You’ve built your list. You’ve sent your messages – either emails or SMS for real estate. And then – crickets. It’s frustrating when motivated sellers vanish into thin air without so much as a “no thanks”.
If you’re a real estate investor who’s being ghosted, don’t panic – it’s not bad luck: there are likely a couple of things stopping you from getting conversations that result in deals. Let’s examine why it’s occurring and how to get it right with a smarter way (and some tools tailored specifically for this reason).
Still Using Email? That Might Be the Problem
Before we discuss message writing or timing tips, let’s address the elephant in the inbox: email just doesn’t work for seller outreach that much anymore. Sellers aren’t glued to their email like they are with their phones, and here’s why:
- Email response rates tend to be less than 5%
- Most messages filter into spam or get buried under junk
- Sellers ignore emails from unknown senders
SMS, however, boasts a 98% open rate and response times that are much, much faster. If you’re not texting, then you’re not playing.
If you want to know more about how SMS in real estate works and what features you can have, schedule a free short call with us, and we’ll tell you what you need to know.
What About Pairing SMS with Email for Maximum Conversion?
Not sure if you should use one or the other? Use both.
Combining SMS for real estate investors and email creates a complete communication strategy. SMS grabs immediate attention and drives quick replies. Email, while slower, is ideal for sending longer content, documents, or market updates and for nurturing leads over time.
Best approach:
- Start with SMS to reach sellers fast
- Qualify leads through replies and automations
- Use email for longer-term follow-up with non-responders – sharing tips, case studies, or helpful updates.
SMS captures attention. Email builds trust. Together, they help you stay top-of-ind and close more deals.
Why Sellers Are Ghosting You (Even If You’re Texting)
Once you’ve moved to SMS for real estate, the next challenge is receiving responses. Here are the most common reasons sellers ghost your messages – and what to do about it:
1. Your Messages Feel Like Spam
A block of text, overused words, or telling too much in one go will drive people away. Low-key, human, and simple is the recipe.
Be direct and relaxed.
2. Bad Timing
Texting at 7am or 10pm is a surefire way to get ignored – or blocked. Mid-morning or early evening is usually best. Use a platform that helps schedule or drip your outreach at optimal times, such as Launch Control.
3. No Follow-Up
We would send a single message and give up. But persistence pays. It typically takes 3-5 messages before a seller replies, particularly when they are not in a rush to sell.
That is why Launch Control’s automated drip campaigns are so revolutionary – you stay top of mind without having to manually follow up.
4. Lack of Personalization
Using the seller’s name or even referencing their neighborhood can literally double your response rate. It shows them you’re a real person who took time – not just blasting off a generic list.
All of these things can be solved through our Launch Leads service. Launch Leads is our done-for-you service where we take care of everything SMS-related, and we pay special attention to all these reasons why sellers ignore messages. We know the industry inside-out, and it’s our goal to help you succeed. Launch Leads is an amazing option for everyone who’s just starting to use SMS for real estate, but also for people who’re using SMS but don’t see any results. The latter means you should switch things up, and that is where we jump in.
In case you want to know about Launch Leads, feel free to schedule a short info call with us!
How to Fix It: Tools & Strategies That Actually Work
Leverage Messaging Templates that Initiate Conversations
Launch Control was created for real estate investors like you who need replies – not crickets. The platform has:
- High performing SMS templates that are crafted and vetted specifically for motivated sellers
- Local market compliance to guard you
- Reply tracking and optimization tools
- Drip automations that keep the conversations warm
You don’t have to try what works – just leverage a system that already does.
Pro Tip: Use “Open Loop” Language
Open loops create curiosity and encourage a reply. Try ending messages with light questions like:
These are laid-back and invite conversation, not insisting on a hard yes.
Need Someone to Do it for You? Try Launch Leads
If messaging, handling responses, and handling follow-ups aren’t your thing (or you just don’t have time), Launch Leads is your answer.
Here’s what Launch Leads offers:
- Professional message writer who know what works
- Trained agents handling all seller interactions
- You receive pre-qualified, ready-to-talk leads
It’s a done-for-you service fueled by the same high-performing strategies used by top-performing investors across the country. In case you want to know about Launch Leads, feel free to schedule a short info call with us!
Bonus: Fast Texting Secrets from the Experts
Here are some fast tips used by investors who get a steady response:
- Copy the tone of the seller. If they respond casually, respond casually. If they are inquiring, get to the point in a hurry.
- Use emojis in moderation. One emoji will make your message more human-friendly – but don’t use it too much.
- Don’t use so many technical terms. “Cash offer” is fine. “Assignment of contract”? Hold on until later.
- Always end with a question. Conversations wilt and perish when there’s nothing to respond.
Final Thought: Silence Doesn’t Mean “No”
Ghosting doesn’t mean the seller isn’t interested – it merely means the message didn’t land. By taking the transition to SMS: using smart templates, automating follow-ups, and using tools such as Launch Control and Launch Leads, you can turn silence into conversations – and conversations into contracts.
