How to Create a Google Business Profile for Real Estate Agents

Your Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful free marketing tools available. A complete, active profile helps potential clients find you when they search for real estate services in your area. It increases your visibility on Google Search and Google Maps, can help generate reviews, showcases your listings and services, and builds credibility with buyers and sellers.

Spend less than 30 minutes setting it up correctly today, then maintain it regularly to maximize your visibility and lead generation opportunities. Watch the video tutorial or follow the steps below.

Step 1: Sign In to Google

1. Open your web browser.
2. Go to Google Business Profile.
3. Sign in with your Google account.

Pro Tip: Use a business email address whenever possible rather than a personal email.

Step 2: Create Your Business Profile

1. Click Manage Now or Add Your Business to Google.
2. Enter your business name.

What Name Should Real Estate Agents Use?

Use your professional name exactly as it appears in your branding and licensing.

Examples:

• Jane Smith Real Estate
• Jane Smith, REALTOR®
• Smith Real Estate Group

Avoid:

• Keyword stuffing
• Adding city names unnecessarily
• Adding slogans or marketing phrases
• Using a Broker name

Google may suspend profiles that violate naming guidelines.

Step 2A (some versions): Choose Your Business Type

When prompted to choose a business type, you can choose from Online Retail, Local Store, or Service Business. Select: Service Business

Step 3: Select Your Business Category

When prompted to choose a business category, select:

Primary Category:

• Real Estate Agent

Other options may include:

• Real Estate Agency
• Realtor
• Property Consultant

Choose the category that best matches your business model.

Step 3A (some versions): Adding a Location

Google will ask you, “Do you want to add a location customers can visit, like a store or office?”
Select yes so that clients can find you on the map at your Realty Concepts office.

Step 4: Add Your Service Area

Google will ask if you serve customers outside your business location.

"Yes, I serve customers outside my location."
Add your service areas such as:

• Clovis
• Fresno
• Madera
• Sanger
• Visalia

You can add multiple cities and ZIP codes.

Step 5: Add Contact Information

Enter:

Phone Number

Use your primary business number. This should be a cell phone that you can receive text messages.

Website

Enter your personal website or a team website (if applicable)
Double-check all information for accuracy.

Step 6: Verify Your Business

Google requires verification before your profile becomes public.

Verification options may include:

• Video verification
• Phone verification
• Email verification
• Postcard verification

If phone verification is an option, select the option to send a text for verification.

Most real estate agents are now asked to complete video verification. If you are forced to submit a video please reach out to RC Marketing for assistance.

Tips for Video Verification

Show:

• Your business card
• Brokerage signage
• Lockbox
• Marketing materials
• Office workspace

Google wants to confirm that you are a legitimate business operating in the area.

Step 7: Complete Your Profile

After verification, complete every section possible.

Business Description

Write a professional summary that includes:

• Years of experience
• Areas served
• Specialties
• Value proposition

You can copy and paste your bio from your website to make things easy for you.

Step 8: Add Professional Photos

Profiles with photos receive significantly more engagement.
Recommended photos:

• Professional headshot
• Team photo
• Office photo
• Closing day photos
• Community photos
• Listing photos (with permission)

Upload high-quality images only. Access the marketing resources folder from the RC drive to download and use RC logos.