If you’re an agent in the Bay Area and you're not using Instagram Reels — you're leaving exposure on the table. With buyers and sellers spending hours a day scrolling, vertical short-form video is now just as important as MLS listings. But posting just any reel won’t cut it. In this post, we’ll break down 5 proven real estate reel formats that get attention, build trust, and help you grow your brand — using content from the listings you already shoot.
Use: Walkthrough-style home intro with you on camera.
How to shoot: Start at the front door, introduce the property ("Welcometo 123 Oak St — let me show you around"), and walk through 2–3 key areas.
Why it works:
· Builds authenticity
· Viewers feel personally guided
· Easy to repurpose from your video tour shoot
Pro Tip: Add subtitles for better engagement
Use: Show transformations using side-by-side edits.
How to shoot: Use one daytime shot → transition into the twilight version orstaged version. Add “Before / After” text.
Why it works:
· High visual impact
· Shows value in your media services
· Great for showing why good marketingmatters
Pro Tip: Keep it under 20 seconds with a bold first 3 seconds
Use: Showcase cafes, parks, or highlights near the listing.
How to shoot: Quick 3–5 second clips of nearby amenities, plus map overlaysor “Just 5 minutes from your future home!”
Why it works:
· Buyers care about more than square footage
· Tells a story of living in thatneighborhood
· Great for out-of-town or first-time buyers
Pro Tip: Use this as an add-on service to your listings
Use: Pre-listing preview before the MLS goes live.
How to shoot: Use wide shots of the living room, kitchen, and exterior. Adda countdown or text: “Listing this Friday…”
Why it works:
· Creates urgency and curiosity
· Helps agents build buzz before an open house
· Keeps your content pipeline full without needingvoiceover
Pro Tip: Use upbeat music + your brand colors in the captions
Use: Share quick voiceovers or thoughts about a listing.
How to shoot: Overlay you speaking (or texting on screen) over listingfootage. For example: “Here’s what makes this layout work so well…”
Why it works:
· Builds authority and personal brand
· Engaging and relatable
· Easy to batch with your photographer’s footage
Pro Tip: Keep it conversational — don’t over-script
Reels aren’t just for influencers — they’re for agents who want attention in a crowded market. Start small, stay consistent, and use your listings as your content engine
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