Email marketing is one of the simplest ways to connect with potential clients and is a crucial component for growing your real estate business. However, it’s no secret that creating emails is just one of the many tasks that can eat up your time, and doing it half-heartedly will harm you more than help. That’s where real estate email templates come in!

A template can speed up your email lead generation strategy while reducing the amount of time it takes to craft them. We’ve compiled 28 templates to use for obtaining seller, buyer, and referral leads, among others. Feel free to use them as inspiration to really own your email marketing in the easiest way possible. We’ve also included some quick tips for crafting compelling emails that drive conversions.

Download All the Email Templates

Real estate email templates for sellers

If you’re a real estate agent and want to craft compelling real estate email scripts for sellers, you’re in the right place. Whether new to real estate or experienced, you’ll find valuable email templates to help you obtain new real estate listings by engaging potential sellers through impactful emails.

1. Discount broker objection handler email

This real estate broker email template for realtors is best used for homeseller leads considering discount broker services, but they may have objections or concerns about them. Using real estate coach Tom Ferry’s excellent discount broker rebuttal in an email format allows for a thoughtful and thorough response to address any potential hesitations or objections that leads may have.

This approach can help build trust and confidence with potential clients seeking more information or reassurance about discount broker services.

2. Newer agent listing appointment follow-up email

Drafted for newer agents, this follow-up email is best used after a listing presentation with a potential homeseller. It will be sent after a face-to-face meeting with a client considering selling their property. 

The email is best for clients deciding on a real estate agent to represent them in the selling process. It is particularly effective for communicating your unique selling points and capability to market the client’s property compellingly.

3. Open house feedback report email

After an open house, this email updates sellers about potential buyer feedback. It aims to provide detailed information about the impressions of visitors who viewed the property. 

This type of email suits seller clients who are actively selling their property and seeking transparent updates about its marketing. It’s vital to demonstrate to the seller that their agent is diligent and proactive in gathering feedback and trying to sell their property.

4. An ‘on the fence’ real estate seller lead email

This email template is best for reaching out to homeowners interested in selling their property but has yet to take the next steps. It works well in a competitive or rapidly changing real estate market where timing is crucial. 

Inviting them to explore the potential profit opportunity over coffee creates a friendly yet persuasive tone that can motivate them to take action. The implied urgency of acting quickly in a changing market can prompt homeowners to consider the offer.

5. Value-added follow-up email with seller 

When you contact a homeowner you’ve already talked to, consider sending a follow-up email with a personalized home valuation report. This email works best when your client is interested in selling their home and wants a real estate agent who can provide valuable insights and information. 

Sharing a personalized home valuation report demonstrates your expertise and dedication to going the extra mile for your clients, showing that you’re committed to helping them make well-informed decisions about their property.

6. Home valuation request email

When someone wants to know how much their home is worth, emailing a home valuation request can be very helpful. This attracts people who want to sell their home and know how much it’s worth. 

It’s essential to send this email quickly after getting the request. This email shows that you take their question seriously and ensure they get the information they want.

7. Listing presentation follow-up email

Best used after meeting with a potential client to discuss listing their home for sale, it is beneficial for securing that signature during the initial meeting. Compared to the second template above, this is best used by more established agents with a strong background. This template highlights the strength of your process while laying emphasis on the urgency to act sooner rather than later.

Related Article

The Complete Guide for Effective Listing Presentations (+Template)

8. Expired listing reachout email

Expired listings can be a great source for seller leads — if you know how to approach them. Best used immediately after a listing expires, this puts you top of mind while a seller is still motivated to sell their home. The key here is to show empathy while offering actionable steps to get their property relisted.

Real estate email templates for buyers

From initial inquiries to follow-ups, crafting the perfect buyer email templates for real estate leads can help you make a strong impression and provide valuable information. A set of well-crafted real estate email templates tailored for buyers will enhance your communication and improve your chances of making successful connections in the competitive real estate market.

9. Listings interest

This email template for real estate agents is best used when a prospective buyer has shown interest in a property listing, and you want to gather more specific information about the buyer’s wants and needs. This can help you provide a more personalized service and show that you are attentive to their needs, leading to a stronger client-agent relationship and potentially increasing the likelihood of a successful transaction.

Related Article

The Ultimate House Hunting Checklist for Your Clients

10. Open house follow-up email

After sending an open house flyer and hosting the event for a property you want to sell, use this email to reconnect with potential buyers who attended. It’s a great way to keep the conversation going and encourage those interested in the property to move forward with their purchase.

By sending thisvopen house follow-up email, you will continue to build a connection with these potential clients and provide them with the information and help they need to decide about the property.

Related Article

The 13 Best Open House Follow-up Email Templates (+ Writing Tips)

11. One-year follow-up email

This email would be best used approximately one year after helping a client purchase a new home. It is best for clients who have already completed a real estate transaction with you and are looking for further real estate opportunities. Sending this email demonstrates that you maintain an ongoing relationship with your clients and are ready to assist them with their evolving real estate needs.

12. Lender referral email

This lender referral email is best used when contacting potential homebuyers who have expressed interest in purchasing a new home. It is ideal for clients in the early stages of the homebuying process who may need assistance finding a reputable lender to secure mortgage financing. This email can provide valuable assistance by connecting clients with a trusted source for mortgage financing, making the homebuying process smoother and less stressful for them.

13. New lead follow-up email

The email from real estate coach Beverly Ruffner is best for reaching out to potential clients who have recently shown interest in your services or products. It works well for leads who have just entered your sales funnel or have inquired about your offerings. 

It works best when sent within 24 to 48 hours after showing interest. The email helps them remember your brand and stay connected with you at the start of your relationship.

14. First showing follow-up email

This email template for real estate leads is best used the day after showing a property to serious clients needing additional information or reassurance. It demonstrates transparency and a realistic assessment of the properties viewed, which will help strengthen the agent-client relationship.

15. Listings request follow-up email

This email template for real estate leads is perfect for following up with prospective buyers after providing initial listing information. It helps you understand your client’s preferences and tailor your offerings to their needs. This approach shows your commitment to meeting their specific needs and ultimately leads to more successful real estate transactions.

16. Second contact with a passive buyer email

This real estate email marketing template is great for following up with indecisive or hesitant buyers after an initial conversation. This email is important because it provides an opportunity to follow up and continue the conversation with the prospect. 

It allows you to address concerns, provide more information, and offer assistance to help them make a purchase decision, ultimately building trust and increasing conversion chances.

17. New listing announcement email for cold buyer leads

This email is best used for cold buyer leads interested in buying a home in a competitive market with limited inventory. It offers exclusive information about upcoming listings, which can appeal to buyers needing help finding suitable properties. 

By offering a preview of upcoming market developments, you will establish yourself as a trusted agent with valuable insider knowledge, enhancing your credibility with potential clients.

18. Renter converting to buyer follow-up email

This email is best used when a potential client wants to transition from renting to buying a property and fears missing out on a particular property or the opportunity to become a homeowner. It is most effective for first-time homebuyers or individuals strongly inclined to purchase their home. 

This follow-up email helps to address their concerns and provides them with the necessary information and reassurance to make a well-informed decision.

Related Article

17 First-Time Home Buyer Tips: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide

19. Low interest rates for home loans email

Sometimes, what’s holding back a potential home buyer is their capability of paying off a loan — which is why it’s important to let them know when interest rates are at their lowest. Best used when the market data shows a downturn in loan rates, this can push passive or hesitant buyers to take that step to buying a new home.

Real estate email templates for referrals, recruiting & more

Our collection of real estate email templates below is tailored to meet your specific needs and make your email outreach a breeze, whether seeking referrals, recruiting new talent, or engaging with clients.

20. Testimonial email

This email template for real estate is best used when you want to provide social proof of your services to new prospects. It’s particularly effective for B2B, professional services, and service-industry businesses. The real-world client testimonials help potential clients understand the level of service and quality you provide, making it easier for them to trust your business.

Related Article

14 Real Estate Testimonial Examples to Inspire Your Referral Marketing

21. Reconnecting with a past client

This is best for clients with whom you have a good working relationship and want to reconnect. It also benefits real estate agents who want to reconnect with past clients they have lost touch with. 

Reconnecting with past clients can help you find new business and referrals, which is an excellent way to build a strong network in your professional field.

22. Referral request email

You should send this email to clients or contacts with whom you have a good relationship. This works best with satisfied clients who appreciate your services and may have previously referred business to you. The email is an effective way to ask for referrals respectfully and professionally, leveraging positive experiences to grow your business organically.

Related Article

7 Savvy Ways to Get Real Estate Referrals

23. New agent recruiting email

This email would be best used when recruiting new agents to join your brokerage or real estate team. It’s ideal for contacting real estate professionals interested in joining a new company or exploring different opportunities. 

It would be especially effective for those who value mentorship and are seeking to leverage the experience and value that your brokerage or team can offer.

24. Annual home sales report email

This email is best used when you want to provide valuable information to your real estate clients, such as homeowners, potential buyers, and sellers, regarding recent home sales. It is ideal for clients interested in staying updated on the local real estate market and may be considering buying or selling a property soon. 

The direct nature of the email template helps to effectively communicate critical information without overwhelming the recipient, making it suitable for clients who prefer clear and concise communication.

25. Non-responsive leads email

This type of “non-responsive leads” email is best used when you have previously established a connection with the lead, but they have gone quiet and are not responding to your communications. Sending this type of email is an excellent way to re-engage with potential clients who may have become disengaged over time. It sets a precise time limit for them to respond, which can create a sense of urgency and prompt action.

26. Seasonal greetings email template

This email template is best used during key holidays and occasions such as Christmas, New Year, and other festive seasons when people are in a celebratory mood. 

It’s great to contact current and potential clients to express warm wishes and build rapport. Sending this email helps strengthen client relationships and show appreciation, which can be beneficial for maintaining client loyalty and attracting new business.

27. Newsletter email

The newsletter email is a helpful way for real estate agents to keep in touch with clients and potential customers. It provides updates on market trends, new listings, and community news related to real estate, helping agents build and maintain relationships with their clients. Use pictures, infographics, and quizzes. Put only a little info in one newsletter — instead, put a “learn more” button that links to your website for more information. Check out Close’s guide on newsletter ideas for more inspiration on how to create your newsletters.

28. Thank you email template

This thank you note email template is best used to express gratitude after a business meeting, assistance, referral, or after completing a successful project. It is suitable for all clients, including new and existing clients, business partners, vendors, and anyone who has contributed positively to your professional endeavors. Expressing gratitude helps to build and maintain strong and positive relationships, fostering trust and goodwill with clients and partners.

Related Article

13 Real Estate Thank-you Notes That Create Clients for Life (+ Templates)

Why focus on real estate email marketing?

Real estate professionals should embrace individual emails and email drip campaigns because it is fast, affordable, and easy to use. Create customized campaigns to reach different audiences, automate your sends, send spur-of-the-moment messages, broadcast your listings, and more. 

Email marketing consistently provides high returns on investment, generating as much as $36 for every dollar spent. When done correctly, email templates for real estate leads can help generate leads and clients on autopilot. It’s important to approach your email marketing with a clear strategy.

For tips and tricks to starting your marketing efforts and gaining email marketing contacts, read our complete guide to real estate email marketing.

Tips for writing highly effective real estate emails

Mastering the art of writing compelling and engaging email templates for real estate agents can significantly boost your real estate business. Here are some valuable tips to help you create impactful real estate emails that resonate with your audience.

Keep your copy short and simple	Use persuasive language	Remember to follow up	Try to tailor every email for buyers or sellers
Don’t use HTML email templates	Use playful language sparingly	Reuse and recycle your content	Don’t get too personal
Avoid using too much jargon	Pay special attention to your subject line	Track your progress	Use video
Create an outline before you start writing	Read your emails out loud before sending	A/B test your ‘from’ line	Include a clear call to action
Use the slide method to keep readers engaged	Highlight the benefits	Animated GIFs are your friends	Never forget who your email is for

Email marketing mistakes to avoid

Regarding email marketing, agents must avoid common mistakes that can undermine their efforts. In this guide, we’ll explore prevalent email marketing blunders agents should avoid to keep their campaigns effective and successful. Agents can improve their email marketing strategies and achieve better results by being mindful of these pitfalls.

Your email subject line sucks	Not letting readers reply
Overdoing it on automation	Not taking a mobile-first approach to email marketing
Not marketing to your audience in small groups

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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Bringing it all together

Templates make life easier — they save time, help hit all the right notes, and make a challenging task much simpler. Just don’t forget to add those personal touches, as it won’t land well with your readers if they feel like just an email address on your list! 

Got more real estate email lead generation tips, or do you need a specific template but don’t know where to start? Leave a comment below, and let’s help each other out!

The post 28 Best Real Estate Email Templates for 2025 appeared first on The Close.

Hosting an open house is an ideal opportunity to connect with buyers looking for a new home and sellers interested in listing theirs. To capitalize your lead generation efforts, you’ll need to capture their contact details — and this is where a readily prepared and complete open house sign-in sheet comes in.

Here are nine templates for your next open house, with the best use cases for each and extra tips to maximize your lead gen opportunities at open houses.

Basic open house sign-in sheets

• 

  
  
  Best for:
  
  Agents seeking a quick and efficient method to gather essential contact details

These are simple, but you can use their generic layout in various situations, such as community gatherings or networking functions. 

Here’s what goes in a basic open house sign-in sheet:

• Name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Address (optional)

If you expect a crowd at your open house, these basic, easily fillable templates will do the trick. This will minimize inconvenience and make visitors sign in immediately since you only want their basic information.

Detailed questionnaire sign-in sheets

• 

  
  
  Best for:
  
  Agents wanting to gain comprehensive insights into attendees’ preferences and needing beyond basic contact information

These sheets include fields for specific preferences besides the usual name, email address, and phone number. Questions may cover home type preference, a timeline for buying and selling, and whether they’re already working with an agent. However, some guests may be wary of sharing too much information in a publicly visible form, and others may not want to complete many fields.

Here are other things you can include in a detailed questionnaire sign-in sheet:

• What are your current real estate needs?
• What is your preferred neighborhood?
• How do you prefer to be contacted?
• What is your budget range?
• Have you been preapproved for a mortgage?
• Would you like to receive updates about similar properties in the future?

Gathering this information allows agents to customize their follow-up communication and property recommendations to align with each attendee’s preferences. This personalized approach increases your chances of converting leads into clients. 

Open house sign-in sheets with feedback

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  Best for:
  
  Agents wanting feedback about the property

These free open house sign-in sheets provide agents with valuable insights into visitors’ impressions and preferences. Questions include their interest in the property and thoughts about the home’s price and features.

Some questions you can include in this type of sign-in sheet are:

• How would you rate the overall condition of the property?
• Did the property meet your expectations based on the listing description?
• Was the property priced appropriately for its condition?
• What features of the home did you find most appealing?
• What other amenities would you like to see on the property?

All your guests’ answers can help you better understand what they’re looking for and improve future open houses. This approach demonstrates your commitment to visitor satisfaction. If you need more ideas to spruce up your event, check out our top open house ideas.

Open house sign-in sheets with a giveaway

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  Best for:
  
  Agents coupling an open house with a promotional giveaway

The strategy of this approach is pretty simple: Print a handful of these pages and cut them into individual sign-in sheets. When your guests arrive, have them sign in and drop their slips into a fishbowl.

When your event is over, call everyone. Tell the winner the happy news (and ask how you can help them with their real estate needs). Let every other attendee know about your next event and see if there are ways you can help them in the future.

Here’s what you can include in this type of sign-in sheet:

• An opt-in checkbox to give attendees the option to join the giveaway
• A section where attendees can indicate their preferred prize category, such as gift card or home decor item
• Ask if attendees agree to the terms and conditions of your giveaway or raffle

Digital sign-in sheets: Should you use them?

In short, yes. If it’s possible and you’re comfortable with it, it’s best to use a digital form. Besides being easy to use and better for the environment, it negates errors from illegible handwriting while helping ensure that all required fields are filled.

The benefits of using a digital sign-in sheet for open house include:

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  Accuracy and clarity in entries:
  
  People tend to type more accurately than they write. Figuring out an attendee’s name is a lot easier if it’s entered electronically.

• 

  
  
  Convenience for attendees:
  
  Most are familiar with the format and find using technology more convenient. Attendees can input their information quickly using touchscreens, eliminating the need for manual entry.

• 

  
  
  Faster sign-in processes:
  
  Signing in can be a lot faster when using cloud-based software — instead of giving everyone a pen and waiting for the sheet to pass around, attendees can do so from the convenience of their cellphones.

• 

  
  
  Streamlined follow-ups:
  
  Many digital sign-in sheets send a message automatically if the email contact information is incorrect, providing more accurate follow-up details.

• 

  
  
  Efficient transfer to CRMs:
  
  You can transfer the data easily to your CRM software. This seamless process saves you time and enhances productivity.

It’s possible to use Google Forms to set up digital sign-ins, but the easiest and most efficient way is to use dedicated open house sign-in platforms. Our recommended open house app for digital sign-ins, Curb Hero (one of our best open house apps), allows you to create QR codes for easy sign-ins — and it’s free to use for solo real estate agents!

When to use physical sign-in sheets

While digital sign-ins are gaining traction, there are still plenty of times when a good old-fashioned paper sign-in sheet makes the most sense. 

Physical sign-in sheets are your best bet if

• your open house is in an area with spotty or unreliable Wi-Fi
• you’re expecting an older crowd that might not be comfortable entering their details on a tablet or phone
• you want a quick, no-fuss setup — just print and go, no devices or apps required

Keep a stack of printed sign-in sheets handy as a reliable backup, even if you plan to use a digital option. That way, you’re never caught off guard if technology fails or a guest prefers to sign in with pen and paper.

Common open house sign-in issues & how to avoid them

We want to help you avoid the pit-in-your-stomach feeling at the end of an open house when you look at your list of attendees and realize there isn’t much to work with. Here are some common issues agents encounter with open house sign-in sheets and some solutions to help you address them.

Issue 1: Your sheets have illegible entries.

Illegible handwriting can turn valuable open house leads into lost opportunities. A simple way to avoid this is to provide sign-in sheets with clearly labeled fields and plenty of space for each entry. This encourages guests to write neatly without having to squish their writing into a limited space.

Also, consider placing a few high-quality pens at the sign-in station — people are more likely to write clearly when the pen glides smoothly. After the event, review your sheets right away so that you can quickly clarify any hard-to-read information while the details are still fresh in your mind.

This can still end up with errors though, so the easiest way is to utilize a digital form — this eliminates illegible handwriting entirely.

Issue 2: Your sign-in sheet is set in the wrong place.

If your sign-in sheet is tucked away or placed somewhere inconvenient, guests are far more likely to skip it. To fix this, set up your sign-in station right where it’s impossible to miss. While the entrance is usually the initial thought, it may be more efficient to set up in a receiving area where there’s more space — maybe the living room or kitchen. That way, you avoid crowding your guests at the front door.

Use an attractive table, a small sign, or even a vase of fresh flowers to draw attention and create a welcoming vibe. Positioning your sign-in sheet as the very first step not only increases the odds that every guest signs in but also signals that you run an organized, professional open house.

Issue 3: You’re not asking if the lead is already working with an agent.

You’ll want to check with prospective leads to see if they are already working with another real estate agent. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Code of Ethics states its no-client-poaching policy clearly. 

Even if you’re not a NAR member, it is common courtesy not to poach another agent’s clients. A simple yes or no on the sign-in sheet will give you a good idea of who’s eligible to enlist you as an agent.

Issue 4: You haven’t mastered the follow-up.

You should follow up with every attendee of your open house. After all, why collect contact information if you won’t use it to build your business? 

This process takes time, but it shows off your professionalism and dedication. Whether you call, email, or text, it’s a crucial step in taking advantage of your open house. Read our article on the best open house follow-up emails for more details.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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Bringing it all together

Open house sign-in sheets are an essential marketing tool for your business. With a prepared template and all of our tips in mind, you’re sure to get your open house off to a good start — just don’t forget to invite people to it first! Use our open house invitation templates to get people through the door.

Tell us about your most successful open house in the comments. What made it stand out above the rest?

The post 9 Free Open House Sign-in Sheets To Try This Weekend appeared first on The Close.

I’ve listed several open house food ideas (from savory waffle bites and whipped feta with honey dips to fruit nachos and puff pastry bites), refreshments, and even their pairings to enhance the overall impression of your event. I’ve also shared some dietary-friendly options for each item; you don’t need a separate menu to accommodate dietary restrictions — just a few well-planned alternative ingredients will make everyone feel included.

Most open house food suggestions below are mess-free and can withstand being out at room temperature. To help you further, download the food recipes!

Bonus: Download the Recipes for these Open House Food Ideas

Download The Close’s Open House Recipes

Savory bites

	What it is	Special dietary alternative
Charcuterie cups	Individual servings of meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit.	Serve almond flour crackers, seed-based crisps, or veggie chips, and use dairy-free options like almond-based cheese, coconut milk cheese, or firm tofu cubes.
Mini quiches	Small, flavorful bites that can be made in a variety of flavors, including vegetarian options.	Use almond flour or a gluten-free crust.
Caprese skewers	Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.	Make with dairy-free cheese, marinated tofu cubes, or avocado chunks.
Pinwheels or wraps	Sliced turkey, ham, or veggie wraps.	Provide gluten-free wraps made from corn, cassava, chickpea, or almond flour.
Mini croissant sandwiches	Croissant filled with brie and fig jam or turkey and cranberry aioli for a twist.	Offer a gluten-free bread or lettuce wrap alternative.
Cheese-stuffed mini peppers	A colorful and tasty option.	Use dairy-free cheese for lactose-intolerant guests.
Savory waffle bites	Mini waffles topped with fried chicken or smoked salmon and cream cheese.	Use almond or coconut flour to make a keto-friendly and gluten-free version.
Deviled eggs	A classic, crowd-pleasing option that is easy to prepare ahead of time.	Serve with dairy-free mayo (made from avocado oil or soy) or a chickpea-based or silken tofu filling blended with mustard, turmeric (for color), and vegan mayo.

Keep your open house spread mess-free and mingle-friendly with bite-sized, easy-to-eat savory food that doesn’t require utensils. Offer a variety of textures and flavors to keep things interesting — from crispy to creamy and spicy to mild.

Dips

	What it is	Special dietary alternative
Whipped feta with honey dip	A sophisticated, creamy dip that pairs well with crackers or crostini.	Use unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt and agave or maple syrup for a plant-based sweetness.
Pimento cheese dip	A Southern favorite that is both creamy and packed with flavor.	Make with dairy-free cheese and serve with low-carb crackers.
Buffalo chicken or French onion dip	A creamy, flavorful dip that pairs well with tortilla chips.	Use dairy-free cheese and serve with veggie sticks or gluten-free crackers instead of chips.
Smoked salmon dip	A rich and creamy spread that pairs well with crackers.	Make with dairy-free cream cheese and serve with gluten-free crackers or cucumber slices.
Chili cheese dip	A hearty, slightly spicy option that’s always a hit at casual gatherings.	Offer gluten-free tortilla chips, corn chips, or veggie sticks as dippers and make with dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream.
Spinach and artichoke dip	A creamy dip that pairs well with pita or crackers.	Use dairy-free cheese and serve with veggie sticks.
Mango salsa trio	Mild, medium, and spicy mango salsas with tortilla chips.	Serve veggie sticks or cucumber slices for dipping.
Hummus	A healthy option that caters to different dietary needs.	Replace tahini with sunflower seed butter or omit it, and serve with low-carb dippers like cucumber slices, celery sticks, or cheese crisps.

These are easy to serve and versatile, as they require minimal prep and can often be made beforehand. They encourage guests to mingle while snacking, creating a welcoming and social atmosphere.

Sweet treats

	What it is	Special dietary alternative
Gourmet popcorn	A unique, low-maintenance snack with flavors like truffle parmesan, caramel cheddar, or spicy sriracha.	Replace butter with coconut oil, olive oil, or vegan butter, and use dairy-free caramel or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Mini fruit tarts	A fresh and colorful dessert that adds elegance to the spread.	Make with almond flour crust and coconut cream filling.
Yogurt parfait cups	Individual cups with layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit.	Use coconut or almond yogurt with gluten-free granola.
Puff pastry bites	Light, flaky, and easy-to-eat puff pastries with chocolate or fruits.	Serve a gluten-free puff pastry with dairy-free chocolate.
Fruit nachos	Fruit slices topped with crunchy granola, nuts, and chocolate or caramel drizzle.	Replace chocolate or caramel with maple syrup or honey, and use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Cookies and macarons	Easy-to-eat desserts that many love.	Offer almond flour-based macarons or vegan cookies.
Chocolate-covered strawberries	A visually appealing and elegant dessert that requires no plates or utensils.	Use dairy-free dark chocolate.
Brownie bites	Pre-cut, small portions make them easy to enjoy.	Serve flourless brownies or use oat flour for a gluten-free choice.

Sweets add a touch of indulgence to your open house. Many can be made ahead of time, and they balance out savory options, creating a well-rounded and inviting food spread.

Drinks

	What it is	Special dietary alternative
Signature drink	A custom non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink adds a memorable touch to the event.	Use sugar-free options like stevia or monk fruit and non-dairy milk or coconut milk.
Infused water	A refreshing, upscale alternative to plain water.	Avoid added sugars.
Iced tea with fresh herbs	A twist to regular iced tea.	Offer unsweetened, but provide honey or agave on the side.
Arnold Palmer (half tea, half lemonade)	A well-balanced drink that suits a variety of tastes.	Use fresh lemon juice with sparkling water or black or green iced tea with no added sugar for a low-carb base.
Coffee and tea	A must-have for morning or afternoon events, ensuring guests stay energized	Serve unsweetened, with optional sugar-free sweeteners and dairy-free creamers.
Hot chocolate bar	Perfect for winter open houses, offering toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and cinnamon.	Provide oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk alternatives, and use dairy-free whipped cream.
Apple cider (hot or iced)	A great seasonal option for fall and winter open houses.	Make with fresh, pressed apples or unsweetened apple juice.
Mimosa, gin and tonic, or sparkling juice bar	A self-serve station with champagne, gin, fresh herbs, sparkling water, and fruit juices lets guests customize their drinks.	Replace champagne or gin with sparkling water, zero-proof alcohol, or botanical-infused mocktail spirits, and use no-sugar-added juice.

Refreshments, whether alcoholic or not, are great for keeping guests hydrated, complementing the food, and enhancing the overall experience. A mix of beverages — from water and juices to cocktails and mocktails — ensures there’s something for everyone and encourages guests to linger and mingle.

Food and drink pairings

I’ve shared pairings based on the open house food suggestions and refreshment options above to help you ensure your event creates a memorable experience for your guests.

Tips on choosing the food and beverages

When going over your open house menu ideas, choosing the right one depends on several factors, including the style or theme, the time of day, and the season.

1. Provide easy-to-eat and mess-free food

• 

  
  
  Choose bite-sized or handheld food:
  
  Serve mini croissant sandwiches, charcuterie cups, and stuffed pastries since those make it easy for guests to eat while mingling.

• 

  
  
  Avoid messy dishes:
  
  Stay away from food that drips or requires utensils, like saucy pasta or soup. Instead, serve items in cups and on skewers.

2. Consider the style or theme

• 

  
  
  Match the spread to the occasion:
  
  Go with finger food for a casual gathering and plated appetizers or elegant bites for an upscale event.

• 

  
  
  Stick to the theme:
  
  Incorporate food that aligns with the theme, like mini tacos for a fiesta or charcuterie cups for a wine-tasting event.

3. Factor in the time of day and season

• 

  
  
  Match the spread to the time of day and season.:
  
  

• Morning: Opt for mini pastries, fruit, yogurt parfaits, coffee, and juices.
• Afternoon: Serve mini croissant sandwiches and refreshing juices or infused waters.
• Evening: Go with waffle bites, dips, bite-sized desserts, and even alcoholic drinks.
• Spring: Choose light and fresh items like salmon with cream cheese or cucumber dips.
• Summer: Provide refreshing treats such as fruit skewers, mango salsa trios, and iced tea stations.
• Fall: Offer cozy bites like whipped feta with honey dips, savory waffle bites, and warm apple cider.
• Winter: Serve hearty food such as mini pot pies, baked brie, and hot chocolate bars.

4. Choose unique but simple spreads

• 

  
  
  Add a twist to classic dishes:
  
  Elevate familiar choices with unexpected ingredients, like waffle bites with smoked salmon or stuffed mini peppers with feta and olives.

• 

  
  
  Opt for easy-to-prepare food:
  
  Go with dishes you can prep in advance, such as charcuterie boards and dips with veggie dippers.

5. Provide a mix of flavors and dietary options

• 

  
  
  alance sweet and savory:
  
  Pair salty snacks with sweet treats like cheese-stuffed mini peppers with fruit nachos.

• 

  
  
  Provide options for different diets:
  
  Serve at least one vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free choice, like caprese skewers or hummus with veggie sticks.

Benefits of offering special dietary options at your open house

Boosts your professional reputation

• Reflects your attention to detail and hospitality and positions you as client-focused, reinforcing trust and credibility.
• Shows your awareness of modern food preferences, appealing to a diverse audience.
• Demonstrates that you care all your guests feel valued.

Increases engagement

• Can become a talking point among guests as more people are adopting plant-based, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.
• Encourages social media sharing — guests might snap a picture of your well-labeled spread and tag you.
• Makes your event stand out, leading to better word-of-mouth recommendations.

Encourages longer visits

• Encourages guests to explore the property more since they can comfortably eat and drink.
• Keeps potential buyers engaged and positive while touring the property.
• Allows guests to mingle and connect, increasing the chances of meaningful conversations.

Tips on presenting the food and refreshments

How you present food and drink at an open house can make a big difference in guest experience and overall atmosphere.

• Choose individual or pre-packaged servings. Doing so helps keep everything more sanitary and may encourage attendees to indulge. Look around the home for any wrappers or packaging left behind by guests.
• Use a grab-and-go style setup. Guests may not initially want to take any food or drink you’re offering. However, they may change their mind on the way out. A grab-and-go setup allows for easy access, as anyone coming or going can quickly take what they’d like. 
• Display allergen and alcohol disclaimers next to the food and drink. It’s impossible to know the dietary restrictions of all your guests, so if you’re providing food with common allergens or alcohol in drinks, be sure to have a label making guests aware (e.g., “Contains Nuts” or “Dairy-Free”).
• Customize napkins, coasters, drink stirrers, or bottles. Add your branding to tray liners or stickers on takeaway containers, which can help you stand out among the other properties that your guests may be seeing that day. For instance, if they take a water bottle with your contact info on it, they may be more likely to remember your listing or reach out with questions.

FAQs

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The final walkthrough

Refreshments and food for an open house create a welcoming atmosphere, encourage guests to stay longer, and make the event more enjoyable. Easy-to-eat, mess-free options keep things convenient, while a variety of flavors and dietary choices ensure there’s something for everyone. Inform the homeowner what food you’ll provide — and make it your goal to leave the property in the same or better condition than when you arrived.

What do you usually serve at an open house? Let us know in the comments.

The post 32 Open House Food Ideas, Recipes & Pairings To Sell Listings appeared first on The Close.

If you’re still using pen and paper as sign-in sheets for your open houses, it’s time to step out of the Stone Age! With the best open house apps now available, you’ll be able to better market your properties, streamline the sign-in process, and capture more data for quality leads. With that being said, I’ve listed the best open house apps below to help you grow your real estate business. 

• Spacio (by HomeSpotter): Best for lead generation
• Curb Hero: Best digital sign-in sheets
• Open House Wizard: Best for identifying quality leads
• Open Home Pro: Best simple free platform
• Happy Open House: Best for quick setup

The Close’s picks for best open house apps

1. Spacio (by HomeSpotter): Best for lead generation

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  Starts at $25 a month (14-day free trial)

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  

What is the Spacio app?

Spacio is a game-changer for real estate agents looking to streamline their open house process and capture more leads. It can be used to capture more than just basic contact information for your open house attendees, such as social media information, which you can use to nurture these leads in the long run. Combine it with the ability to send email updates and have automated follow-ups, Spacio is an app designed to help you generate as many leads as possible.

Notable features

Spacio comes loaded with a ton of features that can help with lead generation. Here are just a few notable items that can help you accomplish this:

• Automated follow-ups: As a real estate agent, it’s easy to let things slip through the cracks. Give yourself one less thing to worry about by allowing Spacio to automate emails to follow up with leads. Spacio can also be integrated with existing CRMs to easily import data for your existing contacts. 
• Report creation: Keep your seller apprised of the effectiveness of open houses with visually stunning reports showing data on the number of attendees, lead status, and more. 
• Email lists and updates: Capture the attention of those who have previously attended your open houses by notifying them of new properties and other updates that may be of interest to them. 
• Capture social profile data: Spacio allows you to capture the social media information of your open house attendees, giving you another platform to connect and build more meaningful relationships. 
• Custom registration forms: Customized sign-in sheets can allow you to capture the data you want for in-person and virtual open house events.

2. Curb Hero: Best digital sign-in sheets

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  Free for solo agents

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  

What is the Curb Hero app?

Elevate your open house game with Curb Hero. This sign-in open house app is becoming extremely popular with agents, and it’s easy to see why. For starters, it’s 100% free for agents. That’s right, free! The app offers branded templates for popular brokerages like Compass, Century 21, and Keller Williams with automated follow-up to keep your leads engaged.

Notable features

Capturing contact info from open house attendees may seem simple — however, it often comes with challenges like making sense of illegible handwriting, fumbling with pens or pencils, or dealing with downtime due to unreliable internet access. Here are some features Curb Hero has developed to eliminate those headaches.

• No requirement for internet access: When you’re working at a client’s home, it’s hard to say how reliable internet access can be. It can even be hit-or-miss if you use your own mobile hotspot or cell service. Fortunately, Curb Hero’s sign-in functionality does not require an internet connection. 
• QR code sign-ins: Make the registration process fast and easy for your guests by allowing them to simply scan a QR code. That’s right. No more dealing with illegible handwriting from using pen and paper, or needing to hover over them to walk them through the process.  
• Microsite marketing: Market individual properties with Curb Hero’s microsite functionality, optimized for convenient viewing on mobile devices and social media sites. 
• Data collection & verification: Curb Hero’s lead capture service includes built-in verification and background info collection. It also integrates with over 6,000+ CRMs and marketing tools to allow for multiple ways to follow up with your leads.

3. Open House Wizard: Best for identifying quality leads

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  $0 to $150+ (14-day free trial)

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  

What is the Open House Wizard app?

Open House Wizard is my pick for the best app to help you identify quality leads. A big reason it makes this possible is that it makes open houses a breeze with open house checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked. With this in mind, Open House Wizard has the functionality to identify leads that are more likely than others to purchase a house in the near future. Tools like email tracking can also help you figure out how interested your open house attendees are.

Notable features

Quality leads can be just as important, if not more important, than getting a large quantity of leads. To this point, Open House Wizard helps you convert your leads with features like mini property marketing sites, flyers, daily visitor reports, and more. 

• Hot lead notifications: Those who visit your open house can exhibit certain characteristics that suggest they are highly likely or very interested in purchasing a property. Examples include those who have attended multiple or previous open houses, which can be flagged as hot leads. 
• AI-powered tools: Powered by OpenAI, you can utilize a text chatbot for visitor registration, create open house flyers, get assistance with emails, quickly generate open house forms, collect visitor feedback, and more. 
• Integrated disclosures: Seamlessly integrate disclosures as part of the guest sign-in process for their acceptance and signature. 
• Email tracking: Determine the effectiveness of your open house campaign as well as the interest level of visitors by getting notifications whenever emails are delivered and read.

4. Open Home Pro: Best simple free platform

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  Free; paid version for $20 per month if billed annually

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  

What is the Open Home Pro app?

Previously acquired by Placester, Open Home Pro is one of the first open house sign-in apps used by more than 90,000 agents. If you want to avoid the headache of trying to understand or figure out how to integrate multiple features into your business model, Open Home Pro is an excellent choice to consider because it really just focuses on having a digital sign-in sheet for open houses.

The best part? Pricing starts free, and you can always level up to the paid version if you’re looking for premium marketing and lead follow-up features!

Notable features

If you’re just looking for a simple, no-frills platform, Open Home Pro is an excellent option to consider for just getting your feet wet in this new era of real estate tech apps! In addition to being able to integrate with your preferred CRMs, the free version lets you use a digital sign-in sheet for an unlimited number of open houses, create single-property websites for marketing, and provides the ability to share to social media. 

Although not a comprehensive list of features, the paid version provides the following notable functionality:

• Custom sign-in questions: Ditch the standard list of questions and have your clients answer the questions you’re really burning to know! Custom questions can include options for multiple choice, yes/no, and plain text responses. 
• Personalized email branding: Stand out from the competition by having your emails customized with your company branding!
• Automated follow-ups: Save time from having to follow up with individual clients with the use of automated emails. 
• Seller summary reports: Keep your sellers updated as to the effectiveness of the open house events with reports that show details on each individual visitor.

5. Happy Open House: Best for quick setup

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  Starts at $10 a month (14-day free trial)

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  

What is the Happy Open House app?

As a real estate agent, your time is valuable! That’s why I love Happy Open House’s app. You can sign up for the service in a matter of seconds, with only another few minutes to complete set up. After that, you’ll be on your way, and you can focus on other tasks! You’ll be able to bring your open house ideas to life with the app’s intuitive setup, which allows you to include property details and photos and customize questions for your visitors.

Additionally, while there is no free version of the app, there is a 14-day free trial, and you can sign up without needing to provide a credit card.

Notable features

If you want to level up your business without spending too much time, Happy Open House can get you up and running with its platform in a matter of minutes. Despite being able to get set up quickly, you’ll still have access to a number of useful features, such as:

• QR code and custom sign-in questions: Allow your open house guests to quickly sign in by scanning a QR code, and get answers to questions specific to your property and seller’s needs with custom registration questions. 
• Hot lead indicators: Quickly identify motivated buyers with reports that show who has visited a property more than once. 
• Bulk emails: Easily notify leads of updates or news with mass email messaging. 
• Seller reports: Keep your sellers happy with regular reporting that contains details of the foot traffic they’re getting from the open houses. 
• CRM integration: Automatically add and sync contacts from your existing CRM, marketing platform, or other similar app.

Honorable mentions

These last three programs are worth mentioning, even though an app isn’t available. They may not be widely known, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make a big impact on your business. Take a look at these web-based products to see if any of them are right for your business.

Showable

• 

  
  
  Best for:
  
  Maximizing showings

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  $0, $9, or $29 per month

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  Web Only

What is the Showable app?

Showable is your new secret weapon for killer open houses! This open house app includes all of the perks and simplicity of digital sign-in with the added benefits of appointment scheduling, virtual tours, email templates, and marketing.

Showable features that make open houses easier

Showable handles follow-ups for you, so staying in touch with potential clients is a snap. Connect with agents who have shown the home by sending broadcast emails directly from your dashboard. Agents can also request showing appointments quickly through an online booking calendar, making scheduling showings hassle-free.

Kagent

• 

  
  
  Best for:
  
  Showing feedback

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  $25 per month

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  Web Only

What is the Kagent app?

Kagent is an excellent tool to use if you want feedback from your open house attendees. This is something you can use to boost attendance and enhance your visitors’ open house experience. With QR code functionality, attendees can quickly and easily register and access your custom surveys.  And, because Kagent sponsors a prize drawing (at no cost to you), they’ll have an incentive to register using your QR code.

Kagent features that make open houses easier

Kagent simplifies open houses with QR code generation, quick surveys, and a streamlined design. It took me less than five minutes to assemble an open house sign-in sheet, including setting up my account. Kagent connects with over 3,000 CRMs and other real estate tools. The standard version of Kagent is free for 1 month, after which pricing starts at $25 monthly.

Real Team Code

• 

  
  
  Best for:
  
  One-click reports

• 

  
  
  Pricing:
  
  Starts at $20 a month (billed annually)

• 

  
  
  Available on:
  
  Web Only

What is the Real Team Code app?

Generating reports with the data you need is often a time-consuming and tedious process. However, Real Team Code simplifies that and allows for one-click reports through the regular use of its platform. Once all of the sign-in data for an open house event has been collected, you can easily download the information and generate reports catered to your specific audience, whether it be sellers, team leads, or brokers.

Real Team Code features that make open houses easier

Coordinate with agents, gather feedback from visitors, and handle other essential tasks related to hosting a successful open house. Step One? Create your event. Step Two? Manage communications and collect information. Step Three? Download the data and generate reports. Everything you need for a successful open house and lead generation is at your fingertips.

Methodology: How I chose the best open house apps

In selecting the best open house apps real estate agents can use to get more leads, the methodology at The Close considered factors that would ultimately increase your odds of becoming a successful real estate agent. Having more leads is key to eventually landing a client, so you’ll want as many opportunities as you can get when it comes to finding and nurturing potential business relationships.

The factors I considered when researching open house apps centered around the potential return on investment, likelihood of generating leads, amount of time needed to learn or set up the model, as well as what its current and former customers have thought of the platform. 

Here are the factors I looked into:

• Affordability
  • I don’t know about you, but price is often one of the first things I look at for a new product or service! That’s because I know there’s always a small risk that I might not get enough value for what I pay for.
• Features
  • I evaluated the specific set of features offered by various open house apps in determining how they compared with competitors, and whether they’d give an agent a leg up in the industry. 
• Ease of use
  • Time is money! The easier an app is to use, the less time you’ll need to spend setting it up, and the more you can focus on other aspects of your business.
• User reviews and ratings
  • Probably one of the best ways to get an idea of what your experience will be with an app is to see what current and former users have to say about it.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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Bringing it all together

Hosting an open house should be fun and focused on building relationships to sell your listing. Ditch the old-school pen and paper that can get lost and messy. Open house apps allow agents — both tech-savvy and not — to get quality contact info and feedback while spending more time getting to know potential clients.

What open house apps do you use to connect with leads and promote your listings? I’d love to check out some new and upcoming apps to review. Let me know in the comments!

The post 5 Open House Apps Agents Use to Get More Leads in 2025 appeared first on The Close.

In my experience, farming for your real estate business can be one of the most lucrative and dependable lead generation strategies for agents. It’s easy to get started and reasonably inexpensive — just think about it this way: your commission from selling just one home could pay for your farming efforts throughout the year. 

We’ll walk you through our detailed approach to farming, outline the costs involved, and review all the tools you’ll need.

What is farming in real estate?

Real estate farming is a lead generation and marketing strategy agents use to generate consistent business from a specific geographic area.

Agents “farm” a specific neighborhood by providing consistent value while cultivating relationships and generating leads that evolve into long-term clients. This practice also helps build a reliable business. Ultimately, the goal is to become the local expert and go-to agent for a particular geographic area.

How to approach real estate farming: 4 steps

1. Target the Right Neighborhood

Computing for the turnover rate

To get the rate of homes sold/turnover rate, look back 12 months to see how many homes were listed for sale in your farming area, and how many sold. You can find this information in Zillow or your multiple listing service (MLS). We want to know the rate of homes sold to tell us how many months of inventory are in this neighborhood. Take your time frame (let’s say, one year or 365 days) and divide that by the number of homes sold.

Stick with me to get the absorption rate. To do this, we’ll multiply the number of homes sold by the rate of homes sold.

Now you know that the current market conditions of the farm you’ve chosen are pretty hot — as long as market conditions remain consistent. 

Next, gather information on your farm area and get to know the market backward and forward. In addition to understanding average sales prices and days on market (DOM), you’ll need to know the average age and income of homeowners, typical home styles and age, local employers, upcoming developments, zoning and permitting regulations, neighborhood amenities, and other local agents who might be competition. Use the tools at your disposal, like your local MLS and market reports from a place like Altos Research.

Arming yourself with neighborhood knowledge will immediately help you stick out when you get a lead from your efforts.

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2. Plan how & when to deliver value to your farm

This neighborhood strategy goes a long way in easily establishing you as the local expert. It’s also easy to do — once a month, send out your postcards to your farm. We like PostcardMania for this because their designs are simple. Try to include images of the recently sold homes—your farm will recognize the homes and they will come to associate you with the neighborhood.

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3. Make a plan to manage & track your leads

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4. Start delivering value

Are you looking for more clever real estate marketing ideas to up your game? We’ve got you.

How much does it cost to get started? 

So yes, unfortunately, there will be a cost to getting started. But if done right, your efforts can pay off tenfold! And while it can be tempting to cheap out on products and services, sometimes you really do get what you pay for. Try to keep that in mind, as you may not get a sufficient return on investment with less expensive offerings. 

Startup costs for everyone will vary. However, I’ve run through the numbers for what I would consider a fairly typical real estate farming operation of 250 homes. The bottom line estimate comes out to around $11,000, broken down as follows:

Regularly scheduled postcards (250 × 8 = 2,000; estimated cost $1/card)	$2,000
On-demand property status postcards (250 × 12 months = 3,000; estimated cost $1/postcard)	$3,000
Quarterly letters (250 × 4 = 1,000; estimated cost $1/letter)	$1,000
Door hangers for your annual door-knocking session (250 @ $2/piece)	$500
Neighborhood website (e.g., Parkbench)	$3,500
Farm-specific content for your website	FREE
One sponsored event	$1,000
Total	$11,000

We go into each tool and how to use each one for your farming strategy in the next section.

Understandably, $11,000 as an estimated startup cost can be an alarmingly high figure, I’ll give you that. But try to put it in perspective and look at the bigger picture, as farming can be a crucial part of growing your real estate business! 

For instance, considering a typical home sales price of $400,000 with a standard 3% commission, that would equate to gross earnings of $12,000. In other words, getting just a single client from this farming operation would be enough to cover these startup costs.

Essential real estate farming tools you’ll need

Having the proper tools is a key part of running an effective real estate farming operation. Many of the tools we’ll cover have been mentioned in the cost estimate in the prior section. Here, I’ll go through each and how they can be an effective part of your real estate farming operation.

Type of Tool	Estimated Cost	Recommended Update Frequency	Purpose
Real estate postcards	$1 per card	4-8 times per year	Direct mail to showcase expertise in your local market
On-demand postcards	$1 per card	Whenever a home is listed or sold	Providing up-to-date information to potential clients
Blog content	$0	At least monthly	Provide a summary of local market updates and events
Market update letters	$1 per home	Quarterly	Market insights and updates from the past quarter
Website	$3,500+ annually	1-2 times monthly	One-stop-shop to showcase your brand, expertise, and experience
Door hangers	$2 each	Annually	Added touchpoint to establish your local presence
Home value updates via email	$300 annually	Monthly	Keep homeowners informed of their home value
Sponsored event	$1,000+	Annually	In-person meet and greet

Regularly scheduled real estate postcards

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Once or twice per quarter

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost (250 homes):
  
  $1,000-$2,000

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  ProspectsPLUS!

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Real Estate Postcard Templates to Generate Leads

Direct mail is the backbone of your farming campaign. Postcards and flyers are the ideal tools to convey messages, statistics, and authority to your farm area.

Use direct mail to deliver quarterly touches. Mix it up with a snapshot of the market, recipe, inspirational quote, joke, or sports schedule — anything that will provide value to your recipients.

ProspectsPLUS! has dozens of geographic farming campaign postcards, perfect for quarterly mailings that keep you top of mind.

On-demand postcards

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Whenever a home is listed or sells in your farm area

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost (250 homes):
  
  $3,000~

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  PostcardMania

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Circle Prospecting Strategies to Boost Lead Generation

Using on-demand postcards to notify potential clients about recent sales and listings in their neighborhood can be an excellent way to showcase your brand, expertise, and ability to stay up-to-date with the latest market trends. 

Additionally, from a homeowner’s perspective, receiving these updates can be minimally invasive and quick to glance through. It can serve as a potential motivating factor and an excellent way for you to get new listings if they are intrigued by the information they’re presented with, like a nearby home that fetched a high sales price. If they were on the fence about selling, then you might be the first one they call once they change their mind to see how much they might make by putting their home on the market!

If you don’t have a service provider to help with this, you can use PostcardMania. In addition to bulk mail and direct mail services, PostcardMania can also provide guidance with designing your postcards.

Farm-specific content on your blog

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  Frequency:
  
  At least monthly

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost (250 homes):
  
  Free (as long as you have a website)

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  AgentFire

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Real Estate Blog Ideas (+ Examples & Expert Tips)

Your farm area should have a dedicated section on your website where you can post weekly updates about the micro-neighborhood market, neighborhood goings-on, and even events in and around town. Your content can be short and sweet, with five or six sentences and a picture.

If you’re in need of a website or want to revamp an existing one, AgentFire is one of my favorites. Besides offering readily available templates for agents wanting to get up and running quickly, it allows for a high level of website customization and is packed with features like IDX integrations, engagement and conversion tools to capture quality leads, and other SEO tools.

With that being said, remember that your website should serve multiple functions. It should be a hub for information on your neighborhood and showcase to potential clients that you’re the local expert.

Market update letters

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Quarterly

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost (250 homes quarterly):
  
  $1,000

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  Coffee & Contracts

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Our Best Real Estate Prospecting Letter Templates

A real estate letter can share in-depth, thoughtful market insights and analysis, but it’s also a chance to talk about what’s going on in your business or give shoutouts to those doing good work in your community. Share messages that communicate that you’re the expert for buying and selling homes, but — perhaps just as importantly — you’re also the expert at living in your community.

If you’re farming a luxury, higher-end neighborhood, consider your design elements. You can use a service like Coffee & Contracts to put together a high-end, aesthetically pleasing, branded market update for your farm.

Neighborhood website

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  Frequency:
  
  New content one to two times a month

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost:
  
  Starting at $3,500

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  Easy Agent Pro

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Best Real Estate Website Builders

With Easy Agent Pro, you can create an unlimited number of neighborhood sites. This helps establish your credibility and improves your website rank in the top results for SEO. For example, Keeton & Co Real Estate has 19 different neighborhood sites for Goochland, Ga. Each one of these sites includes a small summary of the area, notable points of interest and activities, nearby restaurants, and amenities.

As a tip, also try including interviews with neighborhood business owners, local news, coupons, and, of course, all the latest information about the real estate market.

By choosing to work with Easy Agent Pro, you’ll be able to create websites that are focused on driving engaged leads directly to your website. There are other providers on this list that focus on SEO, but we like how easy it is for agents to make small edits to these premade pages. Book your free consultation below.

Door hangers for your annual door-knocking session

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Once a year

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost:
  
  Starting at $500

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  ProspectsPLUS!

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Fun Real Estate Door Hanger Ideas to Inspire You

You might think that door hangers might be a waste of time and money. After all, before I got into the real estate business, I would just throw away any door hangers I got on my home!

However, it wasn’t until I became more experienced that I realized door hangers are most effective when you’ve already had some form of communication with the residents. This way, residents already know of you and the value you’ve already provided, making them more likely to read the door hanger and reach out to you.

I looked into a few different services for door hangers and fell in love with ProspectsPLUS. It has door hanger templates for a wide range of uses, such as agents looking for listings, agents posting updates on recently sold properties, properties that have recently been listed, and more. ProspectsPLUS also provides the option for you to design your own door hanger by uploading a customized design.

Automated home value email updates

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Once a month

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost:
  
  $0-$300+

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  Zillow

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Real Estate Email Templates for Real Estate Leads

Many homeowners struggle with being able to confidently estimate the value of their home. In this sense, it’s an area where you can provide a lot of added value with the use of automated home value email updates.

Regular email updates can allow homeowners to track the value of their home over a period of time, and can be a good motivating factor when it comes to deciding whether they want to sell the home and use you as their agent.

Zillow has a feature called Home Reports that will allow you to obtain regular updates about a specific home’s property value. It calls its property valuation estimates a Zestimate, and one of the things I personally love about its Zestimates is that it has data showing the accuracy of its figures. For example, as of the time of this writing, Zillow states that its nationwide median error rate for listed homes is 1.94%, while the error rate for off-market homes is 7.06%.

An annual sponsored event

• 

  
  
  Frequency:
  
  Once a year

• 

  
  
  Typical annual cost:
  
  Starting at $1,000

• 

  
  
  Our suggested provider:
  
  You!

• 

  
  
  The Close resource:
  
  Top Client Appreciation Event Ideas for Realtors

Whether you’re throwing a summer block party and BBQ, a holiday gathering, a wine tasting, or a Super Bowl watch party, events are a fun way to meet and greet community members. And considering that more than a third of buyers used a real estate agent they knew or were referred to (according to the National Association of Realtors), this is a fantastic method to expand your sphere of influence to get more buyer leads.

If you’re new to events, start with something you know will be a hit, like a pumpkin giveaway in October or a trivia night with great prizes. Or, try sponsoring a neighborhood garage sale, a community fireworks display in July, or a community service project with plenty of food and drinks afterward to celebrate all that hard work.

Where does social media fit into real estate farming?

Social media doesn’t replace traditional farming techniques, but it can go a long way in enhancing them. Many local neighborhoods have their own Facebook groups. Some homeowner associations also have dedicated websites and social profiles, not to mention active residents on social platforms.

We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a deep dive into social media post ideas. The Close’s own Sean Moudry suggests this proven, unique social media approach to farming:

Sean’s strategy is great for promoting any neighborhood-specific content you’ve created for your website, like market updates or neighborhood guides.

Real estate farming Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Bringing it all together

Real estate farming is an effective means of prospecting and developing a consistent source of seller and buyer leads. The best part about farming is that the rate of return on your investment improves over time as your messaging gets sharper, more people recognize you, and your sales stats in the neighborhood improve.

Have a real estate farming idea we didn’t cover? Let us know in the comment section!

The post Real Estate Farming: How to Become the Go-to Agent in Your Neighborhood appeared first on The Close.

Zillow Premier Agent (ZPA) is a paid advertising program that connects agents to buyers. It offers agents enhanced visibility on Zillow’s platforms, giving them priority placement in property listings and exclusive access to leads. However, with the platform’s lack of pricing transparency, is Zillow Premier Agent worth it? I evaluated its key features, weighed its pros and cons, looked into pricing, analyzed third-party reviews, and gauged whether it’s worth the investment. Let’s dig in!

My verdict on Zillow Premier Agent & why you should trust it

As one of The Close’s staff writers, I have extensive research experience on various real estate topics and solution providers. I can provide readers with an objective and comprehensive review of Zillow Premier Agent, including an overall analysis of its strengths and limitations.

What is Zillow Premier Agent, and how does it work? In 2024, an average of 217 million unique visitors browse Zillow each month, searching for homes and real estate agents. Zillow Premier Agent leverages this site traffic, allowing agents, teams, and brokers to purchase display ads in specific ZIP codes across the Zillow network.

This process helps capture leads who might be casually browsing properties long before they contact an agent. The platform then displays ads in key positions next to properties for sale, boosting Zillow Premier Agents to the top of the agent directory.

The biggest challenge with Zillow Premier Agent is the cost, which can be substantial, particularly in highly competitive markets. Agents must ensure they have the budget to sustain the investment and effectively convert the leads they receive.Additionally, the competition among agents on the platform can make it difficult to stand out and secure many leads. Therefore, having a solid profile and lead follow-up process is essential. If you want to guarantee you’ll get leads, consider pay-at-closing lead companies like Zillow Flex and Clever.

Zillow Premier Agent alternatives

Zillow Premier Agent offers many advantages, but is not the perfect fit for everyone. The cost and competition can be challenging for some agents, especially those just starting. If you feel ZPA isn’t the right platform, here are some Zillow alternatives worth considering.

Key features of Zillow Premier Agent

Obtaining leads is the most significant benefit of using Zillow Premier Agent, but there is more to this platform than just prospects. Some of my favorite ZPA key features include the following:

Zillow Premier Agent Profile

Agents can create a solid ZPA profile to stand out. A complete Zillow profile leverages the SHARP model, which stands for sales, headshot, advertising markets, reviews, and professional bio. This means you should claim all your past transactions on Zillow, have a current realtor headshot, work in the applicable markets, beef up your reviews, and spice up your agent bio.

If you have an active profile and your listing is on Zillow, you should be displayed first as the listing agent, regardless of your Premier status. But you won’t have that opportunity if you haven’t claimed the listing or are inactive on Zillow.

Premier agents also appear next to their purchased share of every listing in their chosen ZIP codes (plus any of their listings, regardless of whether they are in their chosen ZIP code), expanding their exposure significantly.

Third-party CRM integrations

Zillow Premier Agent offers seamless integration with various third-party CRMs, such as Follow Up Boss, Top Producer, and Lofty (formerly Chime), which enhances lead management efficiency. For instance, ZPA supports two-way sync with Top Producer CRM, ensuring any updates on one platform reflect on the other.

Performance Analytics

Zillow Premier Agent offers analytics and tracking tools to help agents optimize their lead performance. The platform has detailed reports on lead volume, response rates, and conversion metrics, allowing agents to see how well their advertising efforts are paying off.

If you’re a team lead, ZPA’s performance analytics also track team members’ effectiveness and lead volume and status, ensuring everyone contributes efficiently to your team’s overall success.

Training resources

Zillow Premier Agent provides comprehensive training resources and education materials to support agents. These include courses and guides on using Zillow’s tools effectively, managing your ZPA advertising, using ZPA’s CRM, nurturing inactive customers, converting your leads, and more.

Zillow Premier Agent pricing

Is Zillow Premier Agent free? Of course not. If you’re researching Zillow Premier Agent cost, I’m afraid you won’t find it either. Zillow does not publish specific pricing details, as costs vary significantly based on several factors. You’ll need to contact Zillow directly to get accurate pricing information and discuss your particular market and advertising goals. However, I’ve gathered information from some agents that I hope will provide helpful estimates.

How much do Zillow leads cost?

The cost for Zillow Premier Agent lead depends on four factors:

• Your ZIP code
• The average home price in your area
• The number of competing agents
• The percentage of leads you want to capture

According to some of our readers, leads can cost as little as $20 to $75 each in less competitive markets. However, in competitive and high-priced markets, the cost can rise dramatically, with some agents reporting leads costing $450 to $500 each.

How much does it cost to be a Zillow Premier Agent?

You’re probably wondering, “How much are Zillow leads per month?” Since Zillow does not provide market-specific pricing estimates, The Close contacted agents in our network. Based on feedback from agents who are successfully profiting with Zillow Premier Agent, we found the following pricing estimates to be accurate:

• The typical monthly price for major metro markets starts at about $1,000.
• ZPA agents pay between $300 and $500 per month for markets outside of major metros.

While we disagree with the company’s lack of price transparency, I still believe that Zillow Premier Agent is a valuable service that agents should consider in their paid lead generation strategies.

How to get the most out of Zillow Premier Agent

Here are some strategies you can use to maximize your Zillow Premier Agent investment:

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  Polish your Zillow Premier Agent profile like a pro:
  
  Add your sharpest headshot, a friendly but confident bio, and a handful of glowing reviews to make a killer first impression.
  

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  Bid strategically on ZIP codes:
  
  Start with one to two high-opportunity, low-competition ZIPs and adjust your bids monthly based on cost per lead and lead quality.

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  Ensure fast lead response:
  
  Aim to respond within 5 minutes — Zillow data shows conversion rates drop sharply after 30 minutes.
  

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  Apply Zillow’s ALM framework:
  
  In your first conversation with the lead, ask, “When can we tour?” (Appointment), “What other areas interest you?” (Location), and “What’s driving your search?” (Motivation) to secure a face-to-face meeting.
  

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  Leverage CRM and analytics:
  
  Sync your leads with your CRM (e.g., Follow Up Boss, Top Producer) to automate drip campaigns, track response times, and A/B test your messaging to see which drives higher click-through rates.
  

Related article

How to Advertise on Zillow in 9 Steps (+ Free Checklist)

Methodology

In my assessment, I conducted thorough research to ensure accuracy in my Zillow Premier Agent review. Our team of expert researchers, agents, writers, and editors at The Close scored Zillow Premier Agent against dozens of other lead generation companies. We analyzed its platform, pricing structure, features, user feedback, and reputation, and then based our evaluation on the following criteria:

• Pricing (20%)
  • We looked at the average price per lead for buyer and seller leads, exclusive leads, subscription costs, the minimum required ad spend, and whether a contract is required.
• General features (25%)
  • We evaluated the main features of each lead generation company. This includes lead-capture tools, lead management, built-in CRM, multiple integrations, mass marketing tools, analytics and reporting tools, and IDX websites. 
• Advanced features (20%)
  • This category includes advanced functionalities such as the quality of leads generated, lead nurturing, lead scoring, triggers and alerts, team distribution, and scripts.
• Customer service (10%)
  • We reviewed how easy it is for real estate agents to reach out to a customer service representative. We also considered agents’ access to phone or email support and a concierge program.
• Customer rating (10%)
  • The reputation of each lead generation company was evaluated by considering feedback from verified users.
• Expert score (15%)
  • The expert score covers other standout features not mentioned in the above criteria.

Read more about our methodology here.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Bottom line: Is Zillow Premier Agent worth it?

At the start of this review, you might have asked, “What is Zillow Premier Agent?” And now that I’ve run you through its most essential features, would you say the platform is worth it? For me, Zillow Premier Agent is an investment real estate agents, teams, and brokers should consider.

The lead gen landscape is constantly evolving. There are always new players, approaches, and lead generation ideas, but Zillow has remained a visible and vital part of this conversation. To be clear, Zillow Premier Agent isn’t as cost-effective for every agent. In some US markets, costs are so high that agents may barely break even. However, no online lead source offers the same traffic, exposure, and opportunity as Zillow Premier Agent.Is the platform perfect for every agent? No. But is Zillow Premier Agent worth it, or at least worth considering? Absolutely. As long as you have an adequate budget, an impeccable profile, and effective follow-up skills to convert your leads into clients, we can stand behind your investment in Zillow Premier Agent. But if you’re a new agent, consider your budget before committing.

Your take

Where do you buy real estate leads? Have you ever tried Zillow Premier Agent? What did you think? I’d like to hear your Zillow Premier Agent reviews in the comments!

Want more leads? Download our free e-book.

The post Zillow Premier Agent Review 2025: Is it Worth the Cost? appeared first on The Close.

Tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) continue to become more popular in the real estate industry, and it’s easy to see why! These help agents save a tremendous amount of time while also making them more efficient by streamlining processes, automating tasks, enhancing client interactions, and providing marketing and other business insights. 

AI will never replace the human component, as personal connections can be incredibly important in the real estate industry. However, it does help by giving us more time in our day to spend nurturing and growing relationships to close deals. 

Here are my picks for the best AI-powered tools to help with various aspects of your business.

• CINC: Best for AI lead generation and nurturing
• Top Producer: Best for AI farming tools
• Agent Image: Best AI-powered website tools
• Offrs: Best for AI predictive analytics
• Lone Wolf: Best for AI-powered email communications
• Style to Design: Best for AI virtual staging

The Close’s top picks for best AI tools for real estate agents

Type of Software	Standout Features	Starting Price
	AI-powered lead scoring algorithm & automated messaging	$899/month + $200/month for AI features
Visit CINC
	Contact management & integrations with CRMs, MLS, and social media	$179/month
Visit Top Producer
	AI-powered email templates, task tracking, and email follow-ups	$33.25/month
Visit Lone Wolf
	IDX integrations and custom market report generation	$99/month
Visit Agent Image
	ISA team support for pre-qualification of leads	$399/month
Visit Offrs
	AI-powered virtual staging	$19.99/month, Minimum three-month commitment
Visit Style to Design

CINC: Best for AI lead generation & nurturing

Pros	Cons
24/7 lead nurturing	AI tool only available as an add-on
Conversation scripts	Unable to turn off middle-of-the-night chat
Nurturing via text message	No AI capabilities via email

Learn more in our in-depth CINC review.

Why I chose CINC

CINC is also one of The Close’s picks for the best real estate lead generation companies, and its AI, Alex, emphasizes that as its AI lead expert. Alex chats with new leads and sorts them into three groups: new, active, and old. You’ll get notifications about these leads, including what Alex last said, so you know where to pick up the conversation. CINC created the AI through a partnership with Structurely and designed it to make these interactions with clients more human-like, relevant, and with improved scripting.

Additional features

• Automated messages: Follow up with your emails and texts without missing a beat. 
• Lead scoring algorithm: Prioritize your leads based on an algorithm that lets you know which ones to focus on.

Top Producer: Best for AI farming tools

Pros	Cons
Full CRM with contact management	No free trial
MLS integration	No document management features
Social media posting and management	No money-back guarantee

Learn more in our in-depth Top Producer review.

Why I chose Top Producer

Top Producer knows that farming is a crucial component of your business, so it uses AI to make this prospecting technique even more profitable for you. Smart Targeting tools help you identify an area to target, and its predictive AI system finds potential sellers. 

Once it determines who is likely to sell, a multichannel marketing campaign is set into action, including postcards, email marketing, online ads, and handwritten letters. When the leads come in, they will be sent to landing pages to convert into clients.

Additional features

• Website builder: Build a professional real estate website to attract leads and create an online presence.
• CRM: Track all incoming leads in the CRM and automate follow-up.

Agent Image: Best AI-powered website tools

Pros	Cons
Track record of developing high-quality websites	Pricing is not stated up front
Wide range of customizable website tools	CRM and some other features must be purchased separately
Offers IDX integration into existing websites	Custom web designs typically require 8 to 12 weeks to build

Why I chose Agent Image

Agent Image has a strong track record of creating visually stunning websites that have been able to drive more traffic to a real estate agent’s business. Agent Image offers IDX packages powered by AI that allows for things like the automatic updating of property listings, property searches, personalized recommendations, behavior-based email automations, and up-to-date market data and insights. 

Agent Image’s web design services are a more ideal fit for those marketing to the luxury market. As such, you might find that prices for some of its packages are a bit on the higher end.

Additional features

• Multiple MLS boards: Agents that are part of multiple markets can include all MLS boards in the IDX package for their website. 
• Hotsheets: Eliminate hours of research and quickly generate custom market reports showing various housing data such as new listings, price changes, and properties recently sold or under contract. 
• Lead capture tools: Add various tools to your website that provide value to your readers, something that can provide quality leads for your business. Examples include mortgage calculators, home valuation tools, maps, property alerts, and contact forms.

Offrs: Best for AI Predictive Analytics

Pros	Cons
Unlimited seller leads	Nonexclusive leads
Inside sales and marketing team with no upfront costs	Long lead conversion time
Unique ad tools that help connect your analog and digital marketing	Smart Data CRM not user-friendly

Why I chose Offrs

Offrs has positioned itself as a top option for any real estate agent looking to harness the power of predictive analytics. It arms you with the edge you need to win listings by providing leads for potential sellers before they ever hit the market. Using sophisticated algorithms coupled with big data analysis, you’ll get predictive seller leads that point out those homeowners likely to sell soon. This insight lets you reach out to sellers before they list their homes, giving you a significant advantage in securing new listings.

Additional features

• ISA team: They make the initial contact, confirm interest, and gather details necessary to make it easy for you to follow through on closure. 

Lead capture ads: Ads are specifically set up and optimized to capture contact information from interested prospects and place it directly into your lead pipeline.

Lone Wolf: Best for AI-powered email communications

Pros	Cons
Integrations with third-party calendar apps	Add-ons have limited AI functionality
Automated follow-ups on tasks	24/7 support only available through a community board
Add-ons available to expand functionality	Add-ons come with added costs

Why I chose Lone Wolf

Lone Wolf — which acquired LionDesk, one of our top-recommended CRM systems — offers an all-in-one real estate platform designed to allow you to manage virtually all aspects of your firm. This includes an exceptional CRM system to grow your business, as well as tools to manage transactions from start to finish. Lone Wolf’s AI functionality is included with its client management platform called Relationships, which is available as part of its Foundation platform. 

AI tools include templates and personalized emails that can be used for each stage of a transaction, from welcoming new clients, ensuring that every aspect of a transaction is addressed, and congratulating clients on their new home.

Additional features

• Task tracking: Integrations with third-party calendar apps like Google and Outlook can help ensure you never miss an appointment or task ever again.  
• Automated communication tools: Emails can automatically be sent to contacts on a rules-based system, such as whenever a transaction moves to a new milestone. 
• Analytics: Get market insights such as inventory levels, sales prices, and more to allow you to better assist your clients with finding properties and making competitive offers.

Style to Design: Best for AI for virtual staging

Pros	Cons
Customizable design templates	Minimum commitment for all plans
Staging and design courses	Unable to edit images other than property photos
Design team available for simulations	Coaching only offered in enterprise plans

Why I chose Style to Design

Style to Design is not limited to real estate agents and brokerages. Anyone who wants to be an expert on listing marketing and image rendering can use this software. The memberships are affordable and cost less than outsourcing the work. 

The seamless virtual staging experience allows you to transform empty spaces effortlessly into beautifully staged homes. Leverage this tool to showcase the marketing team during listing presentations without the additional overhead costs of employing multiple staff members.

Style by Design is also a great AI tool for real estate investors because it can show what a renovation would look like.

Additional features

• Design academy: Take courses ranging from staging and design certification to leveraging AI to stage your listings virtually.
• Design community: Access to coaching to help you become an expert in virtual staging and renovation, so you can sell your real estate services with design included. 

Methodology: How I chose the best real estate AI tools

Our methodology at The Close ensures that our team of professionals, writers, and editors thoroughly analyzes each platform. We meticulously evaluate the features, usability, integration capabilities, performance, and affordability of the best AI tools for real estate agents. 

We selected the most effective and reliable real estate AI tools for agents to support business growth and success. This rigorous process ensures that our recommendations help agents streamline operations, enhance client interactions, and achieve business goals.

Detailed criteria included the following to determine the best AI in real estate tools: 

• Feature set and functionality: We evaluated the range of features each tool offers and focused on how impactful this feature is to the real estate operations. 
• Usability and user experience: We looked for tools with intuitive interfaces, straightforward navigation, and comprehensive support resources such as tutorials, FAQs, and customer service. We want to ensure a platform can be launched easily and integrated into an agent’s workflow. 
• Integration capabilities: Because so many tools are needed in the real estate industry, we want to ensure that an agent’s technology stack can communicate with other tools necessary for business. 
• Effectiveness and performance: We considered the effectiveness of each tool to make sure that it increased productivity and would achieve the desired outcomes that it promises. 
• Affordability and value for money: Cost was an important consideration. We looked for tools that provide a good balance of features and affordability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Your Take

Leveraging the best AI for real estate is not as daunting as it may initially seem. AI tools can automate routine tasks, provide data-driven insights, and enhance client interactions. The time saved allows you to focus on higher-value activities like building client relationships and closing deals. This increased efficiency will improve your productivity and enhance the overall client experience to ensure you keep filling up your sales funnel. 

Have you incorporated AI into your business yet? Let us know!

The post The Best 6 Real Estate AI Tools for 2025 appeared first on The Close.

If you haven’t gotten around to using a customer relationship management (CRM) system to streamline your real estate business, you’re on the right page. Besides fitting into your budget, the best real estate CRM helps you stay organized, nurture leads, and automate daily tasks. That said, I’ve done the legwork and rounded up the best CRM for real estate agents. Check out what made the list:

• Pipedrive: Best for email marketing
• LionDesk (Lone Wolf Relationships): Best for communication automation
• Follow Up Boss: Best for real estate teams
• Wise Agent: Best for transaction management
• IXACT Contact: Best for managing contacts
• Lofty: Best for lead generation and nurturing
• Realvolve: Best for workflow automation

The Close’s top picks for best real estate CRMs

CRM Software	Standout Features	Free Trial	Starting Monthly Price
	A highly visual sales pipeline with robust email integrations	14 days	$14*
	Get started with Pipedrive
	Integrated texting and calling; automation for follow-up communications	14 days	$33.25*
	Get started with Lone Wolf Relationships
	Streamlined lead management with automated routing and collaboration tools	14 days	$58*
	Get started with Follow Up Boss
	An all-in-one system combining contact management with transaction tracking	14 days	$49
	Get started with Wise Agent
	Intuitive contact management paired with personalized marketing campaigns	35 days	$46.75*
	Get started with IXACT Contact
	Advanced lead gen and nurturing using integrated digital marketing tools	Demo only	$449
	Get started with Lofty
	Deep workflow automation with a process‑driven approach and customizable pipelines	14 days	$99
	Get started with Realvolve
*Billed annually

Pipedrive: Best for email marketing

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth Pipedrive review.

Key features

• Integrations: Pipedrive has a giant library of tools, including integrations for lead generation, lead qualifying, nurturing, video meetings, document management, payment tracking and invoicing, and project management.
• Pipeline management: A highly visual platform to manage your pipeline without letting leads slip through the cracks. The dashboard is customizable, easy to use, and helps prioritize leads and deals.

Why I chose Pipedrive

Pipedrive offers awesome, budget-friendly email marketing tools that sales pros love. Its slick, customizable email templates let you easily match your brand. Pipedrive’s segmentation features allow you to craft personalized emails, while built-in analytics and automated follow-ups help track performance and convert leads faster. These tools facilitate targeted outreach to potential clients, enhancing your lead gen efforts.

LionDesk (Lone Wolf Relationships): Best for communication automation

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth LionDesk CRM review.

Key features

• Customizable landing pages: Although this is an add-on feature, LionDesk allows agents to create customizable landing pages. It also includes landing page templates to build high-converting landing pages tailored to your brand.
• Integrations: It has an extensive library of third-party integrations for almost everything, from lead generation and contact management to communication and finances.

Why I chose LionDesk

LionDesk, now powered by Lone Wolf Technologies, was built with real estate agents in mind. It offers a fully customizable dashboard that helps you decide what you want to see in your CRM. The platform stands out with automation features — handling everything from texting and email drip campaigns to sending videos through email and text. If you still use LionDesk, you can seamlessly migrate your contacts and data to Lone Wolf Relationships.

Follow Up Boss: Best for real estate teams

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth Follow Up Boss review.

Key features

• Networking and events: Join the FUB Success Community to connect with other real estate agents and gain access to exclusive events, such as Level Up masterminds and FUBCON. 
• Mobile app: The mobile app is user-friendly and instantly notifies each agent of new leads. It makes it easy to send emails and texts or call new or current clients, even on the go.

Why I chose Follow Up Boss

Follow Up Boss is a well-known real estate customer management software with all the makings to support teams. It offers 250-plus integrations and features such as texting, email drip campaigns, text automation, and built-in calling. The platform’s collaboration features are woven into it, with public comments, communication tracking, lead distribution, and visual tracking of each agent and each lead. So, if you’re building a team, Follow Up Boss is a no-brainer.

Wise Agent: Best for transaction management

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth Wise Agent review.

Key features

• Real estate content: The platform includes an extensive library of stock photos and real estate content for text messages, emails, written letters, newsletters, postcards, and flyers. There is even an AI writing assistant to help you create content more effectively.
• Team and broker options: Although Wise Agent is often used by individual realtors, it includes multiple tools and add-on options explicitly built for teams and brokers.

Why I chose Wise Agent

Wise Agent is a top real estate CRM software because it’s designed to be a one-stop shop for agents and brokers, providing transaction management tools from beginning to end. Stay on top of your transactions by creating checklists so everyone is on the same page. As a bonus, you can create customized landing pages and integrate them with multiple social media tools to reach more clients.

IXACT Contact: Best for contact management

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth IXACT Contact review.

Key features

• Social Stream: This add-on feature allows agents to select exclusive real estate articles and videos to share with their network. While you can’t create custom content, it’s a great way to automate social media content.
• Personalized agent roadmap: This feature allows agents to set specific real estate goals within the platform, and it will generate a plan to help reach them with specific tasks and activities. 

Why I chose IXACT Contact

IXACT Contact is an excellent tool for keeping track of your contacts from the moment you connect with them through every transaction. You get a detailed profile for each lead, current, and past client, including their contact info, family info, birthdays, anniversaries, property details, and all communication history. This is crucial for staying easily connected to your clients and maintaining good relationships.

Lofty: Best for lead generation and nurturing

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth Lofty CRM review.

Key features

• Social Studio: This built-in social media management tool allows you to create content within Lofty’s platform and automatically share it on multiple real estate social networks simultaneously. 
• AI Assistant: An automated assistant helps you become more efficient and minimize Lofty’s learning curve at every step. This AI assistant will customize workflows, manage and organize leads with tags and notes, set reminders, and send automated responses.

Why I chose Lofty

Of all the top CRM software for real estate on my list, Lofty offers the most extensive and impressive combination of advanced lead gen tools and features. What’s remarkable is that it provides exclusivity in your farm area, so no other agent using Lofty can target the same leads as you. It automatically pulls in leads from various sources and sets up property alerts, sends out regular market analyses, and matches listings with leads.

Realvolve: Best for workflow automation

• 

  
  
  Helpful resource:
  
  Learn more in our in-depth Realvolve review.

Key features

• Document management: Realvolve keeps all your documents organized. Each workflow includes a comprehensive checklist of all necessary documents to complete a transaction. 
• Integrations: The platform integrates seamlessly with some of the most-used apps, like Google and Zapier.

Why I chose Realvolve

Realvolve simplifies your real estate hustle with automation and customizable workflows. It has a visual dashboard, contact organization tools, and lead nurturing strategies. There are plenty of customizable workflow templates, plus prebuilt lead sequences for buyers and sellers through email and text. It’s a perfect fit for individuals or teams looking to boost their productivity and efficiency.

What to look for in a real estate CRM

When choosing the best CRM for your real estate business, it’s essential to consider features that align with your goals, needs, and budget. Here are some key aspects to focus on:

• 

  
  
  Automation:
  
  A robust CRM automates repetitive tasks like follow-ups and drip campaigns. So, ensure your CRM saves you time and effort to maximize efficiency.

• 

  
  
  Lead generation:
  
  Ensure your CRM captures and manages leads from various sources, including websites and social media.

• 

  
  
  Contact management:
  
  CRMs that offer such features make it easier to connect with clients. Organizing and segmenting your contacts based on criteria such as location and property preferences allows you to personalize communication.

• 

  
  
  Third-party integrations:
  
  Your CRM should integrate seamlessly with tools you already use, such as email platforms and social media channels. This connectivity maintains data consistency across your systems.

• 

  
  
  Mobile accessibility:
  
  Most agents nowadays are always on the go, so having mobile access to your CRM is vital. A mobile-compatible CRM helps you retrieve client information, manage tasks, and communicate with contacts anytime, anywhere.

• 

  
  
  Customer support:
  
  Every CRM has a learning curve, so reliable customer support is essential. Opt for a CRM that offers comprehensive onboarding and training to help you maximize its features and quickly resolve any issues.

• 

  
  
  Scalability:
  
  Choose a CRM that can grow with your business and accommodate an expanding client base without requiring a platform change.

Methodology: How I chose the best CRM for real estate

Our methodology at The Close ensures that our professionals, writers, and editors thoroughly analyze each platform. We meticulously evaluate the features, usability, integration capabilities, performance, and affordability of the best CRM for real estate. 

We selected the most effective and reliable CRM software for real estate agents to support business growth and success. This rigorous process ensures that our recommendations help agents streamline operations, enhance client interactions, and achieve business goals.

Detailed criteria included the following to determine the best real estate CRM: 

• General CRM Features (25%) 
  • Basic features such as contact management, text and email capabilities, task management, task reminders and notifications, lead management, pipeline or dashboard customizability, audience segmentation, transaction management, and integrations.
• Advanced CRM Features (25%) 
  • This includes listing management, customized reports and analytics, document management, storage, AI lead assist or lead automation, team management, marketing tools, social media integrations, and mobile apps.
• Pricing (15%) 
  • I checked, updated, and evaluated each CRM’s pricing, subscription plans, and whether there are free trials and bulk discounts.
• Ease of Use (10%) 
  • I evaluated each CRM’s user interface, customizability, and how easy it is to operate and set up each one.
• Help & support (5%) 
  • Should real estate agents need additional support, customer services such as live chat, phone, email, and ticket systems are necessary.
• Customer rating (10%) 
  • We collect information from multiple third-party sources to determine how real users have rated each CRM.
• Expert score (10%) 
  • We collect information from multiple third-party sources to determine how real users have rated each CRM.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Your take

The top real estate CRMs are as different as the individual agents who make up the industry. Use our guide to help you make the best choice for your business needs. Consider the most important features and use the free trials to find what clicks.

Which real estate CRM are you using? Share your experience in the comments!

The post The 7 Best CRM for Real Estate in 2025 appeared first on The Close.

In an industry where emails and social media messages are instant, sending handwritten real estate prospecting letters can feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s a great way to make a lasting impression, especially if pulled off correctly.

In this article, I’ll share 11 real estate prospecting scripts plus some actionable tips to help you craft letters that actually get results. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use prospecting letters to generate leads and grow your business.

1. Expired listing prospecting letter

Expired listings are a goldmine for leads since these homeowners already want to sell. Most often, the main reason a home doesn’t sell is pricing. Maybe they didn’t follow their agent’s advice, or their previous agent lacked the confidence to set the right price.

The key is to empathize with their situation and offer a fresh solution that shifts the focus from blame to getting their home sold.

Related Article

7 Expired Listing Letter Templates & Why They Work

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2. FSBO letter

Homeowners opting to sell on their own usually just want to save money and might not realize all the work involved in marketing a home. Show them the real value you offer by sharing free, actionable advice — using one of our best FSBO scripts to guide the conversation and build trust.

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3. FRBO market research letter

Not all sellers are the same. You’ll eventually encounter rental property owners who want to maximize returns. When talking to them, be direct and tell them immediately that you can get them a better return on their investment than they are now.

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4. Absentee owner letter

The struggle for property owners who don’t live in the area is real. It’s not uncommon for a homeowner to move before they can sell or inherit a property in another location where they don’t live.

These unexpected landlords practically have to hire someone to manage their rental on their behalf. But you can offer a solution to their long-distance rental woes.

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5. New agent introduction letter

When you’re just starting, there are plenty of ways to prospect, but heartfelt, handwritten real estate letters to potential sellers truly stand out compared to simple Facebook posts. It shows you put in the extra effort, and people appreciate that personal touch.

Check out real estate coach Sean Moudry’s sphere letter for an excellent example — hit your strengths and remind your network that you’re their insider in the industry.

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6. Referral request

Real estate referrals are an agent’s honeypot and typically provide the largest pool of prospects they can tap into. When you reach out to your network, you connect with people who already know, like, and trust you, so you don’t have to spend time convincing them how awesome you are.

Reach out directly and ask them if they know anyone who might need your services. It’s also a great way to remind them you’re their friendly neighborhood real estate pro.

Related Article

7 Savvy Ways to Get Real Estate Referrals

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7. Local business prospecting letter

Entrepreneurs and businesses can become great allies in your community. Show entrepreneurs that you’re a valuable asset by aligning your services with their business objectives.

Engage with genuine curiosity about their businesses and a willingness to provide meaningful support. Focus on building long-term symbiotic relationships rather than seeking transactional opportunities.

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8. Divorce prospecting letter

Divorce transactions will register high on the emotional scale and require a patient, empathetic approach — traits that newer agents might still be developing. If you’re an experienced agent ready for a challenge, here’s a letter to help you connect with divorce leads and guide them through the process gracefully.

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9. Probate prospecting letter

Like divorce transactions, probate listings come with so much stress and red tape that we generally don’t recommend them for new agents. While it’s true that probate listings tend to sell quickly, dealing with grieving families and lawyers takes patience and a few years of experience.

If you’ve done your homework and feel ready to take on the challenge, here is a letter offering empathy and showing off your agent skills.

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10. Preforeclosure prospecting letter

Preforeclosure letters are not easy to write. But in a challenging situation, your letter and services just might help someone out of a tricky financial crisis when they most need it.

The key to converting these leads is empathizing with their situation and remaining optimistic and realistic. Here is a prospecting script you can use:

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11. Open house follow-up prospecting letter

Obviously, you want to circle prospect before an open house. But if you want to make a more personal connection with your open house guests, a quick letter — or better yet, a handwritten card — will have an excellent return on investment.

Just remember to keep it light, short, and friendly. Here is an example of a real estate letter you can use for inspiration:

7 tips for nailing your real estate prospecting letters

Copywriting is about persuasion and choosing the right words to inspire action. Remember, a well-written letter can turn prospects into clients, while a weak one gets tossed without a second thought. To help you craft your real estate letters, I’ve compiled this list of best practices designed to improve your response rate.

Tip 1: Personalize every letter

Use the recipient’s name and adopt a friendly tone. Make your greeting feel warm, like you’re writing a letter to a friend. A personalized opening helps your message feel genuine, not as if you’re mass mailing.

Tip 2: Grab attention

Try using an attention-grabbing lede in your opening paragraph. The goal is to draw your readers in quickly before they toss your letter out with the recycling. When you use a strong hook to get your reader’s attention early in your writing, you’re more likely to draw them into your story and keep them interested.

Tip 3: Build a connection

Once your reader is hooked and interested in what you have to say, it’s time to make a meaningful connection. Do that by pointing out a challenge your reader is most likely facing and empathizing with their situation. Let them know you understand where they are and how they feel.

Tip 4: Give your unique value proposition

Now that you’ve made a meaningful connection with your prospect, it’s time to set yourself apart from your competitors. Share what you do that makes you a better choice than any other agent. What do you provide to your clients that other agents don’t?

Tip 5: Provide the solution

You’ve introduced yourself, made a meaningful connection, showed empathy for their current situation, and shared what sets you apart from the competition. Now, it’s time to present the solution to the prospect’s problem. If you’re wondering what the solution is, it’s hiring you. 

Tip 6: Include a call to action

Now that you’ve convinced them that you are the solution to their real estate needs, tell them what you want them to do next. This doesn’t have to be sleazy or pushy. Make it simple. Just give them some direction on how to get in touch with you so they can hire you.

Tip 7: Finish like a champ

Be sure to thank them for reading your letter and considering you for their real estate needs. It’s courteous, and you want to end on a positive note. Also, don’t forget to include all your contact information under your signature. Include your website too, so they can learn more about you and read your real estate testimonials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Your take

Whether you’re reaching out to sellers, buyers, or investors, a well-written letter can spark conversations and open doors to new opportunities. I hope you’ve picked something up from our real estate sample letters. Do you have unique real estate prospecting letters that convert well for you? Let us know about it in the comments!

The post 11 Best Real Estate Prospecting Letter Templates for 2025 appeared first on The Close.

It’s no secret that open houses are tedious. It’s a very manual process that gets boring really quickly; plus, it very rarely leads to a quick sale. While that may be the case, any agent worth their salt knows that it’s more than just marketing a house — it’s about creating connections, letting potential sellers know you’re willing to go the extra mile, and building your local reputation.

Biases aside, it’s not like it can’t be easy and exciting for both you and your attendees; a number of technological advancements have made for some simple ways to make your open house a bash. Here are a couple of real estate open house ideas you can use to up your open house game.

Nail down the basics

Preparing for an open house is pretty straightforward, but forgetting the little things that could help ensure your event’s success is easy. It’s as simple as preparing a checklist and scripts, inviting neighbors and past clients, and working with other agents in the area.

1. Use an open house checklist to stay organized.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Using a checklist to track open house necessities like home staging, posting on social media, and preparing handout materials keeps you on task so that you’re not scrambling around at the last minute. Preparation also maximizes your lead potential since you’ll feel more relaxed and confident interacting with guests instead of worrying if you forgot something.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Create an open house checklist of all the tasks you must do before, during, and after your open house. If you’re short on time, check out The Close’s open house checklist — and there’s a free downloadable for you to use.

2. Knock on doors to invite the neighbors.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Door-knocking is a tried-and-true way to become a top agent in your area. The personal connection it offers is hard to beat. In fact, data from PropertyRadar predicts that out of 100 doors knocked on, 20 of those typically lead to a meaningful conversation — and around 10% of those turn into quality leads.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Having a script ready can make this effort easier and faster for you. Check out our comprehensive article with door knocking tips and scripts.

3. Reach out to past clients to boost attendance.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  If you’ve been doing real estate right, you’ll know how important it is to keep close to past clients. Besides potentially offering referrals, some may even be interested in moving into a new home — and given that they’ve worked with you before, they’ll be more inclined to attend your event.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Take a more personal approach. If they’re near you, pop by. Otherwise, a simple call would go a long way, allowing you to reconnect, stay at the top of their mind, and possibly increase your open house’s attendance.

4. Work with other agents in your area.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free to $500, depending on what help you need

  Real estate agents should see fellow agents as teammates, not competitors. You can team up with nearby agents for a joint open house day, promoting the event together and attracting more visitors, especially if the listings are similar. You can also work with other listing agents and hold their open houses for them or even request help from a junior agent to manage your attendees and make your open house a bit smoother on the event day.

• 

  
  
  Use these tips when working with other agents:
  

  • When advertising group open house days, a little creativity can go a long way. Hold a raffle that people can only enter if they visit every home on the list — or even try a scavenger hunt for the kids.
  • To make hosting an open house for a listing agent a benefit to them, agree to pay them a referral fee for any client you pick up from the open house. Note that referral fees can vary by location and are entirely negotiable among the agents involved.
  • Working with junior agents will help you keep things running smoothly and ensure that attendees don’t feel neglected. Find $50 or so to have someone cover the door for an hour or two — you won’t regret it.

5. Prepare an open house script & practice delivering it.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Even if you’re a pro at chatting with everyone at an open house, using real estate scripts will still steer your conversations toward getting contact details. So unless you’re hosting open houses just to make new pals and discuss gardening, practicing scripts will help you gather more leads. It’s as simple as that.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  If you want some persuasive scripts to get you started, check out our best open house scripts. Oh, and don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone you rehearsed them!

Spruce up your marketing & branding

Marketing and branding play a huge role in throwing a killer open house. From setting up a simple yard sign to creating eye-catching promo materials, your marketing game can seriously impact the number of people who show up and the success of your open house.

6. Use an open house yard sign.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $50 to $200

  It might be predictable, but very few things can market your event as easily as having huge open house signs. Not only does a yard sign clearly show your attendees who may be new to the area exactly which house is the one you’re showing, but it also encourages walk-ins. Ensure that your sign is designed well, with clear typography and personal branding.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Before posting your yard signs, check local regulations and HOA rules — you don’t want to get fined unknowingly and ruin the vibe of your open house.

7. Invest in high-quality open house marketing materials.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $40 to $150

  Investing in high-quality open house marketing materials is crucial for creating a positive and professional impression on potential buyers. Well-designed materials like flyers, brochures, and signage showcase the property effectively and reflect positively on the hosting agent or agency. High-quality materials convey attention to detail, help build trust, and leave a lasting impression for increased engagement and potential leads.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Use the help of a real estate marketing company with branding elements. Coffee and Contracts, for instance, offers thousands of social media templates designed specifically for agents. These include templates for Instagram Reels, carousels, and Broke Agent memes. As a subscriber, you’ll access fresh content and new options every month. For more information, read our Coffee and Contracts review.

8. Hire a photographer to take pictures

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  From $50 an hour

  If you want your fellow real estate agents to like you, think about hiring a photographer to snap some pictures of them in action at your open house. Agents always love having more pics of themselves for social media, and these images can also come in handy for your next listing presentation.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Hiring a professional photographer is a good idea, as these pros can deliver great results without you figuring it out yourself. You may also consider hiring a drone photographer; it’s fun and results in great photos you can share. It can also help potential clients see exactly what’s in the area at a glance. However, if a professional is too costly, you can try doing it on your own — check out our real estate photography tips for better results.

9. Create a branded infographic with neighborhood info.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free neighborhood overviews, $30 per detailed report

  Creating branded real estate infographics with all the neighborhood info gives potential buyers what they need to know about it. You can show off the local amenities, schools, and parks; you can even throw in some fun facts about the neighborhood. Plus, it adds credibility to market trends, property values, and community demographics.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Grab a neighborhood profile for free, take four or five of the most interesting stats, and whip up an infographic in Canva. It’s easier than you think, and your preparation will impress your clients.

Enhance your open house with technology

Incorporating technology can take your open house to the next level, providing an engaging experience for agents and potential buyers. From virtual tours and interactive floor plans to smart home devices, using tech can really wow visitors and showcase properties in exciting and modern ways.

10. Livestream an open house tour and share it on social media.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Livestreaming an open house tour allows potential buyers to see the property in real time, ask questions, and get a sense of the space. Sharing livestreams on social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok, can help reach a younger audience and make the property more visible on different platforms. This multi-platform approach can create more interest in the property and potentially lead to a quicker sale.

• 

  
  
  Here are some livestream open house tips:
  

  • Create and boost a social media post to advertise and boost your virtual open house.
  • Send out an email or text blast announcing your virtual open house. Don’t forget to contact other agents in your office or farm area. Even if they’re too busy to attend in person, it might be the perfect home for one of their buyers.
  • Use short snippets of the video to market yourself on social media. Record your live stream and cut it into quick-hit videos for Instagram real estate Reels or Stories and TikTok. You can use them as “day in the life” videos or show how your property marketing can fill a room with people!

11. Create a VR experience.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $25 to $450

  Virtual reality (VR) is still super cutting-edge but catching on quickly. That’s why adding it to your open house toolkit can show everyone that you’re a tech-savvy agent. Give visitors a virtual tour of the property or a 3D mockup of potential renovations to help them see the space in a new way.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Snag a decent VR headset and preload it with interactive tours. Play around with it to ensure your visitors don’t run into issues.

12. Virtually stage a room & allow attendees to play around with it.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $7 to $50, depending on approach

  Virtual staging for open houses helps potential buyers envision the potential of a space by virtually furnishing and decorating it, making it more appealing. It also allows showcasing different design options and layouts to influence buyer decisions and presents the property in its best light, ultimately attracting more potential buyers.

  To make it even more fun and interactive, bring some devices on the day of the open house with the virtual staging applications preloaded. That way, attendees can play with the staging themselves and see how the home can look exactly the way they want it to.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Offer to email or, better yet, text them the pictures of the staging they created. Check out our guide to the best virtual staging software if you need some options.

13. Use QR codes creatively.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  From $50 an hour

  QR codes have become popular, but many agents still don’t know how to use them to get leads at their open houses. Here are easy ways to use QR codes at your next open house to get more leads:

  • Set up an iPad sign-in station using a QR code creator at the front door — or, better yet, on your refreshments table.
  • Create a free QR code (using a site like QR Code Generator). Print it onto your welcome sign and ensure the QR code links to your open house sign-in sheets.
  • Create QR codes that link to slideshows of each room, virtually staged in different themes. Print out the codes on signs and post them in each room with a copy such as, “See this room staged as a home office!”

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  For a budget option, you can use Curb Hero — one of our top-recommended open house apps. It is 100% free for agents and lets you create QR codes for touchless sign-in, postcards, signs, or anything else.

14. Showcase smart and sustainable home features.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $50 to $500

  While sustainable and smart home features aren’t new, potential home buyers are bound to have many questions about how they work and what it would mean to own one. Simple brochures can go the distance here, but a walkthrough of these features and showcasing the cost-effectiveness and environmental impact would really put this into perspective for your attendees.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  If you have the budget, consider partnering with local green energy experts or companies to co-host the event. They can provide objective insights or even discounts for attendees, further adding value to their attendance at your open house.

Prioritize engagement & networking

Engagement and networking at an open house are crucial for building connections and generating leads. From interacting with visitors to facilitating meaningful conversations, effective engagement and networking strategies can significantly impact the success of your open house event.

15. Boost your open house on hyperlocal social networks.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Advertising your open house on Facebook and Instagram can work well. However, at the end of the day, you’re still paying to reach people who could be hundreds of miles away, so it’s great for brand awareness but lousy for actually getting people through the door. By posting on local Facebook Groups and Nextdoor, you will reach fewer people — but those people almost certainly live in the neighborhood.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Nextdoor and Facebook Groups have some of the most engaged local audiences online. If you offer trendy food and music or use the other tips above, you might get neighbors talking about your open house for free. For your posts to get more traction, check out our real estate social media marketing tips.

16. Partner with a local brand or shop.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free to $500

  Experiential real estate marketing is about creating an awesome experience for local influencers to talk about, which helps draw them in. But to keep them interested, you need something more than just a cool backyard.

  Partnering with a local company or brand — like a boutique, restaurant, mixology bar, music school, or art gallery — can excite your open houses and get people chatting. Plus, the brands you team up with might even promote your event on their social media, reaching a whole new audience for your business.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Find businesses that align with your target market, define clear objectives, create an engaging experience, cross-promote the event, and show appreciation afterward. This can help you build successful partnerships and enhance your open house events.

17. Set up a financial consultation area.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Buyers have questions about mortgages, down payments, and how much they can afford, especially with the current rates. To address these concerns and provide a whole new level of service for clients, have a lender tag along to your next open house. They can keep you company and provide visitors with advice. It’s a win-win for both of you since creating that financial relationship can be the first step for buyers.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Set up the area with comfortable chairs and a desk. Try to keep it separate from the main space for privacy. You can even offer some financial FAQs for buyers to grab and read later.

Don’t forget the hospitality & amenities

When it comes to open house hospitality, it’s all about making guests feel at home. Offering snacks, cozy seating, and helpful info can really make people feel welcome. By creating a chill and friendly vibe, hosts can leave a great impression on potential clients.

18. Serve trendy food & drinks that spark conversation.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $1 to $5 per serving

  An open house idea that’s more a classic staple than anything — don’t forget to offer food and drinks. There’s nothing quite like the cozy, welcoming vibe of fresh-baked cookies greeting your guests at the door. But if you want to get folks chatting, serve unique and easy-to-eat dishes that will spark conversations, even on the go. When the conversation starts to flow, so do the connections.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Try serving kiwi mojito mocktails or baked treats that always have a line at the local bakery on Sunday mornings. This will give your guests a great reason to chat and mingle. Remember, the goal isn’t to show off your cooking or mixology skills but to make it easy for everyone to break the ice and start conversations. Check The Close’s guide on open house food ideas if you’re struggling to think of what to whip up.

19. Offer water bottles branded with your business card.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  From 45 cents each, in bulk

  Everyone could use a bottle of water, especially when walking around — and that’s no different a case when it comes to walking through your open house. To ensure you get your business card to your attendees, use water bottle giveaways by attaching your business card to the tag!

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Grab different colors to match your brand or the season. These are perfect to offer your guests as a to-go item on a hot day.

20. Have a childcare corner.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free to $200

  Parents can sometimes find it challenging to focus on their open house while trying to keep an eye on their kids. Set up a play area with toys, coloring books, and kid-friendly shows, making their visit to your open house more relaxed and enjoyable, even if only for a few minutes.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Consider hiring a babysitter for young families and putting up a sign for the kids’ corner. To make it even more memorable for both parents and children, give the kids a small goodie bag with your branding, adding in some coloring materials, healthy snacks, and a cute little squish toy to entertain them.

21. Give out small branded gifts as party favors.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  $2 to $5 per branded gift

  Branded items are perfect for open houses. Your open house guests probably don’t know you from Adam, so a small gift with your brand on it helps keep you at the top of their minds, especially when they like the item you gave. While it might not pay off immediately, the simple name recall when using your items is enough to grow your client base.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Give small branded gifts to your open house visitors that they will actually keep and use. Consider useful items like dishtowels, potholders, compact mirrors, or change purses.

Go the extra mile

Putting in the extra effort at your open house can really make a difference. When hosting, finding unique ways to impress potential buyers and leave a lasting impression is key. From organizing charity activities to partnering with local artists, these thoughtful touches can set your open house apart and help you generate valuable leads.

22. Raise money for charity at your open house.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Being a leader in your community is part of the job of a real estate agent. It’s not just about selling houses; it’s also about positively impacting the community. Think about it this way: If you were selling your own home, wouldn’t you prefer working with an agent known for giving back to the community?

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  There are several approaches to this. You can organize a charity raffle or silent auction during the open house. You could also pledge to donate a part of your commission from any sales made during the event to a chosen charity. Another idea is to set up a donation booth or pledge drive so that visitors can contribute directly to the charity. Just be transparent about which charitable foundation the proceeds go to.

23. Showcase local art and artists as part of staging.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  Local artists are always on the lookout for opportunities to display their work. By featuring their pieces at your open house, you’ll get some cool staging and visual charm for free while building a sense of community. It’s also a great way to spark conversations!

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Contact some local artists and offer to display their work. Ensure you’ve got a specific area for the art and cards for the artist so your visitors can learn more about the pieces as well.

Related Article

15 Home Staging Tips to Sell a House Fast

24. Host contests & giveaways.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free to $50

  Hosting a giveaway can increase your attendance immediately. People love free stuff! It adds a fun twist to your open house, even if it’s just a simple raffle or a more elaborate contest, like a scavenger hunt.

  Besides engaging your attendees, it’s an easy and creative way to grab visitor’s contact info. Be transparent and say that you’ll be sending the prize via email — it’ll give you a chance to snag participants’ contact details without overtly pushing them into it.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Keep the contest relevant to the property or neighborhood. For instance, make the prize a gift card to a local restaurant. Or, you could do something interactive, like asking guests to find the three small red stickers you’ve placed around the house for a prize.

Make time for the post-open house tasks

After a great open house, it’s time to keep the ball rolling with some post-event activities. These help nurture relationships with potential clients and increase the chances of turning leads into successful sales.

25. Follow up with all guests.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  From $300 per month

  Like all lead generation strategies, the follow-up is crucial. The only problem is determining whom you must follow up with and how often. This is where predictive analytics comes in — using such platforms will help you determine exactly who to reach out to.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Use a tried-and-tested platform, like Smartzip. It uses AI and a billion data points to tell who is likely to move before they even think about an agent. The provider says its AI is so accurate that it has an accuracy of 70% when predicting future listings. Learn more about it in our review of Smartzip.

26. Use follow-up email templates to engage new leads.

• 

  
  
  Cost:
  
  Free

  While getting emails and phone numbers at your open house is great, you might as well not bother if you can’t keep them engaged until they’re ready to transact. While some CRMs offer done-for-you drip campaigns to add to, that first email you send is vital to establishing a lasting relationship with potential clients. To ensure it hits home, use one of our open house follow-up email templates.

• 

  
  
  Use this tip:
  
  Writing great subject lines is crucial — after all, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Here are five clever email subject lines you can use to increase the odds of getting your email read:

  1. Your Private Invite: Get the Best Listings BEFORE They Hit the Market!
  2. Coffee This Week? (on me)
  3. I Have to Ask…
  4. Did You Hate It…?
  5. If You Liked {your open house address}, You’ll LOVE These!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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Bringing it all together

Open houses don’t have to be boring — some creativity can go a long way not just to engage potential leads but also to make it a bit more interesting for you. By using the tips in this article, you can create a welcoming atmosphere that attracts potential buyers and heightens engagement. Do you have some open house ideas that are working for you? Drop it in the comments below to help other agents out!

The post 26 Open House Ideas That Will Actually Get You Leads appeared first on The Close.