Want More Organic Views on Your Videos? Start With Anything But This...
- Lumiful Media
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
Let’s talk about the one thing that’s quietly tanking your video engagement — your intro.
If you’re still starting your listing videos or reels with:
“Hi, I’m [Agent Name] with [Brokerage]. Welcome to [Address].”
…it’s time for a glow-up.
It’s not that you’re doing anything wrong — it’s just that your first 3 seconds are the most valuable in any video, and this standard intro just isn’t pulling its weight anymore.
In a world where buyers (and sellers!) scroll at lightning speed, your videos need to hook people immediately — not warm up like you’re easing into a presentation. Let’s flip the script.
🧠 Why the First 3 Seconds Matter So Much
The internet is brutal. People decide whether they’re going to keep watching your video in the first 1–3 seconds. And if it feels too slow, too generic, or too rehearsed, they’re gone — even if the property is amazing.
Real estate videos aren’t just about showing a house. They’re about building trust, creating curiosity, and showing value quickly.
🔥 The Mistake Most Agents Make
Starting with your name and brokerage is logical — you’re introducing yourself, right?
But here’s the thing: your face is already on screen. Your handle is in the caption. Your name is likely in the video title or post. You don’t need to repeat it first thing. Instead…
Lead with value. Lead with curiosity. Lead with energy.
Your audience should feel pulled into the space before they even know who’s talking.
✅ What To Say Instead: 10 Agent-Approved Hooks That Actually Work
Here are 10 engaging, non-cringey ways to start your video. Use them for listing tours, reels, or even intros to IG Lives.
1. Lead With a Selling Point
“This backyard is completely private — and yes, that’s an outdoor fireplace.”
Why it works: You’re instantly showing value and inviting viewers to picture themselves there.
2. Ask a Smart Question
“Looking for a modern home with classic SF charm? This one blends both.”
Why it works: People are wired to answer questions — even silently. You’ve created an internal response and pulled them in.
3. Drop a Bold Statement
“This might be the most impressive kitchen I’ve filmed all year.”
Why it works: Sets a tone of authority and makes the viewer curious about what makes it so special.
4. Start With a Surprise
“You wouldn’t guess it from the outside, but this home has over 3,000 square feet.”
Why it works: Creates intrigue. People love before/after and hidden features — play into that.
5. Talk to a Specific Buyer
“If you’ve been trying to get into Mill Valley without going over $2M, this is worth a look.”
Why it works: It narrows the focus and speaks directly to a target audience, which builds instant relevance.
6. Describe a Lifestyle
“Imagine having your morning coffee on this deck, watching the sun come up over the hills.”
Why it works: You’re helping buyers imagine the feeling of living there — not just listing features.
7. Use a Teaser Visual
[Start with a drone shot]“—but what you can’t see from the air is the custom tilework inside.”
Why it works: The visual pulls them in, the voiceover adds context and contrast.
8. Start Mid-Thought
“—and yes, the natural light is that good in person.”
Why it works: This kind of “jump-cut” feels modern, conversational, and authentic. It skips the formalities.
9. Mention a Known Challenge
“Finding a move-in ready home in Bernal Heights under $1.5M? Not easy. Until now.”
Why it works: It acknowledges what buyers already feel, then delivers the solution.
10. Add a Mini-Fact or Detail
“This entire home was renovated in 2025 — and it shows in every corner.”
Why it works: Short, punchy, and immediately communicates value.
🧩 How to Structure Your Script (Without Sounding Scripted)
Once you have the hook, here's how to build the rest of the video:
1. Hook (3–6 seconds) Start with one of the ideas above. Pull viewers in with curiosity, value, or emotion.
2. Brief intro Now that they’re watching:
“I’m [Name] with [Brokerage], and today I’m showing you something special in [Neighborhood].”
3. Tour & voiceover / on-camera moments Guide the viewer through the home with intention. Keep your tone conversational and your pacing tight.
4. Strong outro
“If you want to see this one in person, shoot me a message — or catch the full tour on my page.”
🎥 Final Takeaway
You’re not just marketing a home — you’re building your personal brand in every video you create.
So treat every second like it matters (because it does). And start your next video with something that feels like you — not just what everyone else is doing.
At Lumiful Media, we don’t just film your listings. We help you show up on camera with clarity, confidence, and strategy.
Need help planning your next listing video intro? We’d love to brainstorm a fresh hook that fits your style.
.png){kind=small}
Comments