The digital landscape has shifted the real estate market. Today, over half the world's population uses social media for at least a few hours a day. [source] New research also shows that all homebuyers use the internet to search for a property. [source]

This shift can be a significant asset for savvy homeowners and real estate agents. 

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok can help you expand your reach and target potential buyers. 

A few simple steps can help your property stand out in the most competitive real estate markets, resulting in a speedy and profitable sale.

Show Off Your Property with Great Photos

The first impression a buyer gets of your home is likely from scrolling through social media and real estate websites. This is why it's crucial to have professional, high-quality photos that showcase your home in the best light. In this case, a picture truly is worth a thousand words. 

Your real estate agent should be able to connect you with a local photographer who understands how to take the most flattering photographs of your home. This isn't a place to skimp on budget, as poor-quality photos can dramatically reduce the number of buyers interested in your property.

Before photo day, spend a few hours cleaning and decluttering and working on minor home improvement projects. 

The photo tour should help buyers imagine themselves in your spacious kitchen, cozy reading nook, or relaxing on the back patio. Arrange the pictures so buyers can feel like they are taking a "virtual tour" of your space. 

Pro Tip: Consider a video tour to better overview your home's unique layout. 

Share an Enticing Property Description

Experienced real estate agents know that a well-crafted property description can help to hook more potential buyers. This is more important than ever in the social media age as customers no longer rely on the advice of their agents but shop online. 

Buyers tend to scan hundreds of listings, so your headline should grab their attention. 

Then, make sure your home stands out by writing a compelling narrative highlighting its benefits to future owners, creating demand in the call to action (e.g., Act now, as homes in this neighborhood sell fast!), and sharing information about pricing and open house details.

Go beyond the basics by sharing your town or neighborhood's benefits, such as walkability, local school districts, and nearby activities. 

List Your Home with Confidence

Before you can effectively use social media, you must ensure your listing is accurate online. 

Real estate professionals have exclusive access to the MLS listings. An experienced agent will have a team to ensure your listing stands out on MLS and major online listings such as Zillow, Redfin, and Trulia. 

Keep an eye out for Zillow premier agents who have access to exclusive leads and additional automated advertising.

Craft Your Real Estate Social Media Strategy

The first strategic decision is to post your listing on the right platforms to reach your target audience. Social media platforms change fast, so working with an agent who keeps up with shifting trends is essential.

Sharing your listing on your social media accounts, like Facebook and Instagram, will help you get the biggest reach. Sharing your photos on Instagram, especially using Reels, can help you highlight your unique property. Ask your friends and family to share your listings to reach more people.

Expand your impact by tagging local businesses or schools on social media. 

Pro Tip: This work isn't all on your shoulders. Your real estate agent should be able to share their social media strategy for effective listings. Ask how they plan to share your home on their social media channels and what their track record is for creating social media content.

The real estate industry continues to evolve in the digital era. Social media is an excellent tool for generating leads and reaching potential clients.