From Boutique to Viral: How Amy Barton-Cotney Built a 1.3M-Follower Real Estate Brand

From Boutique to Viral: How Amy Barton-Cotney Built a 1.3M-Follower Real Estate Brand

When it comes to real estate marketing, authenticity wins. And Amy Barton-Cotney is living proof.

Real Estate Excellence is proud to feature one of the industry’s most impactful voices in Episode 303. Amy is the Marketing Director at Roots Real Estate Investment Development in Auburn, Alabama—and a nationally recognized social media powerhouse. With more than 1.3 million followers on TikTok and over 300,000 across two Instagram accounts, Amy has turned content into conversion and personal branding into a business strategy.

This article uses insights from the full episode transcript at tracyhayespodcast.com/303.

What Sets Amy Apart

Amy doesn’t just post for attention—she posts with purpose. Her background in broadcast journalism and public relations informs everything she does, from her content flow to her message clarity. Her no-fluff, high-authenticity approach has landed her two $4 million listings from a single spontaneous video shot on her WaveRunner.

"I got two $4 million listings from a video on my WaveRunner. One little, simple, unedited video got me a lot of business."

Amy’s journey from boutique owner to real estate influencer is driven by connection, not just content. Her entrepreneurial mindset, storytelling skills, and deep knowledge of the Auburn market make her a sought-after expert both on stage and in the field.

Direct Quotes from the Episode

"I started focusing more on content that reflected my personality. That’s when the business started to shift."

"I’m not here to go viral—I’m here to connect. The followers came after I started showing up as myself."

"You can’t fake authenticity. People can smell it a mile away."

Social Media Authority with Local Strategy

Amy’s methods work because they’re rooted in relationship-building—not gimmicks. She teaches agents how to show up online in a way that reflects who they truly are while still generating leads.

Though she’s based in Auburn, Amy’s approach is highly relevant for agents in Northeast Florida markets like Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, and St. Augustine. Her strategies translate directly to the lifestyle-driven, relocation-heavy buyer base in those areas.

Real Stories That Deliver

In the episode, Amy breaks down:

• How she secured two luxury listings from one casual TikTok

• The social media routines that actually drive engagement

• Why overthinking kills momentum

• How to transition from content consumer to content creator

Real Estate Social Media FAQs

Q: What type of content works best for agents trying to grow?
A: Honest, personality-driven content beats scripted videos every time. Show your face. Share your life.

Q: How often should I post?
A: Amy recommends showing up 3–5 times a week in a way that feels sustainable—and real.

Q: Can I grow a brand in a small market like Nocatee or St. Augustine?
A: Yes. In fact, niche markets can make your content more specific, targeted, and trustworthy.

Q: How do I know if it’s working?
A: When people say, "I feel like I already know you"—you’re doing it right.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

Amy’s episode is a must-listen for any agent serious about building a presence in today’s digital-first world.

Follow Amy:
Instagram: @amybartonc
Instagram: @sweethomeauburnal
Facebook: Sweet Home Auburn AL
Website: amybcotney.com

🎧 Listen to Episode 303: tracyhayespodcast.com/303
📺 Watch more: YouTube Channel

Internal REE Episode: Drew Kazemba, Beaches Relationship Expert
Top Agents: TopJacksonvilleAgents.com

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