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Real estate marketing has evolved in ways that would be unrecognizable to real estate agents just 20 years ago. It’s no longer enough to rely on time-tested methods such as roadside signs, for-sale signs, or even (*gasp*) word of mouth.
Don’t get me wrong, those methods are still valid, and should NEVER be replaced or pushed to the side. But if you want to be a leading real estate agent, or even just remain competitive in your local area, you have to learn how to elicit and manage positive Google Reviews!
Think of Google Reviews as a sizeable chunk of your overall digital marketing strategy (as we’ve done so in the past and we’ll continue to do in the future). Google reviews are incredibly powerful at creating public opinion and attracting more leads.
This strategy is simple, easy, and costs next to nothing. This is how to leverage Google reviews for real estate agents.
Why are Google Reviews Important for Real Estate Agents?
Increased Online Visibility and Local SEO
Google reviews are one of the most critical factors for boosting your local SEO and increasing your real estate visibility. They directly impact whether you show up in the Local 3-Pack—those top three Google Map results that dominate the search page when someone searches “google reviews for realtors” or “real estate agents near me.”
Here’s the deal: Google uses review signals like the number, quality, and frequency of reviews to determine your ranking for local searches. The more positive reviews you have—and the faster you get them—the more likely you are to climb the ranks. Another bonus? Reviews that mention hyperlocal keywords like “5-star realtor in [your city]” or “best real estate agent in [specific neighborhood]” can supercharge your SEO and position you as the go-to agent in your market.
Building Trust with Potential Clients
Your Google My Business page is a key element that gives your brand authority and validity online (we have a tutorial on how to optimize your Google My Business Page by the way). Google My Business not only makes it easier for potential buyers and sellers to find you, it allows Google to index your business and push other pages from your website further up in the results pages. As clients leave positive reviews and you interact with them, you establish a strong online presence backed with great testimonials and recognition from Google.
When it comes to lead generation, your Google Reviews are invaluable.
Let’s face it: real estate is a relationship business, and trust is non-negotiable. 91% of consumers read online reviews, and 84% trust them as much as a personal recommendation. Positive Google reviews act as a digital word-of-mouth referral, giving potential clients undeniable proof of your expertise.
Even better? Authentic, detailed feedback—like “Jane helped us find our first home in less than a month and negotiated $15,000 off the asking price!”—paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to work with you. Responding to reviews, whether they’re glowing or critical, demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to client satisfaction, solidifying your credibility.
For reference, Google searches for “real estate agent near me” have gone up since 2015 by 1,279%… That’s 25 TIMES.
Generate More Web Traffic
The next stage after a potential client checks your reviews is to click into your webpage.
A professional and well-optimized home page will encourage visitors to explore your other webpages. AgentFire has developed a stacked web design approach and a range of integrations that turn your web visitors into clients with little to no effort.
For example, take a look at our Neighborhood Guides and Area Pages. These pages help prospects to niche down on exactly what they want, so that they can get focused and reach out to you faster. Our CRM integration makes it easy to gather visitor information and build a robust email list. Pop-up CTAs make it easy to get a visitors attention and lead them to value packed lead magnets such as tip sheets and blog posts. You get the point.
Allow your positive reviews guides visitors to your other online platforms where useful content and next steps are available.
Driving Lead Conversion
Here’s where the magic happens: Google reviews don’t just make you look good—they drive action. A powerful review strategy can lead to a direct increase in clicks, calls, and consultations. Think about it—who wouldn’t want to work with the agent who’s consistently getting rave reviews like “best realtor in town” or “made selling our house stress-free”?
Each new review also feeds Google’s algorithm with fresh content, keeping your profile active and relevant. This creates a ripple effect: more reviews mean better rankings, better rankings mean more leads, and more leads turn into more clients leaving reviews. It’s the ultimate cycle of success.
Upgrade Digital Marketing Strategies
Consider the following:
Google LOVES fresh content where it makes sense (which it does for real estate) and each review counts in favor of your “freshness factor.”
There are HUGE keyword opportunities that hyperlocal agents can play with, with more geo-local possibilities coming in the near future. We’ve spoken about keywords in relation to your webpages and improving SEO, but did you know that keywords in reviews can also boost SEO?
The keywords you prioritize on your webpage are likely similar, if not identical, to the words clients are using in your reviews. Dig a bit deeper and you’ll realize that prospective clients who are searching for real estate content are also using the same keywords in their search.
This cycle of keywords is especially important because as keywords are used, Google pushes your Google My Business page (including reviews) to the top of the results page. More relevant online reviews lead to higher quality search results, better results lead to more web visitors, web visitors turn into clients, clients become reviewers, your real estate business grows, and the cycle continues.
In a nutshell, Google reviews help drive traffic, literally put you on the map, and tell prospects that you are a reliable and skilled professional. This is the epitome of a well-oiled customer behavior machine.
You could gain a major upper hand just by being disciplined with your review management – as much as you are with prospecting, marketing, and any other profit-building activities.
Key Requirements to Starting Receiving Google Reviews
- Follow Google’s Rules
The first step in generating impressive Google reviews is, well, getting on Google. You’ll need to be familiar with the rules and limits Google puts in place for new businesses. Here’s how to easily set up your Google My Business page. To start, you’ll need to have your business name, contact details, and hours ready.
- Get on Google Maps and Verify your Business
Next, you’ll need to claim your business on Google Maps. After your business is verified, you’ll have the freedom to add posts, statuses, reply to reviews, and more.
The easiest way to Manage your Google My Business Page is through our new partnership with Hike SEO – and we’re not just saying that. Hike SEO allows users to do everything they need to do on Google without navigating to different pages and guessing your strategy along the way.
The Hike SEO platform totes a detailed Google My Business optimizer that allows users to control everything review-related without leaving the Hike SEO platform. This includes building and scheduling review responses, adding posts, and more. In case you’re in need of a bit of extra guidance, Hike SEO provides suggestions to improve review responses, posts, and citations.
Optimizing Your Google Business Profile for More Google Reviews
Your Google Business Profile is a game-changer for attracting clients and building trust, especially when it comes to earning more Google reviews. Here’s how to make your profile stand out and drive results:
Upload High-Quality Images
Your profile should visually represent your professionalism and expertise. Add high-quality photos of your listings, team, office, and even iconic neighborhood landmarks. Profiles with fresh, engaging visuals consistently outperform those without. Pro tip: Rename your image files with SEO-friendly terms like “5-star-realtor-miami.jpg” to help boost search visibility.
Add Complete Business Information
Accuracy matters. Double-check your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) for consistency across platforms. Small discrepancies can hurt your local SEO. Fill out every field, from business hours to service areas. Use your description to sprinkle in keywords like “real estate agents near me” or “luxury homes in [Your City]” to help potential clients find you.
Utilize Google Posts
Google Posts are an underused feature that can elevate your profile. Post about open houses, recent sales, or market advice directly on your profile. Keep your posts short and actionable, with CTAs like “Contact us to schedule a showing.” Regular updates signal to Google—and your audience—that you’re active and engaged.
Select Appropriate Business Categories
Choosing the right categories ensures you show up in the correct searches. Start with “Real Estate Agent” as your primary category, then add secondary ones like “Real Estate Consultant” if relevant. Combine this with location-specific keywords in your description to rank for terms like “google reviews for realtors” or “top agents near me.”
Stay Active and Engaging
Respond to every review—positive or negative. A simple “Thank you for trusting us!” on a glowing review or a professional reply to criticism builds credibility. Regularly update your profile with new posts, images, and answers to FAQs to keep it fresh.
A well-optimized profile doesn’t just attract more leads; it helps you rack up glowing “5-star realtor review examples” that future clients trust.
How To Get More Google Reviews for Real Estate Agents
Google reviews are the lifeblood of a modern real estate business. They build trust, boost your local SEO, and help you attract more clients. But how can you actually get more reviews without sounding pushy? Here’s exactly how to do it.
1. Integrate the Review Request into Your Scripts
The best time to ask for a review is right after the transaction. However, by asking for a review at the end of your first appointment, you have a chance to trigger reciprocity and put your best foot forward.
Here’s some sample dialogue you could use:
“Mrs. Williams – I’m really excited to get started on this. Once we’ve successfully gotten you into your dream home, would you mind giving my services a review? I’d appreciate the feedback, and it really helps local real estate businesses like ours stand out.”
Will your clients say yes? Of course! You’re betting your reputation on your ability to serve the client. That kind of verbal agreement fills clients with trust and gets them excited about a job well done. When you find them the property of their dreams, they’ll remember the commitment they made to write that review.
Remember to give a reason for your client to leave a review. For example, share reviews help your real estate business and give you feedback to improve your work. Most people, by nature, want to help others.
Your list of clientele should be organized so that you can easily find their contact information when you’d like to reach out. Check out our CRM integration that works withe very leading CRM on every AgentFire website.
2. Create a Seamless Process: Use A Review Shortcut on Your Website and Platforms
If you want to appear in searches like “google reviews near me,” you need to make it as easy as possible for clients to leave reviews. The fewer barriers they encounter, the more likely they are to follow through and provide valuable feedback. A review shortcut isn’t just convenient—it’s essential for driving more positive reviews and boosting your local SEO.
Make it easy for clients to leave a review by providing a direct link. You can generate your Google review link in your Google My Business dashboard and then share it everywhere:
- Add it to your email signature with a CTA like “Click here to leave a review!”
- Include it in your follow-up emails after a transaction.
- Post it on social media platforms to reach clients you may not have directly contacted.
How to Create a Google Review Shortcut
Creating a direct link to your Google review page is quick and straightforward:
- Step 1: Log in to your Google My Business account.
- Step 2: Go to the “Home” tab and look for the “Get more reviews” card.
- Step 3: Click “Share review form” and copy the link provided.
Where to Place Your Review Link
Once you have your review link, you’ll want to integrate it into your marketing touchpoints to maximize visibility. Here’s where to place it:
- Email Signature: Add the link with a CTA like “Loved working with us? Share your experience here!”
- Website Footer: Place the link in your website’s footer or on a dedicated “Reviews” page with a note encouraging clients to leave feedback.
- QR Codes: Generate a QR code that links to your review page. Add it to business cards, flyers, or closing gifts for offline accessibility.
- Social Media Posts: Share the link on platforms like Facebook or Instagram with a caption like, “Help us help more clients by leaving a quick review!”
3. Tap your sphere of influence
Who is within your reach that you ask for a review? Have you forgotten to reach out to any clients from recent months? 3 years ago? New agents can contact family and friends who they’ve helped with any home-related concern. Sure, you may not have been their primary real estate agent, but maybe you shared some useful advice that made their property selection easier, or connected them the the right contacts . Any relatively real estate-related task can warrant a review.
Past coworkers and other professional connections can also vouch for your character and professional attitude. In many cases, this may be enough to convince a prospect into becoming a client. For some, seeing a set of gold ratings is all it takes, especially if you have a good online presence.
4. Make your Google Review follow-ups personal
If you’re emailing a lot of people, it’s tempting to use a template – but we really suggest emailing clients one by one. The magic key is to jog their memory about specific details that can make for an authentic and keyword-rich review and response.
Check out this review posted about one of our clients, Penny Maillette:
This client recalled each detail of the process with her real estate agent and how she felt along the way. Without Penny ever having to explain herself, we know that she eases client concerns, is informed about her hyperlocal market, and can get your property sold quickly for tens of thousands over the asking price.
Isn’t this review much more convincing than the typical “Penny is such an amazing real estate agent!”?
Encourage clients to naturally include hyperlocal phrases in their reviews, such as:
- “Best real estate agent in [City/Neighborhood].”
- “Helped us sell our home in [specific area] quickly and stress-free.”
- “Highly recommend for anyone searching for a realtor near me.”
These location-based keywords not only improve your chances of ranking in searches like “google reviews for real estate agents” but also help potential clients connect with you as a local expert.
By embedding your review link into multiple channels and making it part of your client experience, you’ll generate more reviews, improve visibility, and stand out as the go-to agent in your market.
5. Treat the Request like a CTA (Call-to-Action)
What do good CTAs have in common?
1 – They’re frictionless, 2 – They’re effective, 3 – They’re rewarding. 4 – They’re everywhere.
Think about how you can structure your request for Google reviews to resemble a great CTA. Is there a lead magnet that follows as a reward? Does it pop up in a follow-up email right after a transaction was made? Is it part of an overall survey when the deal is done? The trick is to make your CTA feel integrated, not abrasive. You want to reach out to clients during a point in the home buying/selling stage where they are excited about reflecting on their journey and writing positive reviews.
If you use QR codes, why not use get one for your code for your Google Reviews Page? There are a bunch of premium solutions out there like QRCode-Tiger.com that let you track data and change the URL without having to reprint the QR code, but there are lots of free solutions as well.
Eye-catching pop-up CTAs and Lead magnets on our websites have scored our clients tons of hot leads. Read more about our extensive and effective marketing tools here.
6. Turn it into a system
Reputation management can be a powerful addition to your marketing arsenal, so do an audit on a regular basis. Here are the metrics you need to monitor:
- How many stars do you have?
- When was your latest review?
- How many reviews do you have?
- Are there any negative reviews you need to address?
- Who else can you ask?
If you lead a team or a brokerage, train your agents to keep tabs on their reviews and make sure you have a process in place for gathering reviews consistently – especially right after a transaction. As a team, each real estate agent should feel confident in their ability to gather and generate positive ratings.
An audit will point out what you can do to improve overall review stats, as well as how you can improve your real estate business based on client experience.
Monitor progress on a regular basis because remember, Google loves fresh content, and prospects are more likely to trust businesses with updated reviews.
7. Use Reputation Management software
In 2025, managing your online reputation is non-negotiable if you want to compete in the increasingly crowded real estate space. Google reviews for real estate agents are one of the most visible ways potential clients gauge your credibility, and reputation management software ensures you’re putting your best foot forward.
Here’s a breakdown of the best tools to help you get more reviews, optimize your online presence, and turn feedback into a lead-generating machine:
Birdeye
Birdeye is a powerhouse for collecting and managing Google reviews. It automates review requests via SMS or email, helping you generate consistent feedback from happy clients. Its AI-powered sentiment analysis lets you understand client opinions in real-time, while its sleek dashboard keeps all your reviews across platforms in one place. If you’re wondering how to get Google reviews effortlessly, Birdeye is a no-brainer.
Podium
Podium specializes in mobile-first communication, making it perfect for busy realtors and on-the-go clients. This platform allows you to send clickable review links directly via text, eliminating barriers to action. Bonus? You can integrate Podium with your CRM to seamlessly request reviews at key moments in the client journey.
ReviewTrackers
ReviewTrackers is built for agents who want actionable insights into their Google My Business profile. Its automated email and SMS review requests make it simple to gather feedback, while its reporting features help you track trends and monitor your average star rating. For agents aiming to showcase “5-star realtor review examples,” this tool is a game-changer.
Grade.us
Grade.us automates the review request process with customizable templates and follow-ups, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to ask for feedback. It also aggregates reviews from platforms like Google, Yelp, and Zillow, giving you a complete view of your online reputation. It’s an excellent choice for agents looking to dominate “google reviews near me” searches.
Yext
For agents managing multiple locations or a large team, Yext simplifies the process of keeping your business information accurate across directories. It also features a centralized dashboard for tracking and responding to reviews, ensuring you stay on top of your reputation while gaining valuable local SEO boosts.
Why These Tools Matter
Reputation management software doesn’t just help you get more reviews; it integrates review collection into your workflow, keeps your Google My Business profile fresh, and positions you as the go-to expert in your hyperlocal market. Whether you’re a solo agent or leading a team, these tools ensure your online presence works as hard as you do.
8. Respond to ALL Google reviews
Google has confirmed that responding to reviews adds to a business’ credibility and positively impacts your visibility online. Whether the review is positive or negative, it still warrants a response.
Google rewards engagement. Thank clients for positive reviews and professionally address any negative feedback. This shows prospects you’re attentive and invested in your clients’ experiences.
If you get a negative review, don’t panic. There are plenty of ways to work around it and leave with both you and the reviewer feeling satisfied. The first step is acknowledging the issues and apologizing. Then, steer the conversation into a more constructive and positive direction with this article: How to Handle Negative Real Estate Reviews.
Another strategy is to add a second link in your email signature with the anchor text “Unhappy with my service? Tell me about your experience here.” which takes the client to a fill-out form.
Most people just want to be heard, not burn your business to the ground. This way, you get valuable feedback and prevent a 1-star review from showing up on your profile.
Just remember – 1-stars can and will happen. Nobody’s perfect. Just make sure to always act with professionalism when addressing them.
9. Leverage Social Media
Clients may miss your email, your text, Instagram post, LinkedIn post, Facebook Post, etc., but they surely can’t miss all of them! Social media is a great way to catch those clients that have fallen through other attempts at communication.
Hop on your most popular social media platforms and ask followers (who are also current or past clients) if they wouldn’t mind leaving you a Google review. It can be helpful to post a copy of an excellent review you’ve already received. This gives viewers a subtle clue about what you expect and what a great review looks like. You may also want to prompt them with questions like:
- What did you enjoy most about working together?
- Can you describe what the process is like?
- What are five words would you use to describe your buying/selling experience?
- Which step in the home/buying selling process was the most enjoyable?
- What did I do differently than other agents you’ve worked with?
- Would you recommend my services to a friend?
Master these steps, and you’ll not only get more reviews but also strengthen your reputation as the go-to agent in your market.
5 Star Real Estate Agent Review Examples
When it comes to Google reviews for real estate agents, the best reviews do more than just praise your service—they tell a story. Here are some 5-star realtor review examples that not only boost trust but also improve your SEO rankings.
Example 1: First-Time Buyer Success
“As first-time buyers, we were overwhelmed, but Lisa made the process seamless! She explained every step and found us the perfect home in [Neighborhood]. Her local market knowledge and patience were invaluable. We’d highly recommend her to anyone searching for a real estate agent in [City]!”
Why It Works:
- Hyperlocal keywords like “real estate agent in [City]” improve search visibility.
- Highlights a relatable scenario (first-time buyers) that speaks to a common audience.
- Demonstrates expertise and client-focused service.
Example 2: Quick and Profitable Sale
“Mark sold our house in [City] within 10 days and above asking price! His marketing strategy, including professional photos and a virtual tour, brought in multiple offers. If you’re looking for the best realtor near me, Mark is the only choice!”
Why It Works:
- Features measurable success (10 days, above asking price).
- Incorporates “best realtor near me,” perfect for SEO targeting.
- Showcases specific skills like marketing expertise.
Example 3: Stress-Free Relocation
“We were relocating out of state and worried about selling quickly, but Rachel handled everything! From organizing repairs to negotiating with buyers, she made the process stress-free. Her professionalism and dedication were outstanding. If you need a real estate agent in [City], Rachel is your best option!”
Why It Works:
- Addresses a unique challenge (relocation), appealing to clients with similar concerns.
- Mentions problem-solving and negotiation skills.
- SEO-friendly with phrases like “real estate agent in [City].”
Example 4: Expert Negotiation
“John helped us buy our dream home and negotiated $15,000 off the asking price! His attention to detail and deep understanding of the [City] market were game-changers. If you’re searching for a 5-star realtor in [City], John is unmatched.”
Why It Works:
- Highlights negotiation results with specific numbers.
- Uses “5-star realtor in [City]” to rank for targeted keywords.
- Builds authority through mentions of local market expertise.
Example 5: Personalized Service
“Emily didn’t just help us buy a house—she found us a home that fit our family perfectly! She listened to our needs, kept us updated daily, and went above and beyond to make the process smooth. She’s the best real estate agent in [City]!”
Why It Works:
- Focuses on personalization and exceeding expectations.
- Includes “best real estate agent in [City]” to optimize for local SEO.
- Emphasizes communication and care, which resonate with potential clients.
These reviews are perfect examples of how to get Google reviews that not only build credibility but also drive traffic through SEO. Encourage your clients to include specifics about their experience, results, and location to make their feedback even more impactful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Google Reviews for Realtors
Is it ethical for real estate agents to request Google reviews from clients?
Yes, asking for Google reviews is ethical and encouraged—as long as it’s done the right way. Follow Google’s policies to ensure compliance and transparency:
- No Incentives: Never offer rewards like discounts or gifts in exchange for reviews. This violates Google’s guidelines and could lead to penalties.
- Ask Everyone: Don’t cherry-pick only happy clients. Request feedback from all clients to showcase an honest, balanced reputation.
- Keep It Honest: Be clear that authentic feedback helps you improve and also guides future buyers or sellers.
How can I handle negative Google reviews effectively?
Negative reviews can be tough, but they’re also an opportunity to show off your professionalism. Here’s how to handle them:
1. Respond Quickly: Aim to address the review within 24 hours.
2. Stay Calm: Avoid defensiveness. Thank the reviewer for their feedback and acknowledge their feelings.
3. Offer a Solution: Apologize sincerely and provide a way to resolve the issue offline.
Example: “I’m sorry your experience didn’t meet expectations. Please reach out to me at [contact info] so we can make it right.”
4. Learn and Adapt: Use constructive criticism to improve your services.
Handled well, even negative feedback can build trust and highlight your commitment to client satisfaction.
What are the best practices for managing my online reputation?
Managing your online reputation goes beyond asking for reviews. Here’s what you should prioritize:
- Respond to Every Review: Thank clients for positive feedback and address concerns in negative ones. This shows you value all opinions.
- Integrate Reviews Into Marketing: Add reviews to your website, email campaigns, or social media. Highlight “5-star realtor review examples” to build trust.
- Use Tools: Platforms like Birdeye and Podium can automate review requests and help you track feedback.
- Encourage Detailed Reviews: Ask clients to mention specifics, like neighborhoods or unique services. Phrases like “best realtor in [City]” or “google reviews near me” naturally boost your SEO.
Proactively managing your reviews helps you get more reviews, improve your rankings, and maintain a strong reputation with potential clients searching for “Google reviews for real estate agents.”
In Conclusion…
In today’s competitive real estate market, mastering Google reviews isn’t optional—it’s essential. If you’ve been searching for how to get Google reviews for real estate agents, the strategies outlined here give you everything you need to dominate your local market.
Start by optimizing your Google My Business profile. Make sure it’s accurate, complete, and visually appealing with high-quality images and keyword-rich descriptions. Add posts and updates regularly to keep your profile fresh and engaging.
Next, focus on the art of asking for reviews. Timing is key—request reviews right after closing a deal or delivering exceptional service. Use personalized follow-ups, email campaigns, and even social media posts to make your requests stand out. Simplify the process by sharing direct links to your review page or incorporating QR codes into your marketing materials.
Don’t stop at collecting reviews—engage with them. Respond to each review, whether positive or negative, to show clients that you value their feedback. Positive reviews should be acknowledged with genuine gratitude and, where possible, hyperlocal keywords like “best real estate agent in [City].” For negative reviews, stay professional, address concerns, and move the conversation offline for resolution.
Finally, make review management a system. Conduct regular audits to ensure you’re consistently improving your star rating and increasing your review count. Tools like Birdeye or Podium can automate the process, helping you get more reviews without added stress.
Google reviews for realtors aren’t just about SEO—they’re about building trust and credibility with potential clients. By following these steps, you’ll not only show up in searches like “google reviews near me,” but you’ll stand out as a trusted, 5-star agent in your market.
Now’s the time to act. Start implementing these strategies today and watch your online reputation—and your business—thrive. If you’re ready to take things further, explore how AgentFire (ranked #1 on RealEstateWebRankings Top Real Estate Website Providers of 2024) can help you dominate your hyperlocal market with the best tools and strategies in the industry.