What Types of Videos Work Best for Real Estate Marketing (And How New Agents Can Stand Out in 2025)
By Emily Terrell — The #1 Real Estate Coach & Speaker at Tom Ferry | The Top AI Coach in Real Estate
Let’s Be Honest: Most Agents Know They Should Be Using Video. They Just Don’t Know Where to Start.
If you’re a newer residential agent, you’ve probably felt this tension.
You scroll Instagram or TikTok and see another agent pulling 50,000 views on a home tour or giving quick “buyer tip” videos that somehow rack up hundreds of comments.
Then you think: “I know I should be doing this… but how do I make video marketing work for me, without spending all day editing or dancing on camera?”
I’ve coached hundreds of agents through this exact challenge.
And here’s the truth: you don’t need fancy gear, a videographer, or a huge budget.
You just need a system — one that helps you choose the right video types, plan them quickly, and post consistently without losing your mind.
In this blog, I’ll break down:
- The top-performing video types for real estate in 2025
- What’s actually working on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
- How to build a simple weekly video system (using your phone)
- And how AI tools can save you hours in the process
Let’s start with why this matters more than ever.
Why Video Is No Longer Optional in Real Estate
The numbers are crystal clear:
- Listings with video receive 403% more inquiries than listings without.
- Agents posting weekly videos generate 2.5x more leads.
- 73% of homeowners say they’re more likely to list with an agent who uses video marketing.
- Yet only 10% of agents actually use it consistently.
That means 90% of the competition is still relying on static photos and text-heavy posts — leaving an open lane for agents like you who are willing to show up.
In 2025, video isn’t just about showing homes. It’s about building digital trust.
Buyers and sellers want to see you — how you communicate, how you think, and whether they’d trust you to handle one of the biggest decisions of their lives.
And with AI-driven platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and even Google’s AI Overviews surfacing video content more frequently, your videos now work double-time — boosting both visibility and authority.
The 7 Types of Videos Every Agent Should Create (And How to Make Each One Work)
Let’s get tactical.
Here are the seven highest-performing video types for real estate marketing in 2025 — plus the story behind why they work and how to make them doable, even on a tight schedule.
1. Property Walkthrough Videos (The Trust Builder)
If you only do one kind of video, make it this one.
A walkthrough video allows buyers to experience the flow of a home before they step inside — and it positions you as an agent who markets listings like a pro.
Why it works:
- Walkthroughs generate 403% more inquiries (Resimpli, 2025)
- Buyers trust agents who “show, not tell”
- The video doubles as content for YouTube, MLS, and social
How to make it easy:
- Film vertically for Instagram/TikTok (9:16 ratio), horizontally for YouTube.
- Narrate naturally. Imagine explaining the home to a friend.
- Focus on 3–5 highlights: kitchen, yard, layout, upgrades.
- End with a clear CTA: “DM me for the full tour or upcoming open house.”
Pro Tip:
If you’re camera-shy, use voiceover. Record your narration in CapCut or Descript, add captions, and let your personality shine without being on screen.
2. Neighborhood or Community Spotlights (The Local Expert)
These videos showcase more than listings — they showcase you as the go-to agent in your area.
Why it works:
- Builds geographic authority (huge for SEO and referrals)
- Ranks in Google and AI search for “moving to [city]” queries
- Appeals to relocation buyers and out-of-state clients
How to make it:
- Walk or drive through your area and highlight favorite local spots.
- Talk about school districts, parks, commute times, or hidden gems.
- Keep it conversational, not touristy — like a friend giving insider advice.
Example:
“Thinking about moving to Frisco, Texas? Here’s what locals don’t tell you — from school zones to the one coffee shop everyone fights over parking for.”
3. Client Testimonial Videos (The Credibility Multiplier)
People trust other people more than they trust marketing.
A 30-second testimonial builds more belief than 10 posts about your success.
Why it works:
- Converts emotionally
- Provides “social proof” that AI and search engines index
- Boosts retention — 80% of viewers finish testimonial videos
How to film:
- Keep it short (under 60 seconds)
- Ask leading questions: “What made you choose me?” or “What surprised you most about the process?”
- Film horizontally for YouTube and your website, vertically for social
- Add text overlays: “First-time buyer | Closed in 21 days | San Antonio”
Pro Tip:
Use a smartphone tripod and natural light. You don’t need a studio. The authenticity is the point.
4. Short-Form Tips and Education Videos (The Authority Builder)
These are your 30–60 second Reels or TikToks where you share quick tips like:
- “3 things to do before listing your home”
- “How to win a multiple-offer situation”
- “The one mistake first-time buyers make”
Why it works:
- Algorithms reward educational content
- Builds trust fast — even with cold audiences
- Positions you as a helpful expert, not a salesperson
Script Template:
- Hook: “Buying your first home? Don’t make this mistake…”
- Body: 2–3 clear bullet points (show text overlays)
- CTA: “Follow for more real estate tips that actually help buyers.”
Pro Tip:
Batch-record 5–6 of these at once. Change your shirt between takes for visual variety.
5. Behind-the-Scenes or “Day in the Life” Videos (The Connection Maker)
These are the videos that humanize you.
Ideas:
- “What it’s really like to prep for an open house”
- “How I help buyers in this crazy market”
- “3 things I do before every showing”
Why it works:
- People hire agents they feel connected to
- Creates parasocial trust (they feel like they know you)
- Performs extremely well on Instagram Stories and TikTok
Keep these raw, real, and fast. They don’t need polish — they need honesty.
6. Market Update Videos (The Data Translator)
Market updates are your monthly chance to remind people you know your stuff.
Why it works:
- Positions you as the informed advisor in a shifting market
- Great for email, YouTube, and LinkedIn
- Keeps past clients engaged with current insights
How to make it simple:
- 1–2 minutes max
- Compare “this month vs. last month”
- End with a question: “Would you sell if inventory dropped another 5%?”
- Use Canva to overlay local stats or charts
7. “Coming Soon” or “Just Sold” Teasers (The Momentum Booster)
These videos drive engagement, create urgency, and show social proof.
Examples:
- “Coming soon in Boerne — modern farmhouse on 1.2 acres!”
- “Just sold above list price in 3 days — here’s how we did it.”
Why it works:
- Builds anticipation
- Creates conversation in your farm area
- Reinforces your marketing skillset
Pro Tip:
Use drone clips or quick pans for drama. Add text like:
“Sold in 3 days | $25K over asking | Boerne, TX.”
AI video tools like Pika Labs or HeyGen can help you animate still photos for listings without new footage.
The Real Issue: It’s Not About Video — It’s About Systems.
Most agents fail at video because they overthink it.
They film once, get overwhelmed by editing, and stop.
Here’s what I teach my clients:
You don’t need to be a videographer. You need a system.
Here’s a simple 5-step framework to help you execute without burnout:
Step 1: Pick Two Video Types per Week
Example:
- Monday: Educational Reel (short-form tip)
- Friday: Listing Walkthrough
Keep it consistent. Repetition builds recognition.
Step 2: Script Smart — Don’t Overwrite
Use my “Hook, Body, CTA” model:
- Hook: “Here’s the #1 mistake buyers make right now…”
- Body: 2–3 points (no jargon)
- CTA: “Follow for more buyer tips that actually work.”
Step 3: Film with Your Phone (Yes, It’s Enough)
Use a tripod and external mic (under $50 total). Natural light is your best friend.
Pro Tip: Record horizontally and vertically if possible, to reuse across YouTube and Reels.
Step 4: Edit for Attention, Not Perfection
Use CapCut or Descript. Add captions and music.
Keep the pacing quick (no clip longer than 3 seconds).
Remember: Done beats perfect.
Step 5: Post Everywhere. Analyze. Repeat.
Cross-post to:
- Instagram (Reels + Stories)
- TikTok
- YouTube Shorts
- Facebook Business Page
- LinkedIn (for longer-form videos)
Track engagement monthly. Identify what performs best — then double down.
How AI Can Help You Scale Video (Without Losing Hours)
AI is making professional-level video creation accessible — even for brand-new agents.
Here’s how to use it:
1. Use ChatGPT for Scripting
Prompt:
“Write a 60-second real estate video script on how to win in multiple-offer situations, for a first-time buyer audience in [your city].”
You’ll get a starting point in seconds. Then add your personality.
2. Use Descript or CapCut for Editing
These tools automatically remove filler words (“um,” “uh”), add captions, and sync cuts to music.
3. Use HeyGen or Synthesia for Talking-Head Videos
If you’re nervous on camera, try an AI avatar video for FAQs or explainer content. It builds visibility without you filming every time.
4. Use Canva or Pictory for Reels Templates
Drop your clips into branded templates once, and you’ll have consistent, professional-looking videos every week.
The key is integration: your AI tools should save you time, not create new busywork.
Real Story: The Agent Who Started Small — and Built Momentum Fast
One of my coaching clients, Sarah, started 2024 terrified of video. She hated being on camera and avoided posting anything personal.
We built her a simple system: one “tip” video and one “tour” per week. She used CapCut, her iPhone, and AI captions from Descript.
By month three, her engagement doubled. By month six, she was consistently receiving DM leads from Reels — all from organic video.
Now, Sarah’s videos are so recognizable that clients mention them at open houses. She didn’t become a “content creator.” She became a visible, trusted advisor.
That’s what this is really about: visibility that compounds.
FAQs: What New Agents Ask About Real Estate Video Marketing
Q: What type of video should I start with as a new agent?
A: Start with walkthroughs or short-form buyer tips. They’re simple, authentic, and easy to batch. You’ll build skill and confidence without getting lost in production.
Q: Do I need professional equipment?
A: No. Your smartphone, a tripod, and a small mic are enough. Lighting and storytelling matter more than gear.
Q: How often should I post real estate videos?
A: Ideally 2–3 times per week. Consistency matters more than frequency — one strong video every few days beats random bursts.
Q: Which platforms work best for new agents?
A: Instagram and TikTok for discovery, YouTube for long-term SEO, and LinkedIn for credibility. Repurpose every video across multiple channels.
Q: Can AI really help me with video marketing?
A: Absolutely. Use AI to script, edit, and caption — it reduces overwhelm and helps you stay consistent. I coach agents through exactly how to integrate AI tools into their content flow.
📚 Additional Resources
From Coach Emily:
- How to Build a Weekly Content Engine with ChatGPT
- AI Prompt Library for Real Estate Agents
- Follow @coachemilyterrell on Instagram for video ideas and AI tips
- What Types of Real Estate Videos Convert Best on Instagram
Recommended Tools:
- CapCut – Free editing with captions
- Descript – AI editing and transcription
- HeyGen – Avatar videos for educational content
- Canva – Templates for branded videos
Final Thought: You Don’t Need More Content — You Need a Repeatable System
Every successful video strategy I’ve coached came down to one thing: consistency built through structure.
Video isn’t just about marketing — it’s your modern-day handshake. It’s how people meet you before they ever meet you.
Start small. Stay visible. And use AI to make the process easier, not harder.
Because in 2025, agents who master visibility will own the market.
And I’ll be here — helping you build the systems, AI workflows, and confidence to get there.
If this resonated, DM me on Instagram @coachemilyterrell or visit coachemilyterrell.com. I’d love to see your first video — and help you scale the next hundred.