11 best real estate cold calling scripts for lead gen (+tips and tools)
Cold calling usually isn’t a part of what real estate agents look forward to, but it still works if you do it right. Picking up the phone and having a direct conversation is one of the quickest ways to meet new clients and uncover opportunities you wouldn’t find otherwise. The challenge for most agents is actually picking up the phone and then figuring out what to say once someone picks up. That’s where having a tried and true script comes in.
Real estate scripts for cold calling are meant to give you a starting point so you feel confident and stay on track during the conversation. The best scripts give you room to be yourself while making sure you hit the points that matter. Find our 11 real estate cold calling scripts you can actually use, along with practical tips and tools to make calls easier and less intimidating.
Want to take these scripts with you? Download all of our cold calling scripts below:
What you need to know before you pick up the phone
Before you jump into calling, it helps to set yourself up with the right approach. Cold calling can feel intimidating if you’re just winging it. However, with a little preparation, the whole process gets easier.
- Have a clear purpose. Don’t just dial numbers for the sake of checking items off your to-do list. Know what you’re hoping to get out of the call, whether it’s booking an appointment, checking in on a prospect’s interest or simply introducing yourself to a homeowner.
- Stick to a script (but don’t sound scripted). A good script is a guide, not a word-for-word speech. Read it through a few times, practice it out loud and get comfortable enough that you sound natural and go with the flow of the conversation.
- Timing matters. Calling at the wrong time can make even a strong script fall flat – or even lose a prospect’s interest altogether. Early evenings and late mornings often work best. Just be mindful, no one wants to receive a call while they’re running into their office or in the school drop-off line.
- Keep compliance in mind. Make sure you’re following Do Not Call (DNC) regulations and know the rules in your state. Don’t risk your reputation by not following the rules. The penalties are real – and hefty.
- Use the right tools. A good lead generation platform paired with a real estate dialer can make calling smoother and less stressful. The less time you spend fumbling with phone numbers, the more energy you can put into having real conversations.
REDX gives you a simple way to keep your cold calling organized. You don’t have to bounce between a dozen different programs. It lets you buy leads, track them in a CRM and use a built-in dialer to make calls from the same place. Having everything connected means less busywork and more time actually talking to people.
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The best 10 real estate cold calling scripts to spark conversation
Cold calling feels a lot less intimidating when you know exactly how to start the conversation. Remember, the goal here isn’t to sound like a robot. Real estate cold calling scripts are there to guide you by creating a structure you can lean on to keep the call moving in the right direction. Use them as a starting point, then adjust the wording to match your voice and personality. When a script feels natural, it’s easier to build rapport and turn a cold call into a real opportunity.
1. Cold script for circle prospecting
Circle prospecting is about connecting with neighbors around a listing or recent sale. It’s low-pressure and a great way to start relationships in the community.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I’m reaching out because a home just [listed/sold] near you on [Street Name], and I wanted to let neighbors know about it. Have you thought about what this means for your home’s value, or would you like me to send you an update on local prices?”
2. Cold script for FSBOs (For sale by owner)
FSBOs are usually trying to save on commission, but many end up overwhelmed by the process. Your role is to respect their effort while planting the seed that an agent could get them further, faster.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name]. I saw that you’re selling your home yourself—how’s that going so far? A lot of homeowners start FSBO and realize it’s more work than expected. I’d be glad to share some insights on what’s working in your neighborhood. If you ever decide you’d like an agent’s help, could I be the first one you call?”
Related article
3 FSBO scripts that actually book appointments (+ tips for using them)
3. Cold script for expired listings
When a listing expires, homeowners are often frustrated and discouraged. This is your chance to acknowledge their frustration, show empathy and position yourself as the fresh start they need.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I noticed your home was listed but didn’t sell, and I know that can be frustrating. I’d love to share a few ideas on why homes in your area sometimes don’t move and what I do differently to help them sell. Would you be open to a quick conversation?”
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4. Cold script for just listed homes
When you’ve got a new listing, the neighbors are usually curious. A quick call keeps it casual while letting people know what’s happening on their street.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I just put a home on the market over on [Street/Address], and I wanted to make sure the neighbors heard about it first. Do you know anyone who’s been talking about moving into the area? I’d be glad to send the details.”
5. Cold script for just sold homes
A recent sale is the perfect reason to reach out. People want to know the price, and it opens the door to talk about their own plans.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name]. I wanted to let you know we just sold the property at [Address], right near you. It went for [price/terms]. Has selling your place crossed your mind lately, or would you like me to send you a quick update on what homes are going for in your neighborhood?”
6. Cold script for referral requests
Asking for referrals doesn’t have to be awkward. Think of it as a friendly check-in where you ask for a little help spreading the word that you’re still in business and available to help others.
Agent: “Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name]. I really enjoyed working with you on your move, and I just wanted to check in. If you know anyone, friends, family or coworkers, who might be thinking about buying or selling, would you mind passing my name along? I’d be happy to take great care of them.”
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7. Cold script for an open house invitation
An open house gives you a perfect excuse to call. You’re not selling on the spot—you’re inviting, which feels a lot lighter.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I’m hosting an open house at [Address] this [day/time], and I’d love for you to stop by and/or pass the invite along to anyone who might be looking. It’s a great chance to see the home and get a feel for the neighborhood.”
8. Cold script for soliciting investors
Investors think differently from traditional buyers and sellers. They tend to be focused on numbers and revenue opportunities. Keep the conversation straightforward and focused on the value you bring to the table.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name]. I work with several investors in the area, and I wanted to reach out to see if you’re looking for new opportunities. There are some properties coming available that might make sense for rental or resale. Would you like me to send you a quick breakdown of what’s out there?”
9. Cold script for responding to prospect inquiries
When someone reaches out – whether from an online ad, a sign call or your website – it’s important to respond quickly and keep the conversation light. Your goal is to learn more about what they need and move the relationship forward.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. Thanks for reaching out about [property/address/area]. Are you mainly curious about this home, or are you starting to look more seriously at moving? I’d love to hear what you’re looking for so I can point you in the right direction.”
10. Cold script for leaving a cold calling voicemail
Most people are hesitant to answer a number they don’t recognize. If you don’t reach someone, leave a short, friendly voicemail. You still have an opportunity to get their attention and encourage a call back.
Agent: “Hi, this is [Your Name] with [Your Brokerage]. I just wanted to quickly introduce myself—I work with buyers and sellers here in [area], and I’ll follow up with you soon. If you’d like to reach me before then, my number is [phone number]. Talk soon.”
11. Cold script for your sphere of influence
Your sphere already knows you, so this isn’t a cold call in the traditional sense. It’s more of a quick touch base to stay top of mind and remind them you’re their go-to real estate contact.
Agent: “Hey [Name], it’s [Your Name]. I was just thinking of you and wanted to check in to see how things are going. By the way, the market’s been pretty active around [neighborhood/town]. If you or anyone you know is even thinking about making a move, I’d love to be the one to help.”
Tips to perfect your cold calling strategy and overcome fears
Most real estate agents will tell you that cold calling makes them nervous. That’s completely normal. The trick is to keep it simple and give yourself a few ways to make it less intimidating. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you start rehearsing your real estate cold calling scripts.
- Practice and read it out loud: Don’t just skim a script in your head – it’ll never come out the same. Practice it out loud. Talk to yourself in the mirror, call a friend, role-play with another agent or even leave yourself a voicemail to hear how you sound.
- Remember why you’re calling: You’re not just calling to bug people. You’re looking to connect by offering help. Whether that’s selling their home, buying their next one or giving them an idea of what their place is worth, you’re giving them something of value. When you keep that in mind, it feels a lot less pushy.
- Warm up a little first: If calling strangers feels like too much at first, start with the people you already know – past clients, friends and your sphere of influence. Once you get talking and break the ice, it’s easier to roll into the colder calls.
- Use your tools and stay organized: Nothing’s worse than fumbling through scraps of paper or trying to find your notes while you’re dialing. Keep your leads in one place and have your list ready so you can just focus on the call.
- Small wins count: Not every call is going to land a client – and that’s OK. Sometimes the win is just a good conversation or getting through your list. Celebrate the fact that you did what you set out to do. It will help you build confidence with every call.
Cold calling is about showing up and making connections. You’ll learn as you go and get better over time. Next thing you know, you’ll be meeting a new prospect at a property showing and closing your next deal.
If cold calling makes you nervous, Shilo will help. It gives you talking points so you’re not stuck wondering what to say, and it keeps track of your calls. It even grades your calls so you can see where you need to make improvements and where you’re getting better. With AI Roleplay, redo your previous calls and receive coaching feedback in real-time. It’s like having a coach in your back pocket while you’re dialing, which makes picking up the phone a whole lot easier.
Visit ShiloReal estate cold calling scripts: FAQs
What are the three C’s of cold calling?
The three C’s are confidence, clarity and consistency. Confidence matters because people pick up on the tone of your voice. If you sound unsure, they won’t trust you. Clarity keeps the call short and to the point, so the person knows right away who you are and why you’re calling. And consistency is what makes cold calling work long term; one call session won’t change your business, but showing up regularly will.
Is it illegal for real estate agents to cold call?
No, cold calling isn’t illegal, but there are strict rules you have to follow. Real estate agents need to check the Do Not Call (DNC) registry and follow state and federal guidelines. If you ignore those rules, you can get fined as well as damage your reputation in the community.
How many calls should an agent make in a day?
There’s no magic number, but realistically most agents aim for 20–50 calls a day. What matters more is being consistent. A smaller list you actually follow through on is better than shooting for 100 calls and burning out.
The full picture: Real estate cold calling scripts
Hopefully, you’ve been able to gather a few scripts to lean on and the confidence to start dialing. Cold calling may never be the most glamorous part of being an agent, but it’s still one of the fastest ways to find new business. With the right mindset, a little preparation and a few proven scripts, those calls start to feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity.
Use the tips in this guide, practice until the conversations feel natural, and don’t be afraid of a little rejection along the way. Every call gets you closer to the next appointment, the next client or the next referral.
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