CREview Ep. 59 | CRE Marketing Tactics You Absolutely Must Do

Josh and Dylan run through the marketing tactics they consider genuinely essential for CRE heading into 2026, from SEO and GEO to email automation and video.

Key Takeaways

Every tactic should be evaluated against one question: how does it drive pipeline and revenue?

SEO now needs to include GEO (generative engine optimization)—structuring content so AI tools can find and cite it.

Email remains one of the strongest converters in CRE—optimized sequences and workflows matter more than volume.

Video and 3D walkthroughs are becoming a credibility must-have as AI-generated images erode trust in static photos.

Different business types need different priorities: brokerages should focus on SEO/SEM, retargeting, and video; tech platforms on email automation and case studies; owner-operators on Google Business Profiles and tenant marketing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important marketing tactics for commercial real estate in 2026?

SEO combined with generative engine optimization (GEO), email automation, an optimized Google Business Profile, thought leadership content, retargeting, video and 3D walkthroughs, and consistent event and conference presence.

What is GEO and how is it different from SEO?

Generative engine optimization (GEO) is structuring content so AI tools can find and cite it when answering user questions, extending beyond traditional SEO's focus on ranking in standard search results.

Is email marketing still effective for commercial real estate?

Yes, email remains one of the strongest converting channels in commercial real estate, provided sequences and workflows are properly segmented and optimized for the specific audience.

Why are 3D walkthroughs and video important for property listings?

Trust in static photos has declined due to AI-generated and edited images, making video and immersive walkthroughs a stronger credibility signal for serious buyers and tenants.

What marketing tactics should a brokerage prioritize?

SEO and SEM for local search demand, retargeting, and property-focused video content and market reports are the top three priorities specifically for brokerages.

What is account-based marketing and does it work in commercial real estate?

Account-based marketing targets a specific, curated list of ideal-fit companies with highly tailored content and ads, rather than broad targeting, and tends to produce a higher return on investment for high-value CRE deals.

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