Stop Sending “Just Checking In” Emails: Home Sales Edition — 22 Better Ways to Follow Up
Hi, it’s me again — just checking in. Following up. Circling back. Sound familiar?
If you’re in the home sales market, this follow-up opener is almost second nature. But here’s the thing: I never recommend sending a “just checking in” email. Why? Because they rarely work. These messages sound generic, create no urgency, and add zero value.
But don’t worry — following up is still essential. In fact, a thoughtful follow-up can increase your chances of getting a reply by 49%.
So how do you stay top-of-mind without sounding like every other agent? Below are 22 creative follow-up strategies — tailored specifically for the home sales market — that build trust, reignite interest, and move deals forward.
22 Alternatives to “Just Checking In” (for Home Sellers and Buyers)
1. Share a Helpful Tip Related to the Market
Template:
Hi [Name],
Given today’s market, I thought I’d pass along a quick tip many of my clients found helpful: [Insert 1-2 sentence home buying/selling advice].
Let me know if you’d like more insights on [relevant topic, like staging or competitive pricing].
Best,
[Your Name]
2. Send a Guide or Resource
Example:
Hi [Name],
Thinking of [buying/selling] a home? I’ve attached a guide on [relevant topic — like “Selling Your Home in a Cooling Market” or “First-Time Buyer’s Checklist”].
There’s a section on [highlighted topic] I think you’d find especially useful.
Let me know if you want to chat about this.
Best,
[Your Name]
3. Mention an Area for Improvement
Example:
Hi [Name],
Your property listing stood out — especially the [mention positive feature]. One idea to help make it even more competitive: [gentle suggestion like updating curb appeal, professional photography, or adding an open house date].
Would you like to hear how this approach has helped similar homes sell faster?
Best,
[Your Name]
4. Reference Their Recent Post (on Social Media)
Example:
Hey [Name],
I saw your recent post about looking for a larger space. Your comment about [specific] really resonated.
Here are a couple listings that fit what you described:
- [Listing 1]
- [Listing 2]
Want to tour one of them this week?
Best,
[Your Name]
5. Respond to a Question They Asked Online
Example:
Hi [Name],
Great question on [forum/Facebook group] about [topic]. [1-2 sentence helpful answer].
If you’d like more tips on [related topic], I’d be happy to send over a few resources or chat.
Best,
[Your Name]
6. Send a Blog Post Your Agency Just Published
Example:
Hi [Name],
You mentioned you’re looking to buy this fall, so I thought you might like our latest blog post: “5 Things to Know Before Buying in a Shifting Market.”
Page 2 has a great section on mortgage flexibility you might find useful.
Best,
[Your Name]
7. Invite Them to a Local Open House or Event
Example:
Hi [Name],
What are you doing this Saturday?
We’re hosting an open house at [address] — it’s a beautiful 3BR home that sounds like a perfect fit based on what you’ve told me. Would love to see you there!
Best,
[Your Name]
8. Share a Webinar or Virtual Workshop
Example:
Hi [Name],
You mentioned wanting to learn more about financing options. Our team is hosting a free virtual seminar next week on that very topic.
Here’s the registration link: [link]. Hope you can make it!
Best,
[Your Name]
9. Recommend a Book or Podcast
Example:
Hey [Name],
If you’re exploring real estate investing, I highly recommend [book/podcast]. The episode on [topic] is especially good — short, practical, and packed with tips.
Let me know if you want more recommendations!
Best,
[Your Name]
10. Mention a Competitor’s Move
Example:
Hi [Name],
A similar home on [Street Name] just listed at [$X]. Curious if you’ve considered how that might affect the value of your property?
Happy to hop on a quick call and discuss.
Best,
[Your Name]
11. Ask About a Common Buyer/Seller Challenge
Example:
Hi [Name],
Many of my clients have trouble figuring out how to buy a new home while selling their current one. Are you facing something similar?
There are a few options you might not have heard of — want to talk through them?
Best,
[Your Name]
12. Send a “Breakup” Email
Example:
Hi [Name],
I haven’t heard back from you, so I’m guessing now may not be the right time to buy or sell.
Should I go ahead and close your file?
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Follow-Ups for Past Clients or Cold Leads
13. Compliment Their Latest Blog or Article
14. Announce a New Listing or Service
15. Check In Post-Contract (If They Went with Another Agent)
16. Ask About Their Long-Term Real Estate Goals
17. Reference Industry Shifts (e.g., rising interest rates, local developments)
Follow-Ups Triggered by Events
18. Congratulate a Promotion or Life Event (e.g., “Congrats on the New Baby!”)
19. Reconnect After a Decision-Maker Leaves or Joins
20. Reach Out to a New Homeowner in the Neighborhood
21. Congratulate Them on a Major Home Improvement Permit Filing
22. Reach Out After a Funding Round or Inheritance News (for investors)
Final Thought: Stay Relevant, Stay Human
Stop settling for “just checking in.” When you’re thoughtful, helpful, and relevant, your follow-ups don’t just get opened — they get answered.
And in real estate, that’s the first step to closing deals.