Getting Started on Instagram as a Realtor
If you’re a realtor who feels behind on social media, you’re not alone. Most agents didn’t get into real estate to become content creators. You’re focused on clients, contracts, and closings—not algorithms and editing apps. But in 2026, Instagram isn’t optional if you want consistent visibility with buyers and sellers.
The good news is you don’t need to be an influencer to make this work. You don’t need daily dance videos or hours of editing. What you do need is a clear setup and a few foundational pieces in place. Once those are handled, everything else becomes easier and far less overwhelming.
Choose the Right Type of Instagram Account
Before you even think about what to post, make sure your account type is set up correctly. On Instagram, you have two main options: personal and professional. If you’re using Instagram for your real estate business, you absolutely need a professional account.
Within professional accounts, you’ll be asked to choose between a business account and a creator account. This is where many realtors accidentally limit themselves. For most agents, a creator account is the better choice. It gives you access to more trending audio options and tools that make creating engaging content easier.
If you’ve ever tried to use a trending sound and found it unavailable, your account type might be the reason. Business accounts often have restrictions on audio usage. Switching to a creator account is simple and can immediately expand what’s available to you.
This small setup step has a big impact on how dynamic and current your content can feel.
Your Instagram Bio Is Either Attracting or Repelling Leads
Once your account is set up, the next priority is your bio. Your bio is often the first thing someone reads after they tap on your profile. In just a few seconds, they decide whether to follow you or move on. That means your bio needs to do more than list your job title.
Start with the basics: clearly state who you are and where you work. It’s surprising how many agents forget to include their market. This not only confuses visitors but also limits your discoverability. Your location field is searchable, which helps you show up when people look for real estate in your area.
Next, include a reputation-defining statement. This is your chance to shape how people think about you from the start. Instead of a generic line like “Helping you find a home,” be specific and aligned with the clients you want. For example, “Selling the finest homes in Arlington, Virginia” attracts a very different audience than a broad, unfocused description.
Give People a Reason to Follow You
Your bio shouldn’t only explain who you are—it should explain why someone should follow you. What kind of value will they get from your content? And that value needs to go beyond “real estate tips.”
Maybe you share local insights, neighborhood guides, behind-the-scenes looks at the buying process, or lifestyle content tied to your city. When people know what to expect, they’re more likely to hit follow and stay engaged.
Think of this as setting expectations. You’re telling your audience, “Here’s what you’ll get if you stick around.” Clarity builds interest, and interest turns into attention over time.
Make It Easy for People to Work With You
If your goal is to generate clients from Instagram, you have to give people a clear next step. Many agents forget this part. They post consistently, grow an audience, and then never tell people how to actually take action.
Your bio should include a strong call to action that directs visitors toward working with you. This could be a link to an intake form, a consultation booking page, or a buyer or seller guide. The key is that it’s obvious and easy to use.
People are far more likely to reach out when the path is simple. When your bio clearly shows how to get started, you remove friction and increase the chances that a follower turns into a real conversation.
Start Simple and Build From There
Getting started on Instagram doesn’t require a perfect strategy from day one. It starts with the right foundation: a creator account, a clear and compelling bio, and a visible way for people to connect with you. Once those pieces are in place, your content has a much stronger chance of turning visibility into trust.
Many agents get stuck because they overthink content before fixing these basics. But when your profile clearly communicates who you help, where you work, and how to reach you, every post becomes more effective.
With Agent Toolkit, you don’t have to figure out this setup and content strategy on your own—it provides clear guidance and ready-to-use ideas that help you get started faster and show up consistently without feeling overwhelmed.
The First Step Is Just Showing Up
Instagram doesn’t reward perfection—it rewards consistency. You don’t need to be the most polished or the most entertaining. You just need to be clear, relevant, and visible in your market.
Set up your account correctly. Optimize your bio. Make it easy to work with you. Then start posting with the goal of helping, not impressing. That’s how you turn Instagram from something you avoid into a tool that steadily brings the right clients your way.