The Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Real Estate YouTube Channel

Let’s be real – most agents don’t wake up one day thinking, “I should become a YouTuber.”
What they really want is a reliable way to attract clients who are already searching for what they do.

YouTube isn’t just another place to post content. It’s a long-term, search-based platform that, when used strategically, can turn videos into lead magnets that work 24/7. But most agents never get it off the ground because they’re stuck before they start.

This Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up Your Real Estate YouTube Channel will walk you through what actually matters at the beginning—not fluff, not filler, but the foundational pieces you need to set up your channel so it attracts the right people, builds trust, and leads to business.

Start With the Right Mindset (and Message)

You don’t need to become a “YouTube personality.” You need to become a helpful, trusted local expert on video. That’s it.

So, before you even hit record, clarify two things:

1. Who are you speaking to? (First-time buyers? Relocating families? Sellers downsizing?)
2. What do they need help with? (Understanding the market? Neighborhood comparisons? Local insights?)

If you’re clear on who you’re trying to reach, your videos will be clear, too.

Step 1: Create a Channel Name That Reflects Your Market and Niche

Yes, you can use your name -but that only works if people are already searching for you (they’re probably not).

Instead, think like a local consumer. What would someone new to your area type into YouTube?

Better Approach:

• “Living in [Your City] with [Your Name]”
• “Moving to [Your Area] – Real Talk with [Your Name]”
• “Buying in [Metro Area] – Home Tips & Tours”

This instantly tells both YouTube and your viewer what your channel is about.

Step 2: Fill Out Your Channel Customization (with Strategy)

Once you’ve created your channel, head to YouTube Studio → Customization. Don’t skip this -these fields aren’t filler. They’re an opportunity.

Here’s what to include:

• Profile Picture: Use a clear, friendly headshot (this is personal real estate—literally)
• Banner Image: Keep it clean and branded; include your niche or tagline if it fits
• About Section: Write like you’re speaking directly to your ideal client, not your broker. Skip the credentials. Focus on how you help and why you’re different.

Bonus tip: Add contact info, a Calendly link, or a free download offer in the About section. Make it easy for a viewer to take the next step when they’re ready.

Step 3: Use Playlists to Guide the Viewer Journey

Most new agents skip this, but playlists aren’t just for organization – they’re for viewer flow.

Start with 3–4 playlists that match what buyers and sellers care about:

• “Moving to [Your City] – What to Know First”
• “Neighborhood Breakdowns & Cost of Living”
• “Real Estate Market Updates – [Month/Year]”
• “First-Time Buyer Advice”

This helps viewers binge-watch your content, and binge-watching leads to trust.

Step 4: Strategically Place Your Links and CTAs

Every corner of your channel is an opportunity to convert interest into action. But the key is subtlety and clarity – not pressure.

Here’s where to include your info:

• Banner: Include one clear link (website, lead magnet, or contact)
• About Section: Add your email, phone, and a freebie link
• Video Descriptions: Use templated copy that points to your digital downloads or a booking link

Make sure it’s always clear what the next step is, without sounding like a pitch.

Step 5: Film Your First Video – with Value, Not Perfection

Your first video isn’t a commercial. It’s a conversation.

Here’s how to choose a strong first topic:

• What do your current clients always ask you?
• What local insights do newcomers usually get wrong?
• What’s something buyers or sellers are googling right now?

Examples that work:

• “Top 5 Things to Know Before Moving to [Your City]”
• “What’s REALLY Happening in the [Month/Year] Market?”
• “3 Neighborhoods Locals Love (and Why You Might Too)”

Record with your phone. Talk like you would at a showing. Keep it focused, helpful, and natural. Value over polish—always.

Pro Tip: Think Long-Term, Not Viral

This isn’t about chasing likes. It’s about building a digital library of answers that future clients can find.

Set up your channel to grow with you:

• Build video descriptions that include keywords + contact info
• Use consistent thumbnails that feel clean and professional
• Post weekly or biweekly, not just when you’re “inspired”

And most importantly, track what’s working. Every video you post is data you can use to improve the next one.

Thanks for reading our blog
Adam
www.RealEstateVideoStrategy.com

Still trying to figure out how to turn your videos into actual leads?
You’re not alone—and that’s exactly why I built this brand.

Real Estate Video Strategy exists to help agents like you create YouTube content that brings in business, not just views.

Grab a few of the free tools here:
realestatevideostrategy.com/freebies

Want a shortcut?
Check out the digital downloads built specifically for agents getting started with video:
realestatevideostrategy.com/digital-downloads

Ready for expert feedback?
Book a Channel Review and I’ll personally help you fix what’s not working—and show you exactly how to build a strategy that does.