December Instagram Reels

New to Instagram reels? They’re an amazing way to boost your visibility in the Instagram algorithm (especially to local buyers & sellers), as well as provide value to potential clients and showcase your knowledge!

Below, you’ll find instructions, examples and a caption for your Reel. We do not provide an actual template for the Reel because Instagram prefers that you add text and audio directly in their app, rather than upload a completely done-for-you video. Following this “Instagram’s best practices” rule ensures that your Reel gets as much reach and as many views as possible.

There are 10 Reels below so you can post twice per week, but feel free to get creative and do more! Please be sure to change all [CITY] placeholders to your actual city name. And make sure to get permission to share any listings that aren’t your own!

Learn more about how to post reels here.

Note: Please always get permission from the listing agent (if that’s not you!) before filming in any homes.

4 Things I’d Fix Before Listing in January

Strategy + Why It Works:

Shows your home at its best: Winter is darker — these fixes help your home look cleaner, brighter, and more inviting in photos.
Removes easy buyer objections: When the small stuff is handled, buyers feel more confident (and they stop mentally discounting your price).
Helps you stand out: January sellers have less competition. A polished home grabs attention fast.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and look for the up arrow icon.
Pick something simple and upbeat — no talking needed if you use text overlays.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Mix in clips like:

Touching up paint or showing scuffed baseboards
Turning on lights / replacing a bulb
Sweeping the front porch or setting down a doormat
Tightening a cabinet pull or fixing a squeaky door
Quick intro/outro of you with coffee, walking into a home, smiling, etc.

Tip: Keep clips bright and vertical.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Use short slides like:

“4 Things I’d Fix Before Listing in January”
“Touch up paint + scuffs”
“Fix lighting”
“Winter curb appeal”
“Small repairs buyers notice”
“DM ‘JANUARY’ for my prep checklist”

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed
Share to Stories with a quick seller poll

Caption:

If you’re looking for winter fun that doesn’t require hopping on a plane, [City] has plenty to keep you busy. Here are my top 5 local picks:

1️⃣ Cozy coffee crawl
Find a new favorite latte, warm up between stops, and support a few local gems along the way.

2️⃣ Scenic winter hike
Bundle up, grab your boots, and hit one of our nearby trails. Winter views > summer views… don’t @ me.

3️⃣ Holiday market browsing
Local makers, hot cocoa, twinkle lights… need I say more?

4️⃣ Ice skating with friends
Whether you’re graceful or gripping the wall, it’s the perfect winter mood.

5️⃣ A little staycation magic
Book a night at a boutique hotel, order room service, and pretend you’re on vacation (because you basically are).

Winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside 24/7. [City] has SO much to offer this season!

What’s your go-to winter activity? ⤵️

#Winter #WinterInCITY #CITYwinter #CITYthingstodo #CITYadventures #ExploreCITY #thingstodoinCITY #WinterSellingTips #CITYholidays

5 Best Local Winter Adventures Near [City]

Strategy + Why It Works:

Builds local authority: Shows you know the city beyond listings — huge trust-builder.
Boosts saves + shares: Local recs always perform well and get resurfaced for weeks.
Attracts future clients naturally: People associate you with lifestyle + community, not just homes.
Evergreen template: Reuse every season (“Spring Adventures,” “Summer Spots,” etc.).

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels for a sound with the up arrow.
Pick something cozy, upbeat, or travel-vibe.
No talking needed — text overlays do the work.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Clip ideas:

Walking down a wintery street with coffee
Pouring a latte at a local café
Scenic overlook, snowy trail, or winter park shot
Holiday market, downtown lights, or local festival
Ice skating rink footage (even b-roll!)
A cozy hotel lobby or boutique staycation moment
Quick selfie clip for intro/outro

Tip: Mix your clips + B-roll for the easiest creation.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“5 Best Local Winter Adventures Near [CITY] ❄️✨”
“1. Cozy coffee crawl”
“2. Scenic winter hike”
“3. Holiday market or winter festival”
“4. Ice skating at [Local Rink]”
“5. Winter staycation”
“Follow for more [City] favorites 🏡”

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed
Share to Stories with a poll (“Which adventure should I try next?”)
Save to a Local Guides or Community highlight

Caption:

If you’re looking for winter fun that doesn’t require hopping on a plane, [City] has plenty to keep you busy. Here are my top 5 local picks:

1️⃣ Cozy coffee crawl
Find a new favorite latte, warm up between stops, and support a few local gems along the way.

2️⃣ Scenic winter hike
Bundle up, grab your boots, and hit one of our nearby trails. Winter views > summer views… don’t @ me.

3️⃣ Holiday market browsing
Local makers, hot cocoa, twinkle lights… need I say more?

4️⃣ Ice skating with friends
Whether you’re graceful or gripping the wall, it’s the perfect winter mood.

5️⃣ A little staycation magic
Book a night at a boutique hotel, order room service, and pretend you’re on vacation (because you basically are).

Winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside 24/7. [City] has SO much to offer this season!

What’s your go-to winter activity? ⤵️

#Winter #WinterInCITY #CITYwinter #CITYthingstodo #CITYadventures #ExploreCITY #thingstodoinCITY #WinterSellingTips #CITYholidays

3 Amazing City Shops for Holiday Gifts

Strategy + Why It Works:

Builds hyper-local authority: Shows you know your city’s hidden gems — not just listings.
Boosts engagement + saves: People love gift guides, especially local ones in December.
Supports local businesses: Great for building relationships and organic shares.
Highly repurposable: Turn it into a carousel, blog post, email, or next year’s updated version.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and tap any sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something festive, cozy, or upbeat holiday pop.
No talking needed — let text do the work.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Mix clips like:

Walking into a local shop
Close-ups of candles, accessories, or gift displays
Holiday décor inside each store
A branded bag or wrapped gift from the shop
You holding a coffee + shopping bag
Streets decorated for the holidays
Quick selfie clip for the intro or outro

Tip: Shoot vertically, use natural light, and grab quick b-roll inside shops (most love the exposure).

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“3 Amazing [City] Shops for Holiday Gifts 🎁✨”
“1. [Shop Name #1] — cozy + unique finds”
“2. [Shop Name #2] — trendy + fun gifts”
“3. [Shop Name #3] — handmade + local treasures”
“Support local this season ✨🏡”

Keep each slide matched to the relevant clip.

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed
Share to Stories and tag each shop
Add a poll: “Have you been to these shops?”
Save to your Local Guides or Holiday Tips highlight

Caption:

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect holiday gifts this year, skip the big-box stores and check out a few of my favorite local gems right here in [City]:

✨ [Shop #1] – The spot for cozy candles, home décor, and little treasures you didn’t even know you needed. Perfect for hosts, teachers, and you-know-who.

✨ [Shop #2] – Trendy, fun, and full of gifts with personality. You’ll walk in for one thing and walk out with five.

✨ [Shop #3] – Handmade, local, and totally unique. Great for supporting small businesses and finding gifts nobody else will give.

Shopping small this season makes a big impact — and honestly, it’s way more fun. If you hit any of these spots, tag me in your finds! 🎄🛍️

#CITY #CITYliving #CITYlife #LocalLiving #CITYrealestate #HolidaysInCITY #CITYbusinesses #CITYshops

Where to See the Holiday Lights in City

Strategy + Why It Works:

Positions you as the local expert: You’re the go-to person for not just homes, but community + lifestyle.
Highly shareable + saveable: People love holiday light recs and will save or send to friends.
Softly tied to real estate: Showcases neighborhoods and areas people might want to live in.
Great for relationship-building: Tagging local spots and neighborhoods boosts reach and connections.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and pick a sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something magical, cozy, or holiday-themed.
No talking needed — text overlays + visuals are enough.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Grab clips like:

Driving or walking past a street full of lights
Close-ups of houses decorated for the holidays (from the street/sidewalk)
A park, zoo, or garden light display
Downtown/plaza trees wrapped in lights
A neighborhood known for going “all out”
You bundled up with lights in the background (selfie style)

Tip: Film at dusk or dark when lights pop, but hold your phone steady to avoid super blurry clips.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Where to Find the Best Peppermint Mochas in [City]

Strategy + Why It Works:

Positions you as the local “in the know” friend: Not just an agent, but someone who actually lives + loves [City].
Super saveable + shareable: People LOVE coffee recs, especially seasonal ones.
Easy local networking: Great excuse to tag and build relationships with local cafés.
Soft real estate tie-in: Coffee shops = lifestyle = neighborhoods people may want to live in.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and pick a sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something cozy or chill — think café vibes.
You can stay text-only or layer your voice if you want.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Grab simple, aesthetic clips like:

Close-up of a peppermint mocha being made or on the table
You holding a festive coffee cup in front of the café
The café sign or storefront
Inside: cozy corner, barista at work (if they’re cool with it), decorated interior
A little “cheers” clink of two cups
Selfie-style clip of you with your drink

Film at 2–3 favorite spots around [City]. Vertical, bright, and cozy is the goal.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Holiday Open Houses

Strategy + Why It Works:

Spotlights your current listings: Gives extra visibility to homes you’re trying to move before/around the new year.
Creates FOMO + urgency: “Holiday open house” feels limited-time and special, not like a regular Sunday showing.
Shows the lifestyle: Coziness, décor, and neighborhood vibes help buyers picture themselves living there.
Easy to reuse: Update dates/addresses and reuse the idea every holiday season.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and pick a sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something soft, cozy, or festive (holiday acoustic / mellow pop).
You can stay text-only if you don’t want to talk on camera.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Clip ideas from one or multiple open house listings:

Front of the home with a “Open House” sign
Walking up the front steps or opening the door
Cozy living room with tree/garland/lights
Fireplace shot, styled mantle, or holiday pillows/throws
Dining table lightly set or staged for guests
Kitchen detail: island, coffee station, cookies, etc.
Neighborhood street with lights or festive décor
You welcoming people in or waving at the door

Tip: Film vertical, keep everything bright, and avoid showing personal/overly specific homeowner items.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“Holiday Open Houses in [CITY] 🎄🏡”
“Tour these cozy homes this December”
“Perfect if you want to move in early 2026”
“Serious buyers, flexible timing, festive vibes”
“DM me ‘HOLIDAY’ for open house dates + details”

Match each line with the best corresponding clip (exterior, interior, you, etc.).

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed.
Share to Stories with a “Remind Me” or countdown sticker for your next open house.
Save to a “Open Houses” or “Holiday Homes” highlight so buyers can find it later.

Caption:

If you’ve been thinking about making a move, December might actually be the dreamiest time to tour homes. The market slows down, the houses feel extra cozy, and you get a real sense of what living there would feel like during the holidays.

I’ve got a few gorgeous homes hosting Holiday Open Houses this month — think warm lighting, crackling fireplaces, beautifully decorated spaces, and that “I could totally live here” energy.

Whether you’re actively shopping or just want to peek at what’s out there before the new year, these December tours are the perfect chance to get inspired.

Want the full list of homes you can tour this month? Comment “TOUR” and I’ll send it your way! 🎁✨

#openhouse #NewHome #dreamhome #homebuying #househunting #homebuyer #CITY #CITYhomes #CITYrealestateagent #HomeTour

Is a New Home On Your Christmas List?

Strategy + Why It Works:

Creates urgency (without being pushy): Reminds buyers that waiting until “after the holidays” can mean more competition and fewer options.
Positions winter as an opportunity: You’re reframing December/early January as a smart time to shop, not a dead zone.
Warms up early 2026 buyers: Great for people who are “thinking about it” and need a little nudge to start prepping now.
Feel-good seasonal angle: Ties into holiday energy and resolutions while still being practical and helpful.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and look for an audio with the up arrow (trending).
Pick something cozy or festive (holiday, soft pop, or calm upbeat).
You can either talk on top of it or keep it as background with text-only.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Mix in simple, cozy clips like:

You holding a mug in front of a tree or holiday décor
Exterior shot of a cute house with lights or wreath
Walking up to a front door with a “For Sale” sign nearby
Flipping through listings on your phone or laptop
Cozy living room shot with pillows/blanket and soft lighting
You looking at the camera and smiling / nodding / pointing to text
Optional: a “sold” sign or keys shot for the ending

Tip: Film vertical, keep colors warm and lighting soft for that holiday feel.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

3 Delicious [City] Spots For a Cozy Winter Date Night

Strategy + Why It Works:

Shows you as a lifestyle/local expert: You’re not just selling houses, you’re plugged into the best places to actually live and enjoy [City].
High save + share potential: Date night recs are evergreen, especially in winter.
Builds relationships with local restaurants: Tagging them = easy networking + possible reposts.
Softly ties back to real estate: People start connecting “dream date night” areas with “I’d love to live near here.”

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels and pick a sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something romantic, cozy, or chill (nothing too loud).
You can keep it text-only or add your voice if you want.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Grab simple, cozy clips like:

Exterior shots of each restaurant (sign, entrance, patio)
Inside: dim lighting, table setup, bar area, fireplace if they have one
Close-ups of drinks, appetizers, or dessert
You clinking glasses, laughing, or walking into the restaurant
A quick selfie of you saying “cozy date night in [City]”

Try to feature 3 places; you can reuse b-roll if needed.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“3 Delicious [CITY] Spots for a Cozy Winter Date Night ❄️❤️”
“[Restaurant #1] – dim lights + comfort food”
“[Restaurant #2] – intimate vibes + seasonal dishes”
“[Restaurant #3] – great wine + fireplace feels”
“Save this for your next date night ✨”

Optional final line:
“Love these neighborhoods? I can help you find a home nearby. 🏡”

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed.
Share to Stories with a poll: “Which spot would you pick for date night?”
Tag each restaurant and save to a Local [City] or Food & Fun highlight.

Caption:

If you’re trying to plan the perfect winter date night, [City] has no shortage of cozy, romantic spots to make it happen. Here are three of my favorites:

1️⃣ [Restaurant #1]
Think dim lights, comfort food, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer after dessert.

2️⃣ [Restaurant #2]
A warm, intimate vibe with amazing seasonal dishes — ideal for couples who love trying something new together.

3️⃣ [Restaurant #3]
Fireplace views, great wine, and the coziest winter ambiance. Perfect for a “we needed this” kind of night out.

Whether it’s a first date or a long overdue night away from the to-do list, these spots make winter feel extra special. If you try one, let me know your favorite! 🍷✨

#CITY #CITYthingstodo #ExploreCITY #CITYactivities #LocalLiving #CITYrestaurants

3 Winter Energy Saving Tips

Strategy + Why It Works:

High-value homeowner content: Winter bills are a pain point — this positions you as a helpful resource, not just an agent.
Great for engagement: Quick, useful tips = saves, shares, and replies.
Ties into seller prep: Homes that feel warmer and more efficient appeal to winter buyers.
Evergreen: You can reuse this every winter with new clips.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Reels for the up arrow icon.
Pick something calm, minimal, or cozy — fitting for home tips.
Text-only works great here.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Clip ideas:

Closing curtains, then opening them to sunlight
Someone adjusting a thermostat (smart thermostat shot is ideal)
Adding weatherstripping to a door/window
Close-up of a draft stopper
Cozy room shot with warm lighting
Turning off lights or unplugging devices
You holding a mug saying “Winter energy tips!”

Vertical clips, soft lighting, real home moments = perfect.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“3 Winter Energy Saving Tips ❄️💡”
“1. Seal drafts around windows + doors”
“2. Adjust your thermostat (smart helps!)”
“3. Use curtains for warmth — open for sun, close at night”
“Small changes = big savings ✨”

Optional outro:
“DM me ‘ENERGY’ for my winter home checklist.”

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed
Share to Stories with a poll (“Trying to save on winter bills? Yes/Always.”)
Save to a Winter Tips or Homeowner Help highlight

Caption:

❄️💡Winter bills don’t have to be scary — a few simple tweaks can keep your home warm and save you money. Here are three easy energy-saving tips you can use all season:

1️⃣ Seal up the drafts
Check around windows and doors for chilly air sneaking in. A little weatherstripping or caulk can make a big difference in keeping the heat inside.

2️⃣ Adjust your thermostat
Lower it a few degrees when you’re sleeping or away from home. A smart thermostat does this automatically and keeps things comfortable without wasting energy.

3️⃣ Use curtains to your advantage
Open them during sunny hours to let in natural warmth, then close them at night to help insulate the room.

Small changes, big savings! Looking for a more efficient home next year? Send me a message!

#homebuyer #NewHome #homeownertips #dreamhome #winterhome #CITY #CITYhomes

Get Ready to Buy in January

Strategy + Why It Works:

Warms up early-year buyers: Gets people thinking (and prepping) before January hits.
Positions you as the guide: Shows you know the timeline, steps, and prep process.
Boosts DM conversations: Perfect CTA for starting buyer pipelines early.
Evergreen format: Reuse every December with minor updates.

How to Film & Create This Reel:

1️⃣ Choose a Trending Audio

Scroll Instagram Reels and pick a sound with the up arrow (trending).
Choose something calm, cozy, or “new year prep” vibe.
Text-only works great — no talking needed.

2️⃣ Film 5–10 Short Clips (2–3 seconds each)

Clip ideas you can mix and match:

You holding a notebook or planner
Typing on a laptop while looking at listings
Scrolling homes on your phone
Highlighters/notebooks for goal setting
A cozy winter desk setup
You pointing to text on screen
A “January” or “New Year” themed shot
Cute b-roll of houses in your city

Keep clips clean, bright, and vertical.

3️⃣ Add Text Overlays

Suggested slides:

“Get Ready to Buy in January 🏡✨”
“1. Get pre-approved”
“2. Make your must-have list”
“3. Start watching the market now”
“DM me to get your January game plan!”

Match each tip to the correct clip.

4️⃣ Write Your Caption (see suggested caption below)

5️⃣ Post & Share

Post to Reels + Feed
Share to Story with a poll (“Buying in 2026?” Yes / Maybe)
Save to Buyer Tips highlight

Caption:

If you want to hit the ground running in January, now is the perfect time to prep. A few simple steps in December can make your home search faster, easier, and way less stressful once the new year hits.

1️⃣ Get pre-approved
This gives you a clear budget and helps you move quickly when the right home pops up.

2️⃣ Make your must-have list
Location, size, style, commute, schools — knowing your non-negotiables saves a ton of time.

3️⃣ Start watching the market
Browse homes, track pricing, and get familiar with what’s out there so you’re ready to jump when January listings pick up.

Thinking about buying a home in the new year? Let me help you navigate the market and find the perfect place to call home! Send me a message and I’ll make sure you’re ready to go in January ✨

#homebuyer #HomeBuyingTips #NewHome #dreamhome #CITY #CITYhomes #MovingtoCITY #CITYrealestate #CITYrealestateagent #winterhomebuying