Ask HN: Is SEO a possibility for me?

I am a lifelong entrepreneur who has moved to Silicon Valley (Palo Alto) to sell luxury real estate and develop a strategy to angel invest.

This question is related to my real estate business: Is there a SEO campaign that can be created & sustained to give my website & brand prime visibility when consumer's search for bay area/silicon valley real estate?

It seems many of these firms are a scam.....How do I find an expert with integrity? How much of a monthly budget will be required?

Reading & being inspired by HN is one of the reasons I moved to SV, your wisdom on this question is much appreciated!