Video content has quickly become one of the most effective ways to reach potential clients and establish credibility in the real estate industry. From YouTube videos to Instagram Reels, video helps you connect with your audience in a dynamic and engaging way.

But creating quality video content requires more than just recording – editing is what makes your videos professional, cohesive, and engaging.

While editing can be a learning curve, tools like Canva offer a straightforward way to get started, even if you have no prior experience. Canva’s affordable subscription plan allows you to create, edit, and export videos with a variety of effects, overlays, and transitions.

To get started, you’ll need a Canva Pro subscription, which costs around $13 a month. With this, you can access all the editing features, including animations, transitions, and video overlays. You can even start with a free 30-day trial to see if it’s the right fit for you.

When you’re ready to edit, head over to Canva and select the format that suits your platform:

• YouTube: 1920 x 1080 (Landscape)
• Instagram/TikTok Reels: 1080 x 1920 (Portrait)

Let’s go through the basic steps to edit your video clips and add enhancements like transitions, text overlays, and call-to-actions.

1. Upload Your Clips and Trim Unwanted Sections

Start by uploading your video clips to Canva. Drag each clip onto the timeline and trim the beginning and end to remove any sections where you’re setting up or pausing before speaking.

To trim:

• Hover over the clip until you see two arrows, then drag to cut the video down to your preferred starting and ending points.

2. Split Clips and Add B-Roll Footage

If you want to add variety to your video, use B-roll (secondary footage) to illustrate your points. For instance, if you mention how frustrating editing can be, add a short clip of someone looking frustrated at a computer.

To insert B-roll:

• Split the primary clip at the point where you want the B-roll to appear.
• Drag the B-roll footage over the split section. Ensure that it matches the timing of your clip.

3. Add Transitions Between Clips

Transitions can help make your video flow smoothly from one clip to the next. Canva provides several options, such as fades, wipes, and animations.

To add a transition:

• Go to “Elements” > “Video Transitions” and select a transition style.
• Drag the transition between clips and adjust its length to fit seamlessly.

4. Create Text Overlays for Names and Titles

If you want to introduce yourself or emphasize key points, add text overlays. Canva’s text tools allow you to customize the font, color, and style to match your brand.

To add text:

• Select “Text” from the side menu, type your content, and customize it. For example, add your name and title like “Jacob Sharman – Real Estate Marketing Expert.”
• Position the text where you want it on the video and animate it to fade in or slide out for a professional touch.

5. Include Call-to-Action Animations

A call-to-action, such as “Subscribe” or “Book a Call,” can increase engagement and drive viewers to take action. Canva offers various icons and animations for YouTube and other social media platforms.

To add a “Subscribe” button:

• Search for “YouTube Subscribe” in “Elements” and find one with a transparent or removable background.
• Add it to your timeline, adjust the size, and place it in the corner of your video. You can animate it to appear and disappear smoothly.

6. Add an Outro Screen for YouTube

End your video with an outro screen where you can promote other videos or invite viewers to subscribe. Canva lets you design an outro template with placeholders for recommended videos.

To create an outro:

• Design a still graphic in Canva with your brand colors, social media links, and a “Subscribe” button.
• Add this to the end of your video and set it to play for at least 20 seconds to allow YouTube to populate the screen with suggested content.

Once you’re happy with your edits, it’s time to download and publish.

To download:

• Click “Download” and select “MP4” with a resolution of at least 1080p.
• Choose all pages if you want the entire video or select specific clips if you’re creating shorter videos or reels.

With your video downloaded, you’re ready to upload it to YouTube, Instagram, or any other platform.

1. Focus on Simplicity: Use minimal effects to keep the focus on your message.
2. Use B-roll Sparingly: Overuse of transitions and overlays can distract viewers.
3. Consistency is Key: Commit to posting regularly; done is better than perfect.
4. Add Calls-to-Action: Encourage engagement by prompting viewers to subscribe, like, or comment.
5. Optimize for Your Platform: Adjust the format based on whether you’re posting on YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok.