Did you know that 88% of consumers trust online reviews just as much as recommendations from friends or family?
Real estate client reviews can be the difference that convinces a potential lead to get in contact with you. And a website without positive testimonials will struggle to make a lasting impression on its visitors.
Continue reading to learn how to get reviews that will boost your credibility online.
What Are Testimonials?
Testimonials are endorsements provided by clients or customers who have used a product or service. These reviews can demonstrate the effectiveness and quality of a product or service, as well as build trust and credibility with potential customers.
Testimonials can take various forms, including written statements, videos, audio recordings, or social media posts. They can be used to address doubts or concerns potential customers may have, by providing a personal account of how the product or service has helped someone in a similar position.
A testimonial shows a potential customer the positive results former clients got from working with you. They have a huge role to play in any company's marketing strategy.
It's a simple and inexpensive way to attract new customers and build a loyal customer base. By leveraging the power of social proof, businesses can build trust and credibility on the web.
Why Real Estate Testimonials Are So Important
There's no hiding from the fact that real estate agents rank among the least trusted professions. Therefore, it's essential to find ways to show potential customers that you are indeed trustworthy. One of the most powerful tools for convincing people that you're a credible agent is by showcasing feedback and success stories from previous clients.
The testimonials will help you to build a positive reputation and can highlight your expertise, professionalism, and commitment to customer service.
Anyone looking for a real estate agent will carry out research online to find someone they deem to be honest and trustworthy. Testimonials can assure potential clients that you're someone they can trust.
Calling upon modern technology such as property videos and 3D virtual tours can improve your listings, but a real estate agent without testimonials is missing a crucial piece of the jigsaw.
Plus, getting real estate reviews from clients can be invaluable advice on how to improve at your job.
Examples of Real Estate Testimonials
An effective testimonial should be a genuine and authentic review that ideally emphasizes your strengths. It should highlight specific benefits of working with you and how you helped to solve a problem or meet a need.
It should include the name of the reviewer and their headshot, if possible. The language should be natural to ensure that the testimonial doesn't appear scripted or overly rehearsed. Take a look at a couple of examples below.
Jess and Pete: "Hannah has been awesome to deal with. She found us our dream property and then helped us to sell our current home. She has her vendors as her top priority and cares about everyone involved.
"The process has been smooth and efficient and everyone involved is happy with the result. Hannah’s energy has been perfect, she gave us space when making decisions, but was right there when we needed input! We have had a great experience with Hannah and would highly recommend the team at ACME Real Estate."
Mr Shayler: "Amelies Estate Agents are a joy to deal with. At each and every step of my sale, from the start to the finish, they were there to hold my hand and lead me through the whole process. Very professional and knowledgeable, Jess is to be recommended.
"This is definitely NOT your typical high street chain, Jess is thoughtful, polite, straight talking and honest."
How to Get Reviews and Testimonials
Testimonials aren't magically going to land in your lap. You're going to have to ask for them, and below we'll share some valuable tips to improve your chances of getting one.
You'll have to put together a short questionnaire and politely ask your clients to answer the questions in their own words. You'll then be able to draft a testimonial based on their answers.
If you're unsure how to ask for a testimonial, here’s an example email that can inspire you. It's recommended to modify it to reflect your personal style and brand.
Dear [Client's Name],
I wanted to reach out to thank you for choosing me as your real estate agent and to ask if you'd be willing to provide a testimonial about your experience working with me.
Your feedback can help other potential clients understand the level of service and expertise they can expect when working with me, and I would be incredibly grateful for your support.
I have created a testimonial form that should only take a few minutes to complete. It can be accessed at [insert link to testimonial form]. Your responses may be used for marketing purposes.
If you're unable or unwilling to fill out the form, I would still love to hear any feedback you have. You can choose to send your feedback in a video or audio message if you prefer.
I would be very grateful if you could send a headshot that I can include with your testimonial. I'd be happy to include a backlink to your website or social page.
Thank you again for your trust and support, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips to Get Your Clients Writing
Getting clients to write real estate agent reviews can be tricky. But there are some simple things you can do that will make a whole world of difference.
1. Provide Excellent Customer Service
Going above and beyond for a client will pay off when they're considering writing a testimonial for you. Providing excellent customer service is a cornerstone of any business, and building relationships with clients is sure to help you bag a valuable positive review.
If they do leave feedback for you, be sure to get in touch and thank them for their kind words. Plus, responding to online reviews publicly shows potential clients that you're an engaged realtor who is committed to providing excellent customer service.
2. Make It Convenient for Them
The process of filling out the testimonial form should be easy for them to do. At the beginning of the form, you can inform them how long it's likely to take, thereby reducing the possibility of them quitting halfway through. If you want clients to post listing agent reviews online, be clear about which platforms you would prefer.
Giving them alternative ways to give feedback will also boost your chances of getting a testimonial. It will be quicker for them to send a short video testimonial, and allowing them to do so may make them more receptive to your request.
Timing is also key when requesting a testimonial from a client. Ask them too early and they may not have anything positive to share, and asking them months after you've worked together may be too late.
It's best to ask a client who is currently happy with your working relationship. Asking them in that timeframe boosts your chances of getting a response, and is also more likely to be positive.
Questions to Ask in Your Testimonial
When sending a testimonial form to a client, you need to create a set of questions that will elicit specific and detailed feedback about their experience.
The suggested questions below are an excellent starting point. Customize them to suit your specific needs.
1. Why did you choose to work with me as your real estate agent?
2. How was your experience working with me? Did I communicate effectively and keep you informed throughout the process?
3. How did I help you achieve your real estate goals? Were there any specific strategies or tactics that stood out to you?
4. Would you recommend me to friends or family who are looking to buy or sell a home? If so, why?
5. What did you most enjoy about working with me? Were there any areas where you feel I could have improved?
6. Was there anything unexpected or surprising about the buying or selling process? How did I help you navigate any challenges that arose?
7. How did I help you feel comfortable and confident throughout the buying or selling process?
8. What would you say to someone who is considering working with me as their real estate agent?
From their answers, you should be able to create a glowing testimonial.
Testimonials Are a Powerful Tool
Getting testimonials is essential for any real estate business that hopes to grow. The information detailed in this article will get you on the right track to building more trust and credibility with potential customers.
Did you enjoy this article about how to get reviews and testimonials? If you want to become a more successful real estate agent, check out our services and see how we can assist you.