SMS Marketing in Real Estate overview
SMS marketing in real estate is an effective way to engage potential buyers and sellers. With AI-powered automation, you can streamline communication and deliver personalized, timely messages, ensuring better engagement and quicker transactions.
Key Benefits Of SMS Marketing In Real Estate:
- Immediate Communication: Reach clients instantly with automated messages, ensuring personalized interactions and faster responses.
- High Open Rates: SMS messages have higher open rates compared to emails, guaranteeing your message gets noticed.
- Targeted Outreach: Segment your audience based on preferences, sending customized alerts about new listings, price drops, or open house events.
- Efficiency: Use SMS for appointment confirmations, reminders, and document sharing, simplifying the entire process.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to other marketing methods, SMS is affordable, often with low per-message fees or flat monthly rates.
Best Practices Of SMS Marketing For Real Estate Agents:
- Always get consent from recipients before sending messages.
- Personalize your content by segmenting your audience.
- Keep messages short, clear, and to the point (within 160 characters).
- Use clear calls to action, such as "Call now" or "Click here for details."
- Track results with analytics and adjust campaigns for better performance.
By leveraging SMS marketing, especially with AI automation, real estate professionals can ensure timely, efficient communication with clients and enhance their marketing efforts.
Juggling property listings and paperwork can make or break a real estate deal. I’ve found that real estate SMS marketing is fast, simple, and honestly, it gets results.
SMS messages have a 98% open rate, and most are read within 3 minutes. That kind of instant visibility is helpful when you’re trying to catch someone’s attention.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to use text marketing to stay ahead and how you can make it work for your real estate business as well.
Try keeping your texts short, friendly, and to the point. Use the client’s name and tailor messages based on where they are in their journey. You might also want to include a clear call-to-action, like scheduling a showing or requesting more info.
Why Rely on SMS Marketing in Real Estate?
SMS marketing allows you to connect instantly, communicate clearly, and convert faster. Let’s explore the major benefits of using SMS marketing for the real estate industry.
Here’s how it’s made a difference in my real estate operations:
- High Open and Response Rates: I can’t think of another tool where 98% of people actually see the message, and fast. That information makes it a useful tool worth investing in.
- Instant Updates: I use texts to share things like new listings or price changes in real time. It’s helped me avoid email black holes more times than I can count.
- Lead Capture and Nurturing: From open house signs to social media, I collect leads via simple opt-ins. “Text HOME123 to 56789” works extremely well when done right.
- Fewer No-Shows: Automated reminders have seriously reduced those awkward appointment no-shows. A quick text does the trick and works well.
- Easy Scheduling: Instead of sending lengthy emails, I just drop a link or suggest time slots by text, way faster for all parties involved.
- Personalized Communication: With tools such as merge tags, I can easily customize messages by name, location, or what stage they’re in. In fact, Personalized SMS messages can influence buying decisions. About 90% of customers are more likely to make a purchase when texts are personalized.
- Smarter Workflows: Automating follow-ups and routine updates has saved me hours, giving me more time actually to help clients.
Text Marketing Use Cases in the Real Estate Journey
Text marketing for real estate fits into every part of the buying and selling process. From finding leads to following up after closing, it keeps the relationship going in a simple, conversational way.
A. Lead Generation & Qualification
Getting a lead is only step one. What matters is how quickly you can respond and qualify them, and SMS makes that instant.
- Utilize SMS opt-ins on signs, landing pages, and social posts.
- Once they text in, I follow up with quick questions about budget, location, and timing.
- High-priority leads get routed straight to me or a teammate so we don’t lose the momentum.
B. Lead Nurturing & Conversion
Some leads need time to think, and that’s totally fine. I keep in touch with value-packed messages that move them closer to buying.
- Send personalized alerts for new listings that match their wish list.
- Texts with tips, loan info, or local insight help them feel more confident.
- After open houses, I check in with a friendly follow-up.
- Drip texts (automated, spaced out) work great for leads that need a gentle nudge.
C. Communication During the Process
Clients love updates, but not long emails or missed phone calls. SMS makes it easy for both of us.
- Send reminders for showings, inspections, and meetings.
- Price drops, offer status, and closing updates go out via text.
- It’s quick to answer FAQs or share links, directions, or virtual tours.
D. Post-Sale Engagement
Just because a deal’s done doesn’t mean communication should stop. I stay in touch with texts that keep me top of mind.
- Send “thank you” texts after closing and check-in post-move.
- Reminders about home care or helpful local services go a long way.
- Ask for reviews or referrals (in a polite, no-pressure way).
- Market updates help you stay relevant for future deals.
12 Real Estate Text Message Examples That Actually Work
If you’re wondering what to say in your texts, here are some messages I’ve used, or seen work really well, for different situations. These aren’t just templates. They’re conversation starters.
1. New Listing Alerts
When time matters, sending a new listing via SMS gives your buyers a head start.
Hi Alex! A new 3BHK just hit the market in Lakeview Heights, within walking distance of the school. Take a look here: [Listing Link]. Let me know if you’d like to schedule a tour.
2. Coming Soon Teasers
Great for creating buzz before a property hits the market.
Hi Jenna! A gorgeous home is coming soon to your favorite neighborhood, 4 beds, big backyard, and a newly remodeled kitchen. Want a sneak peek before it’s live?
3. Open House Invitations
Quick texts with key info make it easier for buyers to plan their visit.
Hey Sam! Don’t miss our Open House this Saturday at 22 Willow Ln, 12–3 PM. Swing by for a tour (snacks and coffee included!).
4. Price Drop Alerts
Perfect for re-engaging leads who were on the fence.
Good news, Ethan! The price just dropped on the 2BR condo at River Park, now listed at $295K. Want to take another look this week?
5. Appointment Scheduling
Saves so much back-and-forth.
Hi Maya! I’m free for showings this Friday afternoon or Saturday morning. Let me know what works for you, or book here: [Scheduling Link]
6. Showing Reminders
A small touch that makes a big difference.
Hi Jason! Just a quick reminder, your tour of 89 Greenfield Ave is today at 3 PM. Let me know if you’re running late or need to reschedule.
7. Offer Submission Confirmations
Clients appreciate knowing their offer is in.
Hi Priya! Your offer for 12 Maple Drive is in. I’ll keep you posted as soon as I hear back. Fingers crossed!
8. Thank You Texts
Kindness never goes unnoticed.
Thanks for touring with me today, Alex! I enjoyed chatting with you. Let me know your thoughts, or if you’d like to revisit anything.
9. Accepted Offer Celebrations
Big moment, celebrate it! Here’s a simple yet congratulatory text message example.
Great news, Sarah! Your offer on 78 Ridgeway Court was accepted! I’ll reach out soon with the next steps. Congrats!
10. Local Market Tips
These help you stay valuable, even if someone’s not ready to buy or sell yet.
Hi Tom! Just a quick update, home prices in Westville are up 5% this month. Want me to send a custom report for your area?
11. Drip Campaign Messages
Low-pressure, ongoing touchpoints work wonders. Here’s how you can use these SMS campaigns for real estate marketing.
Still browsing, Nina? Here’s a blog with five must-see neighborhoods in Chicago for first-time buyers: [link]. Let me know if any stand out!
12. Review Requests
Asking for a review doesn’t have to feel awkward.
Hi Mark! It was such a pleasure helping you find your new home. If you have a minute, would you mind leaving a quick review here? It means a lot: [Review Link]
Text Marketing Best Practices for Real Estate Agents
Business text messaging might seem simple, but making it actually work for your real estate business takes some trial and error. I’ve tried different formats, tones, and timing, and over time, I’ve learned what really clicks with clients and what gets ignored. If you’re just starting out or want to improve your results, here’s what’s been most effective for me.
1. Keep It Short
People are busy, and they’re usually checking messages while managing other things. I’ve found that the best-performing messages are short, clear, and focus on one specific idea. Whether it’s a listing link, appointment reminder, or quick update, I aim to keep my messages under 160 characters when possible. It keeps things easy to read and easier to reply to.
2. Make It Personal
Generic texts feel robotic. I’ve had way more success when I take the time to personalize each message, even just using their name, referencing a specific home they toured, or mentioning something we talked about. It shows that I’m paying attention and that I actually care about their journey.
For example, saying “Hey Jenna, that 4BHK near Willow Lake you liked just dropped in price” feels warmer than a copy-paste blast. Small touches make a big impact.
3. Be Clear with CTAs
If I’ve learned anything from texting clients, it’s that clarity wins every time. I never assume they know what I want them to do next. If I want them to book a tour, I say, “Click here to schedule.”
If I want feedback, I’ll say “Reply YES if you’re still interested.” Being specific with your CTA not only helps them take action faster, but it also saves you time and prevents follow-up confusion. A clear next step makes the whole process feel smoother.
4. Skip the Spammy Stuff
There’s a fine line between being persuasive and sounding like a sales robot. I avoid buzzwords like “LIMITED TIME ONLY!!!” or texts in all caps because they just don’t feel genuine. What works for me is keeping the tone friendly, helpful, and low-pressure.
If your message feels like something you’d actually say out loud to a client over coffee, you’re on the right track. And honestly, your clients will respect you more for it.
5. Send at the Right Time
Timing really does affect how people respond. Avoid blasting out messages too early when people are rushing to work or too late when they’re winding down. I also try to steer clear of weekends unless it’s time-sensitive, like a last-minute open house. Sending messages when people are most likely to engage is a simple trick that really boosts replies.
I’ve tested all kinds of windows, and late mornings (around 10:30 to 11:30 AM) or early evenings (around 5:30 to 6:30 PM) seem to get the best results.
6. Reply Fast
This one’s big. When someone replies to my text, I treat it like a live conversation. The faster I respond, the more trust I build and often, the more momentum I gain with that lead. I’ve lost count of how many deals I’ve moved forward just because I was the first one to reply.
Even if you can’t give a full answer right away, a quick “Got your message, will follow up shortly” goes a long way. It tells your client they’re not just another number in your system.
By keeping my texts friendly, timely, and genuine, I’ve turned SMS into one of the most valuable tools in my real estate toolkit.
SMS in Healthcare: Benefits & Use Cases of Text MessagingGetting Started with SMS Marketing Using ControlHippo
If you’re ready to start with text messaging for real estate, ControlHippo’s SMS shared inbox makes things way easier for real estate professionals. Here’s how you can get started with ControlHippo for text marketing:
- Choosing the Right Platform: ControlHippo gives you automation, templates, and a clean dashboard. It’s beginner-friendly but powerful.
- CRM Integration: It syncs with your existing lead tools, so you don’t have to bounce between platforms.
- Easy Automation: You can set up campaigns for listings, follow-ups, reminders, whatever you need, and it runs automatically.
- Smart Contact Management: Segment your leads by interest, budget, or timeline to send relevant messages every time.
- Real-Time Insights: You can use its tracking feature to see what’s working and tweak your strategy accordingly.
Scale Your Real Estate Business with SMS Marketing
Get ControlHippo SMS Shared Inbox and start reaching out to potential clients!
Final Thoughts
SMS marketing isn’t just another tool; it’s become part of how I connect with people in a real, human way. With platforms like ControlHippo, I’ve been able to automate what used to take hours, while still keeping things personal and effective.
If you’re thinking about trying it, I’d say start simple. Focus on being real, responsive, and helpful; the rest will fall into place.
Updated : July 28, 2025
Supriya is a proficient content developer with significant expertise in the domain of omnichannel communication solutions. She has a proven track record of delivering insights that empower organizations to optimize customer engagement. Passionate about the evolving landscape of business communication technology, Supriya stays at the forefront of trends in the field.