7 Video Ideas that Lead to Real Estate Referrals
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In the relationship-driven world of real estate, referrals are gold. But how do you stay top of mind with past clients and spark meaningful new connections? One way is simple and fun: videos.
According to WebFX, 88% of people say they’ve been convinced to buy a product or service by watching a brand’s video, and 89% want to see even more video content in 2025 and beyond. If you’re using video now, you’re not just building your brand, you’re showing people they can trust you when it really counts.
Videos are a core part of the Work by Referral system — creating a consistent level of contact with and care for the people in your database, leading to a steady stream of repeat business and referrals from their friends and associates. It includes:
- Contact (traditional mail, digital follow-ups, phone calls)
- Care (personal notes, Pop-Bys — small gifts dropped off — and videos)
- Community (face-to-face meetings, client appreciation parties, social media)
Here are seven ideas you can use to reach your database through videos.
1. Client Appreciation Party Recap Videos
Why it works: People refer professionals they trust and like. When you host a client appreciation event and create a short highlight reel, you’re showing that your business is more than just transactions.
What to include:
- Smiling clients, fun activities, thank-you moments
- A short voiceover or caption thanking everyone who came
- A call to action: “If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell, I’d be honored to help.”
Why it leads to referrals: These videos remind past clients how great it feels to work with you, and gives them something to share with others.
Example: “We had a blast at our summer ice cream social. Thank you to all the amazing clients and friends who came out to celebrate another great year of helping families find a home.”
2. Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Why it works: Giving people a behind-the-scenes look builds trust. Whether it’s prepping a listing, coordinating repairs, or navigating a tricky negotiation, showing your process helps people understand your value.
What to film:
- Setting up for an open house
- A walk-through with your stager
- Negotiating a win for your clients (keep it general for privacy)
Why it leads to referrals: These videos show people you know what you’re doing and that you get the job done.
Example: “Just finished staging this three-bedroom gem before tomorrow’s open house. Did you know that staged homes sell 73% faster in some cases?”
3. Local Market Updates with Personality
Why it works: Real estate stats are everywhere, but most agents forget to put a human face behind the numbers. When you explain the local market with warmth and clarity, you become the trusted expert your clients turn to.
What to share:
- Monthly or quarterly market trends
- Impact of interest rates on local buyers
- Tips for buyers or sellers in the current environment
Why it leads to referrals: Even if someone isn’t moving now, they’ll remember you when a friend or neighbor needs help.
Example: “Inventory’s tightening in [Your Town], which means sellers are getting top dollar. If you’ve thought about moving, now’s the time to explore your options.”
4. Client Success Stories
Why it works: People trust what others say about you more than what you say about yourself. That’s why happy client stories really work. They help build credibility and emotional connection.
How to film:
- A quick on-camera thank-you from the client
- A photo montage with a voiceover telling their journey
- Before-and-after snapshots of a listing transformation
Why it leads to referrals: When people see you’ve helped someone like them, they’ll think, “Maybe they can help my friend or family member too.”
Example: “John and Sara were nervous first-time buyers, but now they’re homeowners in their dream neighborhood. I’m so proud of the journey we took together.”
5. Personalized ‘Just Checking In’ Videos
Why it works: A short, sincere message to a past client or referral source can reignite a relationship. It’s thoughtful, unexpected, and it stands out.
When to send:
- On birthdays or home anniversaries
- After a local event (like a big storm or community celebration)
- Just to say hello and offer help
Why it leads to referrals: A quick check-in shows you care, and it opens the door for people to reach out or even send someone your way.
Example: “Hi Lisa, I was thinking about you today. Can you believe it’s been two years since you closed on your home? Hope all is well. Let me know if I can ever be a resource.”
6. Educational Homeowner Tips
Why it works: Your value doesn’t stop at closing. Sharing helpful advice shows that you’re in it for the long haul, not just one deal. Service after the sale is the essence of working by referral.
Topic ideas:
- How to prepare your home for winter
- Easy home upgrades that boost value
- Understanding property taxes or refinancing
Why it leads to referrals: When you keep helping after the sale, people see you as their go-to real estate pro, not just someone they worked with once.
Example: “It’s spring-cleaning season. Here are three quick ways to boost your home’s curb appeal before summer hits.”
7. Celebrating Milestones and Moments
Why it works: Everyone loves being celebrated. Highlighting anniversaries, new homeowners, or even your own business milestones keeps the relationship warm and meaningful.
Ideas to celebrate:
- Client anniversaries (“It’s been one year since you closed!”)
- Closing day memories
- Your own career milestones (“10 years in real estate!”)
Why it leads to referrals: These moments get people talking, sharing, and thinking of you when someone they know needs an agent.
Example: “One year ago today, the Thompsons got the keys to their forever home. Time flies. Thank you for trusting me to help you find it!”
Getting Started: Done Is Better Than Perfect
If video feels intimidating, start simple. Use your phone, be yourself, and focus on being helpful. It doesn’t matter where you post—Instagram, YouTube, even a quick text. What matters is staying visible so people think of you when it’s time to buy, sell, or refer.
Buffini’s proven real estate coaching systems teach you how to generate leads, deepen relationships, and build a steady stream of real estate referrals using tools like video, client events, and personalized outreach.
Real estate isn’t just about homes; it’s about people. When you show up consistently, share value, and celebrate your clients, your business grows through the most powerful marketing there is: word of mouth.
So go ahead, hit “record.” Your next referral might just be one video away.
Working by Referral Works!
Are you interested in learning more? Contact us for a free Business Consultation. In this 30-minute call, we’ll help you: Get clear on your vision, uncover what’s holding you back, see what’s working for others just like you and discover your next step. If it feels like the right fit, you’ll have the opportunity to partner with a full-time, Buffini & Company Certified Coach who will help you grow and scale in alignment with your strengths — so your business not only succeeds but truly serves your life.
