So, the time has come: you’re finally going to set up a Facebook page for your real estate business. Or a Twitter account. Or an Instagram. Or Google+. Or a Pinterest. Or a Vine. Or…

Ok, there are a lot of options. And the truth is, it can feel pretty intimidating to set up a new social media account for your business, even if it’s not your first one. But it doesn’t have to be completely overwhelming. Start with these simple steps, and you’ll soon find that updating your real estate social media profile is second nature.

1. Pick the place that’s right for you

There are so many different options for social networks these days that it has officially become impossible to keep up with them all. The good news is that you don’t have to. The best way to get started with social media for your business is to pick a site you know you’ll actually use. If there’s a site you already use regularly with a personal account, that’s an easy place to start. If not, then take a look at the popular options, and see which one seems the most appealing to you.

2. Keep it local

One of the major benefits of internet marketing is that you can reach anyone, anywhere, anytime. However, real estate marketing is primarily local, so you’ll have to put in a bit of extra effort to keep your posts relevant to the areas where you work. Tag yourself at local restaurants. Include pictures of local landmarks. If there’s a hashtag for your city or metro area, use it! Don’t forget to snap a pic of the houses you’ve got listed (including the real estate yard sign, of course!) to catch the eye of potential local buyers.

3. Spread the word

Social media can be a great, low-key way to stay in touch with prospects. But that only works if they know your social media pages exist. Try to find opportunities for you to mention your Twitter handle or Facebook page name to your contacts: include social media icons on yourbusiness card. Send out a real estate postcard asking people to
connect with you on Facebook. Include a link to your social media profiles in your email signature. The process of gaining likes, followers, and connections often starts slow, but if you work at it, you’ll continue to build momentum.