The Digital Shift The emergence of social media has redefined how we connect, market, and grow businesses. Especially in the real estate industry, it has become a cornerstone for visibility, branding, and lead generation. But when did social media first appear, and how did it become a key tool for real estate professionals?
When Did Social Media Start? The modern concept of social media started with SixDegrees.com in 1997. It allowed users to create profiles, add friends, and connect in ways that prefigured today’s platforms.
Milestones in Social Media History
Let’s look at some significant milestones that reshaped online behavior and laid the groundwork for real estate’s digital transition.
| Year | Platform | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Social networking revolution begins | |
| 2005 | YouTube | Birth of video-centric content |
| 2006 | Microblogging goes mainstream | |
| 2010 | Visual content becomes dominant | |
| 2016 | TikTok (Musical.ly) | Short videos redefine engagement |
These platforms didn’t just change how people interact—they became essential tools for industries, especially real estate marketing.
Clarifying the Phrase: “When Did Social Media Get Started?” Although the phrase is commonly searched, the grammatically correct question is “When did social media start?”—a reference to the pivotal debut of SixDegrees in 1997.
Digital Culture’s Growth Through Social Media As social media platforms grew, so did the digital culture surrounding them. This revolutionized politics, commerce, interpersonal relationships, and notably, real estate marketing. Social proof, influencer marketing, and instant reviews became trust-building mechanisms in the digital age.
Social Media’s Impact on the Real Estate Industry Today, platforms like Facebook and Instagram play a central role in how real estate agents market properties and interact with clients.
What Social Media Trends Teach Real Estate Marketers To stay competitive:
Conclusion: Embracing the Digital Evolution Asking “When did social media start?” is more than academic—it’s a reflection of how the digital world has shaped industries like real estate. From SixDegrees to TikTok and beyond, social media is no longer optional for real estate professionals—it’s vital. Partner with experts to leverage its full potential and stay ahead of the curve.
Need help with your real estate social media strategy? Contact us today at +971 50 334 3063.
