In 2024, real estate advertising is more creative and personal than ever. From quirky humor to heartfelt storytelling, this year’s standout ads don’t just sell homes—they create memorable experiences, connect on an emotional level, and showcase the unique role of the real estate professional. In this blog, we’ll explore the most engaging real estate ads of the year, why they’re so effective, and how you can apply their winning strategies to your own marketing efforts. Whether you’re looking to add personality, connect with clients, or use humor to tackle common frustrations, these ads have valuable lessons for any agent.

1. Apartments.com - “Examination” with Jeff Goldblum

‍Apartments.com brings Jeff Goldblum on board in a quirky, fun campaign that makes finding an apartment feel a lot less stressful. Goldblum’s humor and charm turn the search into an adventure, guiding viewers through the site’s features in a way that’s relaxed and entertaining. He keeps it light, making Apartments.com feel friendly and approachable—the kind of place you’d actually enjoy using to find your next home.

Why This Ad Works:

• ‍Memorable Personality: Goldblum’s humor and charm make the ad memorable, helping the brand stand out in a competitive market.‍
• Relatable and Fun: By making apartment-hunting feel less daunting, the ad appeals to renters who want a smoother, more enjoyable search process.
  

Takeaways for Agents:

• ‍Add Personality to Your Content: You don’t need a celebrity, but adopting a friendly, approachable tone in your videos or posts can make your content feel relatable and engaging.‍
• Turn Challenges into Opportunities: Address common client frustrations with humor or empathy, making your listings or neighborhood tours feel less like a sales pitch and more like a guided tour.
  

How to Apply It: Create short video tours or Q&A sessions with a conversational tone. Use humor or light-hearted commentary to make the process feel approachable and friendly, turning you into a trusted, go-to resource.

2. Homes.com - A goldmine of local intel

In this playful campaign, Jeff Goldblum brings his signature wit and charm to the screen, turning apartment hunting into a fun, laid-back experience. As he navigates through Apartments.com’s features, Goldblum’s quirky commentary and relaxed demeanor make the process feel enjoyable and stress-free. He walks viewers through listings and search tools with an easygoing flair, making Apartments.com feel like a friendly guide for renters.

Why This Ad Works:

• ‍Memorable Personality: Goldblum’s charm makes the ad stick in people’s minds, helping Apartments.com stand out in a crowded rental market.‍
• Relatable and Fun: By turning apartment-hunting into an enjoyable experience, the ad resonates with renters who want a stress-free search.

Takeaways for Agents:‍

• ‍Add Personality to Your Content: While a celebrity like Goldblum may not be an option, a warm, approachable tone can make your content inviting. Let your personality shine to build a stronger connection with your audience.‍
• Use Humor to Overcome Common Frustrations: Acknowledge the challenges clients face with a bit of humor or empathy to make your listings and services feel more accessible and engaging.

How to Apply It: Create short, conversational video tours or Q&A sessions. Bring in light-hearted commentary or humorous insights about the neighborhood or property. This approach can make you a trusted, go-to resource that clients feel comfortable reaching out to.

3. Benjamin Beaver - Don’t Call Him, He’ll Call You… After You Call Him First

This clever and humorous ad by Benjamin Beaver showcases his unique, no-nonsense approach to real estate. In a world where agents are often seen as overly eager, Beaver flips the script with a relaxed, almost “too cool” attitude. The ad’s playful take on his availability turns what could be a typical real estate pitch into an unforgettable, tongue-in-cheek experience that highlights his distinct style.

Why This Ad Works:

• ‍Memorable Personality: Beaver’s laid-back, self-assured character is both refreshing and memorable, helping him stand out in the real estate industry.‍
• Unexpected Humor: The ad’s “I’ll call you back after you call me” approach is a funny twist on typical realtor ads, making it enjoyable and relatable for viewers tired of pushy sales tactics.
  

Takeaways for Agents:

• ‍Let Your Personality Shine: Don’t be afraid to bring your quirks and unique style into your ads. Authenticity builds trust and makes you memorable.‍
• Try an Unconventional Angle: A little humor or a twist on the usual realtor pitch can make your ad stand out and attract clients who appreciate a fun, genuine approach.
  

How to Apply It: Create a lighthearted video that pokes fun at typical real estate tropes or common frustrations in a playful way. If you have a unique personality, showcase it to connect with clients who will appreciate your style.

4. Redin - The Three Bears

Redfin’s “The Three Bears” ad brings a playful twist to real estate by reimagining the classic fairytale. In this humorous mockumentary, a family of bears lives with their human “mother” in a cozy forest cabin, only to realize they might need their own space to truly enjoy their porridge in peace. With clever storytelling and flawless animation, this ad captures attention while highlighting Redfin’s role in helping families find their ideal home.

Why This Ad Works:

• ‍Creative Storytelling: By tapping into a familiar story with a fresh perspective, the ad immediately captures viewers’ attention.‍
• Relatable Message: The bears’ desire for personal space resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need for a home that truly fits.‍

Takeaways for Agents:‍

• ‍Think Outside the Box: Don’t be afraid to use humor or familiar stories to make your ads memorable.
• ‍Show the Value of Home: Highlight how the right home can improve quality of life, whether through more space, privacy, or comfort.‍

‍How to Apply It: Consider using a story-based approach in your ads. You could share client experiences or use metaphors to highlight the importance of finding the perfect home. Adding a playful, familiar element makes the message more engaging and relatable.

5. RE/MAX - Point Of View

RE/MAX launched the “Point of View” campaign, focusing on the emotional journey of moving homes. One notable ad features a young girl, Rosie, apprehensive about relocating. The RE/MAX agent gifts her a book about constellations, helping Rosie see the new home as a place of wonder. This heartfelt narrative underscores the agent’s role in easing transitions and highlights the personal connections they foster.

Why This Ad Works:

• ‍Emotional Resonance: The ad taps into the universal feelings associated with moving, making it relatable and touching.‍
• Agent as a Guide: It portrays the agent not just as a facilitator but as a compassionate guide, enhancing trust in the brand.‍

Takeaways for Agents:

• ‍Connect on a Personal Level: Understand and address the emotional aspects of your clients’ experiences to build deeper relationships.‍
• Be a Supportive Presence: Position yourself as a reliable and empathetic guide throughout the buying or selling process.
  

How to Apply It: Share stories or testimonials that highlight how you’ve helped clients navigate the emotional aspects of moving. Use content that emphasizes your role in making transitions smoother and more positive.

Conclusion

In 2024, real estate advertising has embraced creativity, humor, and emotional storytelling to connect with audiences in more meaningful ways. From the quirky charm of Jeff Goldblum in Apartments.com ads to RE/MAX’s heartfelt “Point of View” campaign, these ads show that effective real estate marketing isn’t just about listings—it’s about building trust, sharing experiences, and highlighting the unique value that a real estate professional can bring to clients’ lives.

For real estate agents, the lessons here are clear: embrace your personality, use humor and empathy, and focus on the emotions and stories that resonate with your clients. Whether you’re showcasing a property, sharing neighborhood insights, or guiding clients through the emotional journey of moving, a creative and personal approach can make your marketing stand out. As you experiment with these ideas, remember that the best ads aren’t just informative; they’re memorable, relatable, and leave a lasting impact on potential clients.

Want your real estate ads to reach more of the right people? At Roya, we leverage AI to power highly targeted, effective ad campaigns that maximize reach and impact. Let us handle the strategy and optimization to ensure your ads perform at their best. Ready to elevate your ad results? Click here to book a demo.