Your online reputation speaks before you do—make sure it’s saying all the right things.
In today’s digital-first world, your online presence is often someone’s very first impression of you—and in real estate, that matters. Long before a potential client picks up the phone or sends a DM, they’ve likely Googled you, scrolled your social profiles, and made a judgment about whether you’re trustworthy and professional enough to guide them through one of the biggest decisions of their life.
If you’re a new agent—or simply ready for a digital refresh—this guide will help you create a polished and professional presence that attracts the right people and builds credibility from the start.
1. Google Yourself First
Think like a buyer or seller: if someone drops your name in conversation, they’re probably going to search for you. So try it. What shows up?
A dated LinkedIn profile? An old blog from college? Your Pinterest wedding board?
Make note of anything outdated, off-brand, or irrelevant—and prioritize cleaning it up. Your online footprint is part of your personal brand, and it should reflect the professional you are today, not the student or newlywed you were a decade ago.
2. Refresh (and Actually Use) LinkedIn
LinkedIn may not feel like the hottest social platform, but it ranks high in search results—and relocation clients or professionals often start there.
Make sure your profile includes:
- A current, high-quality headshot
- A descriptive headline that clarifies who you serve and where you work
- A bio that gives context to your experience and personality
- Links to your website and other active platforms
It’s a credibility builder—even if you’re not posting content daily.
3. Make Your Instagram Bio Count
Instagram is where people go to get a sense of your vibe. Is it clear who you are and what you do?
Your bio should include:
- Your name
- Your market (city/area)
- A short value statement or niche (“Helping first-time buyers in Chicago feel confident in every step”)
- Contact info or a link to your website
Bonus points for a friendly photo and story highlights that showcase listings, client wins, or local insights.
4. Tidy Up Your Facebook Profile
Whether you use Facebook for business or not, chances are someone will find your personal profile. That doesn’t mean you need to make it a sales channel—but it should still reflect your professionalism.
Do a quick cleanup:
Use a recent profile picture
Add your current job title and brokerage to the About section
Consider a branded cover image
Pin a post announcing your real estate business
And adjust privacy settings on anything you wouldn’t want a prospective client to scroll through.
5. Set Up Your Google Business Profile
This one’s a game-changer—especially for local search.
A Google Business Profile makes it easier for clients to find you when they search for agents in your area. It also signals legitimacy and builds trust.
To do:
- Claim your profile
- Add your photo and bio
- List your contact details
- Start collecting reviews
Ask happy clients, peers, or mentors to leave a few words—it goes a long way.
6. Don’t Forget Your Email Signature
Every email you send is a branding opportunity. Use your signature to give people easy access to who you are and what you do.
Include:
- Full name and title
- Phone number
- Website link
- Icons or links to your active social platforms
Make it clean, clickable, and consistent.
7. Introduce Yourself with Intention
Your first few posts as a real estate professional matter. Before sharing listings, let your audience know who you are and how you can help.
Ideas:
- A brand photo with a caption sharing your “why”
- A quick intro post explaining your market and ideal client
- A “get to know me” post that combines your story with a call to action
This isn’t fluff—it’s foundational.
8. Build Local Relevance
Your job isn’t just selling homes—it’s showing up as a trusted resource in your community. Share local favorites, highlight small businesses, cover neighborhood events, or offer market tips for your area.
It’s a great way to stay visible and valuable—even to people who aren’t ready to move just yet.
9. Revisit and Refresh Regularly
The digital world moves fast. Set a recurring reminder once a month to audit your profiles, update your bios, swap out photos, and double-check that your links work.
A little upkeep goes a long way—and keeps your brand aligned as you grow.
Remember!
Your brand is always online—even when you’re not.
When you take the time to present yourself with clarity and consistency, you make it easier for the right people to find you, trust you, and ultimately, hire you.
Additional Resources
How to set up your digital profiles as a new real estate agent
Why Social Media Consistency is Key for Real Estate Agents
Content Planning for 2025: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide to Social Media Success
