A Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) allows you to appear in Google Search and Maps when potential clients are looking for real estate services in your area.

This is one of the most important (and free) tools to help you generate local leads.

Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile

Visit: https://www.google.com/business/

Click “Manage now” to begin.

Step 2: Sign in to Your Google Account

Log in using the Google account you want tied to your business.

Tip:
Use a professional email you plan to keep long-term (not a temporary or personal account).

Step 3: Enter Your Business Name

Type in your business name.

For agents, this is typically:

• Your name (ex: Jane Doe, Dalton Wade Real Estate Group)

• Or your branded business name (if applicable)

If your business already exists, select it from the dropdown.

Step 4: Choose Your Business Category

Start typing and select:

“Real Estate Agent”

You can add additional categories later if needed.

Step 5: Add Your Location

Google will ask if you have a physical office customers can visit.

Most agents should select:

“No” (if you work remotely or don’t meet clients at an office)

Then choose:
“Yes” for serving customers outside your location.

Step 6: Set Your Service Areas

Enter the areas you serve, such as:

• City (Saint Petersburg, FL)

• County (Pinellas County)

• Nearby markets

You can add multiple areas.

Step 7: Add Contact Information

Enter:

• Phone number

• Agent Website Provided by BoldTrail

Step 8: Verify Your Business

Google will require verification to activate your profile.

Common options:

• Mail (postcard with code)

• Phone

• Email

• Video verification (in some cases)

Follow the prompts and complete verification.

Step 9: Complete Your Profile

Once verified, go back and fully build out your profile.

Add:

• Business hours

• Services (buyer agent, listing agent, relocation, etc.)

• Business description

• Profile photo (your headshot)

• Cover photo

Step 10: Add Photos

Upload high-quality images such as:

• Professional headshot

• Listings (if allowed)

• Community photos

• Branding images

Profiles with photos perform significantly better.

Step 11: Start Getting Reviews

Ask past clients to leave reviews on your profile.

Reviews are one of the biggest factors in ranking and trust.

Step 12: Keep Your Profile Active

Log in regularly to:

• Respond to reviews

• Answer questions

• Post updates (optional but helpful)

Best Practices for Agents

• Use your real name + real estate (avoid misleading business names)

• Keep your contact info consistent across all platforms

• Always respond to reviews (positive and negative)

• Add new photos regularly

• Make sure your brokerage name is included where required for compliance

Quick Tip

Your Google Business Profile is what helps you show up when someone searches:

• “real estate agent near me”

• “homes for sale in [city]”

• “[city] realtor”

The more complete and active your profile is, the better your chances of showing up.