How Real Estate Agents Can Use Reviews to Build Trust

Why Reviews Matter More Than Ever in Real Estate

(And How to Use Them Right)

Let’s be honest: most buyers and sellers aren’t looking for “just any agent.”
They’re looking for someone they can trust with one of the biggest transactions of their life.

And trust? That’s built with proof.

In today’s world, online reviews are often the first impression someone gets of you. Before they click your website. Before they follow you on social. Before they respond to your text.

If you’re not actively collecting and showcasing reviews, you’re missing a massive opportunity to build credibility—without saying a word.

Let’s talk about why reviews matter so much right now, and how to actually use them to grow your business.

🧠 Why Reviews Are Non-Negotiable

According to recent surveys:

• 93% of consumers say online reviews influence their buying decisions
• 84% trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
• 7 out of 10 people will take action after reading a positive review

So yeah—they’re kind of a big deal.

But it’s not just about having reviews. It’s about what they say, where they show up, and how you use them.

📍 Where to Focus Your Reviews

If you’re not sure where to direct clients to leave reviews, start with these key platforms:

• Google Business Profile: This is the must-have. It helps you show up in local searches and adds credibility fast.
• Zillow: Still a major player—especially for buyers and sellers who haven’t worked with you before.
• Facebook Business Page: Easy for clients to use, and adds visibility for social visitors.
• LinkedIn (for agent referrals): Bonus points for peer reviews in your network!

Make it easy by sending a direct link and giving clients a quick heads-up on what kind of feedback is helpful (more on that in a sec).

✍️ How to Ask Without Feeling Awkward

So many agents hesitate to ask for reviews because it feels uncomfortable or self-promotional. But most clients want to support you—they just need a little nudge.

Here’s how to make it natural:

Right after closing (or a major milestone):
“Hey [Client Name], I’ve absolutely loved working with you—and if you’re open to it, I’d really appreciate a quick review. It helps other clients find me, and I’d be so grateful for your feedback.”

Make it even easier:
Send them a review link, and say:
“If you’re not sure what to write, just sharing a quick sentence or two about your experience is perfect!”

You’ll be surprised how many will happily leave 5 stars when you keep it simple and sincere.

🔍 What Makes a Review Powerful

A review that says, “Marti was great!” is fine.
But a review that says, “Marti kept us calm in a crazy market and helped us win our dream home on the first offer…”
That sells you without you having to say a word.

Encourage your clients (gently) to share:

• What made the experience stand out
• How you solved a problem or exceeded expectations
• Why they’d recommend you to others

Those specifics are what stick with potential clients.

📣 Where to Use Your Reviews

Don’t let those gold-star testimonials gather dust! Repurpose them everywhere:

• 📬 In your email signature (“5-star rated by local clients”)
• 📱 On Instagram Stories or Highlights (add a “Client Love” folder!)
• 💻 On your website homepage or About page
• 📝 In blog posts, newsletters, or buyer/seller guides
• 📸 As quote graphics in your social media content

A steady flow of client feedback builds trust—even for people who haven’t met you yet.

✅ Keep the Momentum Going

Pro tip: Don’t just ask for reviews after closing. Try collecting “in-process” reviews too—especially if you help someone through a major challenge or do something above and beyond.

Examples:

• “We thought we’d never win a home in this market—but Marti helped us write a strong offer and guided us every step of the way.”
• “Selling our home felt overwhelming, but Marti’s checklist and prep tips made it stress-free.”

These moments are often when clients are most grateful and most likely to respond.

Final Thought

Your reviews are more than nice words—they’re your social proof, credibility builder, and low-key marketing machine.

• So stop waiting for referrals to speak for you.
• Start letting your happy clients do the talking.

A strong review strategy helps you stand out, build trust faster, and close more deals—without having to constantly convince people you’re the real deal.

You are the real deal. Let the proof back it up.