When sellers and prospective homeowners head to Google to find real estate agents in your area, will your name appear in the results? Local SEO optimization remains incredibly difficult if you don’t take advantage of a Google Business Profile. Find out how to optimize a Google Business Profile for real estate so you can reach your target audience.
This guide explores seven simple ways to improve your online presence with the help of a solid business profile and the major benefits of doing so.
1. Claim Your Profile
Increasing your Google ranking, particularly in your local market, is challenging without a Google Business Profile. Your top priority should be claiming the profile so you can begin reaping its advantages, including increased online visibility and enhanced credibility.
Head to business.google.com and enter the accurate brand name you use across all platforms for consistency. Establish your service area and business categories to ensure your profile appears in niche search results. For example, if you’re a Pittsburgh-based agent, you can include the city as your service area or expand it to Allegheny County if you serve clients across the region.
Enter your correct contact information, including the following:
- Business address
- Phone number
- Website
2. Verify Your Business
If you’re wondering how to optimize a Google Business Profile for real estate, you’ll have to complete one necessary step: account verification. Google must verify each business that claims a profile to prevent fraud and ensure accurate information for all users.
After setting up the account, you’ll be directed to a screen where you can confirm your mailing address. Google will send a postcard containing a unique code to that address, which usually takes a few days to arrive. Once you receive the postcard, sign into your account and enter the code to complete the verification process.
3. Craft a Clear Description
With your brand verified and ready to appear for local users, you’ll want to hone the right message for them. The search engine will only display 250 characters before instructing users to click “Read More,” so you have a limited window of opportunity to catch their attention.
Write a strong description outlining the key services you offer, the expertise you provide, and the area you cater to. Conduct keyword research to find relevant terms your audience is searching for and include some of those phrases in your description, such as “[City] real estate agent” or “selling a house in [City].”
4. Upload High-Quality Photos and Multimedia Content
Users don’t just want to hear about your business; they want to see it in action. Give them a glimpse into your brand by uploading high-resolution images that will appear when they explore your profile. Include a professional headshot or images of you conducting a showing to clients to highlight your expertise.
For an even more personal touch, you can include short videos to introduce yourself and review the properties you help clients sell or purchase.
5. Publish Relevant Updates
Ask an SEO expert how to optimize a Google Business Profile for real estate, and they’ll tell you to take advantage of the “Posts” feature. This tells the search engine you’re a credible, engaged agent and helps boost your overall search ranking.
In addition, Google Business Profile posts and updates provide vital information to new and existing clients. Create posts your audience will benefit from, such as open house announcements or professional tips for buyers and sellers.
6. Create a Q&A Section
Users may have an interest in your business, but they want to gather more information before contacting you. That’s where a Q&A section comes in handy. Publish common questions you hear from potential clients and answer them in a clear, concise manner.
You can also enable a messaging feature that allows users to connect with you online. Respond accordingly to maintain professionalism and make a good impression.
7. Prioritize Client Reviews and Reputation Management
Both word-of-mouth recommendations and modern SEO tactics come together in the review section of your Google Business Profile. When users search for agents online, they may be reluctant to connect with someone who has poor reviews or none at all.
Politely ask your clients to leave feedback after working with them. You can send a follow-up email linking to the review page if a few weeks pass and they don’t post a review.
When clients provide feedback, engage with all of them in a professional manner. Express gratitude for positive feedback and constructive criticism alike, and use the latter to improve your operations going forward.
Discover How To Optimize a Google Business Profile for Real Estate and Other SEO Strategies
Knowing how to optimize a Google Business Profile for real estate can set you apart from the competition and help you connect with your target audience. If you’re looking for other ways to boost your brand’s visibility for success in the real estate sector, it’s time to partner with a digital marketing professional. Submit this online form to discuss personalized SEO solutions.
GBP FAQs
Learn more about local search engine optimization strategies for real estate professionals.
Why Would a Real Estate Agent’s Profile Not Appear in a Local Google Search?
A real estate agent’s business profile won’t appear in a local Google search if they don’t verify their business. They could be awaiting the verification code from Google, which is necessary for publishing the profile.
What Types of Posts Should a Real Estate Professional Make on Their Google Business Profile?
Realtors can post any relevant content they want clients to see in a search, such as new home listings, open house announcements, and how-to posts regarding buying or selling a home.
Can Any Real Estate Professional Improve Their Local SEO With a Google Business Profile?
Yes, knowing how to optimize a Google Business Profile for real estate helps an agent or brokerage establish credibility in their local SEO market. Combine this with other tactics like backlinking and content creation for greater success.