Easy Ways To Get Your Real Estate Website Ranks Locally On Google

A website is essential for real estate agents, but having one isn’t enough—you need a real estate site that not only attracts visitors but also ranks well on Google, particularly in local searches. With the right mix of SEO, thoughtful real estate web design, and targeted content, you can create a site that builds authority, captures leads, and drives traffic from people in your area who are actively searching for real estate services.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to create a real estate website that ranks locally on Google, exploring everything from local SEO strategies to tips for user-friendly website building, design, and content that resonates with local buyers and sellers.

1. Understanding Local SEO for Real Estate Websites

Before diving into the nuts and bolts of real estate web design, it’s important to understand why local SEO matters. Real estate is inherently local, and most people looking for properties or agents will search for keywords like “real estate agents near me” or “homes for sale in [city].”

Why Local SEO is Important:

• Increases Visibility in Local Searches: Local SEO ensures your site appears when potential clients search for real estate services in your area.

• Builds Credibility: When clients see your site ranking well, it reinforces your credibility and positions you as a trusted resource in the local market.

To get started, focus on the following local SEO tactics:

• Optimize for Google My Business (GMB): Claim your Google My Business profile, complete all the fields, add photos, and collect reviews. Google prioritizes websites linked to active, well-maintained GMB profiles.

• Include Location-Specific Keywords: On your website, use keywords that include your target location, such as “real estate web development in [city]” or “homes for sale in [neighborhood].”

• Build Local Backlinks: Reach out to local businesses, newspapers, and community sites for backlink opportunities. High-quality local links boost your credibility with Google.

2. Essential Elements of Real Estate Web Design for Local SEO

Creating a real estate website that ranks well requires smart, effective design. Real estate web design is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating a site that is optimized, user-friendly, and easy to navigate.

a. Mobile-Friendly Design

With more people searching for properties on their phones, having a mobile-optimized website is non-negotiable. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly sites, and a poor mobile experience can drive visitors away.

• Use a Responsive Design: A responsive design adjusts to fit any screen size, ensuring that mobile users have a smooth experience.

• Optimize for Speed: Mobile users expect fast loading times. Compress images, reduce unnecessary code, and limit plugins that slow down the site.

b. Easy Navigation and Intuitive Layout

When users arrive on your site, they should be able to quickly find what they’re looking for. Simple, intuitive navigation not only improves user experience but also encourages visitors to stay on your site longer, which is a positive ranking signal for Google.

• Include a Clear Menu: Categories like “Listings,” “About,” “Contact,” and “Blog” should be easy to access from the main menu.

• Limit Pop-Ups and Distractions: While pop-ups can be useful for lead generation, too many can overwhelm users and hurt your rankings.

c. Integrate Location-Based Content

Adding content that’s relevant to your local area can help boost your ranking and attract clients who are specifically looking for real estate information in your area.

• Create Localized Landing Pages: If you serve multiple cities or neighborhoods, create individual landing pages for each area, including keywords and details relevant to each location.

• Add a Map and Local Address: Include a Google map and your address in the footer of your website. This helps both users and Google understand your service area.

3. Content Strategies for Ranking a Real Estate Website Locally

Content is one of the most powerful tools for ranking your real estate website. A solid content strategy attracts visitors, keeps them engaged, and provides the information they’re searching for—all while helping Google understand your relevance in the local market.

a. Create Blog Posts on Local Real Estate Topics

Blogging is a key element in real estate web development and a great way to build authority. By focusing on local topics, you can answer common questions, establish yourself as a market expert, and attract long-tail search traffic.

• Examples of Local Topics: Consider posts like “Top Neighborhoods to Buy in [City],” “Real Estate Market Trends in [City],” or “What to Know Before Buying a Home in [Neighborhood].”

• Target Long-Tail Keywords: Using phrases like “best real estate agents in [city]” or “how to buy a home in [neighborhood]” can help you capture relevant local traffic.

b. Use Visual Content and Real Estate Flyers

Including visuals such as property images, neighborhood photos, and real estate flyers can help keep users engaged. Visuals also add valuable context and make your content more shareable on social media.

• Include Descriptive Alt Text: Add relevant keywords to the alt text of your images to improve SEO.
• Utilize Video Content: Video walkthroughs of properties, neighborhood guides, or virtual open houses are engaging and rank well in Google’s search results.

c. Add Testimonials and Client Reviews

Client testimonials are powerful trust signals that can improve your credibility. Place reviews on your homepage, services page, and even blog posts. Google takes these as signals of authenticity, especially when they’re tied to a verified Google My Business listing.

4. Technical SEO: Website Development Best Practices

A well-optimized site is built on a solid foundation. In real estate web development, ensuring your site meets technical SEO standards can make a big difference in your Google rankings.

a. Optimize Your Site Speed

A slow site can hurt your rankings and drive users away. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can help you identify what’s slowing your site down, so you can make the necessary adjustments.

• Optimize Images: Large image files can slow your site. Use compressed images and formats like WebP for faster loading.
• Enable Caching: Browser caching helps returning users load your site faster by storing some data locally.

b. Implement Structured Data Markup

Structured data markup (or schema markup) provides Google with extra information about your content, such as property listings or real estate agents.

• Use Schema for Local Businesses: This helps Google understand your business type and location, improving local rankings.

• Add Real Estate Listing Schema: Real estate-specific schema can make your listings appear as rich results, increasing visibility and click-through rates.

c. Secure Your Website with HTTPS

Google gives preference to secure websites. Make sure your real estate website uses HTTPS encryption to protect user data and improve search rankings.

5. Generating Leads with a Real Estate Website

Ranking well is only part of the goal; converting visitors into leads is the next step. A successful real estate website has built-in lead capture tools to help you connect with potential clients.

a. Use Strong Calls to Action (CTAs)

Make it easy for visitors to take action by including clear CTAs throughout your site. This could be an invitation to schedule a consultation, download a guide, or sign up for updates.

b. Include Lead Forms on Key Pages

Strategically place lead forms on high-traffic pages like property listings, blog posts, and your homepage. Make sure these forms are simple and mobile-friendly.

c. Offer Downloadable Content

Create downloadable content like market reports, homebuyer’s guides, or seller’s checklists. This is a valuable way to capture contact information while providing value to potential clients.

6. Building Trust Through Branding Elements

Your branding plays a crucial role in making your website memorable and trustworthy. When visitors see cohesive branding across your real estate website, social media, and even real estate flyers, it builds familiarity and confidence.

a. Use Consistent Branding Across All Platforms

Brand consistency is essential. Use the same colors, fonts, and logo on your website, social media, and any printed materials, like real estate flyers.

b. Add an “About” Page that Highlights Your Local Expertise

Your “About” page is an opportunity to share your story, highlight your experience, and explain why you’re passionate about serving your community. Clients are more likely to choose agents who know the area well and understand the local market.

c. Incorporate Professional Branding in Real Estate Flyers

While digital presence is essential, print materials like real estate flyers still play a role in lead generation. Make sure your flyers match the branding on your website. Use the same logo, colors, and contact details to create a cohesive, recognizable brand presence.

7. Monitor and Improve Your Real Estate Website

SEO is a continuous effort. Once your real estate website is up and running, regularly monitor its performance to ensure it remains competitive.

• Use Google Analytics: This tool helps you track which pages are performing well and where users drop off. It also shows the keywords bringing people to your site.

• Optimize Based on Data: If certain pages or keywords are underperforming, try revising the content or updating the design to improve engagement.

Creating a Real Estate Website That Ranks Locally

Building a real estate website that ranks locally on Google requires strategic planning, thoughtful real estate web design, and a focus on local SEO best practices. By combining location-specific keywords, engaging content, mobile optimization, and a seamless user experience, your website will increase its rank to the first page of Google.

If you’re ready to build a personal brand that sets you apart in real estate, get in touch! I’d love to help you create a unique logo, professional branding materials, and a standout online presence.