Preferred Vendor YOU CAN SAY Hi, (business owner). I’m (your name) with (brokerage name) and I’m creating a list of preferred business and service providers to give to my clients and include in my real estate marketing. Since my clients often ask me to refer a good (profession), and you do such great work in our community, I was calling to see if you are accepting new clients and if it would be okay if I include you on my preferred vendors list? Great! Thanks! Do you have any clients who are interested in buying or selling a home or perhaps investing in real estate? IF YES Great! What’s their contact information? Thanks! Anyone else? Anyone who is changing jobs/graduating/getting married, etc.? Great. Can I use your name? I promise I’ll let you know if they decide to use me as an agent, and I will take great care of anyone who is a client of yours. IF NO OK, I appreciate you giving it some thought! And if you think of anyone, maybe people who are changing jobs/graduating/getting married, etc., please let me know! I look forward to chatting soon. In the meantime, let’s connect. (Share the online platforms where they can find you.) Connecting with vendors in the community allows you to create a preferred vendor list of trusted professionals that will improve your overall service to your clients. Building a relationship with a vendor allows the opportunity to increase real estate referrals, as you and the vendor can send business each other’s way. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Another Agent Will Take Lower Commission YOU CAN SAY Thank you for bringing that up. Let me ask you this: Is it more important to you to pay the least amount of money in commission or to net the most money from the sale of your home? (Wait for them to say, “net the most.”) Great! My List-to-Sale ratio is (number), while the average agent List-to-Sale ratio is (number). Did (Agent Name) talk about their List-to-Sale ratio? (Most likely, they will say “no.”) Why do you think that is? (Because it’s lower, or they don’t know their numbers.) I pride myself on my List-to-Sale ratio. My experience and expertise give me an edge, which in turn gives you an edge. Let’s do some quick math, if you don’t mind. (Have the seller net sheet calculations handy and do the math.) If I sell your home for 97 percent of list price, even with my commission, you are going to net (number). If (Agent Name) sells your home at 94 percent of list price with (percent) commission, you are going to net (number). OR Thanks for bringing that up! If (Agent Name) won’t even negotiate for their own commission, how do you expect them to negotiate for the value of your home?” Your job is to show how selecting an agent based on lowest commission isn’t setting them up for a successful selling experience. Explaining the value of your quality of service, your list-to-sale ratio and commitment to netting the greatest profit from the selling of a home provides strong rationale as to why the seller should choose to work with you. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Starting A Conversation YOU CAN SAY Hi, my name is (your name). I’m a real estate agent with (brokerage name.) (Insert name of person that gave you referral) asked me to speak with you about your upcoming real estate needs. (Name of person who gave you referral) told me you are looking to sell/buy/rent/invest—can you tell me a little bit more about that? How can I help you? MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO MEET Great, I’d love to help you with that. I can see you today at (time) or tomorrow at (time). Which is better for you? IF THEY DO NOT HAVE AN IMMEDIATE NEED Do you know anyone who is interested in selling or buying real estate? IF YES Great! Thanks! Anyone else? Anyone who is changing jobs/graduating/getting married, etc.? Great. Can I use your name? It would be a privilege to take care of anyone who is a friend or acquaintance of yours. I’ll let you know if they decide to use me as an agent. If anyone else comes to mind, please let me know! Thanks! IF NO Thank you for taking a moment to think about that. I’d like to repay the favor. You know, I share updates to our friends, family, and past clients to keep them informed on the market. I would be happy to do the same for you. Can I verify your email address? Once you have established a sphere of influence who gives you referrals, you can begin to reach out to those referrals. The key to turning a referral into a new client is making a connection with them. You may even gain an opportunity to gain more referrals just from establishing that one strong connection. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Low Appraisal If the appraisal comes in at less than the contracted sales price: The sellers may be open to negotiation options that include a reduced sales price. OR The buyers might need to cover the difference between the loan amount and the appraisal amount to keep the loan value ratio within acceptable limits. YOU CAN SAY The selling price and actual market value of a home do not always align. On one hand, of course, we know that the value of a home is whatever a buyer is willing to pay for it, but we need to keep in mind that the buyers’ lender has a considerable amount of skin in the game. Until the mortgage is paid off, the lender actually “owns” a portion of the home and cannot approve a mortgage for more than the appraiser says it’s worth. Appraisals lower than the agreed-upon contract price are a reality in real estate. When you educate the seller about their options, you can help negotiate a solution. This ensures the seller is satisfied and the sale is successful. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

More Than Just the Compensation YOU CAN SAY If I’m hearing you correctly, you are concerned that I may only be working solely for the paycheck. I understand how hard it can be choosing a professional that you trust to represent you in a purchase as big as buying a home. I felt that way too! By signing a Buyer Agreement with me, it states that I only get paid if I help you find a home you want to purchase and the transaction closes. I will be committed to professionally representing you and providing the service, time, and attention it takes to find and close on the home of your dreams. I will be committed to protecting your best interests while minimizing conflicts, negotiating favorable terms, and ultimately providing the superior service that will make you a client for life. [give prior examples, show testimonials] I hope that clears up any concerns about my commitment to you during this transaction! WWB Buyers may be concerned that you are only in this “for the paycheck” and will not keep their best interests in mind. Having a Buyers Agreement in place that states that you will only get paid if you help the buyers find their home – and close on it – should clarify this concern. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Can’t We Drop The Price If We Don’t Get An Offer YOU CAN SAY That’s a great question, and if I were you, I would be asking the same thing. However, the best chance we have to net you the most money is to price it right today because unfortunately, as the number of days on the market increases, interest and showings decrease, and the likelihood of offers below asking price increases as well. Now that you know that, I am certain you will want to price it correctly so that we can maximize our impact on the market. Sellers may wish to sell their home above market value thinking that they can drop the price if they do not receive an offer. You can educate the seller about the importance of listing the home at market value to ensure it spends the least amount of days on the market. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Adapting Scripts to a Text YOU CAN TEXT These are suggestions to follow with a text message. You will want to determine your purpose for reaching out and change the messages accordingly. Hey! My name is (name) and I am a part of (company name). I’d love to chat about (your recent listing, CMA of your home, finding the right home for you). OR Hi, this is (name, if necessary). I wanted to send some exciting news. I am thrilled to be working in real estate now! There is so much going on in the market and would love to share. If you or anyone you know has an real estate needs I’d be happy to help! Give me a call when you get a chance. ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS If you ask targeted open -ended questions, you can better connect and gather more personal information to best service their needs. INCLUDE AN ITEM OF VALUE OR CALL TO ACTION A link to your website Offer them an updated Comparative Market Analysis. If they're a homeowner, offer them information of value, something in exchange for that conversation IF THEY RESPOND, "NO THANKS!" So nice to connect with you. Please do let me know if you or anyone you know has any real estate needs or questions about the current market, I’d be happy to help! IF THEY RESPOND, "I'D LIKE TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT ________.” That’s great! So nice to hear from you. I can certainly help with ________.” Most people prefer texts over phone calls. You can adapt your scripts to text messages and still be impactful. If you are concise, speak conversationally and make the message personal, you can expand your SOI and make a connection that could lead you to find a new buyer or seller. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

I Don’t Want To Meet In-Person YOU CAN SAY I understand that you're excited to start looking at houses. I'm looking forward to getting started with you. When are you looking to be in your new home? I find that meeting first to discuss your goals and create strategies to get you what you want makes for a more successful and less stressful process. We’ll only need about 45 minutes. My job is to share the tools we will use to identify all the available properties that best meet your needs and we’ll get started on the necessary process. The benefit to you is that it will save you so much time and stress and make sure you're ready to submit a winning offer when you walk into the home that you just know is the one. Can you see why it would be important to meet prior to us going out and looking at homes? I’m free this afternoon or tomorrow morning, which one works better for you? In a competitive market, buyers may be more focused on finding a listing that meets their needs than committing to one real estate agent. A great buyer consultation gives you the opportunity to educate them about the home-buying process, highlight your extensive knowledge of the market, and foster a connection showing you care about them and can be their trusted real-estate agent. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Educate Your Buyers YOU CAN SAY Committing to me as your partner in this home-buying experience is not you committing to purchasing a home. By signing a Buyer Representation Agreement, I am committed to professionally representing you and providing the service, time, and attention it takes to find and close on the home of your dreams. I am committed to protecting your best interests while minimizing conflicts, negotiating favorable terms, and ultimately providing the superior service that will make you a client for life. What I’m asking for is that same commitment for you to work with me. WWB Depending on your relationship with the buyer, there will be opportunities throughout the process for a substantive conversation about Buyer Representation. Refer to your state rules for specific timelines. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

The Buyer Consultation--Goal 1 YOU CAN SAY CONFIRM AND CLARIFY-- Use the information gathered during the Pre-Consultation as the foundation to go in-depth to understand the buyer’s wants, needs, and financial ability. (Buyer Name) thank you for trusting me to help you through this process. My goal is to provide you with superior service. To do that, I’d like to truly understand what you need in your dream home. I’ve prepared a few questions to gain some clarity around your goals. By working through them, we’ll save time by eliminating homes that don’t meet your needs. Let’s jump in! You said the location you are interested in is _______, yes? And your time frame is _____, right? Have you been prequalified or preapproved by your lender yet? And your price range is ______? You are looking for a three bed/two bath with a study, right? Why is that important to you? Your preference is a _______. Why is that important to you? Any existing home to sell or any other contingencies we need to be mindful of? DEMONSTRATE YOUR MASTERY OF THE MARKET-- Share your value proposition and demonstrate your mastery of the market as proof of why the buyer should commit to a partnership with you. In this price range, homes priced right are only taking about (number) days to sell and sellers are getting about (percentage) of asking price on average. The demand at (their price point) is high, so it’s typically the overpriced homes that are sitting on the market for long periods of time. In the price ranges (insert a range), the home you are looking at are selling (slower or faster), so don’t be surprised if it takes (less time or more time) to find the one. The Buyer Consultation is your opportunity to win the buyer’s commitment. Guide the conversation to build trust, present your value, remove objections, and assumptively close for Buyer Representation Agreement. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

Private Listings: The Principles of Supply and Demand SELLER QUESTION Why not make my home a private listing? YOU CAN SAY There are some rare instances when listing privately for a period of timemight genuinely be in a seller’s best interest. Often, it’s because the seller is a public figure or they have unique circumstances or sensitivities where discretion is preferred. And while we do offer private listings, from what you have said so far, it does not seem that marketing your home privately would be beneficial to you. Consider the simple principles of supply and demand—broad distribution of a listing maximizes visibility around a home and, in turn, the ability to generate your best offers. Even if you were to receive an offer on a private listing, you shouldn’t assume that you can’t receive a similar – and perhaps higher – offer from the open market. Educate your sellers on the simple principles of supply and demand and how broad distribution will benefit them in the sale of their home. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.

I Don’t Want To Sign YOU CAN SAY If you are unsure about signing this agreement, it usually means I haven’t answered all of your questions or there is something we haven’t touched on. I am committed to representing my buyers exclusively in order to provide the service, time, and attention it takes to find and close on the home of their dreams. What I’m asking for is that same commitment for you to work with me. I can show you any home on the market, no matter who has the listing. Doesn’t it make more sense to work with a professional who is committed to giving you the time and attention to find you the best deal? Buyers may object to signing the Buyer Representation Agreement (where applicable) when they do not understand the value and protections it offers. You can explain the benefits of the buyer’s commitment to one real estate agent and the value of working specifically with you. Next Previous You are free to use the recommended best practices in these materials for your consideration. These scripts are not intended to be used verbatim, and they should always be modified for accuracy. If you choose to make contact by phone or text (i) check phone numbers against the federal DNC registry, any applicable state DNC list and your company DNC list (ii) do NOT use autodialers and (iii) do NOT use artificial voice or pre-recorded messages, this includes those you haven't spoken to in a while. Emails must follow the rules. Emails must be clear it is a solicitation and provide the consumer with an opt-out. Also, before calling or texting referrals, those numbers need to be checked against all applicable DNC lists. Get prior, express, written consent before texting or using artificial or prerecorded messages.