Real Estate

The Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Lead Generation for Agents

January 28, 2025
Learn the best real estate lead generation strategies that will boost your business and help you thrive in 2025

In real estate, success begins with generating the right leads. Whether you’re an experienced agent or just starting, lead generation is your lifeline—it keeps your pipeline full and your business thriving. In today’s dynamic market, relying on outdated methods alone won’t cut it. Agents need a mix of proven strategies, cutting-edge tools, and current trends to stay competitive.

This guide will help you master real estate lead generation. We’ll dive into the most effective strategies, from social media marketing to referrals, break down essential tools like Highnote and CRMs, and explore how trends like short-form video and AI can boost your results. Think of this guide as your ultimate playbook to attract, nurture, and convert leads in 2025 and beyond.

Ready to transform your approach to lead generation? Let’s start by understanding what it means and why it’s so critical for agents today.

What is Real Estate Lead Generation?

Real estate lead generation is the process of identifying and attracting potential clients—buyers, sellers, or investors—who are interested in real estate services. It’s about creating opportunities to connect with people who need your expertise and nurturing those relationships until they’re ready to work with you.

In today’s market, lead generation has evolved significantly. A decade ago, it might have been enough to rely on word-of-mouth and traditional methods like direct mail or cold calling. But now, digital tools and strategies dominate the landscape, giving agents more ways than ever to capture attention and build trust.

Why Lead Generation Matters

As a real estate agent, your income relies on the leads you generate and convert. Without a consistent flow of leads, your business can stagnate. With rising competition and rapidly changing market dynamics, staying proactive is non-negotiable. For example, social media platforms, virtual tours, and AI-driven marketing tools have made it possible to attract leads from across the globe—if you know how to use them effectively.

Recent Trends in Lead Generation

  1. Social Media Dominance: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are game changers. Agents like Mike Bussey and the Ivan & Mike Team have shown how engaging content can translate into real clients.
  2. Virtual Tools: From virtual tours to AI chatbots, buyers and sellers are demanding convenience and instant information.
  3. Data-Driven Marketing: Tools like Highnote give agents deeper insights into client behavior, allowing you to customize follow-ups and proposals.

Understanding these trends isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for crafting a modern, effective lead generation strategy.

The Most Effective Real Estate Lead Generation Strategies in 2025

Lead generation is your ultimate toolbox—success lies in choosing the right tool at the right time. As a real estate coach, I’ve helped countless agents across the country to refine their strategies and build thriving pipelines. In this guide, you’ll find 18 proven lead gen tactics—from timeless methods like farming to tech-forward tools like Highnote. 

The key? Blending what works with what’s next, and implementing those strategies consistently.

36

Part 1: Websites, SEO, and Online Advertising

Your online presence is the cornerstone of modern lead generation. Let’s explore how to make your digital footprint attract and convert clients in the virtual world. 

Your Website: The Foundation of Your Brand

Your website is more than just a digital business card—it’s the foundation of your real estate lead generation strategy. It’s where your personal brand comes to life, referrals are nurtured, and your marketing efforts come together. After all, what’s the point of driving traffic if visitors can’t learn about you or easily get in touch?

Start simple. If your brokerage offers a website, use it as your starting point before committing to a custom build. There’s no need to drop $10,000 on a flashy website from day one—grow into it as your business grows.

Two Must-Have Pages:

  1. About Page: This page introduces who you are and what sets you apart. Share your story, your experience, and why you love what you do. Personal touches help build trust and connection with potential clients.

Contact Us Page: This page should be front-and-center because without it, you’re leaving leads on the table—make it easy for visitors to contact you. Include a form, your phone number, and links to your social media.

Top Website Providers for Real Estate Agents

When you’re ready to upgrade, invest in features like IDX search capabilities for listings, SEO optimization, and lead capture tools—but start with the basics. A strong website doesn’t have to be complicated; it just has to work. Here are three great options:

  • Lofty (formerly Chime): My personal favorite! These sleek, streamlined websites include lead follow-up automation, webhooks, and optional add-ons like digital advertising services.
  • Placester: An affordable, user-friendly option with IDX integration, customizable templates, and built-in lead capture tools.

Luxury Presence: High-end, visually stunning designs tailored to luxury agents who want to stand out in a competitive market.

Pro Tip: Supercharge Your Lead Conversion with Highnote

A beautiful website will attract visitors and leads, but what’s the best way to convert leads? Use Highnote to create engaging, trackable presentations that highlight your expertise, showcase your listings, and turn leads into active clients. Link a Highnote to your site or send them a buyer/seller presentation after they contact you for a seamless user experience: convert leads into lifelong customers.

SEO and Organic Content Marketing: Work Smarter, Not Harder

Let’s set the record straight: SEO isn’t dead, but it’s no easy shortcut for real estate lead generation—especially if you’re just starting out. Competing for rankings against established websites can feel like running a marathon with a head start you’ll never catch. Instead of going all-in on traditional SEO, focus on a smarter, more direct approach to showcase your expertise. 

You can highlight client success stories, stunning listings and valuable hyperlocal insights in a polished, professional presentation—without the heavy lifting of traditional SEO—using a Highnote presentation.

If creating content is still your jam, here’s how to keep it intentional and tied to results:

  • Create a Free Download: A resource like “10 Things First-Time Buyers in [Your City] Need to Know” is an easy lead magnet. Tools like ChatGPT and Canva make crafting an eBook fast and simple.
  • Automate Distribution: Use email platforms like Flodesk or your CRM to deliver the download automatically. Promote it across social media and drive traffic back to your website or Highnote presentations.
  • Focus on Hyperlocal: Buyers and sellers care most about their area—and no, a zip code report isn’t going to cut it. Share neighborhood market insights, tips, and trends to stand out naturally. 

Simple, intentional content tied to real results works best. Focus less on ranking #1 on Google and more on building trust through targeted, impactful resources.

32 1

Online Advertising: PPC vs. LSA

What’s the difference between PPC and LSA? Let’s break it down:

  • PPC (Pay-Per-Click): You pay for each click to your website—think Google Ads. These ads can drive traffic to your site, but only if your site is SEO-optimized and designed to convert visitors into leads.
  • LSA (Local Service Ads): Specifically designed for service providers like real estate agents, LSAs place you at the top of Google search results with your reviews front and center.

For most agents, LSAs are the smarter play because they’re hyper-focused on local leads in your area who are actively on Google, searching for an agent. This makes them effective at capturing potential clients, but they do come at a cost—LSA leads are often pricier than PPC  (think $25-30 per phone call). But here’s the trade-off: the quality of those leads is typically much higher.

If you’re considering PPC, make sure your website is a lead-generation machine. Otherwise, your clicks may not convert into meaningful results.

Buying Real Estate Leads from Search Portals

Let’s be real: Buying leads from platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com can be a game-changer—if you have the right follow-up systems in place. These portals connect you with buyers who are already actively searching for homes, making them some of the highest-quality leads available. But they don’t come cheap.

Here’s the truth: leads are only as good as your ability to convert them. Just ask Nancy Almodovar, CEO of Nan and Company Properties in Houston, TX. She’s generated millions in transactions through Zillow leads. Her advice? “Treat every lead like gold. If you’re not following up immediately, you’re leaving money on the table.”

Here’s Four Ways to Maximize Return On Investment (ROI) on Search Portal Leads:

  1. Respond Fast: Leads expect instant responses. Automation tools can send texts or emails the moment an inquiry comes in.
  2. Use Your CRM: Platforms like Follow Up Boss or kvCORE help you stay organized, track leads, and follow up consistently.
  3. Be Persistent: It often takes 5–7 touches to convert a lead. Use a mix of calls, texts, and emails to stay top-of-mind.
  4. Nurture for the Long Term: Not all leads are ready to act right away. Add them to email campaigns with market updates and personalized tips to keep them engaged.

Buying leads is just step one. The agents who succeed are the ones who pair great tools with consistent follow-up to turn contacts into long-term clients.

Email Marketing: The Game-Changer for Real Estate

Email marketing can truly be the turning point for your business. Unlike social media, where you rely on algorithms and apps, email gives you a direct line to your audience. Think about it: If someone deletes a social media app or forgoes social media, your chance to engage with them disappears. But email? It’s personal, direct, and under your control.

Three Items to Include in Your Real Estate Drip Emails:

  1. Links to Useful Blogs: Share resources from your local realtor association or trusted sources that provide value.
  2. Market Updates: Keep it local! People care about what’s happening in their area.
  3. Call-to-Action (CTA): Always include a button or link to your website for more information (or to contact you directly.

Emails can be as simple as a quarterly update or a heartfelt “Happy Holidays.” The key is to stay consistent without spamming. Even short, value-packed messages keep you top-of-mind for clients.

Don’t Forget to Add a Personal Touch

Want to go a step further? Use email as your own mini-newsletter with your personal flair. This is the kind of stuff that will help clients remember you! 

  • Share a recipe you’ve recently tried.
  • Talk about a new museum or local spot you’ve discovered.
  • Mention a song or podcast you’re loving.

These small details humanize your brand and remind clients you’re a relatable, knowledgeable local expert—not just another real estate agent.

Pro Tip: Always include contact buttons with a call to action to make it easy for leads to reply or engage with you.
33 1

Part 2: Social Media Strategies

You can post pretty pretty pictures of homes, sure. But don’t forget that in 2025, social media is a powerhouse for building your brand, connecting with clients and generating leads. We’ll look at organic engagement and paid advertising to discover if these strategies are right for you.

Organic Strategies for Social Media Marketing

In 2025, social media marketing remains a cornerstone for generating real estate leads—but here’s the golden rule: Don’t try to dominate every platform. It will wear you out. Focus on the networks that matter most to you (and your audience). For real estate agents, those platforms tend to be Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin. 

Remember, consistency beats out volume (tortoise and the hare, anyone?) Aim for 1-3 posts per week on your main feed. If you want to post more than that, use the Stories feature for quick updates so you don’t overwhelm your followers. 

That being said, what should you post? There are five main pillars of organic real estate for agents:

  1. Holidays: Celebrate with your audience—and don’t forget the fun ones, like National Frozen Yogurt Day (February 6th) or National Organize Your Home Office Day (the second Tuesday in March, which falls on March 11th, 2025). 
  2. Closings: Show off your success with a picture of happy clients on closing day (with your client’s permission, of course).
  3. Recognition: Have you won an award within your brokerage or community? Don’t forget about special milestones, like your “real estate license anniversary.” 
  4. Testimonials: Reviews from your clients speak volumes. After all, referrals are the lifeblood of this business. Use Canva to create a striking image that grabs attention. 

Spectacular listings: Standout properties are social media gold. Highlight these with beautiful visuals. Everybody loves a jaw-dropping aerial photo!

Pro Tip: Use Instagram Highlights to pin your most valuable content—testimonials, market updates, and current listings—so it’s easy for leads to find.
Go Further with Highnote

A great use-case for Highnote in your social media is putting a Link In Bio on your social profile!

5
Social Media Advertising

In 2025, social media advertising is a game-changer for real estate agents looking to generate leads and build brand awareness. But unlike organic posting, paid ads on platforms like Meta (Facebook and Instagram) empower you to reach targeted audiences without breaking the bank.

You can start with as little as $5 per day to test the waters, but most agents see success spending $250–$500 per month. The key isn’t just running ads—it’s how you follow up. Leads from social media ads need to be nurtured quickly and consistently to turn them into clients.

What Does a Great Real Estate Social Media Ad Look Like? 

The best-performing ads on Meta tend to fall into these categories:

  • UGC (User-Generated Content) Videos:
    Short, 15-20 second videos featuring a relatable “real person” sharing a story. For example:

“I didn’t know what my home was worth. Zillow was no help. Then I contacted [Your Name], and they gave me a free valuation. That gave me peace of mind, and when I was ready to sell, they were my top choice.”

These ads feel authentic and personal, which helps build trust quickly. To get a professional result with a quick turnaround, use a paid actor. For less than $100, you can hire a UCG Creator (User-Generated Content) through platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.

  • Home Valuation Offers:
    Visually-appealing ads, paired with a simple lead capture form connected to your CRM, that say something like:

“What’s your home worth in today’s market? Get a free valuation in minutes!”

  • Dynamic Carousel Ads:
    Perfect for showcasing a showstopping listing to drive traffic. Use stunning photos along with the price and a quick selling point (e.g., “4BR | Amazing Mountain Views | $650k”).
The Follow-Up Is Just as Important as the Ad

“Speed to lead.” Add every lead to your CRM immediately and follow up within an hour via email, text, or phone. Speed is crucial—quick responses dramatically increase your chances of converting these inquiries into clients. 

Pro Tip: Stay On Brand Remember, the ad will only take you so far. A well-defined personal brand, with consistency across your website, social profiles and even your email signature, is what turns ad clicks into clients.

Want to make an unforgettable impression? Use Highnote to create sleek, interactive buyer or seller presentations that showcase your brand and value. It’s perfect for highlighting your expertise, sharing testimonials, and standing out in a crowded market. Plus, you can track engagement to see exactly what resonates with your audience.

34 1

Part 3: Traditional Methods

Now, we’ll dive into the tried-and-true lead generation strategies that have stood the test of time. From farming and direct mail to referrals, these methods remain essential for building trust and nurturing long-term client relationships.

Farming: The Long Game That Builds Trust

Farming isn’t just about postcards—it’s about consistently empowering homeowners with hyperlocal information so they can make the most informed decisions. When you put valuable data in their hands, you’re building trust, and trust is what makes farming pay off over time.

Here’s the reality: farming is a long game. It’s about planting seeds, nurturing them, and waiting for them to grow. It can take years to see results, so choose your farm carefully:

  • Size: Be sure to commit to a farm size that matches your ambitions and business plan..
  • Turnover Rate: Look for a neighborhood with at least a 5% turnover rate (e.g., 10+ sales annually in the area).
  • Proximity: Stay close to home. Farming a neighborhood too far away will leave you too spread out.

After getting a seller lead, Impress them with stand-out pre-listing presentations

Highnote pre-listing presentations help you turn ugly emails with huge attachments into sleek, shareable trust-building and useful information homeowners trust—and with tools like QR codes, you can deliver value straight to their smartphones. Combine this with Slybroadcast voicemail drops for a personal touch that keeps you top of mind.

Farming isn’t about quick wins: Stay consistent, keep delivering value, and you’ll cultivate a farm that grows into a thriving, lead-generating machine.

Direct Mail: The Classic Strategy That Still Delivers

A thoughtful, well-crafted mailer cuts through the endless emails and digital noise because it feels personal, tangible and intentional. All we get now is junk. A beautifully-designed, glossy postcard in your mailbox? That sticks.

For example, Tom Toole, a top-producing agent in Philadelphia, has built his business on consistent direct mail campaigns. His secret is being laser-focused on delivering value in his mailers. Tom says, “People keep what’s useful. When you combine their local data with consistent messages, over time you stay on their radar—so when it’s time to sell, you’re the agent they think of.” Tom’s approach includes quarterly market updates, seasonal homeowner tips, and just-listed/just-sold postcards, put together in a regular newsletter. 

The secret sauce in an effective direct mail campaign is two words: value and consistency. Provide actionable, hyperlocal insights like recent sales, average home prices and neighborhood trends. By positioning yourself as the expert, you build trust over time.

Take it further by pairing print with Highnote. Add a QR code to your mailers which links to a Highnote presentation showcasing hyperlocal data, market trends, or a personalized home valuation tool. This bridges the gap between print and digital, which gives homeowners a deeper way to engage with your brand.

Direct mail works because it’s memorable. When you combine a tried-and-true method like direct mail and combine it with digital tools like Highnote, it becomes a powerful, results-driven lead-generation strategy.

Referrals and Networking: Your Secret Weapon

“Make new friends, but keep the old; one is silver and the other is gold.” This timeless quote perfectly captures the essence of networking in real estate. Building strong relationships isn’t just about meeting new people—it’s about nurturing the ones you already have while strategically expanding your sphere of influence (SOI).

Staying top of mind isn’t about being everywhere: It’s about showing up where it matters. Choose a few causes, hobbies, or organizations you’re genuinely passionate about, and commit. This could be a local chamber of commerce, a charity that matters to you, a mastermind group, a regular volunteer meetup, a community choir—the options are endless. Your goal is to build authentic relationships by being consistently involved. 

Go Beyond the Basics with Tech-Forward Networking

  • Popl: Replace paper business cards with a sleek NFC-enabled digital card. Just tap a phone, and your contact info is instantly saved.
  • Kinship: A lightweight CRM to keep track of key details about your sphere, helping you follow up with thoughtful, personalized touches.
  • Highnote + QR Codes: Link a Highnote presentation with a QR code so you’re always ready to take a new client. Share your pre-listing presentation to give your networking efforts a polished, professional edge!

As Glennda Baker, an Atlanta-based agent known for building her business through relationships, says:

"When you love people and pour into them, they pour right back into you. Real estate is not just about transactions; it’s about building relationships that last a lifetime."

Expired Listings: The Hidden Goldmine in Real Estate

The numbers don’t lie: nationwide expired listings in January 2025 were higher than ever before. Even better? Roughly 40% of these homes will re-list with a different agent (estimates vary). For agents willing to hustle, this represents a massive opportunity to rebuild trust, deliver results and win over motivated sellers.

Most expired listings come down to frustrated sellers—disappointed by a failed attempt, uncertain about their next steps, and asking themselves, “Do we wait? Try selling on our own?” This is where a consultative approach becomes your secret weapon: by listening to their concerns and offering a clear, actionable plan, you can position yourself as the solution they need.

Take a cue from Ricky Carruth, a top-producing agent who built his career on expired listings. His approach? “It’s not about the sale—it’s about building relationships.” Ricky listens first, identifies what went wrong and outlines a rock-solid plan to provide confidence to his new sellers.

Stand Out with Highnote

To win expired listings, you need to show potential sellers why you’re different. With the right tools, empathy, and preparation, you can turn expired listings into your next big opportunity.

A Highnote pre-listing presentation establishes your authority and rebuilds trust in three key ways: 

  • Success stories of expired homes you’ve sold.
  • A detailed marketing plan that highlights your strategy.
  • Hyperlocal market data to show your expertise.

Plus, Highnote’s engagement tracking tells you exactly when sellers view your presentation, giving you the perfect opportunity to follow up and close the deal.

FSBO: Winning Over the DIY Sellers

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) listings are a unique challenge. These sellers are confident that they can sell their home alone and they’re pretty convinced they’ll save money by skipping the agent commission. Unlike expired listings, FSBOs aren’t frustrated—they’re self-assured. Winning them over isn’t about pushing for the sale; it’s about showing them how you’ll help them net more money while making the process smoother.

Focus on Their Bottom Line

FSBO sellers don’t care about your commission—they care about their results. The best way to connect with them is by offering flexible options that meet their needs. Using a menu of services empowers your clients and helps them retain control. For example: 

  • Full-Service Listing: Highlight your pricing, marketing and negotiation expertise to attract more buyers and maximize their sale price.
  • MLS-Only Package: Offer a lower-tier service which includes MLS access, a yard sign, and professional photos.

Consulting or Flat Fee: Provide contract prep, hourly consulting and a buyer rebate program for a hands-off approach.

Speak Their Language

FSBOs want solutions, not pitches. The Vinson Home Team, a team in Ohio which specializes in converting FSBOs, use a Highnote to inform FSBOs with a marketing tool kit, state-mandated forms, a home prep checklist and of course, fantastic reviews. 

A key piece of the Vinson Home Team Highnote is a section for FSBOs to review the Flexible Commission Plan, which states, “We offer a flexible commission plan. See the attached document for more information. If you are not able to sell on your own, consider us for your Backup Plan. If [your] plans change, your goals don’t have to.”

Check out the Vinson Home Team FSBO Highnote
Final Thoughts

FSBO sellers aren’t looking for just another agent. They want someone who respects their independence and offers a plan that delivers results. When you meet them where they are and show them why partnering with you is the smarter choice, you’ll win their trust—and their business.

Traditional Print Marketing: A Timeless Way to Stand Out

In today’s digital world, traditional print marketing might feel old-school, but it’s far from irrelevant. Print gives you something digital can’t—a tangible, lasting impression. And when you pair it with modern tools like QR codes and Highnote presentations, it becomes a powerful way to showcase your listings and generate leads.

Where to Invest in Print Marketing

  • Local Magazines: Smaller publications like San Francisco Magazine are perfect for giving your listings a polished, professional spotlight. Add a QR code linking to a Highnote presentation or virtual tour so readers can interact with the property instantly.
  • Neighborhood Newspapers: Niche community papers still have loyal readers—and quite a few will offer online ad bundles to maximize your impressions and exposure.
  • Door Hangers & Postcards: These timeless classics can work wonders in specific areas. Use them to promote open houses or “Just Listed” properties, and add a QR code to direct people to property details or a Highnote presentation!
  • Feature Sheets & Booklets: At open houses, leave behind sleek property flyers. They’re professional, easy to share, great for branding and they leave a lasting impression.
Bring Print into the Digital Age

Print marketing isn’t dead—it’s evolving. QR codes bridge the gap between print and digital by driving prospects to Highnote presentations or virtual tours, making your campaigns interactive and measurable. This combination shows clients you’re tech-savvy, forward-thinking and always going the extra mile.

35 1

Part 4: Modern Tools for Success

In 2025, staying competitive means embracing advanced tools and creative strategies that elevate your business. From Highnote presentations to webinars and video marketing, these modern approaches help you stand out and connect with clients like never before.

Webinars: The Lead Generation Strategy Agents Overlook

Imagine sitting in front of dozens of potential clients at once, answering their questions, solving their problems, and positioning yourself as the expert they trust. That’s exactly what webinars can do—and real estate investor Graham Stephan knows it better than anyone. With 4.9 million YouTube subscribers, $120 million in sales, and a knack for breaking down big ideas into digestible advice, Graham uses webinars to educate, engage, and build loyal followers who take action.

Why are webinars so powerful for agents? Because they’re personal. Titles like “The 2025 Housing Market Crash: What You Need to Know” or “3 Secrets to Buying a Home in [Your City] Before 2025” don’t just educate—they spark curiosity and demand attention. And once someone shows up, you have the chance to connect directly, build trust, and answer their biggest questions.

Sprinkle in a giveaway (think Amazon or Lowe’s gift cards) and a live Q&A to keep things engaging. Whether live or pre-recorded, webinars aren’t just events—they’re tools to position yourself as the go-to agent and convert viewers into leads. Graham’s success proves it: share value, and they’ll follow.

Your CRM: The Backbone of Lead Generation

Your CRM (Customer Relationship Management system) is the beating heart of your lead generation and follow-up strategy. It’s where your leads live, and if used effectively, it ensures no opportunity slips through the cracks.

When choosing a CRM, ask yourself:

  • Are you looking for something to manage just your leads, or your entire transaction pipeline?
  • Does your brokerage offer a CRM? If so, are you using it? If not, why not? What’s missing for you?
  • What kind of features matter most—automation, lead tracking, or transaction management?

The most critical feature of any CRM? That you actually use it. A CRM is only as effective as the effort you put into it. Beyond storage, it’s your nurturing tool—leverage drip campaigns, text follow-ups, and lead tracking to stay in touch throughout the long sales cycle.

Make your CRM work for you, not the other way around. When done right, it’s your most powerful tool for turning leads into lifelong clients.

Open Houses: The Modern Agent’s Stage

Handing someone a shared pen? That’s so 2019. Instead, use a QR code or an iPad for sign-ins. Not only is it more hygienic, but it’s also tech-forward and professional. Tools like Open Home Pro can seamlessly collect visitor details, sync them to your CRM, and make follow-ups a breeze. Bonus points if you wipe down your tech between uses—it shows you care about the details.

Make It an Experience

Bravo’s Tracy Tutor from Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles is a master of turning open houses into unforgettable experiences. As she says:

“Real estate isn’t just about selling homes—it’s about selling a lifestyle.”

Tracy’s open houses feel like high-end, exclusive gatherings. She uses signature touches like live music, jaw-dropping staging, and even branded gift bags to immerse her guests in the luxury lifestyle. But don’t worry—you don’t need a $20M Beverly Hills listing to channel her energy. Remember, people buy from people.

So, what makes your open house stand out? Think beyond the basics:

  • Set the Atmosphere: Bring a portable speaker and play an upbeat playlist (think Old Navy vibes—light and inviting).
  • Offer a Giveaway: Raffle a small prize or gift card to encourage guests to leave their contact info.

Partner Locally: Collaborate with nearby coffee shops, bakeries, or floral designers. It adds a personal touch and builds community connections.

Follow Up Like a Pro: An open house is only as good as the follow-up. After the event, send attendees a Highnote presentation showcasing home highlights, neighborhood stats, and next steps. Highnote’s interactive features not only make you look polished but also help you track clicks and analytics to ensure that your leads stay engaged.

Partnering with Real Estate Attorneys, Mortgage Brokers, and Affiliates

Partnering with real estate attorneys, mortgage brokers, and affiliate businesses is one of the smartest ways to create a steady stream of referrals for your real estate business. When done right, these relationships will become a cornerstone of your business. After all, they’re already in touch with buyers and sellers—your ideal clients—and they’re often asked for agent recommendations. 

But here’s the thing: partnerships are all about balance. Add attorneys and brokers to your CRM or email marketing list, but don’t spam them with every new listing. Instead, focus on high-value, occasional updates like spectacular listings, exclusive events, or broker previews that align with their clients’ needs. “Referrals are the fastest way to build trust,” says Ben Kinney, founder of the Ben Kinney Companies. “When someone sends you a referral, they’ve already vetted you in the client’s eyes.”

Partnerships don’t stop at attorneys and brokers—affiliate marketing opens up even more opportunities. Consider teaming up with local movers, home warranty providers, or niche-specific businesses like stagers or interior designers.

Take It to the Next Level with Highnote

Want to stand out? Use Highnote presentations to tailor your approach. For example, send a real estate attorney a presentation showcasing how you’ve handled complex transactions, or share with a mortgage broker how you’ve educated buyers to get pre-approved. A sleek, trackable Highnote presentation turns your outreach into a lasting impression.

Video Marketing: The Future of Real Estate Lead Generation

Video marketing has become one of the fastest, most effective ways to showcase your authenticity and passion for real estate. There’s no shortage of ways to use video to connect with your audience—there are hours of content ready for you to record! Think video tours, market updates, listing presentations and even “about me” videos. Use YouTube, TikTok and Instagram Reels to amplify your brand’s reach.

Christophe Choo, a luxury agent in Beverly Hills, has built a thriving business through video. His YouTube channel highlights luxury properties and the Beverly Hills lifestyle. “I wanted to give people a glimpse into the luxury lifestyle, not just the homes,” Christophe says. His videos consistently drive leads by delivering value and positioning him as a trusted expert.

To get started, focus on consistency over perfection. Block time on your calendar to batch-record content, like a quick market update or a walkthrough of your latest listing. Then, leverage tools like Pictory or Descript to edit and polish your videos.

Press record, share your story, and let video grow your business!

Take your videos a step further using Highnote to track your analytics. Share a Highnote presentation after your video with neighborhood stats, next steps, or additional listings to keep leads engaged.

No matter where you focus—social media, farming, or FSBOs—the most important thing is consistency. Start with one strategy, master it, and then expand. And when it comes to tracking and presenting your work, Highnote is the ultimate tool to impress clients and close deals.”

Tying It All Together

There’s no one foolproof way to bring you leads. It depends on your personal strengths, your budget, and how much you’re willing to roll up your sleeves. But choose two to three of these strategies and implement them consistently this year to watch your revenue grow!

Never forget one of the most powerful quotes from the incredible Barbara Corcoran: “As entrepreneurs there is never a boring day—you might hate certain days—but there is never a boring day building your own business, because you have that wonderful great privilege of being in charge of your own destiny.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate Lead Generation

What is the best way to generate real estate leads in 2025?

Combining traditional methods like open houses and print marketing with digital strategies like social media ads, webinars, and interactive presentations (like those created with Highnote) will give you the most well-rounded approach.

Highnote helps agents create polished, trackable presentations for listings, open houses, webinars, and more. It’s an all-in-one solution for impressing clients, generating leads, and following up effectively.

QR codes are perfect for connecting print materials (flyers, postcards, magazine ads) to digital content, such as property tours, Highnote presentations, or your website. They make it easy for buyers to access information instantly.

Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn tend to work best for real estate agents. Focus on platforms where your target audience spends the most time. Use Instagram for visual content, Facebook for local ads, and LinkedIn for professional networking.

Absolutely! Print marketing like postcards, magazine ads, and feature sheets can create a lasting impression, especially when paired with digital tools like QR codes and Highnote presentations for an interactive experience.

Highnote helps agents create polished, trackable presentations for listings, open houses, webinars, and more. It’s an all-in-one solution for impressing clients, generating leads, and following up effectively.

More Resources

Author
Meet Trevor James, founder of Modern Agent Coaching and former staff writer at The Close. A distinguished leader in real estate, Trevor sold over 125 homes in six months at Zillow and now focuses on advancing real estate professionals through targeted coaching and content. As the 2021 President of the LGBTQ Real Estate Alliance’s Colorado Chapter, he merges his deep industry knowledge with advocacy efforts. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys time with his Doberman and savoring sips of espresso.
Mark Choey
: Contributor

Meet Mark, the founder, and CEO of Highnote, a presentation and proposal platform designed specifically for service providers. With a background as a top-producing salesperson, team and brokerage leader, computer engineer, and product designer, Mark has a unique insight into what it takes to create great software for service providers who don’t have time to design.