We’ve all sent “just checking in” emails that disappeared into the void. When we rebuilt our follow-up around short, plain‑text messages, one clear next step, and strong subject lines—and automated it in our CRM—our inbox placement and reply rates jumped. Below is the complete playbook: response‑worthy follow-up email templates for every stage of the buyer and seller journey, practical cadences, subject lines you can A/B test, and the automation tips we actually use.
Match your cadence to the stage. Hot interest deserves fast, frequent touches; cooler leads get more space. We automate these in our CRM and personalize as we go.
| Scenario | Day | Touch |
|---|---|---|
| New buyer lead (first 14 days) | 0–1 | Deliver requested resource + one question; bonus: 45‑sec video intro |
| 2–3 | 3 curated matches + ask for feedback | |
| 5–6 | Invite to a showing/open house; offer virtual tour | |
| 9–10 | Pre‑approval nudge with trusted lender list | |
| 14 | Market snapshot + “adjust your search?” | |
| New seller lead (first 14 days) | 0–1 | Deliver seller guide/CMA teaser + one question |
| 3–4 | CMA snapshot + offer in‑person walkthrough | |
| 7–8 | “Just sold nearby” proof + timing discussion | |
| 12–14 | Marketing plan preview + consult invite | |
| Open house attendee | 0–1 | Thanks + answer their specific question |
| 2–3 | 2–3 similar homes + schedule options | |
| 5 | Quick check‑in + invite to next open house | |
| Lost bid | 0–1 | Empathy + 2 similar homes |
| 3–5 | Strategy talk (terms/price/contingencies) | |
| 10–14 | Market update + new matches |
Use {placeholders} or your CRM merge fields (e.g., [FirstName]). Keep each email focused on one action. Many of these are designed as reply‑worthy, plain‑text messages.
Subject: Welcome, {First name}! Quick question about your home search
Hi {First name}, thanks for reaching out about homes in {area}. To send the best options, what’s most important right now: location, budget, size, or timing?
If you’d like, I can send 3 on‑target listings today. What price range and ideal neighborhoods should I focus on?
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Got it—does this match your wish list?
Hi {First name}, from what you shared, I’m looking for {beds/baths}, around {price}, in {neighborhoods}. Did I get that right? Any must‑haves (yard, garage, school zone) or deal‑breakers?
I’ll send a few options later today unless you want to adjust first.
Best, {Your name}
Subject: quick hello on your home search
{First name}, I recorded you a 45‑sec video: {Video link}. How buyers in {City} are winning right now (without overpaying).
Would a quick 10‑minute Zoom Tuesday or Thursday work to map a plan?
– {Your name}
Subject: 3 homes worth a look this week
Hi {First name}, here are 3 matches based on your criteria:
1) {Link 1} — {1‑line highlight}
2) {Link 2} — {1‑line highlight}
3) {Link 3} — {1‑line highlight}Which one should we tour first? I have openings {option A} or {option B}.
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Pre‑approval makes you stronger (and faster)
Hi {First name}, when you’re ready to move on a home, a pre‑approval letter makes your offer competitive and clarifies budget. Want a 5‑minute overview or a shortlist of trusted local lenders?
Reply “LENDERS” and I’ll send it now.
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Still house‑hunting, or press pause for now?
Hi {First name}, just checking in—are you still actively looking in {area}, or should I pause updates for now? If you’re still active, I can refresh your search and send 2 strong options by end of day.
What’s most changed: budget, timing, or location?
Best, {Your name}
Subject: {First name}
{First name}, have you given up on buying in {City}? If not, what’s the biggest roadblock right now?
– {Your name}
Subject: quick one—A, B, or C?
I know you’re busy, so I’ll keep it simple. Can you reply with A, B, or C?
A) Not a priority right now
B) Went a different direction
C) Still interested, just busyIf it’s C, want me to circle back next week or next month?
– {Your name}
Subject: Prefer a virtual tour of {Property}?
Hi {First name}, if in‑person doesn’t fit right now, I can host a live video tour of {property} so you can see condition, layout, and street feel. 15 minutes is plenty.
Want me to send times? {Yes/No}
Best, {Your name}
Subject: summary + next steps
The purpose of this email is to summarize current situation, capabilities needed, and next steps.
Current situation:
• Targeting {Neighborhoods} with {beds/baths}, budget around {price}, hoping to move by {timeline}.
• Biggest constraint: {e.g., sell before buy}; want to avoid {problem}.Capabilities needed:
• On‑market + off‑market search that fits your criteria
• Strong pre‑approval to compete without overpaying
• A plan to {bridge/rent‑back/contingent strategy}Next steps:
• I’ll send 3 matches tonight + a private list of off‑market owners in {Neighborhood}.
• Here’s my calendar for a 15‑min strategy call: {link}Does that match what you need? Did I miss anything?
– {Your name}
Subject: Confirmed: {Property} on {Date} at {Time}
Hi {First name}, looking forward to our tour at {property address} on {date} at {time}. I’ll meet you at {location/entry instructions}. Parking tip: {note}. Text me at {number} if you need to adjust.
See you soon, {Your name}
Subject: quick reminder: tour tomorrow at {Time}
See you tomorrow for {property} at {time}. Want me to add a second home in the area for comparison? Reply “ADD” and I’ll propose one.
Best, {Your name}
Subject: What did you think of {Property}?
What stood out at {property}? If you’re at 7/10 or higher, we can request disclosures and discuss offer strategy. If not, I can send 2 better fits today—what would make it a 10/10?
Want to chat for 5 minutes later today? {Calendar link}
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Join us: {Property} open house {Day} {Time}
Hi {First name}, I’d love to show you {property} this {day} between {time–time}. It has {top 2 features} and is well‑priced at {price}. Can you make it? If not, I’ll arrange a private viewing. RSVP: {link}
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Reminder: {Property} open house is {Day} {Time}
Quick reminder for {property} open house on {day} from {time}. I’ll be there—bring questions about comps, disclosures, and offer timelines.
See you there, {Your name}
Subject: Thanks for stopping by {Property}
Great to meet you at {property}. Based on your comments, here are 2 similar homes:
• {Link A} — {fit reason}
• {Link B} — {fit reason}Would you like to tour either this week? {time options}
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Not the one? here are better fits
Totally get that {property} wasn’t right. Two alternatives that address your feedback:
• {Link A} — solves {issue}
• {Link B} — includes {must‑have}Want me to book a quick back‑to‑back tour?
– {Your name}
Subject: quick check‑in + one question
Still planning a move around {month}? If your plans shifted, I can adjust your search. What’s one thing your next home must have that you haven’t seen yet?
I’ll keep your inbox useful. – {Your name}
Subject: I just tried to call you
Hi {First name}, I left a quick voicemail about {topic}. Here are 2 time options for a 10‑min chat: {Time A} or {Time B}. Prefer text or email? Happy to switch.
Best, {Your name} | {Mobile}
Subject: Want to see {Property} this week?
Hi {First name}, noticed you revisited {property}. Want disclosures, a virtual tour, or a quick private showing? I can do {slot A} or {slot B}.
– {Your name}
Subject: Should I close your file for now?
Hi {First name}, I’ll close your file unless you prefer I keep sending on‑target options. If you’d like to continue, reply with your current price range and timing and I’ll jump back in.
Either way, I’m here when you need me. – {Your name}
Subject: Your offer on {Property}: what happens next
Hi {First name}, your offer is in—great work. Typical seller timelines are {#} hours to respond. Meanwhile, I’ll prep docs for disclosures and inspection scheduling. Questions while we wait?
Best, {Your name}
Subject: We didn’t get {Property}—here’s our next move
I know that stings. Your offer was competitive; the seller accepted one with {reason}. Two similar homes worth a look:
• {Link A}
• {Link B}Shall we debrief for 10 minutes and refine terms for next time? {Calendar link}
I’m with you, {Your name}
Subject: Inspection day: what to expect and bring
For tomorrow’s inspection at {time}:
• Wear shoes you don’t mind for attic/yard
• Bring a phone charger for photos/notes
• Expect {#} hours; we’ll get a verbal summary on siteI’ll be there early to meet the inspector. – {Your name}
Subject: Your closing checklist for {Property}
We’re nearly there. Final steps:
• Final walkthrough within {#} hours of closing (I’ll schedule)
• ID + certified funds/wire confirmation
• Utilities and insurance effective on {date}Questions on wiring instructions or vendors? I can help. – {Your name}
Subject: Welcome home, {First name}!
Congratulations on closing! Attached is a shortlist of trusted local vendors (cleaning, handyman, locksmith, landscaper) to make settling in easier. If you need anything—from paint ideas to permit questions—I’m here.
Enjoy, {Your name}
Subject: Your home value at {Address}: want a deeper read?
Hi {First name}, thanks for requesting your valuation for {address}. The current range is ${low}–${high}. Updates, condition, and micro‑location can move the number.
Would you like a 15‑minute walkthrough for a more precise estimate and sale timing options?
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Just sold at {Nearby address} for ${Price}—what it means
We just sold {nearby address} at ${price}, {over/under} asking, in {#} days. Demand for homes like yours in {neighborhood} is {strong/moderate}. Curious what yours could sell for? I can deliver a no‑obligation estimate this week.
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Let’s talk about a fresh approach for {Address}
Hi {First name}, we saw your home at {address} came off the market—disappointing, we know. Often small shifts in presentation, pricing, or marketing change the outcome.
Open to a brief chat about what you tried and what we’d do differently?
Warmly, {Your name}
Subject: A simple plan to get {Address} market‑ready
To maximize your net, here’s a light prep plan:
• Declutter main living areas (we can send a stager)
• Fresh paint in {neutral}
• Minor fixes: {list}We can coordinate vendors and timelines—want us to handle this turnkey?
– {Your name}
Subject: signal from the market on {Address}
We’ve had {X} showings and {Y} saves in {Z} days. Based on that, the market is telling us {interpretation}. Two options:
• Adjust price to ${NewPrice} to catch this weekend’s traffic
• Hold and implement {staging/photo/tweak} firstWhich path fits your goals?
– {Your name}
Subject: Homes like yours are selling in {#} days
In {location}, well‑presented homes are averaging {#} days on market and {#} offers. If you’re considering selling in the next {timeframe}, a quick consult now helps you time prep and pricing.
Want to chat for 10 minutes? {link}
Best, {Your name}
Subject: Price drop: {Property} now {New price}
{Property address} just reduced to {new price}. Given its {feature}, it’s compelling against recent comps. Want to take a second look or run new numbers?
I can set a quick tour for {day/time}. – {Your name}
Subject: {City/Neighborhood} snapshot you can use
Here’s a quick {location} update:
• Median sold price: ${#} ({up/down} {#}% vs last month)
• Days on market: {#}
• New listings: {#}It’s a {buyer/seller/balanced} market. Want us to translate this to your situation? Book a 10‑min call: {link}
– {Your name}
Subject: 2 timing options to consider for {Address}
Based on current demand, you could:
• List in {near month} to maximize spring buyer activity, or
• Prep now and quietly test price off‑marketWant to weigh pros/cons for your situation?
– {Your name}
Subject: Could you share a quick review?
Hi {First name}, it was a pleasure helping you {buy/sell} at {address}. If you’re happy with the experience, would you mind leaving a quick review here? {Review link}
Your feedback helps local clients find the right agent. Thank you! {Your name}
Subject: Know someone I should help this year?
If you have a friend, neighbor, or colleague thinking about {buying/selling} this year, we’d be honored to help. Reply with their name and contact, or share my cell: {number}.
Appreciate your trust, {Your name}
Subject: 60‑second feedback?
I’m always sharpening our process. Would you share quick feedback? This 3‑question survey takes under a minute: {Survey link}
Thank you, {Your name}
Subject: Happy home‑iversary, {First name}!
Can you believe it’s been {#} years since {address}? If you’d like an updated home value or ideas for the next improvement with the highest ROI in your area, I’ll send it over.
Cheers, {Your name}
Subject: Happy Birthday, {First name}!
Wishing you a great day. If we can help with anything home‑related this year—market check, vendor recs, remodel ROI—just say the word.
Enjoy, {Your name}
Subject: Quick {Season} home checklist for {City}
A few simple tasks protect value:
• {Tip 1}
• {Tip 2}
• {Tip 3}Want our vetted vendor list for any of these? Happy to share. – {Your name}
Subject: Great meeting you at {Event}
Hi {First name}, enjoyed our chat about {topic} at {event}. Here’s the {resource we mentioned}: {link}. Would {Time A} or {Time B} work for a 10‑min call to see if {neighborhood/price} options fit your timeline?
– {Your name}
Subject: Best person to speak with?
Hi {First name}, quick one—who handles {relocations/corporate moves/housing benefits} at {Company}? We help relocating employees find housing quickly and would love to share a simple playbook.
Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. – {Your name}
Subject: should you use the builder’s lender?
Short answer: sometimes. Builders offer credits but rates/fees vary. Here’s a 2‑minute breakdown on when it makes sense and when to shop it: {link}.
Are you leaning builder incentives or weighing options?
– {Your name}
Subject: do you need an inspection on a new home?
Yes—ideally at pre‑drywall and before final walk‑through. I can share a checklist and two excellent new‑build inspectors if you want it.
Are you looking at any specific communities yet?
– {Your name}
Subject: best time to buy new construction?
Often: when a builder releases a new phase or needs end‑of‑quarter closings. We track incentives across {Communities}. Want us to flag the next release for {Community}?
– {Your name}
Subject: here’s the {City} buyer pack you asked for
Hey {First name}, here’s the {City} buyer pack: {link}. Curious—are you aiming to buy in {Month/Season}, or just getting a feel for the market?
– {Your name}
The best real estate follow‑up emails are timely, personal, and helpful. Keep them short and plain‑text, ask one human question, send as a reply when you can, and automate the cadence in your CRM. Use these templates as a starting point, personalize a line or two that proves you’re paying attention, and keep showing up with value. That’s how we turn “just looking” into booked showings, signed listings, and clients for life.
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