9 Google Review Strategies Realtors Use to Dominate Locally

If you’re a real estate agent trying to grow your business, there’s one powerful tool you might be underestimating: Google reviews. These little stars do more than stroke your ego. They can skyrocket your visibility, boost your credibility, and help you outrank competitors who rely on overpriced ads.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get Google reviews from clients in a way that feels natural, easy, and incredibly effective. Whether you’re just getting started or already have a few glowing reviews under your belt, this is your roadmap to building a reputation that brings in more leads on autopilot.

Why Google Reviews Matter for Realtors

Let’s start with the facts.

• 92 percent of consumers read online reviews before choosing a business

• 76 percent trust those reviews as much as a personal recommendation

• Agents with more Google reviews consistently rank higher on local search results

• Homes listed by well-reviewed agents tend to get more attention online

When someone types “top realtor near me,” Google isn’t just looking at your website. It’s looking at your Google Business Profile, how many reviews you have, how recent they are, and what they say.

If you’re not actively collecting reviews, you’re leaving leads on the table.

We already covered some of this in our post on how to rank higher on Google Maps, so be sure to check that out after this.

Make Reviews Part of Your Client Experience

Getting reviews shouldn’t feel like begging. It should feel like a natural part of the journey. That starts with delivering a five-star experience every time.

A few examples:

• Responding to messages faster than Zillow loads a listing

• Explaining next steps clearly so your client always knows what’s coming

• Negotiating like a boss and helping your clients feel confident throughout the process

When you provide next-level service, your clients will be happy to shout your name from the digital rooftops. All you have to do is give them a friendly nudge.

The Right Way to Ask for a Review

Here’s the golden rule: Don’t be weird about it. Just ask.

If you helped them buy their dream home or sell their house for top dollar, they’ll usually be more than happy to leave a review. They just need to know how.

A simple message works wonders. Try this:

“Hi [Client Name], I had such a great time helping you with your home. Would you mind leaving me a quick Google review? It really helps other local buyers and sellers find me. I’ll send you the link so it’s easy.”

Make it personal. Keep it light. Let them know why it matters.

Pro Tip: I have clients that have 100s of reviews on their google business profiles. I asked them “how did you manage to get so many?”

Their response: “Ask BEFORE you get to the closing table!”

Why?

Because once they sign that paper, they are as good as gone. They get busy with moving in or moving out. They could take a long time to get back to you or leave you a review.

I have a client that takes an iPad to each closing. He hands his client the iPad, has them log into their email/ gmail account, and write him a review right on the spot. 

His way of asking: “Hey, would you be opposed to writing me a review of your experience with me?” While handing them the iPad. Why? He says NO ONE is going to say “Yes, I am opposed” haha. Genius. More on this amazing sales tactic in this guide on seller follow up.

Send the Link. Don’t Make Them Search

The biggest reason people don’t leave a review? They can’t figure out how.

That’s why you should generate your Google review link and keep it handy:

1. Go to your Google Business Profile (or create one if you haven’t yet)

2. Click “Ask for Reviews” and copy your personalized link

3. Save it in your notes app, email templates, and CRM

4. Paste that link into a text or email when you ask for the review

Want to go the extra mile? Add that link to your email signature with a friendly note like “Enjoyed working with me? Leave a review!”

If you need help setting this up, our post on local SEO for real estate agents breaks it all down.

Use the Power of Keywords and Pictures

Now here’s where you level up. It’s one thing to get a review. It’s another to make that review work for you long-term.

When a client writes their review, encourage them to include specific keywords like:

• “Best realtor in [your city]”

• “Helped me sell my home fast”

• “Expert real estate agent for first-time buyers”

• “Top listing agent in [neighborhood]”

These real estate phrases naturally tell Google what you do and where you do it. Over time, they help your business appear higher in search results.

You can make it super easy by sending a sample review that includes phrases like:

“John was the best realtor in the city in helping me sell my home. He explained everything clearly and made the process feel easy.”

Here’s another pro tip. If you really want to skyrocket your rankings, ask your clients to include a photo in their review. Whether it’s a selfie in front of the new house, a snapshot of the “Sold” sign, or a picture of their keys, Google sees it as proof that your business is trustworthy and active. It’s not just you uploading photos…it’s the public engaging with your brand.

That kind of interaction tells Google, “This agent matters.”