5 Tips for Writing a Realtor Bio That Shines
Jun 04, 2021The infamous Realtor bio. Everyone needs one. No one wants to write one.
But the truth is that a Realtor’s bio is not just for show. As a Realtor, you’re selling yourself. Your experience. Your personality. Your strengths. If you want someone to choose you, your bio is one of the easiest ways to show them what you’re all about and win their business.
While some Realtors choose to invest in having someone else write their bio, too many end up stumbling through it themselves and hoping for the best. If you’re on the latter end of the stick, here are a few simple tips to help you find your stride and end up with something you actually like.
Write your bio in third person.
While most Realtor bios you find are in third person, it’s not necessarily something that you’d know to do naturally when you’re newly licensed. You’re literally talking about yourself…so it feels odd to call yourself by your proper name — right?
But not only is a third person bio the industry norm, it adds an air of professionalism. Especially when you’re just starting out, a compelling bio can add a sense of professionalism and know-how that might not be immediately apparent just based on your résumé.
Most importantly, writing in third person allows you to brag about yourself without sounding like, well, a jerk. Your bio is your opportunity to put modesty aside, and you certainly don’t want to hold back. So, there you have it: write your bio in third person and make yourself sound as amazing as you are. You’ve earned it!
Keep it to around 300 words.
It can be hard to strike a balance between “too long; didn’t read” and “wow, I know more about the grocery clerk than this person.” That’s why it’s best to aim for your bio to land at around 300 words. This allows for about three to four paragraphs worth of content covering everything from your expertise to your strengths to your personal life.
In fact, I like to break it up just like. Start off by talking about your expertise and what you do (we’ll talk more about that later). Jump to your strengths and why a client should choose you and no one else. And finish with a quick glance into who you are as a person. AKA — why they would also like to have a beer or glass of wine with you after an open house.
Let your expertise shine.
This can be a challenge for newer agents, but expertise doesn’t always need to equal years of experience. If you HAVE years of experience, go ahead and shout it from the roof tops! If you don’t, find another way to highlight your pedigree. For example:
- How many years your brokerage has been in business
- How long you’ve lived in the area (if it’s been a while)
- How a prior career prepared you to enter the real estate world
There is no one-size-fits-all answer here, but you certainly want to show that you’ve got a competitive advantage in the industry.
Highlight your point of difference.
STOP! This is where the gold is, and where you should put the majority of your effort. What is it that makes you unique and not like every other agent? Chances are that you know the answer to that question, but a good way to crosscheck yourself is to read through client testimonials.
When I write bios for Realtors that I don’t know super well personally, I love to read through their testimonials and find the central theme. It’s always there if you look. Maybe it’s that you’re incredibly responsive. Or that you’re a great negotiator. Or you make your clients feel like family. Or that you’re funny! Find what it is that makes you unique and dive into it right in the meat of your bio.
Ask yourself “would I hire this person?”
You’re almost ready to hit print on your bio. Before you do, take a moment to ask yourself “would I hire this person”? It might sound obvious or silly, but it’s extremely important. If you don’t read it and feel impressed, no one else will.
A great bio is sincere, honest, and professional, and leaves a client feeling like they know you. Make sure yours checks all the boxes and then let it work its magic.
About the Author
Katy Peer writes about all things content, marketing, and real estate branding. She is the Head of Content Marketing for SellWell, lead editor for The Well, and a former copywriter and senior editor for a spattering of tech and media brands. Find her articles on social media, writing agent bios, and more here on The Well.