Real estate is a dynamic field with equal parts challenge and potential. According to a 2023 study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 89% of buyers recently purchased their homes through a real estate agent or broker. This statistic underscores the importance of effective marketing in building awareness and getting in front of buyers quickly.

To help you succeed, we’ve compiled some top real estate marketing ideas used by leading agents. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced realtor looking to attract new clients, these tips will help you create a winning marketing plan.

Top 15 Real Estate Marketing Ideas

1. Create a Website Establishing a website for your real estate business showcases what you have to offer. Regularly update your listings to keep prospects engaged. Adding features like a mortgage calculator can set your website apart, providing added value to visitors.
   Why this works: A website acts as a digital hub where interested buyers can learn more about available properties and your real estate services. It helps grow your personal brand and attract more qualified leads.
2. Optimize Your Website for Mobile Ensure your website is mobile-friendly to provide a seamless experience for users. Google prioritizes mobile-optimized sites for faster loading speeds.
   Why this works: Mobile optimization ensures potential clients can easily view and navigate your listings on any device.
3. Build a Blog Start a blog with content optimized for SEO to ensure your posts appear in search results. Tools like Google Analytics and Ahrefs can help you identify relevant search terms and keywords. Link your blog to your main website and profile pages on other real estate sites to enhance visibility.
   Why this works: A blog demonstrates industry expertise and keeps you top of mind for potential clients. It’s a platform for sharing industry news, events, and advice, helping build credibility and trust.
4. Leverage Social Media Profiles Engage with your audience on social media platforms to establish authority and build connections. Join local Facebook groups, answer relevant questions, and share helpful content.
   Why this works: An active social media presence frames you as a trusted advisor and helps you connect with potential clients in your area.
5. Develop Email Marketing Campaigns Send monthly newsletters featuring your blog content and new property listings. Include images, video walkthroughs, or virtual staging of properties to engage your audience.
   Why this works: Email marketing keeps you connected with past and potential clients, increasing the chances of receiving referrals or repeat business. Use catchy subject lines to improve open rates.
6. Ask for Referrals Follow up with buyers and ask for referrals to gain new leads. Offer to plan housewarming parties for new homeowners to meet potential buyers.
   Why this works: Referrals often lead to high-quality leads who are already familiar with your work and come with a higher level of trust.
7. Collect and Display Testimonials Use client testimonials to build social proof and establish credibility. Share these on your website, social media, and email newsletters.
   Why this works: Testimonials highlight the positive experiences of past clients, building trust with potential clients.
8. Run Paid Instagram Promotions Use Instagram ads to target specific audiences and promote your most attractive listings. Video ads can show your personality and build credibility.
   Why this works: Paid Instagram promotions allow you to reach your ideal audience with precision, increasing the likelihood of gaining new clients.
9. Host Home-buying Workshops Educate first-time buyers on the home buying process through workshops. Partner with local services to offer valuable information.
   Why this works: Workshops build trust and rapport while providing valuable information, leading to future business.
10. Create a Standout Business Card Print visually appealing business cards to leave a lasting impression during in-person interactions.
    Why this works: Business cards are easily distributable and serve as instant calls to action for prospect conversations.
11. Use Drone Photography Capture aerial shots of properties to add an excitement factor to your listings. Video can supplement virtual tours or walkthroughs and show exterior features like patios and pools.
    Why this works: Drone shots add professionalism and appeal to your listings, providing prospective buyers with more insight into the property and surrounding areas.
12. Create Video Walkthroughs Conduct thorough video tours of properties and post them with your listings to add credibility and intrigue.
    Why this works: Video tours give potential buyers a better understanding of the layout, size, and overall feel of a property, saving time for both agents and clients.
13. Partner with Local Businesses Collaborate with local boutiques, showrooms, and coffee shops to promote listings and organize open house events with pop-up shops.
    Why this works: Local partnerships encourage potential buyers to explore each room and build brand recognition within the community.
14. Co-host a Webinar Partner with local lenders, title companies, or staging services to host informative webinars on relevant topics.
    Why this works: Webinars attract a wider range of potential clients and showcase your expertise, putting a human face to your brand.
15. Employ Virtual Staging Virtual staging offers a cost-effective way to present homes online. A 2023 study found that 85% of staged homes sold for 5-23% more than unstaged homes.
    Why this works: Virtual staging helps buyers visualize themselves in a home, making properties more appealing. It’s particularly useful in a post-pandemic world, where online viewings are more common.

How to Create a Real Estate Marketing Plan

1. Create a Vision Statement: Define your short and long-term goals.
2. Identify Your Target Customer: Determine the personas you’re marketing to.
3. Develop Goals: Set clear marketing goals and strategies.
4. Determine Your Unique Selling Proposition: Identify what sets you apart from competitors.
5. Determine Tools and Budget for Each Strategy: Allocate budget to top marketing ideas.
6. Measure Performance: Track key metrics to evaluate the success of your campaigns.

Should You Hire a Real Estate Marketer?

Deciding whether to hire a real estate marketer depends on your resources and expertise. If you lack the time or know-how for certain marketing tasks like website design, SEO, or content creation, consider outsourcing to professionals.

By implementing these creative marketing strategies, you can effectively promote your real estate business, attract new clients, and achieve your sales goals.