The Immediate Response (Within 5 Minutes)
This isn't a call. That is a text. If you call and they don't answer, you immediately send a text. It should be quick, professional, and prompt them to reply. Something like:
"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I just saw your inquiry about [Property/Area] and wanted to pair Are you free for a quick chat in the next 15 minutes, or would later today work better?"
This does two things. It lets them know you are responsive, and it gives them an easy "out" to tell you when to call. If they reply, great. If not, you wait 30 minutes and make the actual phone call.
The First Call (Within 30 Minutes)
When they answer, you need to be prepared. Don't just ask "How are you?" and then go silent. Have a purpose. An goal here is to qualify them and schedule a face-to-face meeting. Use a script like this:
"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Brokerage]. I appreciate you reaching out about the listing on [Street Name]. I wanted to call you personally to see if you have any specific questions about it, and also to get a better idea of what you're looking for so I can send you the right listings."
Then, shut up and listen. Let them talk. They will tell you everything you need to know—their timeline, their budget, their fears. Your goal is to get them to agree to a showing or a sit-down meeting. Don't try to sell them on the phone; just try to get the appointment.
The Value-Add Follow-Up (24 Hours Later)
If you didn't get them on the phone, or if they said "I'm just looking," this is your move. You need to send an email or a text with value. You aren't asking for anything; you are giving.
"Hi [Name], it's [Your Name]. I was thinking about our conversation yesterday. I pulled together a few properties that match what you mentioned, but they aren't hitting the mainstream sites yet. Here is a link to my custom search. Also, I attached a PDF on the local market stats for your neighborhood so you can see what's happening. Let me know what you think!"
This positions you as the expert. You are showing them that you were listening and that you have access to tools they don't. The is the "hook" that makes them want to engage with you again.
The "Breakup" Email (3-5 Days Later)
If they still haven't responded, it’s time to pull out the big guns. This is a classic script that works surprisingly well. It’s playful, honest, and gives them a reason to respond.
"Subject: Should I take you off my list?
[Name], I've left you a couple of voicemails and sent a few emails, but I haven't heard back. I'm assuming you're either working with another agent or you've put your plans on hold. If that's the case, I'll stop reaching out. But if you're still thinking about making a move, let me know. I'd love to help. Just reply 'STILL LOOKING' and I'll keep you in the loop."
This works because it calls them out gently. It gives them a low-pressure way to re-engage. You’d be surprised how many people reply to this after ignoring you for a week.
The Long-Term Nurture (Weekly/Monthly)
For leads that aren't ready to buy for six months, you need a drip campaign. Send them a market update every Sunday. Send them a list of open houses. Send them a "Just Sold" postcard in the mail. That goal is to stay top-of-mind. When they are finally ready to pull the trigger, they will remember that you were the one who consistently showed up.
There is no magic number, but a good rule of thumb is to follow up consistently for about 90 days. After that, you can move them to a "dormant" list and just send them your monthly newsletter or market stats. If you have a system in place, you can keep them in your sphere indefinitely. I know agents who have closed deals with people they contacted over a year ago. Just don't be annoying about it—space out your touches as time goes on.
This is a test. They are seeing if you are going to be pushy. The correct response is to be agreeable and supportive. Say, "That's perfect. I love working with people who are doing their research early. Let me set you up with a custom search so you can see everything that's available. No pressure at all—just use me as a resource." Then, you send them the search and look up in every couple of weeks to see if they have questions. This builds trust, and when they are ready to move, they will call you.
Text first. This is less intrusive and allows them to respond on their own time. If you call and they don't answer, send a text immediately. If you text and they don't reply, wait a couple of hours and then call. The key is to be persistent but polite. A text allows you to get the ball rolling without forcing them to have a conversation they aren't ready for. It's the perfect low-pressure introduction.
| Strategy | Cold Call | Follow-Up Call |
|---|---|---|
| Context | No prior contact. You are interrupting them. | They know who you are. They expressed interest. |
| Goal | Introduce yourself and gauge interest. | Build rapport and secure a commitment (showing/meeting). |
| Script Focus | Heavy on benefits and "why us." | Heavy on listening and providing specific value. |
| Tone | High energy, brief, apologetic for interruption. | Confident, consultative, and helpful. |
| Success Rate | Very low (2-5%). | Much higher (30-50%+). |