A Guide to Real Estate Signs for New Agents

Understanding Different Types of Real Estate Signs

Yard signs are essential for real estate agents as they directly advertise the property to anyone passing by. They're typically placed in the front yard of a property for sale or lease. Key features include the agent's contact information, agency branding, and sometimes a QR code for more details.




Open house signs are used specifically for advertising open houses. They are usually placed around the neighborhood to guide potential buyers to the property. Open house signs are often more temporary and directional in nature, featuring arrows and the date and time of the open house.




Directional signs help guide potential buyers towards a property, especially in larger neighborhoods or rural areas. These are strategically placed at intersections and key points on the route to the property, ensuring that interested parties find their way easily.




Branding signs are used to build the real estate agent’s or agency's brand in the market. They don't necessarily advertise a specific property but rather focus on the agent or agency's logo, contact information, and core services. They are crucial for long-term brand recognition and credibility.

Polishing Your Placement

To maximize the impact of your real estate signs, make sure to keep the following tips in mind:

Visibility: Place signs where they are easily visible to passersby, considering angles and obstructions.




Traffic Flow: Understand the traffic flow of the area – the goal is to capture the attention of as many people as possible.




Legality: Always ensure that the placement of your signs complies with local regulations and property laws.

Crafting Effective Messaging on Your Signs

Use clear and concise language. The message on your signs should be straightforward to read at a glance. Avoid overcrowding the sign with too much text or complex language. Remember, these signs should be readable from a distance.




Incorporate information and branding. Include essential information like contact details, website, and a call to action. Branding should be consistent in terms of colors, logos, and fonts to build recognition.




Use visual elements to stand out. Utilize high-contrast colors, large fonts, and images or graphics to make your sign more eye-catching. The goal is to make it readable and noticeable from a distance. It should immeadiately grab attention and capture the attention span long enough for the information to be digested.

Navigating Regulations and Legal Considerations

Understand local zoning laws and HOA guidelines. When placing real estate signs, agents must be aware of and comply with local zoning laws. These laws vary significantly from one municipality to another and can dictate where signs can be placed, how large they can be, and how long they can remain up. For instance, some areas may prohibit signs on public property or near roadways for safety reasons. In addition to local laws, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) often have their own set of rules regarding signage. These guidelines can be even more restrictive, focusing on maintaining a certain aesthetic or community standard.




Comply with fair housing laws. These set of regulations, established to prevent discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of dwellings, also apply to real estate signage. These laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. Real estate signs must adhere to these laws both in language and in the imagery used.




Think of your environmental impact. With every sign you put up, consider its environmental effect – use sustainable materials where possible and ensure signs are removed promptly after use to avoid littering. Corrugated plastic yard signs can be reused multiple times for years, making it a great option to leave a smaller environmental footprint.