…and why you as a realtor give reviews
Let’s be honest—your clients Google everything. From neighbourhood walk scores to mortgage rates to you. And when they find your Google Business Profile, one of the first things they’re scanning for is: “What do other people say about this agent?”
<link to getting a Google Business Profile>
Now, here’s the part most agents overlook: when your clients or referral partners leave you a review, they actually earn points from Google for doing it. And when you leave reviews—for mortgage agents, home inspectors, stagers, builders, lawyers—you rack up points too. So what’s the real value of these points, and how can they help you as a real estate professional?
Let’s unpack it like we would a CMA—clearly, honestly, and with practical next steps you can actually use.
Here’s What I’ll Cover:
What Are Google Review Points?
Do They Actually Help Your Business?
How I Can Support You as Your Go-To Mortgage Partner
What Are Google Review Points?
They’re part of Google’s Local Guides Program—a community-driven system where people who leave reviews, upload photos, and contribute useful information to Google Maps are rewarded with points. Think of it like Google’s version of air miles for community knowledge.
So when you leave a thoughtful review about that fantastic staging company, share your experience with a new condo development, or upload a few photos of a neighbourhood hotspot, Google gives you points for it.
It’s not about freebies—it’s about recognition and credibility.
How Do You Earn Them?
You earn points by contributing value to Google Maps. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Leave a review: 10 points
- Write a detailed review (200+ characters): 10 bonus points
- Upload a photo: 5 points per photo
- Add a new place: 15 points
- Edit a business or verify details: 5 points
- Answer questions about places: 1 point each
Realtors like you—who are constantly out and about visiting listings, new developments, and local businesses—are in a prime position to earn points just by sharing your experiences.
Why They Matter for Realtors
This is where it gets interesting for your business.
- Visibility
- Thought Leadership
- Social Proof
Visibility
As your Local Guide level increases, your profile becomes more visible and trustworthy on Google. Your reviews get pushed higher in search results, and your Google account earns a badge, making your feedback stand out.
Thought Leadership
Let’s say you leave a well-written review of a pre-construction site or a niche local business. That review becomes part of Google’s search engine results. Your name gets attached to a topic your clients care about—and now you show up as an expert.
Social Proof
Your client reviews are digital word-of-mouth. When you’re consistently reviewing others, clients are more likely to return the favour. When your profile has a steady stream of thoughtful reviews—both given and received—it builds serious trust.
Do They Actually Help Your Business?
Yes, in more ways than one. These points may not be redeemable for products, but they absolutely increase your digital visibility and brand presence.
Here’s what they do for you:
- Boost your SEO—Google prioritizes active profiles with helpful content
- Establish you as a reliable local expert
- Make your business profile more engaging and trustworthy
- Encourage your clients to leave you stronger, more detailed reviews (because they benefit too)
And the more you show up in local search, the more leads and referrals you attract organically.
When asking clients to leave you a review, let them know, “Google actually gives you points for doing it—it’s a win-win.” That little bonus can make a big difference in getting the review over the finish line.
Allen’s Final Thoughts
You’re already doing the work—showing homes, negotiating offers, educating buyers, and being your clients’ anchor during a major life decision. Why not let all that expertise shine online?
Google Review Points aren’t about getting rewarded with gifts. They’re about building your reputation where your next clients are already looking. They give your feedback more weight, help your Google profile climb the ranks, and help your clients share their positive experiences in a way that reaches future leads.
Consistency is key. Think of reviews and contributions the same way you think of door knocking or farming a neighbourhood—slow and steady growth with long-term results.
How I Can Support You as Your Go-To Mortgage Partner
Just like you, I’m here to provide expert guidance and real value—whether it’s helping your client get pre-approved, finding a creative financing solution for a tricky deal, or supporting you with professional content you can use in your marketing.
Here’s how I can help:
- Co-branded mortgage info sheets and educational content from Canada’s largest mortgage agent website
- Support with first-time buyers, self-employed clients, or investors
- Boost your SEO and local authority by receiving an incredible review from me because if you are providing outstanding service, you deserve to be recognized! I know how hard you work.
- Strategic insights into how reviews, SEO, and digital visibility tie into your overall business growth
We’re in this together. When your clients win, we both win. And if a simple review helps build your business—or theirs—that’s something worth leaning into.
