Top 1% real estate agents all have one thing in common: they use video to build trust and grow their brand. Learn how to start using video in your real estate business today — even if you're camera-shy.
Let me be blunt: if you’re still hiding behind templated posts and the occasional listing photo, you’re not building a real estate brand — you’re just filling up your feed. And worse, you’re invisible to your market.
The top 1% of real estate agents don’t do what average agents do. They don’t rely on canned content, sporadic Instagram posts, or generic “Just Sold” graphics. Instead, they lean in on what actually builds trust — and that’s video.
I’ve seen it over and over again with the agents I coach at Icenhower Coaching & Training. Those who make video a consistent part of their strategy don’t just get more visibility — they get more listings, more referrals, and more respect in their market. And guess what? They’re not doing anything you can’t do too.
Let’s unpack exactly why real estate video marketing is the not-so-secret weapon of top producers — and how you can start using it right now.
VIDEO: Why the Top 1% of Real Estate Agents Use Video to Build Their Brand
Video Builds Trust at Scale
Here’s what most agents get wrong: they think people choose real estate agents based solely on experience, a killer listing presentation, or how many homes they’ve sold. While those things matter, what really influences a buyer or seller’s decision is trust.
And trust is built when your audience sees you — when they hear your voice, pick up on your tone, and feel like they already know you before they ever pick up the phone.
That’s the power of video.
The best real estate branding strategy isn’t about going viral or being flashy. It’s about being present, being authentic, and staying consistent — even when you don’t feel “camera ready.”
You don’t need a script, a studio, or a fancy editor. What you do need is the courage to hit record and the discipline to show up regularly.
Top Agents Don’t Just “Post” — They Communicate
Static posts serve a purpose — but they’re not the foundation of a winning marketing strategy. When you rely on static content, you’re just adding noise. When you use real estate video content, you create connection.
Top agents know this. That’s why their feeds are filled with short tips, personal stories, market updates, client testimonials, and behind-the-scenes moments. These aren’t random posts — they’re intentional brand-building pieces.
And because they show up consistently, their audience begins to feel like they know them. That familiarity breeds trust. And trust leads to leads.
Still Not Comfortable on Camera? That’s Normal
Let me level with you. No one feels ready at first. You’re not alone if the thought of recording a reel or talking to your phone gives you anxiety. But here’s what I tell every agent who hesitates:
“It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present.”
Perfection is overrated and unattainable. Authenticity is magnetic. People don’t want perfect agents. They want real people they can relate to and trust.
When you mess up a word, laugh at yourself, or show your personality, you become human. And that’s what attracts clients — your humanity, not your highlight reel.
How to Start: Simple Video Ideas That Work
Still feeling stuck? Don’t overthink it. Here are 5 easy video ideas you can record today to start building your brand:
Market Update in Plain English
Skip the data dump. Just tell your audience what’s happening in your local market and what it means for buyers and sellers.“One Thing to Know Before You Buy/Sell” Tip
Share a quick mistake to avoid or tip to remember. Make it feel like advice you’d give a friend.Behind-the-Scenes Clip
Show a moment from your day — a showing, a closing table celebration, or even organizing signs in your trunk.Local Business Shoutout
Visit a coffee shop or local boutique and give them a little love. Community posts perform well and make you memorable.Client Story
Without naming names, share how you helped a client through a tough decision or unexpected challenge.
Remember: none of these require fancy production. Just your phone and your face.
The Algorithm Loves Video — But People Love Consistency
Instagram, Facebook, YouTube Shorts, and TikTok all prioritize video content. That means your reach increases when you show up on camera. But here’s the bigger win: your relationships deepen.
Video helps you stay top-of-mind. It helps you become the agent they think of first, not because you’re loud, but because you’re consistent.
And let’s be honest — most agents aren’t doing this. They post a headshot once a month and wonder why their phone’s not ringing. Meanwhile, agents showing up with weekly real estate video tips are stacking opportunities.
Perfection is overrated and unattainable. Authenticity is magnetic. People don’t want perfect agents. They want real people they can relate to and trust.
ICT Coach Nick Baldwin
You’re Not Too Late — But It’s Time to Start
I can hear it already: “But Nick, I’ve never done video before. I feel behind.”
Listen — you’re not behind. You’re just early in the journey.
Every top agent you see doing video now had to start from scratch, just like you. They were awkward on camera. They had low views at first. They stumbled, cringed, and pushed through it.
And because they didn’t wait to feel ready, they’re winning now.
You don’t need a library of content or a strategy deck. You just need to record your first video. Then another. Then another. One simple video at a time.
Final Thoughts: The Path to the Top Starts With Video
Let me leave you with this: if you want to be in the top 1%, you have to stop doing what 99% of agents are doing.
That means letting go of the fear, the excuses, and the perfectionism. It means showing up on camera even when it’s uncomfortable. And it means choosing to build a brand that lasts — not just a presence that blends in.
So today, make the decision that future-you will thank you for.
📲 Hit record. Be yourself. Start building your brand — one video at a time.
You’ve got this.
