Boost Your Real Estate Ads: Proven Strategies for Better Engagement

When it comes to marketing your listings on social media, every click counts. But if your ads aren’t performing as expected, it’s time to rethink your approach. Whether you’re using Boost or considering direct Facebook ads, the right setup and strategy can make all the difference.

In this post, I’ll break down common pitfalls and expert tips to help Coldwell Banker agents maximize ad performance and attract qualified buyers.

Why Boost Ads Are Worth It

Boost is designed specifically for real estate professionals. Unlike generic Facebook ads, Boost ensures compliance with housing regulations and Facebook’s advertising rules—reducing the risk of ad rejection. While direct Facebook ads may seem cheaper, they often require complex setup and carry compliance risks.

Bottom line: If your goal is to reach serious buyers (not just rack up impressions), Boost is the smarter investment.

Ad Creative: What Works and What Doesn’t

Your ad copy and visuals play a huge role in engagement. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Keep It Short and Natural
Long paragraphs that require a “See More” click can turn people away. Aim for a concise, engaging paragraph that feels conversational.

Limit Emojis and Hashtags

• Use one emoji at the top as a visual hook, but avoid sprinkling them throughout.
• Hashtags? Skip them in ads. For social posts, stick to three highly targeted hashtags max.

Avoid AI Overload
AI tools are great, but don’t let them create robotic, emoji-heavy copy. Instead, ask AI to summarize your message into one short, compelling paragraph tailored for Facebook ads.

Targeting Tips: Focus Where It Matters

One of the biggest mistakes agents make is spreading ad spend too thin. Narrow your geographic targeting to the areas most likely to produce buyers for your listing. This ensures your budget works harder and your ads reach the right audience. While you can target up to 5 locations in Boost, make sure they are all worth it. I would suggest using 3 highly targeted areas.

Boost vs. Video Ads: Is It Worth Upgrading?

Boost ads typically link to your video tour, but they’re not true video ads unless you upgrade—which can cost $100+ more. If your budget is tight, stick with the standard Boost ad and optimize your copy and targeting instead.

Engagement Metrics: What to Expect

Getting users to leave their contact info is tough. Don’t panic if you’re not seeing tons of leads right away. Clicks and views are strong indicators that your ad is working. Monitor performance for at least two days after making changes before adjusting further.

Action Plan for Better Results

• Remove hashtags and minimize emojis in ad copy.
• Shorten your text to one engaging paragraph.
• Narrow your geographic targeting to key buyer locations.
• Track performance for 48 hours after updates.

Final Thoughts

Boost ads can be a powerful tool for Coldwell Banker agents—if you use them strategically. By refining your copy, targeting, and creative approach, you’ll not only improve engagement but also attract the right buyers for your listings.