Most REALTORS^® understand the importance of online marketing. In fact, 91 percent of REALTORS^® use social media for their business. And 3 out of 4 Internet users are on Facebook, making it the most popular and effective social networking site. And you can see why — it’s an incredibly cost-effective way to create and maintain relationships (something that is absolutely vital in the real estate industry) by interacting with countless clients and potential customers without even leaving the office.

Perhaps you’re already convinced, and you’ve created a Facebook page for your business. Now what? You know that managing a business page is different than updating your personal page, but how exactly? Many agents feel overwhelmed or confused about what and when to post. Here are five easy tips to make the most of your Facebook business page.

1. Try to stick to the 80/20 rule: Despite the fact that you are using Facebook to promote your brand, viewers will be turned off by constant and repetitive posts about your latest sales and statistics. A good rule of thumb is to limit posts directly related to you or your business to about 20 percent, leaving the remaining 80 percent for news and information that will directly appeal to the audience/customers.
2. Don’t forget to respond: Engagement and interaction are what you want on your page. When you create a post that encourages some comments, make sure to make some remarks yourself. Get involved in the conversation!
3. Include photos and video whenever possible: Even if you have to use a stock image, having a picture to accompany your posts will drastically increase the potential for engagement. Videos will attract even more attention, and don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be high-tech or complicated. For example, consider creating a simple video (with Movie Maker or other free app/software) with the still images of a new listing, and then use that when showcasing the property. It takes only a few minutes, but will capture so many more views in the news feed.
4. Post local information and news: Informing your customers about local events, news and other happenings will not only grab their attention and increase your chances of staying in their news feed, but will help to establish you as a community expert.
5. Keep it personal: While you do not want to treat your business page as your personal page, there is definitely room on your business page for occasional personal posts. Consider posting photos of you and/or your team contributing at a local event or celebrating a birthday or holiday together. Customers like to see the faces and personalities of those they will be working with. Feeling like they know a little about you will give you the edge when it comes time for them to choose a REALTOR^®.