From trending Reels to TikTok link tools and Instagram voice updates, the latest platform changes show a clear shift toward video, voice and human connection.
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Each week on Trending, digital marketer Jessi Healey dives into what’s buzzing in social media and why it matters for real estate professionals. From viral trends to platform changes, she’ll break it all down so you know what’s worth your time — and what’s not.
Social platforms are doubling down on visibility — whether that means spotlighting personality-driven content, surfacing job listings more effectively or amplifying what others are saying. This is evident in personality-driven content, job listings and user-generated content. Platforms like Instagram Reels emphasize engaging content, while AI optimizes ad delivery.
For real estate, this means embracing short-form video, cultivating candid moments and prioritizing strategic clarity across all channels to connect with clients authentically. Understanding and adapting to this visibility-first landscape is now crucial for real estate professionals to succeed.
From catchy to candid: Trends that work
Three viral trends are dominating Reels and TikTok — and each one proves that low-effort, relatable content performs best.
“Phrase to the Rhythm” turns short, six-syllable lines into catchy audio hooks, set to the “New Flame” interlude.
Use it to spotlight messages like:
- “This listing won’t last long”
- “Let’s go find your dream home”
- “Move-in ready for you”
Pair it with a listing tour, a text-on-screen Reel or a celebratory moment.
For real estate professionals, it’s a fun way to turn everyday phrases into memorable content.
The Samba “Whisk” Challenge is all about joy and energy — no choreography required.
Use it to:
- Announce a new listing
- Celebrate a closing
- Introduce a team member
It’s light, upbeat and human.
For real estate professionals, it’s an easy way to show your personality without overthinking.
“Calling to Say Goodnight” is a sincere trend focused on connection.
Use it to:
- Check in with a past client
- Film a team moment
- Share a thank-you or personal milestone
It’s short-form content with heart — and heart gets watched.
For real estate professionals, it’s a chance to connect with your audience in a real, human way.
Instagram updates DMs — and Reels keep rising
Instagram is leaning into better communication and immersive video.
Voice messages now have transcriptions — and can be up to five minutes long.
You can read them before, during or after playback.
Meanwhile, Reels account for 51 percent of time spent on Instagram — while engagement with traditional friend posts is slipping.
For real estate professionals, it’s time to prioritize voice and video-first content that’s quick, clear and engaging.
TikTok adds stylized links to Stories
TikTok now supports customizable links in Stories with unique text, color and styling options.
Use them to:
- Highlight a listing
- Link to your contact page
- Push a tour signup or newsletter
For real estate professionals, this creates a seamless path from content to conversion.
YouTube TV ad spend takes the lead
Brands are now spending more on YouTube ads for connected TVs than mobile.
Optimize content to:
- Look good on big screens
- Use bold, readable text
- Showcase video tours clearly and professionally
For real estate professionals, it’s a cue to think beyond the phone — and design with the living room in mind.
LinkedIn sharpens its tools for visibility and hiring
LinkedIn just made promoted job listings searchable — a move that improves discoverability for roles and helps recruiters surface listings to the right candidates. At the same time, the platform is testing a renamed video tab, “Today’s Top Trends,” designed to highlight timely, relevant content.
For real estate professionals, that means two key opportunities: Reach stronger candidates when hiring admins, marketers or agents — and earn more exposure by posting content that responds to local or industry trends.
Bluesky expands profile verification
Bluesky has expanded profile verification to notable users, similar to early Twitter’s blue checks.
A verified account boosts visibility and trustworthiness.
For real estate professionals, it’s a chance to build credibility early on an emerging platform.
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
- Trends that click: Phrase hooks, joyful dances and heartfelt moments are going viral. Authenticity wins over polish.
- Instagram evolves: Voice DMs now transcribe, and Reels dominate user time — short-form video is key.
- TikTok upgrades Stories: Customizable links in Stories make it easier to drive traffic from content.
- YouTube goes big-screen: TV ad spend surpasses mobile — design videos with larger formats in mind.
- LinkedIn improves search and video get a refresh: Promoted jobs are now searchable, helping recruiters and teams hire smarter. New “Top Trends” tab could surface timely content for more reach.
- Bluesky opens up verification: More notable users can get verified, adding early credibility on the platform.
To stand out in a content landscape shaped by algorithms and audiences, a strategic and human approach is key. Whether embracing trends, tailoring messages, or utilizing new tools, the ultimate aim is meaningful connection. These updates are more than just features; they are indicators. For observant agents, they present numerous opportunities to remain visible, relevant and prepared.
Jessi Healey is a freelance writer and social media manager specializing in real estate. Find her on Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, or Bluesky.
