Create a Google Business Profile for Real Estate — Fast and Hassle-Free

This guide provides real estate agents with a clear, step-by-step approach to optimizing their Google Business Profile. It covers everything from setup and review management to using high-quality images, posts, and features like Q&A to boost visibility. It also explains the importance of local SEO, including consistent contact info and smart keyword use. By the end, you will know how to align your profile with your broader marketing strategy to increase online presence and attract more clients.
Why should you create a Google Business Profile as a real estate agent?
Formerly known as Google My Business, Google Business Profile is a vital tool for real estate agents. It’s more than just a business listing. It’s a platform that allows you to showcase your services, engage with potential clients, and build your online reputation.
Boost Your Online Visibility
A well-optimized Google Business Profile helps your real estate business appear more prominently in search results and Google Maps when clients are looking for agents in your area. With your contact details, hours of operation, and directions easily accessible, this added exposure can result in more inquiries and potential clients.
Strengthen Credibility and Build Trust
A complete profile filled with reviews, photos, and accurate business info shows professionalism and reliability. Buyers and sellers are more likely to trust and choose an agent with a solid online presence and strong reviews—your profile acts as a first impression that builds confidence.
Enhance Client Interaction
Your profile lets clients call, message, or find your location with a single tap. By replying to reviews and posting regular updates, you create meaningful touchpoints that show you care about your clients. This type of engagement helps build long-term relationships and increases referrals.
Boost Local SEO Performance
Your Google Business Profile directly supports your local SEO efforts. Accurate, consistent business information—combined with relevant keywords—helps you rank higher in local searches. Better visibility means more traffic to your site, more leads, and more opportunities to grow your business.
How to create a Google Business Profile: A step-by-step tutorial
Setting up your Google Business Profile is a straightforward process. It’s the first step towards optimizing your online presence as a REALTOR®.
Step 1: Sign in to Your Google Account
To get started, log into your Google account. If you don’t have one yet, head to accounts.google.com to create one. We recommend using the same email you use for your real estate business or brokerage.
Step 2: Go to the Google Business Profile Site
Once signed in, visit business.google.com and click “Manage Now” to begin the setup process.
Step 3: Enter Your Business Name
Type your business name exactly how it appears across your online presence. Consistency helps boost credibility and SEO. If your name includes your own name and brokerage (like Sarah Thompson Homes at ABC Realty), enter it that way.
If your business already appears in the dropdown, it may already exist. Select it and proceed with the claiming process to verify ownership.
Step 4: Choose the Right Business Category
Start typing “Real Estate Agent” and select it from the options provided. You can add more categories later, but this one helps Google understand what you do and where to show your profile in search results.
Step 5: Add Your Location
If you have an office where clients can visit, enter the address here. This will make your profile show up on Google Maps and in local search results.
Prefer not to list your home address? That’s okay — you can choose not to display it and instead specify your service areas (like Vancouver, Burnaby, or Richmond).
Step 6: Provide Contact Details
Enter your business phone number and website URL. Double-check these for accuracy. Make sure they match what’s listed on your website and social profiles — consistency builds trust and helps SEO.
Step 7: Verify Your Business
Google will ask you to verify that you’re the rightful owner of the business profile. You can usually do this by:
- Receiving a postcard in the mail with a code
- Phone or SMS
- Live video call
Once you receive the code, enter it promptly — you typically have 30 days to complete verification.
Step 8: Customize and Optimize Your Profile
Once verified, your next step is to make your profile stand out.
- Photos: Add a professional headshot, property photos, your brokerage office, or happy client moments. Quality images build trust.
- Business Hours: Be realistic. If you’re not truly available 24/7, don’t list it.
- Business Description: Write a short, engaging summary of your services. Include keywords naturally — for example: first-time home buyers in Calgary or luxury listings in Ottawa.
- Reviews: Ask past clients to leave a Google review. Then, reply to them! It shows you care.
- Posts: Use the “Posts” feature to share updates like open houses, new listings, market stats, or helpful blog posts.
Step 9: Maintain and Monitor Your Profile
Your Google Business Profile is not a one-and-done project. Keep it active by:
- Updating hours or contact info when needed
- Posting updates regularly
- Responding to reviews and questions
Staying active tells Google — and your potential clients — that you’re engaged and open for business.
Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Google Reviews for Real Estate Agents
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Google Business Profile for real estate agents?
A Google Business Profile is a free tool from Google that allows real estate agents to manage how they appear in Google Search and Maps. It includes business details, photos, client reviews, and posts to help attract more visibility and engagement from local buyers and sellers.
Is Google Business Profile free for realtors?
Yes, it’s completely free for realtors to set up and manage a Google Business Profile. It’s one of the most effective ways to gain visibility in local search results at no cost.
How do I claim my Google Business Profile as a realtor?
To claim your profile, visit business.google.com, sign in with your Google account, and search for your business name. If your business appears, select it and follow the steps to verify your ownership.
What should I include in my real estate business description?
Include your specialties (e.g., luxury homes, first-time buyers), the areas you serve, your years of experience, and a brief, friendly summary that highlights your personal touch. Make sure to use relevant keywords naturally.
How do I get more reviews on my Google Business Profile?
Ask clients directly after a successful transaction, include a review link in your emails, and make it part of your closing process. Respond to all reviews to show you value feedback.
What should I post as a real estate agent?
Post new listings, recently sold properties, local events, open house announcements, and client testimonials. Keep your content relevant, visual, and valuable to your local audience.
Optimizing Your Profile. High-Quality Images and Posts.
Images and posts are powerful tools for enhancing your Google Business Profile. They can make your profile more engaging and informative.
High-quality images can give potential clients a glimpse into your business. They can showcase properties you’re selling or the team behind your real estate agency.
Google Posts, on the other hand, allow you to share updates, promotions, or events. They can help you engage with your audience and drive more traffic to your website.
Uploading High-Quality Images
Images can significantly impact how potential clients perceive your business. High-quality, professional images can enhance your credibility and attract more clients.
You can upload images of the properties you’re selling, your office, or your team. Make sure the images are clear, well-lit, and visually appealing.
Remember, your images should comply with Google’s image guidelines. Non-compliance can lead to your images being removed or your profile being penalized.
Engaging Potential Clients with Google Posts
Google Posts are a great way to engage with your audience. You can use them to share updates, promotions, or upcoming events.
Each post should be concise, engaging, and relevant to your audience. Include a call-to-action to encourage potential clients to take action.
Remember, Google Posts expire after seven days. So, it’s important to update your posts regularly to keep your audience engaged.
Leveraging Features for Enhanced Visibility and Engagement
Google Business Profile offers a range of features that can enhance your visibility and engagement. These features can help you stand out from the competition and attract more clients.
The Q&A feature, for instance, allows you to address common inquiries from potential clients. It can help you showcase your expertise and build trust with your audience.
Encouraging positive reviews from satisfied clients can also boost your credibility. Reviews can influence potential clients’ decision to choose your services over others.
Lastly, integrating your Google Business Profile with your real estate website can drive more traffic to your site. It can help you convert more leads into clients.
Utilizing the Q&A Feature
The Q&A feature on Google Business Profile allows you to address common inquiries from potential clients. It’s a great way to showcase your expertise and build trust with your audience.
You can proactively add frequently asked questions and their answers to your profile. This can save potential clients’ time and make their decision-making process easier.
Encouraging Positive Reviews from Satisfied Clients
Reviews play a crucial role in building your online reputation. Positive reviews from satisfied clients can significantly boost your credibility.
Encourage your clients to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile. Respond to each review professionally, whether it’s positive or negative. This shows that you value your clients’ feedback.
Integrating Google Business Profile with Your Real Estate Website
Integrating your Google Business Profile with your real estate website can drive more traffic to your site. It can help you convert more leads into clients.
You can add a link to your website on your Google Business Profile. This makes it easier for potential clients to learn more about your services.
Remember, your website should be user-friendly and mobile-optimized. This ensures a seamless experience for users visiting your site from your Google Business Profile.
Local SEO and Your Google Business Profile
Local SEO is crucial for real estate agents. It helps you appear in local search results, attracting potential clients in your area. Your Google Business Profile plays a significant role in your local SEO strategy.
Consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) information across the web is a key factor. It helps Google understand your business better and improves your local search ranking.
Another important aspect is the effective use of local keywords. These are specific to your area of operation and can help you attract the right audience.
Consistent NAP Information Across the Web
Consistent NAP information is crucial for your local SEO. It helps Google understand your business better.
Ensure your business name, address, and phone number are the same across all online platforms. This includes your website, social media profiles, and online directories.
Using Local Keywords Effectively
Local keywords are specific to your area of operation. They can help you attract the right audience.
Include local keywords in your Google Business Profile, especially in your business description. This can improve your visibility in local search results.
Remember, the keywords should be relevant and naturally integrated into your content. Keyword stuffing can harm your SEO efforts.
Monitoring Performance and Regular Updates
Monitoring your Google Business Profile’s performance is crucial. It helps you understand how your audience interacts with your profile. Regular updates are also important to keep your profile fresh and relevant.
Tracking Performance with Google Business Profile Insights
Google Business Profile Insights provides valuable data. It shows how customers find your listing and what actions they take.
This data can help you understand your audience better. It can guide your optimization efforts and help you make informed decisions.
Regular Profile Audits and Updates
Regular audits of your Google Business Profile are necessary. They help you identify areas of improvement.
Keep your profile updated with the latest information about your business. This includes your operating hours, contact information, and any special offers. Regular updates can improve your visibility and attract more potential clients.
Conclusion: Aligning Google Business Profile Optimization with Your Marketing Strategy
Google Business Profile optimization is not a standalone task. It should be an integral part of your overall marketing strategy.
By aligning your optimization efforts with your marketing goals, you can create a cohesive online presence. This can enhance your visibility, attract more clients, and ultimately grow your real estate business.
Additional Resources
For more in-depth information on Google Business Profile optimization, consider checking out Google’s own resources. They offer comprehensive guides and tutorials that can help you make the most of your profile and enhance your online visibility.
Last Updated on June 17, 2025 by myRealPage