How do I set up and optimize a Google Business Profile as a real estate agent?

The Local Search Playbook for Agents

1. 1

   Claim and verify the profile

   Create the profile at google.com/business using the name you actually market under. Use the same name, address and phone number everywhere online, including your website, Zillow, Realtor.com and social profiles. Inconsistent details make Google less confident about showing you.

2. 2

   Pick the right categories

   Set "Real estate agent" as your primary category. Add secondary categories only if they are true, such as "Real estate consultant". Do not add your brokerage name or keywords to your business name; Google can suspend profiles for keyword stuffing.

3. 3

   Define your service area

   If you work from home or do not want clients visiting your office, hide your address and set a service area instead. List the cities, towns and ZIP codes you genuinely serve.

4. 4

   Write a description with local keywords

   Use plain sentences that include the places and services people search for.

   Say thisCopy script

   “I help homeowners buy and sell in [City], [Neighborhood] and [Nearby Town]. Whether you are selling a family home, buying your first condo or just curious what your home is worth, I offer honest pricing advice and local market updates.”

5. 5

   Add photos and post regularly

   Upload a professional headshot, your logo and real photos of listings, open houses and closings. Post updates such as new listings, sold homes and local market notes a few times a month. An active profile signals to Google that you are open for business.

6. 6

   Ask the right people for reviews

   Ask genuine past clients you have actually helped: buyers and sellers after closing, and homeowners who have valued your ongoing updates. Do not ask friends who were never clients, do not trade reviews with other businesses, and never pay or offer gifts for reviews. Google filters and removes reviews that look arranged, and can penalize the profile.

7. 7

   Make the request easy and specific

   Send your direct review link (found in your profile under "Ask for reviews") in a short personal message. Invite them to mention where they bought or sold and what you helped with, so the review naturally includes local keywords. Never tell them exactly what to write.

   Say thisCopy script

   “Hi [Name], it was a pleasure helping you sell your home in [Neighborhood]. If you have a minute, a quick Google review would mean a lot to me. Mentioning the area and what we worked on helps other homeowners find me: [Review Link]. Thank you!”

8. 8

   Keep reviews steady and safe

   Ask a few clients at a time rather than dozens in one day, because a sudden burst of reviews can trigger Google's spam filters. Avoid asking clients to review from the same Wi-Fi network or device as you, such as in your office.

9. 9

   Reply to every review

   Thank each reviewer by name and mention the area naturally, for example "It was great helping you find your home in [Neighborhood]." Respond calmly and professionally to any negative review. Future clients read your replies as closely as the reviews themselves.

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