When someone searches "realtor near me" or "best real estate agent in [your city]," the first thing they usually see isn't your website. It's the map and the Google Business Profiles underneath it.
That little profile is your new front door. Here are seven fixes that make a big difference.
1. Choose the right categories
Your primary category should be Real Estate Agent (or Real Estate Agency if you're a team). Then add secondary categories that fit, like Real Estate Consultant. Categories tell Google which searches you should show up for.
2. Set your service areas
If you don't have a storefront, set your profile as a service-area business and list the cities and neighborhoods you actually work in. Be realistic. A focused list beats listing every town in the state.
3. Write a description that sounds like you
You get 750 characters to tell people who you are. Use them. Mention:
The areas you serve
Who you love working with
What makes your approach different
A clear next step, like "Call or text to set up a free consultation"
Skip the buzzwords and write it the way you'd introduce yourself at an open house.
4. Add real photos, often
Profiles with fresh photos look active and trustworthy. Upload a professional headshot, photos of you at listings and open houses, your office, and your neighborhood. Add new ones every month.
5. Post updates every week
Google Business Profile has a posts feature that most agents ignore. Share your new listings, open houses, market updates, and recent closings. It takes five minutes and keeps your profile looking alive.
6. Ask for (specific) reviews
Reviews are one of the biggest factors in local rankings. After every closing, send a short, personal text with your review link. Encourage clients to mention the neighborhood and what you helped them with. Those details help you show up for more searches.
And always reply to reviews, good or bad. It shows future clients that you care.
7. List your services and add a booking link
Use the services section to spell out what you offer, like "Home buyer consultations," "Listing and seller representation" and "Free home value estimates." Then add a link where people can book a call or request a home value. Make it easy for someone to take the next step without leaving Google.
Why this matters even more now
Google's AI Overviews and tools like ChatGPT use information from your Google Business Profile when they recommend local businesses. A complete, active profile helps you show up in both traditional search and AI answers.
Not sure how your profile stacks up? Book a free strategy call and I'll review your Google Business Profile and show you the quickest wins.