More consumers are reading online reviews than ever before.
77% of consumers ‘always’ or ‘regularly’ read online reviews when browsing for local businesses (up from 60% in 2020).
Given the significance of Google Reviews on an organisations local search rankings and website conversion percentage, it is surprising how many businesses simply leave their review score to chance.
In today’s digital age, the vast majority of people turn to the internet when searching for products and services, including estate agents. As a result, online reviews can play a significant role in determining an estate agent’s reputation and success.
Here are a few reasons why Google reviews are important for businesses:
- Improved Online Visibility: Google reviews can greatly improve an estate agent’s online visibility, making them easier to find for potential clients. The more positive reviews an estate agent has, the more likely they are to appear at the top of search results, giving them a competitive edge.
- Increased Trust and Credibility: Positive Google reviews can build trust and credibility with potential clients, as they provide real-life experiences and opinions from other customers. This can help increase an estate agent’s credibility and attract new business.
- Improved Reputation: A strong reputation is crucial for estate agents, as it can influence a potential client’s decision to choose them over their competition. Positive Google reviews can help establish and maintain a good reputation, while negative reviews can damage it.
- Increased Engagement: Responding to Google reviews, whether positive or negative, can increase engagement with clients and show that the estate agent is actively involved in their online reputation. This can help build a strong, positive relationship with clients and establish the estate agent as a reliable, trustworthy professional.
In conclusion, Google reviews can have a significant impact on an estate agent’s success. By highlighting their strengths, businesses can improve their reputation and attract new business. To make the most of Google reviews, estate agents should encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews, respond to all reviews in a professional manner, and actively monitor their online reputation.
4 steps to optimising your Google reviews
Step 1
Ask clients for a Google review at the ‘Golden moment’.
For example, a Google review can be requested as part of a post completion ‘best wishes for your new home’ courtesy email.
Step 2
Send reminders
A gentle reminder should be sent if no review has been received after 1 or 2 weeks.
Step 3
Respond to all reviews
Briefly respond to all reviews via your Google Business admin area. Google rewards businesses that can be seen to be responding to reviews (good or bad ones).
Step 4
Go to Step 1