Stop Scrolling, Start Showing: Why TikTok is the Secret Weapon for Real Estate Agents in 2025
If you’ve ever thought TikTok was just for dancing teens or viral memes, it’s time for a mindset shift.
I coach real estate agents every week who say things like, “My market isn’t on TikTok,” or “I don’t have time to do video.” And yet, they’re struggling to get listings seen, they’re tired of the Instagram algorithm, and their open house traffic is unpredictable.
The truth? TikTok is where attention lives now. And attention equals opportunity.
In this blog, I’m breaking down exactly how to use TikTok in 2025 as a real estate agent—whether you’re brand new or looking to revive your pipeline. You’ll get a skimmable strategy, real-world success stories, my coaching framework for launching your account, and tips to use AI tools to create content faster.
I’m Emily Terrell, the #1 Real Estate Coach and Speaker at Tom Ferry, the top coaching company in the world. I specialize in systems, AI, and strategic growth for agents who want to scale sustainably.
Let’s dive in.
Why TikTok Isn’t Optional in 2025 (Yes, Even For You)
Here are the numbers:
- 170+ million U.S. monthly users
- 59% of users are 18–29, but 30–49 is now the fastest-growing group
- 403% more inquiries from video listings compared to static posts
- Only 12% of agents are currently using TikTok
That’s not just opportunity—that’s wide-open white space.
TikTok isn’t about dancing. It’s about discoverability.
Unlike Instagram or Facebook (which rely on your follower base), TikTok’s algorithm pushes content to new viewers based on interest. This means:
- You can go viral with zero followers
- Buyers in your city can find your listings without knowing your name
- One video can drive 20+ showings—if done strategically
My 6-Part Coaching Framework for TikTok Success
I coach agents every day through what I call the “TikTok Launch Loop”— a repeatable 6-step process:
1. Align Your Goals and Audience
Ask yourself:
- Are you targeting first-time buyers? Move-up sellers?
- Do you want brand awareness, lead gen, or both?
If your ideal client is under 50, you can reach them here.
Coaching Note: TikTok is phenomenal for first-time buyers, renters converting to owners, and socially savvy sellers.
2. Create 3 Clear Content Pillars
You need consistency and variety. I recommend:
- Listing Teasers (15-30 sec walkthroughs)
- Neighborhood Tours (coffee shops, schools, parks)
- Educational Clips (e.g., “What is earnest money?”)
Add in 1-2 personal videos per month to build trust.
3. Hook Hard and Fast
The first 3 seconds make or break your video.
Examples:
- “You won’t believe this $450k backyard in Phoenix!”
- “Stop renting. Here’s how to buy with 3% down in San Antonio.”
Use on-screen text + voiceover. TikTok’s AI reads both.
4. Use AI to Script and Batch
Don’t start from scratch every time.
- Use ChatGPT to generate listing scripts and hook ideas
- Use CapCut or InShot to add captions and trim your videos
- Batch record 3-5 videos in one sitting
Need help? Check out my AI prompt library on www.coachemilyterrell.com
5. Track with Purpose
Use UTM links in your bio and track:
- Watch time
- Profile visits
- DM inquiries
Tag leads in your CRM as “TikTok” so you can measure ROI.
6. Iterate Monthly
Look at what performed best and tweak:
- Hook style
- Video length
- Caption format
- Time of day
Refine your system—don’t reinvent it.
Real-World Results from My Clients
Case Study: Jenny, Raleigh NC
- Started with zero followers
- Posted 3x/week: 2 tours, 1 educational video
- In 60 days, generated 12 new buyer leads
- 3 under contract, all from TikTok
Case Study: Marco, Denver CO
- Combined TikTok tours with automated CRM follow-up
- Added 21 new leads in Q1 from TikTok alone
- 1 went viral: 240,000 views, 18 showing requests
These are everyday agents, not influencers.
TikTok FAQ for Agents (Long-Tail SEO Style)
Q: Can TikTok really generate leads for real estate agents?
A: Yes. With the right hooks, content pillars, and a lead capture system (like link-in-bio + CRM tagging), TikTok can drive qualified buyer inquiries consistently.
Q: What kind of videos should real estate agents post on TikTok?
A: Focus on listing teasers, neighborhood highlights, market insights, and behind-the-scenes content. Keep them under 60 seconds and always include a clear CTA.
Q: How often should I post on TikTok?
A: Start with 3-4 times per week. Once you build a content system, aim for 4-6 videos weekly across your 3 pillars.
Q: Do I need to dance or follow trends to be successful?
A: No. In fact, niche content performs better long-term. You’re not an entertainer—you’re a trusted local expert. Lead with value.
Q: How do I measure success from TikTok?
A: Track leads using UTM links, profile clicks, DMs, and CRM tags. Monitor watch time, saves, and shares to identify what content resonates.
📋 Additional Resources: Want to Go Deeper?
- How to Build a Weekly Content Engine with ChatGPT
- Top 10 TikTok Video Ideas for Real Estate
- My Favorite Prompt Pack for Short-Form Content
- Follow me on Instagram @coachemilyterrell for more AI + systems tips
Final Thought
If you’re still avoiding TikTok because it feels overwhelming, know this: You don’t need to be perfect, just strategic.
TikTok is not about going viral. It’s about being visible to the people in your market who are already scrolling for homes.
Start simple. Get consistent. Let the algorithm do the rest.
Let me know if this resonated or DM me with your questions. I’m always here to help agents build smarter, faster, and with systems that scale.
— Emily