Replying to an inquiry
This is {{agent}}, a real estate agent. You asked about {{address}} on our website, so I'm replying. Want showing times or the full listing details? Reply STOP to opt out.
Buyer lead not responding: 13 texts to send before you close the file
A buyer filled in a form, you replied, and now nothing. It happens to every agent, and the instinct is to send more texts or the dreaded "just checking in". These 13 messages do something else: explain why you are writing, ask one easy question at a time, share something that actually matches, offer a call, and end with a friendly last message. They keep a low cadence, include an opt out and respect buyers who already work with another agent. Copy any message, or add the whole pack to your keyboard and send it from iMessage, WhatsApp or any other app in one tap.
Works in WhatsApp, iMessage, Instagram, Messenger and every other app.
Words in {{double braces}} are blanks. In the textcuts keyboard you fill them with one tap, and the names you used recently come back.
First touch
Why I'm texting
You asked about {{address}} on a home search site, which is why I'm texting. If you'd rather not hear from me, reply STOP and I'll close your file.
Second and third touch
One simple question
Quick question, {{name}}: are you looking to buy in the next few months, or just browsing for now? Both are normal answers.
Do you have an agent
{{name}}, are you already working with an agent? If so, I'll step back and wish you luck with the search.
Something worth a look
The listing for {{address}} has a video tour and a floor plan: {{link}}. Worth a look when you have a minute.
A new match
A home just listed that fits the price range and bedrooms you entered on the form: {{link}}. Want to see it in person this week?
Changing the channel
Offering a call
Would a call be easier than texting, {{name}}? Tell me a time and I'll phone you, or we can keep texting if you prefer.
Lenders, if they want them
{{name}}, some buyers like to speak with a lender before touring homes. If you'd like the names of a few, I can send them. No obligation.
Offering a tour
I can show {{address}} at {{time}} on Saturday. Before we tour, I'll explain how working together would go, so there are no surprises.
Easing off
Did plans change
Hi {{name}}, did your plans change since you reached out? If you've paused the search, I can check back in a couple of months. Just say the word.
Easing off
{{name}}, I've sent a few messages, so I'll ease off now. If a call or a showing ever makes sense, text me and I'll respond as soon as I can.
Closing the file
{{name}}, I'm going to close your file so I stop cluttering your phone. If you ever want help buying, text me anytime and we'll pick it up.
Months later
Hi {{name}}, it's been a few months since you asked about homes. Is buying still on your mind, or has that changed? Reply STOP and I'll leave you be.
When to send each message
| When | Message | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Within 5 minutes of the inquiry | Replying to an inquiry | Between 8am and 9pm their time. |
| Day 2 | One simple question | One question. Or ask about an agent instead. |
| Day 5 | Something worth a look | Give a reason to reply. |
| Day 7 | Did plans change | Ask what changed. |
| Day 10 | Closing the file | Close the file, then stop. |
| 2 to 3 months later | Months later | Only if they asked you to check back. |
Do not say
"Last chance, prices go up tomorrow." False urgency is not a true picture of the market.
Instead: Share the actual listing and let them decide.
"Reply YES to keep getting alerts" to someone who never agreed to alerts.
Instead: Explain how you found them and offer STOP.
Four to eight texts in one day.
Instead: One text every few days, and a message that closes the file.
"Are you ignoring me?" Guilt does not get replies.
Instead: Ask what changed, and let them off.
"Do you have kids who need a school nearby?" Family status is protected under fair housing law.
Instead: Ask about bedrooms, budget and timing.
Pressure about loan approval based on who the buyer is.
Instead: Offer lender names if they ask, and give every buyer the same help.
"I'm your agent now, no need to talk to anyone else." It ignores their other agreements.
Instead: Ask whether they already work with an agent.
Sending outside 8am to 9pm.
Instead: Schedule texts for the morning.
Works in WhatsApp, iMessage, Instagram, Messenger and every other app.
Frequently asked questions
How many times should I text a lead who doesn't reply?
About four texts spread over ten days, a few days apart, then a message that closes the file, then stop. Many texts in one day tend to get complaints, not replies.
Do I have permission to text a lead from a website form?
Usually the permission covers what the form said, so read the form language for that lead source. When in doubt, say where you got the number and include a STOP line, and check with your broker.
What if the lead says STOP?
Stop right away and record it. A person can opt out in plain words, not just with STOP, so handle a clear no the same way.
Why not just text "checking in"?
It gives the buyer no reason to answer. A new match, a floor plan or a simple either or question does more, and each template here asks for one thing.
Do these templates work on the free plan?
Yes. 10 of the 13 use a single blank, which fills in on the free plan. The other three use two blanks and need Pro to fill both from the keyboard. Free holds 8 textcuts and 1 folder, so start with the six essentials. Importing all 13 also works, because imports are never blocked and nothing is deleted.