F.O.R.D. Model YOU CAN ASK FAMILY How did you meet? (if you are meeting a couple for the first time) How old is your son/daughter? Do you have any siblings? Did you grow up in this area? What brought you to (name of town)? (If they didn’t grow up there) OCCUPATION What do you do for a living? How do you like working at _____? What’s your favorite part of your job? What made you interested in becoming a _____? Do you work remotely? RECREATION What do you like to do for fun? Do you have a favorite sports team? Have you watched (or read) ______(popular show/book)? What are you up to this weekend? Have you and your family gone on any recent vacations together? DREAMS Keep in mind that these questions often lead to deeper answers, so you may want to wait until you’ve established more rapport before asking too many questions related to this topic. Where would you like to travel? What’s something you’d like to try in the future? Would you ever consider trying _____ (particular hobby or activity)? Where do you see yourself in five years? What brings you joy? As a real estate agent, you want to master small talk, make connections, meet new people, be outgoing, and talk about real estate—without seeming pushy. The F.O.R.D model is a tool to be able to connect with people and naturally lead the conversations to real estate. 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.

Who Do You Know? YOU CAN SAY Hi, (name). This is (your name). I’m reaching out to share with you that I am in real estate and have joined (company name), a great firm in (location). I am affiliated with experts in the business and have access helpful resources. (Don’t forget about your potential for outgoing referrals. You can help anyone in your Sphere no matter where they live by providing a referral to a great local agent. Use this great script.) One of the reasons I joined (your office) is that we are part of a national and international network that allows me to help people I care about connect with a great agent. Regardless of where you are moving to or from, I have great connections who can help. Do you currently have any real estate needs? Are you interested in learning about market activity in your area? (Have needs) Great. I can help you with that. I’ll get back to you. (No needs) OK. I look forward to keeping you updated on your local market. Please reach out anytime. Do you know anyone who might be looking to move or invest in real estate? (If YES) Great! What’s their contact info? 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) OK, I appreciate you giving it some thought! And if you think of anyone, 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). Networking is an essential part of becoming a successful real estate agent. A great starting point is to reach out to friends and family to see if they can connect you with potential opportunities. Even if your network does not currently have real estate needs, they may be able to put you in contact with those who do. 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.

Introducing Buyer Representation 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. Depending on your relationship with the buyer, any substantive conversation within these steps is an opportunity to educate them on the benefits of being your client and the value you bring to the table by signing a 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.

Explain Buyer Compensation YOU CAN SAY As your representative, I want to be transparent about how Buyer’s Agents are paid for our services. Both the brokerage and I are paid on a commission basis. This agreement* states that I only get paid if I help you find a home you want to purchase and the transaction closes. Unless and until that happens, no payment is due. *Buyer Representation Agreements and rules vary from state to state. Check your local agreement to determine which elements apply to you. WWB Demonstrate transparency as one of the benefits of working with you by educating and preparing buyers for the various options in which your commission may be paid. 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 Want To Wait To Sell YOU CAN SAY (Make sure to update the script to reflect latest market statistics) The latest statistics show signs of potential shifts in the market. Existing sales decreased month over month for the first time since (date) and mortgage interest rates rose above (percent) for the first time since last summer. This data is important for you to know because it may impact the net amount you could receive for the sale of your home. My job is to provide you with the most updated information to help you make this decision. I'm going to provide you with everything you need to know. The benefit to you is having a complete understanding so you can make the smartest and most profitable decision. Can you see why this would be important? Sometimes sellers want to capitalize on the conditions of the market and wait to sell in order to net the most amount for the sale of their home. Your role as the real estate agent is to educate the seller on market data statistics to show them that waiting to sell may not be in their best interest if they want to maximize profit. 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.

Working with Another Agent YOU CAN SAY If I understand correctly, you are already working with someone who did not require you to sign something because the new rules had not gone into effect. You may feel that the agent you’re currently working with is giving you a deal and that signing an agreement with me is a cost you will not have with that other agent. It’s normal to be cautious of extra costs or contracts during a major purchase. However, that agent doesn’t have your best interests in mind if they are working without a representation agreement. Based on recent industry changes, MLSs in most jurisdictions require a signed agreement before I can show you any homes. This signed agreement doesn’t necessarily require you to pay “extra”– we can review the different ways I can be paid and find the right fit for your needs. Also, that other agent will expect to get paid for their services if they help you close on a transaction – with me, our agreement will spell out exactly what you can expect with no surprises. Can you see why signing an agreement with me could benefit you during this transaction? WWB If buyers were working with an agent before the new rules had gone into effect, they may not have signed a Buyer Agreement with them. Address the need to sign an exclusive Buyer Agreement with your client. 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.

Seller Listing Presentation YOU CAN SAY (Seller’s name), it sounds like we agree on the price and that I have answered all your questions. Is there anything we need to do before we get started? Are you ready to choose me to represent you in the sale of your home? (Always have a listing agreement and pen ready to go when you arrive at this point. Express your enthusiasm to be working on their behalf to sell their home). I’m so excited to work with you and (re-state their motivation) get you to your new job/in the new home in time for school/get you the money you want from the sale. (Confirm that they have made a great decision in trusting you to represent them.) Based on everything we have discussed; I think we will make a great team! Are you ready to get started? Knowing the flow of your Listing Presentation allows you to move directly to securing the listing from any point of your presentation if the seller expresses a desire to act immediately. You can build momentum toward this commitment by starting with open-ended questions, listening to the seller’s response, and then gradually moving to questions that repeatedly result in a “yes” to confirm the seller’s decision. 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.

Provide A Comparative Market Analysis YOU CAN SAY Hi, (homeowner name), this is (your name) affiliated with (company). I am contacting all the homeowners on (street name) to provide everyone with an updated comparative market analysis on their homes. This is really important because the value of your home has most likely gone up significantly over the last year due to the massive shortage of listings for sale right now, and a huge demand from buyers wanting to take advantage of low- mortgage interest rates. The median sales price and liquidity alone has increased over (percentage) since this time last year. And you can either take advantage of any equity you have built or profit from selling in the current market conditions. I'll research the most recently sold homes and what's on the market to determine the most current market value for your property. The benefit to you is that staying informed about the value of one of the largest assets you own is really smart. Can you see why this would be important information for you to know? If you give me a couple of details about your property, I can send out your updated CMA right away. You can prospect for potential listings by demonstrating the value of a homeowner’s home in relation to the current market trends. Utilizing a Benefits Statement in conversation demonstrates the value of a CMA to the homeowner and showcases your skillset as their potential 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.

I Want Everything Repaired! YOU CAN SAY I understand how you feel and the list from the home inspection can seem intimidating. Many buyers I have worked with have felt the same way. Home Inspection reports always have items that might be perceived as major issues. What I have found is that many sellers would prefer to give buyers credit for the repairs. If the seller were to offer a credit, what number would you be willing to consider? Many buyers want the seller to complete all the repairs on a home inspection report prior to making a purchase. Manage realistic negotiation expectations between the buyer and the seller and maintain a positive relationship with your buyer through the utilization of the Feel Felt Found technique. 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 A CMA YOU CAN SAY (Make sure to check the current market watch statistics about sales and inventory) Holding off on learning what your home is worth in today's market may impact you financially. Getting an updated CMA is important because market conditions are shifting rapidly and that could affect the value of your home. Last month’s statistics from the National Association of Realtors showed a decrease in existing sales and a slight increase in listings inventory. This could be an indication that buyers are getting tired of competing in multiple- offer situations and not finding listings that meet their search criteria. My job is to provide you with the most accurate data so you can know exactly how the value of your home has been impacted by the market. I just need a few details about your home, and then I can send you the updated CMA or drop it off to review it together. The benefit to you is having real- time data that will help you make informed decisions. Can we have a quick call tomorrow around (time)? It can feel frustrating when a seller states that they aren’t interested in a CMA, as home listings are historically low across the United States. Using a Benefits statement allows you to educate the seller on the value of a CMA and how it can help them to make an informed decision. 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.

Demonstrate Your Professionalism YOU CAN SAY Our next steps are to get together to complete a consultation and sign a Buyer Representation Agreement. I will send you a packet of information that goes into the details of the home-buying process and gives you a preview of the Buyer Representation Agreement that we can discuss to start the search for your dream home. I will send you a text with my contact information, so you have my number and name. Do you have any questions for me? WWB Let buyers know you’ll send your Pre-Consultation packet that provides more information about you and the process. 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.