Video is no longer an option in real estate. This is one of the clearest distinctions between agents who are building long-term momentum and those who are still relying on short-term tactics. Agents who consistently appear on video, especially with local, value-driven content, are quietly at the top of the market.
The good news is this. It’s never too late to start. What matters most is not perfection, but relevance and consistency. The following formats are currently working. They will be functional in 2025 and are likely to become even more powerful as we head into 2026.
These are seven video types that are truly changing the times.
sales video story
Traditional “just after the sale” videos tend to focus on the agent. In today’s market, sellers value process over celebration. They want to understand how homes actually sell when conditions are tough, inventory is increasing, and buyer behavior is changing.
Story-driven sales videos transform your position as a problem solver. Instead of saying, “Look what I sold,” you’re showing potential sellers how you think, how you adjust, and how you guide your clients through uncertainty.
How to run this video type:
Start with a hook that speaks directly to the seller’s frustrations or curiosity Explain the market situation the seller is facing Walk through your strategy step-by-step, including marketing, pricing, and feedback Share what you had to change along the way and why Subtly strengthen the introduction by mentioning how the client found you End with a share-based call to action rather than a sales pitch
Why it works:
Sellers see themselves in the story and begin to trust your ability to navigate their situation.
example:
Below is an example of a “Sales Video Story” from Colby Anderson in the 30A area of Northwest Florida.
Infrastructure update video
If you want to rule the neighborhood before anyone else shows up, this is the way to do it. Infrastructure videos focus on what will happen next, not what already exists.
New subdivisions, road expansions, commercial developments and facilities all create an initial demand for information. When you first explain it, you become the authority by default.
How to run this video type:
Film on site whenever possible Explain what you’re building and who you’re building it for Share schedules, price expectations, and scale if possible Use a mix of selfie videos, walking shots, and drone footage Follow up with additional updates as the project progresses Publish on YouTube, Instagram, and Google
Why it works:
Registering first ensures long-term search visibility and establishes you as an expert in your field.
example:
This is an example of a YouTube video posted by Noah Escobar from the 30A and Panama City Beach areas of northwest Florida.
Local news content videos
Some of the best performing local real estate videos don’t feel like real estate videos at all. It feels like a news update.
Airport changes, major employer relocations, new retail centers and public investments impact everyone, not just buyers and sellers. When you consistently explain what’s changing locally, people will begin to trust you with the context.
How to run this video type:
Focus on changes that impact daily life Explain what happened, why it matters, and who it affects Maintain an informative, rather than promotional, tone Post consistently so people can expect updates Track which topics are performing better and repeat those themes
Why it works:
You become a trusted local voice and naturally lead to inbound conversations about real estate.
example:
This is an example of Katie Day’s local news content Instagram account serving the Houston, Texas market, which provides an example of this type of video.
View this profile on Instagram
Local business spotlight video
If you want shares, comments, and organic reach, highlight local businesses, especially new ones. Local business content works to celebrate community members rather than sell to them.
These videos can also expand your audience beyond your own followers, especially if the company reshares your content or accepts your invitation to be a collaborator on a post.
How to run this video type:
Start with a strong selfie hook that sparks curiosity Move into B-roll for your business or experience Use voiceover to explain what makes it special Tag your business and invite them as a collaborator End with a share-focused CTA
Why it works:
Community content simultaneously builds visibility, likeability, and authority.
example:
This is an example of a local business spotlight video by Alyssa Curnutt serving the Spokane, WA market.
Video of moving to the area
Relocation buyers are looking long before they arrive. If your content speaks directly to that moment, you become their guide before they even talk to other agents.
These videos are especially powerful for military, corporate relocation, and lifestyle-driven movements.
How to run this video type:
Explain your relocation scenario in the first seconds Compare the overview of nearby communities Talk about differences in commute, lifestyle, and prices Keep it simple and avoid details
Why it works:
Get buyers early, when trust is still forming.
example:
This is an example of a regional mobile video by Krista Nielsen serving the San Jose, Gilroy, and Morgan Hill California markets.
New listing video for social media
Not all listing videos are created equal. Videos created for social platforms should move faster, feel lighter, and engage viewers right away.
These videos do not describe every room. The aim is to create curiosity and momentum.
How to run this video type:
Open the most appealing features instantly Use short clips and different angles Add text overlays for viewers who watch without sound Focus on lifestyle and uniqueness over specs Explore analytics to see what performs best, then replicate it
Why it works:
Social-first listing videos attract attention, get shares, and generate inbound interest.
example:
This is an example of a new social media listing video from Marie Boatsman serving the Greater Portland, Oregon market.
Long walkthrough and new developments
Long-form videos perform better than most other formats when done consistently. YouTube walkthroughs allow buyers to spend time with you before contacting you.
If you don’t have a listing, or even if you do have a listing, the new construction community provides endless opportunities for content.
How to run this video type:
Utilize motion and quick shot changes to maintain attention Combine steady walk-through shots with quick B-rolls Explain features as a guide, not a salesperson Tour other agents’ listings or builder inventory as needed Highlight incentives, floor plans, and availability
Why it works:
Long-form videos build deep trust and continue to be effective long after they’re published.
example:
This is an example of a long-form community overview video on YouTube by Brad McCallum serving the Calgary, Ontario market.
final point
You don’t have to do all the video types listed here. Pick two or three that fit your personality and market, and commit to them long enough to become consistent.
The agents who win with video in 2026 won’t be the ones chasing a single hot trend. They are the ones who show up consistently, provide real value, and build trust over and over again.
Jimmy Burgess is Chief Coaching Officer of HomeServices of America and President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Connect with him on Instagram and LinkedIn.
