. Another great way to expand your Facebook Business Page audience is to spend as much time sharing useful information and posts from other relevant accounts as you spend creating your own content. Link sharing is one BIG advantage Facebook has over Instagram. When you share links on Facebook, it is formatted with the information, pictures, and headlines you want to share. Sharing links directly to your Page gives people a reason to keep following you. It diversifies the type of content people see from you, making your Page more useful to your followers, and more favorable for the algorithm. That's why HomeJab introduced Property Pages to help real estate agents drive traffic to one convenient branded profile. Sharing this link on your Page gives your followers a way to share home listing information with their network—without the hassle, distractions, and tediously retracing steps. One of the best perks of having a Business Page on Facebook is the Insights tools, where you can get a clear picture of your social media performance. At the same time, you can keep an eye on the Facebook Business Pages of competitors to quickly compare your data with theirs. And it's not a bad idea to occasionally share the news updates and personable posts from your competitors. Doing this can actually boost your reach—the number of people who engage with your content. Plus, watching and learning from other successful Pages—especially ones that are successful in your niche—is a great way to inspire and re-shape what you do. It's an easy way to assess your audience's interest without completely straying from your social media strategy. More on sharing likable links: Multimedia content is key – A healthy mix of text posts, images, and interactive content is best for a better algorithm. That means sharing a blend of links to your home listings, albums of home walkthroughs, and video content will keep you cycling in more feeds. Experiment with the built-in features like Facebook Marketplace and Targeted Ads when your strategy allows. Video Engages Audiences – When you upload videos of home listings directly to Facebook, your engagement can skyrocket. Videos should be between 3-5 minutes for a favorable algorithm treatment. Remember that Facebook is all about effectively sharing information worth revisiting later. Managing a Facebook business page should enable your clients to keep you in the loop, and contact you as seamlessly as possible. 3 Features for Success with Real Estate Photos on Instagram The Instagram user base is largely made up of younger adults aged 18-29, and older adults are significantly less active on this platform in general. It's considered more of a niche platform, but don't underestimate the value of it—millions of people are on Instagram at any given moment. What People Like to See on Instagram Importantly, the Instagram algorithm does not favor timeliness, so creating relationships is as important as creating content. The Instagram algorithm is determined by these factors: Interest – General topics, themes, and lifestyle trends that users follow. Recency – How often a user is on Instagram, relative to the accounts they follow. Relationship – This is measured by the number of comments, tags, and shares between accounts. Less frequent users will simply get a brief "greatest hits" feed with just a few posts that are relative to the factors above. Use Instagram to share your all-time favorite photos, and aim to foster an intimate audience connection. On this platform, you can share photography with minimal distractions. The interface is best suited for mobile devices, where graphics take up the majority of the screen. Here are some features to keep in mind when posting real estate listings to Instagram: Explore Feed: color welcomes viewers to your listings Carousels: More images, more fun Link in Bio: Inspire with your call-to-action 1. Explore Feed: Color Welcomes Viewers to Your Listings Each user on Instagram has an Explore feed. Find yours by tapping the magnifying glass icon at the bottom of your home feed. This feature looks like a digital quilt of posts from other accounts you may be interested in following. Here, it's the sunny blue skies or hazy purple at twilight that will lure curious homebuyers to your posts. The professional photographers at HomeJab can take care of the color grading for you with a virtual dusk treatment that highlights the property, and maintains its real-life features. HomeJab has digital photo processing down to a science, so you'll receive a package of photos ready for posting. Consistently using professional photography in your real estate listings means you don't need to worry about getting the filter right. More ideas for showing up in the Explore feed: Follow and interact with accounts like yours, and the clients you want to attract. Pay attention to the hashtags folks in your niche are using, and cycle through them with your own posts. The Instagram algorithm favors posts that use hashtags relevant to the text in the post Celebrate Social Media Holidays – It's the best place to make vibrant, thematic posts celebrating social media holidays like #NationalHomeownersDay 2. Carousels: More Images, More Fun When you post multiple images—up to 10 at once—you can encourage users to thumb through them with the carousel feature. Seeing a home online is always going to be different than seeing it in person, but convincing people to take that step is vital! You can get creative with the strategy behind using a carousel to inspire action. One of the most difficult things to do on Instagram is to entice people to interact with you beyond the platform. Imagine seeing the first few images of a stunning virtual tour or an upcoming open house—swiping through a carousel of photos that show just the outside of a beautiful home could be what convinces someone to seek a full walkthrough. Here are more ways to play up the interactive elements of Carousels: When you make Carousel posts, re-share them in the app with Stories. This is another great way to link your followers directly from their home feed to your profile. If you have a wide-angle photograph that doesn't quite fit into one Instagram slide alone, split it up into multiple images for one carousel post. The easiest way to do this is by going into your photos and saving the original image to your phone three or four times. Make a Carousel to progressively show the wide angle photo. Oddly satisfying—right? Add minimal graphics that give details about the listing. The 'Just Listed' digital sticker here subtly adds to the impact of the photo. Canva is a free and simple graphic design tool. 3. Link in Bio: Inspire with Your Call-to-Action If you don't see the level of engagement that you want from Instagram, consider rewording your messages to ask for it. It can be tough to convince people to navigate away from Instagram because there aren't many ways to share direct links. That's why having a consistently updated and relevant link in your Instagram profile—your *link in bio*— message is so important. If you're ever worried about the ephemeral nature of social media, you're not alone. But that investment of time and resources doesn't have to be wasted just because a home listing goes off the market. From there, it becomes useful for your branding and portfolio as a real estate agent. That's why it's important to—as often as possible—plan and create 'evergreen' content in bulk. This kind of content is always going to be relevant to your audience's needs, and it's always going to be worth sharing as a part of your brand story. Good evergreen social media content can include photos from your successful sales, like the example used here. This is an effective way to throw in a personal anecdote, a quote, or experience that represents your philosophy on the industry. Here are more ways to make the most of your bio link: You can make the bio link more dynamic with other free services like Linktree. This is an effective way to link relevant new listings, news and market data, links to your contact information, and your other social media profiles. Or, skip the separate link service, and routinely update the link in your bio with a limited-time feature. Of course, this means planning out the details behind posting and removing a link when it's time, but it's one way of pressing the urgency of clicking the link to a limited-time offer, like an event page for an open house. These are just a few of the features on Instagram that naturally attract high-value homebuyers and sellers seeking representation. You can use Instagram to help others envision what a dream home looks like. Remember: Time + Consistency = Success How long will it take to be successful with Facebook and Instagram? Your success depends on the quality of posts on your platform, and how closely you tailor a strategy to use it. Use professional real estate photos consistently to build your following from the ground up, whether you're revamping an old business profile or starting from zero followers. You will always benefit from learning the ropes of real estate and communication in the online market. Choose a social media platform, and explore all of the built-in features to make your profile stronger. Over time, you'll enjoy the free or low-cost marketing opportunities social media brings. Contact HomeJab for Picture-Perfect Real Estate Listings At HomeJab, we know that one snapshot can completely change the first impression you make on clients. Social media is a free or low-cost tool you can use to exponentially grow your marketing audience. Hardly anything compares to the reach and convenience of a strong social media presence. Our team will set you up for success in representing buyers and sellers by raising the bar for professionalism in real estate. Contact HomeJab to learn more about what captivates serious homebuyers who are searching for that picture-perfect home. To view the original article, visit the HomeJab blog.

How to Strengthen Your Real Estate Business Using Facebook Groups
Trying to keep up with the latest trends in social media can be a difficult, but vital part of your job as a real estate agent. Facebook, for example, favors the content and the building of engagement in groups. Facebook Groups can be fun, but you have to get members in the group and get the content rolling in. Now is the time to tackle Facebook Groups and begin to incorporate them into your strategy as a real estate agent. Why Facebook Groups? Facebook Groups are featured prominently on users' newsfeed. This means that the content from users' groups will is prioritized over content from regular pages they follow. As an agent, creating groups that focus on your local area can help you interact with your Facebook followers and establish yourself as the local expert for real estate. What Is a Facebook Group? A Facebook Group is just what its name implies: a group that is found on Facebook. In a Facebook Group, you can create content that is geared towards a specific audience. Depending on your goals, that audience could be a group of local residents, fellow real estate agents, or DIY enthusiasts. There are endless possibilities for what you can do in your Facebook Group. What Kind of Group to Create There are many different reasons to create a Facebook Group. Before you begin, try to think about what your goal is so that you can target the audience you are trying to include in the Group. To start, we have some suggestions of groups that you can create. Specific Neighborhoods: A group focused on a neighborhood could be a great place for you to start. As mentioned before, think about the audience that you wish to target. Invite past clients who live in the neighborhood to join the group and have them share that group with their neighbors. Then, get the conversation started by asking members to recommend their favorite spots around town. Buy, Sell, Trade: You can also make a group that is targeted to buying, selling, or trading goods, otherwise known as a BST Group. A group like this can help create a sense of community, especially if members regularly engage in the group. You also have an opportunity for group members to organize a group or neighborhood sale. There are numerous ways for you to bolster engagement and exposure when creating a Facebook Group, and it's a great way for you to reach new clients. To view the original article, visit the Homes.com blog.

Social Media Marketing 101 Guide (Free Download)
You know you NEED to be posting on social media, but knowing WHAT, WHERE and WHEN to post can be challenging for busy real estate professionals. That's why Elevate created this all-inclusive guide to creating great social media content. It even includes a four-month content marketing calendar that you can use as a guideline to get started. [ DOWNLOAD GUIDE ] Your FREE Social Media Marketing 101 Guide includes: Social Media Statistics Tips from Elevate's Success Coaches Best Days and Times of the Week to Post What Good Content Looks Like Quick Social Media Best Practices Four-Month Content Calendar And more!

Facebook Turns the Table on Lead Gen: You don't go after leads -- leads come to you
Online lead generation has created new business for many real estate agents for more than a decade. The major portals alone have collected hundreds of millions of dollars in annual ad revenue selling online leads to agents. Early on, agents who bought leads from the portals generated big business. But buying online leads from portals has become more and more expensive and can cost $200 per lead. And the national average conversion rate for internet leads is widely reported at only 2-3 percent. Social media sites, like Facebook, are turning the tables on traditional sources of online lead generation or lead gen. The old model of lead gen captures a lead, and then you go to them. With a social media channel like Facebook, your future leads are already checking you out, and when they are ready, they come to you. This shifts the focus from targeting people you don't know – online leads – to people who know and like you. The concept isn't new: historically, most agents generate the majority of their business from referrals, most often from past clients, friends and family, and others in their sphere of influence. Facebook makes this process possible online. Facebook and real estate According to the National Association of Realtors, 76 percent of members are on Facebook for professional use, and 78 percent use Facebook for personal use. However, NAR says only about one-in-five agents use Facebook to market their listings. Yet, the opportunity to generate leads from Facebook is enormous. Facebook continues its reign as the number one social media site. Nearly two billion people use Facebook every day worldwide. And the average time spent on Facebook exceeds any other social site, a whopping 58.5 minutes per user per day. Engagement on Facebook remains off the charts. Every minute, Facebook users create four million likes, and every second, more than six people sign up for Facebook. More importantly, for agents, 35 million people update their statuses on Facebook every day. Agents are attracted to Facebook, as it is the easiest and most efficient way to stay visible with their clients, friends, family, and community. The fact is most, if not all of them, are on Facebook. There is no more cost-effective way to use sphere marketing to reach clients and future ones than on Facebook. Facebook also meets HUD fair housing requirements for advertising as real estate agents must mark boosted posts as a "Special Ad Category" and select "Housing" from the pull-down menu. Facebook won't approve a real estate ad or boosted post without it. This makes certain agents are complying with fair housing rules that prevent specific geographic and demographic targeting. Turning the tables Perhaps the best part of using Facebook as an agent to generate leads is that in the long run, it is easier. Agents who are most successful in generating leads from Facebook do more than drive-by "liking" of other people's posts. The key is to share relevant comments and content. It's also essential for you to be you. Agents attract customers who are like them, as chemistry is vital in any business relationship. Through Facebook, people in your community get to know you, while your sphere gets to know you better. It's also important to be consistent. As a busy agent, it's sometimes hard to find a way to post to Facebook regularly. One of the best ways to be consistent is to use Facebook to market your listings. This includes paying for "boosted" posts. Paying Facebook to expose your listing post to more people helps your exposure in the market. More importantly, you are delivering value to your sellers by increasing exposure to more potential buyers. What changes is the way you generate leads. Using Facebook to promote your listings and expose your sphere to you and your business, you maintain top-of-mind awareness. When someone in your sphere is ready to buy or sell, they are more likely to contact you because of your Facebook activity. That turns the tables because instead of paying someone to send you an online lead and tracking them down to see if they are interested in working with you, Facebook leads are people who already know you. And they contact you, instead of the other way around. Isn't that the kind of lead every agent wants? Final advice: if your MLS or association offers Tech Helpline from Florida Realtors as a member benefit, you can get technical assistance with Facebook. If your MLS or association doesn't provide Tech Helpline, encourage them to contact Tech Helpline at [email protected]. Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns and operates Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.