5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Searching for the Best Realtor on Social Media

In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of the real estate industry. As a potential homebuyer or seller, you might find yourself scrolling through Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn in search of the best realtor to guide you through your property journey. However, navigating this online landscape can be tricky, and making the wrong choice could cost you time, money, and peace of mind. As Pasquale Pisana, a seasoned real estate professional, I've seen firsthand the pitfalls that many people encounter when trying to find the best realtor on social media. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the five critical mistakes you need to avoid to ensure you connect with a top-performing agent who can truly meet your needs.

1. Focusing Solely on Follower Count

Quality over quantity in real estate social media

When it comes to finding the best realtor on social media, the quality of engagement is far more important than the quantity of followers. A realtor with a smaller, but more engaged following often indicates someone who has built genuine relationships within their community. These connections are invaluable in the real estate world, where local knowledge and networking can make all the difference in finding or selling a property.

Look for realtors who consistently interact with their followers, respond to comments, and share valuable, relevant content. This level of engagement suggests a commitment to their online presence and, by extension, their professional responsibilities.

Identifying genuine engagement vs. inflated numbers

Unfortunately, in the race for social media supremacy, some individuals resort to purchasing followers or using bots to inflate their numbers. To avoid falling for this trap, pay attention to the quality of interactions on the realtor's posts. Are the comments generic or specific to the content? Do the same accounts consistently engage, or is there a diverse range of interactions?

Real engagement often includes:

• Detailed questions about properties or market trends
• Personal anecdotes related to the realtor's posts
• Recommendations from past clients
• Conversations that extend beyond a single comment

By looking beyond the follower count and focusing on the substance of a realtor's social media presence, you're more likely to find an agent who is truly invested in their clients and community.

2. Neglecting to Verify Credentials and Experience

The importance of license verification

One of the most critical steps in your search for the best realtor on social media is verifying their credentials. Every legitimate real estate agent should be licensed by their state's real estate commission. Don't hesitate to ask for a realtor's license number and cross-check it with your state's official database. This simple step can save you from potential fraud and ensure you're working with a professional who is legally allowed to practice real estate.

Looking beyond social media for professional background

While social media can provide valuable insights into a realtor's personality and working style, it shouldn't be your only source of information. Take the time to:

• Check the realtor's website for detailed information about their experience and specializations.
• Look for professional affiliations, such as membership in the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
• Search for the realtor on professional networks like LinkedIn to view their career history and endorsements from colleagues.
• Google the realtor's name to find any news articles, interviews, or additional information that can give you a more comprehensive picture of their professional standing.

Remember, a truly experienced and reputable realtor will have a digital footprint that extends well beyond their social media profiles. Don't be shy about conducting thorough research – after all, you're potentially entrusting this person with one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.

3. Ignoring Red Flags in Online Behavior

Unprofessional conduct on social platforms

When searching for the best realtor on social media, be wary of the following red flags:

• Overly personal or inappropriate content: While it's great for realtors to show their personality, consistently posting about partying, political rants, or overly personal matters may indicate a lack of professional boundaries.
• Negative comments about clients or other professionals: A realtor who publicly criticizes clients or colleagues demonstrates poor judgment and a lack of discretion.
• Spelling and grammatical errors: Frequent mistakes in posts could suggest a lack of attention to detail, which is crucial in real estate transactions.
• Outdated information: If a realtor's last post was months ago, it might indicate they're not actively engaged in their business or the current market.
• Hard-selling tactics: Constant promotional posts without providing value can be a sign of desperation or a focus on short-term gains rather than building long-term relationships.

Consistency across different social media accounts

In today's multi-platform world, many realtors maintain a presence on various social media sites. Take the time to cross-reference their profiles on different platforms. Look for:

• Consistent branding and messaging across all accounts
• Similar levels of engagement and activity on each platform
• Coherent information about their services, experience, and contact details

Inconsistencies across platforms could be a red flag. For instance, if a realtor claims to be a top producer on Facebook but has no mention of this on their LinkedIn profile, it might be worth investigating further.

4. Overlooking Client Reviews and Testimonials

The value of social proof in real estate

Client reviews provide invaluable insights into a realtor's performance, communication style, and overall effectiveness. They offer a glimpse into the actual experiences of people who have worked with the realtor, which can be far more telling than any marketing material.

When evaluating a realtor's social proof:

• Look for detailed reviews that discuss specific aspects of the realtor's service.
• Pay attention to how the realtor handled challenges or difficult situations.
• Notice if there are reviews from both buyers and sellers, indicating versatility.
• Check if reviews mention repeat business or referrals, which are strong indicators of client satisfaction.

How to spot authentic vs. fabricated reviews

Unfortunately, in the competitive world of real estate, some individuals might be tempted to post fake reviews. To ensure you're basing your decision on genuine feedback:

• Be wary of reviews that sound overly promotional or use industry jargon.
• Look for reviews that mention specific properties or neighborhoods.
• Check the dates of reviews – a sudden influx of positive reviews in a short period might be suspicious.
• See if you can verify the reviewers as real people (e.g., do they have complete profiles, or do they review other businesses?).
• Pay attention to how the realtor responds to both positive and negative reviews.

Remember, a few thoughtful, detailed reviews can be more valuable than dozens of generic five-star ratings. Take the time to read through the feedback carefully, and don't hesitate to ask the realtor about specific reviews or overall trends in their client feedback.

5. Failing to Engage Directly Before Committing

The importance of realtor responsiveness

A realtor's response time and communication style on social media can be indicative of how they'll handle your real estate transaction. Before making a decision:

• Reach out with a question or inquiry through their preferred social media platform.
• Note how quickly they respond and the quality of their answer.
• Ask if they're available for a phone call or video chat to discuss your needs in more detail.

A realtor who is prompt, thorough, and willing to engage directly demonstrates a commitment to client service that will likely carry through to your working relationship.

Assessing communication style and compatibility

Once you've made initial contact, pay attention to how well the realtor listens to your needs and concerns. Are they asking thoughtful questions to understand your situation better? Do they offer insights that demonstrate their expertise?

Consider scheduling a brief consultation to discuss your real estate goals. This interaction will give you a better sense of:

• The realtor's communication style and whether it aligns with your preferences.
• Their knowledge of the local market and your specific needs.
• Their ability to explain complex real estate concepts in a way you understand.
• Any additional services or support they offer that might set them apart.

Remember, buying or selling a home is not just a transaction; it's a relationship. Ensuring that you're comfortable with your realtor's communication style and approach is crucial for a smooth and successful real estate experience.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions in Your Realtor Search

Navigating the world of social media to find the best realtor can be challenging, but by avoiding these five critical mistakes, you're well on your way to making an informed decision. Let's recap the key points:

• Look beyond follower counts and focus on genuine engagement.
• Always verify credentials and experience through official channels.
• Be alert to red flags in online behavior and maintain consistent professionalism.
• Carefully evaluate client reviews and testimonials for authenticity.
• Engage directly with potential realtors before making a commitment.

As Pasquale Pisana, I've seen countless clients benefit from taking these precautions in their realtor search. Remember, the right realtor can make all the difference in your real estate journey, whether you're buying your dream home or selling a cherished property.

Social media is a powerful tool, but it's just the beginning of your relationship with a realtor. Use it wisely to narrow down your options, but always take the extra step to verify, engage, and trust your instincts. By doing so, you'll be well-positioned to find a realtor who not only shines on social media but also delivers exceptional results in the real world.

Happy searching, and here's to finding the perfect realtor to guide you through your next real estate adventure!