LEARN - Ways to Maximize Your Instagram Reels Reach

If you've ever poured your heart into a Reel, hit publish, and then watched it disappear into the Instagram void, we get it. We've been there, too. But we've also experienced the other side of the algorithm, with multiple Reels reaching more than 100,000 views across our own personal account and those of our clients. While there's no exact formula for going viral, there are proven habits that consistently give your content a better chance of being seen by the right people. The best part? Most of them are surprisingly simple.

Does Instagram still care about Reels?

Absolutely. Instagram continues to prioritize short-form video because it's one of the biggest drivers of engagement on the platform. Reels are one of the fastest ways to introduce yourself, showcase your expertise, and build trust with future clients. You don't need millions of views. You just need the right people to see your content consistently. Need a content idea? Grab an existing 10-15 second video from your camera roll (at the dog park, home in your kitchen, out at a property, dinner at a local restaurant, etc). Post it with a text bubble/overlay of a simple hot button opinion or a relevant quote/tip. 

What's the biggest mistake Realtors make?

Starting too slowly.

The first six seconds are everything, particularly in video retention rate. Skip the logo animation and long introduction. Instead, open with a question, surprising statistic, pattern disruptor or challenge. A hook like, "Don’t move to Kelowna without knowing this" is much more likely to stop someone mid-scroll than, "Hi everyone, it's your favourite Realtor..."

Do hashtags still matter?

The short answer? Not really.

Most recent data suggests hashtags do very little to boost your reach and they may attract bots, so don't waste time stuffing them onto the end of every post in hopes of pleasing the algorithm.

Where hashtags still have value is in helping real people find your content. I use them intentionally for local communities, events, organizations, conferences, and branded campaigns. If you're attending your brokerage's annual conference, sponsoring a community event, or participating in a local initiative, those hashtags can still help connect your content to the right audience.

How often should you post?

More consistently than frequently.

One thoughtful Reel every week will outperform five rushed videos followed by radio silence. Sustainable marketing wins every time. Creating repeatable workflows around your content is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress while building a stronger personal brand.

Is engagement really that important?

More than ever.

Instagram rewards conversations, not broadcasts. Reply to comments, answer questions, and spend a few minutes engaging with other local businesses and community members before and after you post. Social media was never meant to be a one-way conversation.

What should every Reel accomplish?

Every Reel should answer one question: "How does this help someone?"

Whether you're educating first-time buyers, creating local guide content, or sharing a client success story, your content should leave someone feeling more informed, more confident, or more connected to you. That's what builds trust, and trust is what builds a thriving real estate business.

At The Real Estate Suite, we believe your marketing should create opportunities, not overwhelm. Great content isn't about chasing the algorithm every week. It's about building simple systems, creating intentional marketing, and showing up consistently so your business supports the life you actually want to live.

Want More?

If you're ready to take the guesswork out of Instagram, we'd love to have you inside our Dwelling Membership. Our newest training, Your Instagram Growth Blueprint, launches in August and walks you through the strategies, systems, and practical tips we've used to help our own accounts, and our clients', reach more people with less stress.

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us. We hope you'll stick around The Real Estate Journal, explore our resources, and join us as we help Canadian Realtors build businesses that feel just as good behind the scenes as they look online.