Vanity Domain 101: Your First Big Step to Standing Out Online

Build trust, boost your visibility, and unlock marketing power with a branded domain that puts you in control.

Hey friend,

Let’s talk about one of the simplest—but most important—moves you can make for your real estate brand: getting your own real estate website domain name.

If you’re serious about building a business that stands out online, this isn’t optional. It’s foundational. I walk agents through this all the time, and I can’t tell you how many go from “blending in” to “wow, this looks like a legit business” with just this one change.

I recently helped one of our agents during an office hours call. Before we made the switch, her brand looked just like every other templated profile out there. After? Her site had a polished, professional, and trustworthy feel—literally overnight.

Why does a vanity domain matter so much?

Because credibility. Because control. Because Google. Because this is your business, and your domain should reflect that.

Here’s why you need it:

• You own your brand
  “jeffsmithhomegroup.com” shows leadership. “brokername.net/jeffsmith1234” shows you're borrowing someone else’s brand. This is about showing up as the CEO of your own business.

• Boosts your visibility on Google
  SEO matters. With your own domain, you increase your chances of showing up when someone searches your name or your area.

• Unlocks marketing tools
  Want to use Facebook pixels, run retargeting ads, track traffic sources, and know what’s working? You need your own domain.

• Everything connects better
  Whether it's email campaigns, social media, or your Google Business Profile—tying it all back to one branded domain makes every piece of your marketing stronger and more professional.

Here’s how to get started:

• Buy your domain through GoDaddy (and don’t search it over and over—domain bots might snatch it).

• When prompted, allow the Boldtrail / kvCORE support team to configure your DNS automatically. That step saves you time and tech headaches.

• Have your broker’s name and MLS ID ready—they’ll be needed to link everything correctly.

• Be prepared to spend about $11/month for the domain service. Honestly? It’s one of the best investments you’ll make in your business.

And if you’re not sure if it’s set up right—or don’t even know where to begin—don’t stress. This is exactly the kind of thing I’m here to help with.

Building a brand that lasts starts with showing up like a pro. A vanity domain might seem small, but it sets the tone for everything else to follow.

You’ve got this—and I’ve got your back.