Instagram success can vary by industry, but many multifamily properties have found that it can be an effective tool to boost resident engagement, increase website traffic and improve conversions. So, if you’re not already utilizing the platform, now’s the time to consider integrating it into your marketing strategy.

If you’re already taking advantage of the platform, consider utilizing these five simple strategies to spice up your account for stronger results.

1. Leverage user generated content.

There’s no golden rule that states you have to create all original content to gain followers or views on Instagram. In fact, in many instances, user-generated content is oftentimes viewed as more memorable and trusted by audiences. What’s even better is that it’s easy for you to harness and provides several great benefits. Can we say, win-win!

So, what exactly is user-generated content, or what has come to be known as “UGC” for short?

UGC is any contribution to a platform that is generated outside of your own. So, while posting model units are great sometimes, you should strive to incorporate a little variety into your strategy by asking others, be it renters or visitors, to post and tag photos of your property. This way, you can ensure those winning shots are easily found, sorted shared/posted by your own social team.

2. Be strategic about your hashtags.

Another easy, yet powerful way to spruce up your Instagram strategy is to get strategic with your hashtags. On Instagram, users search for content by hashtags, specifically, and they are essentially how your posts get discovered. Hashtags have the potential to expand your reach, help build a community following and attract qualified traffic to your page.

While you are allowed to use multiple hashtags per post, the key to hashtag success is using tags that are relevant and applicable to your content. For instance, each of your tags should in some way relate to the apartment industry, your target audience, or certain elements of your photo. When possible, it’s always a great idea to use “trending” hashtags. There are several free search tools on the market that will help you determine which phrases are trending; but, remember, while some tags may not seem applicable initially, I urge you to try your best to brainstorm creative ways to associate them with pieces of your content.

3. Explore photo angles and locations.

Empty apartment unit pics can get old and uninteresting pretty fast. Remember, a picture says a thousand words, and your Instagram photos should prove no different. Do you have a really unique staircase or lounge area? Snap it! Are you known as a stand-out for your awesome and accommodating pet amenities? Show those furry friends in action! The key is to try to really emphasize the uniqueness of your community through your posts by shooting various perspectives, landscapes, angles and objects to truly help your property stand out from the nearby competition.

4. Give Instagram stories a try.

Instagram stories provide a more fun, engaging and interactive way to connect with your audience. Through this popular Instagram feature, you’re able to combine several photos and videos to create a visual narrative that showcases the best your property has to offer. Instagram stories have been known to not only give your analytics a good boost, but increase impressions and unique users as well. You can use these stories to feature open houses, resident events, or even host takeovers. During takeovers, you would invite fellow residents to essentially “take over” your account by posting their own personal content, like decorating tips, “a day in the life” at your property, or live resident reviews/tours. The sky’s the limit here. On each story, make sure you include location, property links, and, of course, hashtags!    

5. Link back to actual units.

Another helpful tip that you can start doing now, is ensuring that you include links back to the actual unit on your website when you do post those amazing unit photos. This not only increases your engagement across both Instagram and your website, but helps users better visualize life at your community. This simple strategy will go a long way for your prospects.

Rentbot can help.

The foundation behind every effective social media strategy, no matter the platform, is a great website. And if your website is not helping you attract more high quality leads, convert your leads into guaranteed leases, and retain tenants and maximize vacancies, it’s time to give Rentbot a try. We not only provide custom and turnkey mobile website designs, built-in SEO packages, real-time availability, and conversion-optimized layouts for each of our clients in a matter of days, but we stand by our guarantee for proven results in 30 days, or your money back. Ready to see what Rentbot can do for you? Book your free 30-day trial here: https://www.rentbot.co/website-design/free-website-trial.

About the Author

Jonsette Calloway joined the Rentbot team in 2015. With a background in public relations, advertising and copywriting, she has helped a multitude of clients achieve their marketing and communications goals within various fields, but she particularly enjoys working with the apartment industry.