21 Expired Listing Scripts That Could Change Minds

21 Expired Listing Scripts That Could Change Minds [+Tips & Best Practices]

The biggest secret to winning over expired listings is to show confidence in your ability and enthusiasm to help homeowners sell their listings. Scripts can help you find that confidence by creating a framework for what to say in different scenarios.

Written By
Sophia Doyle
Sophia Doyle
Apr 7, 2026
6 minute read
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Expired listings are a great lead source if you know how to approach them. These homeowners are often still motivated to sell but frustrated with their previous experience, which creates an opportunity for agents with a clear plan and the right messaging.

That’s where expired listing scripts come in. The right script helps you build rapport quickly, position yourself as a problem-solver, and turn missed opportunities into new listings. In this guide, you’ll find 21 proven scripts for every stage of the conversation, along with tips and best practices to help you connect and convert.

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How to contact expired listings

Before you choose your script, it’s important to understand how to reach these expired-listing owners. My advice: don’t just rely on one method. Use a mix of outreach strategies to increase your chances of getting a response and building a connection.

  • Phone calls: Calling is one of the fastest and lowest-effort ways to make direct contact and start a conversation. Phone calls allow you to build rapport quickly and gather real-time insights into a seller’s situation. I recommend using a dialer to quickly get through a large list of numbers.
  • Text messages: A simple, well-crafted text can feel less intrusive than a call and is often easier for homeowners to respond to. Keep your message short, personal, and focused on starting a conversation.
  • Emails: Sending emails is a great way to provide more detailed value, such as an updated market insight or a preview of your listing strategy. Don’t give away all your information, and encourage the seller to reach out. An email allows a homeowner to review your message on their own terms and at their own pace.
  • Mailers or postcards: Direct mail adds a personal touch and helps you stand out, especially when many agents rely solely on digital outreach. A handwritten note or well-designed postcard can leave a lasting impression. Make sure you personalize the mailers to feel custom to the specific property.
  • Door knocking: A face-to-face introduction through door knocking helps build trust quickly and shows initiative, especially when paired with a soft, helpful approach. Always have a print version of your strategy on hand to leave with the homeowner, or on the doorstep if there is no answer.
  • Social Media: Social media platforms can help you connect with homeowners more casually. Engaging with their content or sending a thoughtful message can open the door to a conversation.

The key to all these outreach options is consistency. Use consistent messaging, reach out periodically, and gradually increase your visibility.

Initial contact

1. The text message script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Make initial contact by text message in a clear and engaging way.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Make it personal and feel less spammy.
    • Say who you are and the brokerage you work for.
    • Keep it short, and ask to chat.
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2. The email script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Reach out to the homeowner via email to offer valuable insights.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Ensure the subject line grabs attention.
    • Mention that you have new strategies to discuss, and avoid blaming the previous agent.
    • Provide a clear call to action, asking for the next meeting or call

3. The  voicemail script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Introduce yourself via a compelling message that encourages a callback.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Keep your message brief and to the point.
    • Use a positive tone, and clearly state your contact info.
    • Keep the conversation open-ended to gather information.
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4. The door-knocking script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective:

    Make a strong first impression when going door-knocking and introducing yourself.

  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Start with a friendly introduction, and mention your brokerage.
    • Ask if they have time to chat now or if they’d prefer to schedule a follow-up meeting.
    • Stay upbeat and positive, no matter what their reaction may be.

Engagement

5. The situation check-in script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Connect with the homeowner who responded to your outreach but hasn’t clearly explained why their property didn’t sell or what they plan to do next.
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Thank them for responding to show appreciation and respect.
    • Listen more than talk (this is not your pitch moment).
    • Use open-ended questions to uncover pain points or frustrations.

6. The let’s-reconnect script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Re-engage the homeowner to reignite their interest in selling and offer new strategies.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Show you understand and respect their decision to step back from the market.
    • Mention new market trends that would be beneficial to selling their home now.
    • Be sure to have fresh ideas to share.

7. The referral service partner script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Begin the conversation without asking for the listing. Offer useful contacts for staging, repairs, or services that sellers of expireds may need.
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Position yourself as a problem-solver, not a salesperson.
    • Lead with generosity by offering value, not pitching yourself.
    • Mention specific services, such as handypersons, stagers, and cleaners.

8. The client success story script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Share real-life wins to build trust and demonstrate your expertise.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Relate the success story to their current situation.
    • Be sure your story is specific.
    • Express confidence in achieving similar results.

9. The market analysis script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Offer a detailed market analysis to provide value and build trust.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Mention that you have valuable insights to share.
    • Ensure they know it’s important since their property didn’t sell the last time.
    • Once they agree, set a follow-up meeting to discuss the analysis and next steps.
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10. The price adjustment script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Discuss the need for a price change from the last time they listed.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Be sensitive to the homeowner’s feelings.
    • Emphasize that your recommendation is based on thorough market analysis.
    • Explain how a price adjustment can attract more buyers and increase the chances of a sale.

Objection

11. The “I’m selling it myself instead” script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Position yourself as a helpful ally to open the door to a future listing opportunity.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Don’t challenge their FSBO decision. Instead, acknowledge and validate it.
    • Offer genuine value, such as tips, resources, and tools, without asking for the listing.
    • Be conversational. Close with an easy, low-pressure invitation to connect.
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12. The “I’m going to rent it instead” script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Reframe the homeowner’s decision to rent as a potential backup while you open the door to selling when conditions improve.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Respect their choice to have their property rented.
    • Share the highlights and drawbacks of renting vs. selling, but keep things informative, i.e., do not pressure them.
    • Position yourself as helpful.

13. The “I’m staying with my agent” script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Tell the homeowner that you appreciate their honesty in informing you that they intend to stay with their agent.
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Don’t criticize their agent.
    • Ask thoughtful questions that encourage the homeowner to reflect.
    • Focus on how you can add value.

14. The “It’s not the time to sell” script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Validate the homeowner’s caution, and gently explore what made them feel that way, which opens the path to a possible future conversation.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Avoid being dismissive. Instead, empathize and build trust.
    • Ask open-ended questions to understand their hesitation.
    • Frame yourself as someone who can help when timing aligns.

Consultation

15. The appointment setting script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Secure an in-person meeting to discuss your marketing strategies.
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Be specific, show them you’ve done your homework.
    • Suggest a specific day and time, making it easier for them to decide.
    • Be flexible and offer alternative times.

16. The first-meeting script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Build trust and understand the homeowner’s goals.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Thank them for their time.
    • Listen to their concerns.
    • Invite them to ask questions.

17. The why-it-didn’t-sell diagnostic script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Collaboratively analyze the failed listing during the first meeting (in-person or via phone).
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Be neutral and fact-based.
    • Focus on improvement, not blame.
    • Use questions to guide discovery.

18. The marketing plan presentation script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Present a detailed real estate marketing plan to secure the listing.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Be sure to provide a clear, step-by-step plan.
    • Highlight how each part will attract buyers.
    • Invite questions, and provide detailed answers.

Listing

19. The close-the-deal script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Secure the homeowner’s commitment to list their property with you.
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  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Ask for the listing politely.
    • Be sure to have the paperwork ready to be signed.
    • Show confidence in your marketing plan and get them excited to get their home sold.

20. The onboarding script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Outline next steps after signing, and set clear expectations for the listing process.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Be clear and organized to establish a professional tone.
    • Break down the timeline so that the homeowner feels in control.
    • Reaffirm they’ve made the right decision in choosing you.

21. The pre-listing check-in script

  • Goals or focus icon showing a bullseye with an arrow inside a pink circle. Objective: Confirm details, ease seller concerns, and maintain positive momentum before the listing goes live. Do this 2 to 3 days before launch.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. What to keep in mind::
    • Don’t assume they’re fully prepared.
    • Reaffirm your partnership and guidance.
    • Use a calm and encouraging tone to reduce anxiety, if any.

Related Articles

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Expired listing script flowchart

Here’s a decision tree designed to guide you through different seller responses: Yes, Maybe, and Hard No.

Importance of using an expired listing script

A script for expired listings is an essential tool to help you maintain focus and flow in your pitch, especially when addressing potentially unmotivated or defensive audiences.

  1. Offers an opportunity to re-engage frustrated homeowners: When their listings expire, they’re likely disappointed and unsure of what to do next. A well-crafted script provides an empathetic and professional way for you to establish contact and position yourself as a helpful expert, not just another agent.
  2. Positions you strategically: The right script enables you to differentiate yourself from the previous agent and other prospecting agents. Ensure you mention your unique marketing techniques, data-driven strategies, and clear communication plans.
  3. Provides structure and confidence: More productive conversations can arise from a script. It reduces hesitation or stumbling during an outreach, which is especially helpful in high-pressure situations and for newer agents.
  4. May increase your lead conversion rate: An expired listing is a high-intent lead source, so a script designed to identify what could’ve been improved, offer fresh insights, and propose a new strategy can increase your chances of landing a new listing.
  5. Helps you respond calmly and professionally: Sellers of expired listings may be skeptical, overwhelmed, or frustrated. A great script can include rehearsed responses to common objections such as “We’re going to wait,” “We’re taking it off the market,” and “We’re listing with a friend.” With a professional response, you can keep the conversation alive.

Expired real estate listing tips & best practices

Every homeowner’s situation is different, so customize your approach to fit their needs. If you do your research, personalize your communication, and build trust, you’ll be turning expireds into sales in no time. Following these tips while using expired listing scripts will boost your success.

  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Do your research:

    Before reaching out, gather as much information as possible about the listing’s history. Understand why it may not have sold, such as pricing issues, inadequate marketing, or market conditions.

    • Review the MLS listing. Look at the description, listing duration, pricing strategy, and photo quality.
    • Analyze market trends in the neighborhood. Determine if the market is favoring buyers or sellers and if that affected the listing.
    • Study the competition. Note the pricing, features, and marketing of similar properties that recently sold in the area.

  • Knowledge of the listing’s past performance will help you avoid repeating the same mistakes and position you as a prepared professional.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Personalize your communication:

    Generic outreach won’t cut it. Owners of expireds have likely heard it all, so show them you’ve done your homework.

    • Address the homeowner by name. Avoid “Dear homeowner,” as using their name shows care and authenticity.
    • Reference specific details about their property. Mention the feature you love the most, like the wraparound porch or upgraded primary, to show you paid attention.
    • Mention any unique selling points or potential improvements. Suggest how small updates, such as a fresh coat of paint, some lighting, or even fresh home staging, might help the property show better.

  • Personalized messages break through skepticism and make the seller feel seen and valued, which are key to earning their attention and trust.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Use multiple methods of contact:

    Don’t rely solely on one method of communication. Different homeowners may respond better to different approaches.

    • Start with a call to make a personal connection. Keep it short, empathetic, and focused on listening, not pitching.
    • Follow up with an email. Include a market overview, quick notes on improving listing appearances, and even a comparative market analysis showing pricing comparisons.
    • Consider sending a handwritten note or a postcard for a personal touch. Make it memorable by referencing a specific detail about their property, e.g., vaulted ceilings and natural lighting, and keep it warm and sincere.

  • Several touchpoints give you more chances to be noticed — and remembered. It shows your effort, consistency, and creativity, all of which make you stand out from passive agents.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Highlight your expertise and your success:

     Homeowners need to feel confident that you can achieve what their previous agent could not. Highlight your expertise and past successes.

    • Share client success stories from satisfied clients. For example, tell them you recently sold a similar expired after having updated the photos and adjusted the price. Mention the number of days it took to sell.
    • Provide statistics on your success rate with similar properties. Offer numbers on your list-to-sale ratio and average DOM. Add how many expireds you’ve successfully relisted and sold.
    • Explain your marketing strategy and how it differs from what they experienced before. Discuss your marketing plan, staging consultations, 3D walkthroughs, and more.

  • Owners of expireds want proof, not fluff. By showing them how your past achievements have worked, you become the obvious go-to.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Focus on building trust:

    Trust is critical in real estate transactions, especially for homeowners who have had a negative experience. Establish trust through empathy and transparency.

    • Actively listen to and empathize with their frustrations. Ask what they felt didn’t go right, and let them vent without interrupting.
    • Be honest about the previous strategy. Gently identify missteps, such as poor pricing or marketing, and explain how you’d address those things differently.
    • Follow through on any of your promises. Keep your word to the letter, e.g., send reports promptly, call them on specific days and times, and provide updates on showings.

  • When sellers see that you listen, empathize, and do what you say, the foundation for a productive and professional relationship is set.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. se no-pressure strategies:

    Let your initial offer be about education, not signing contracts.

    • Provide a detailed, no-obligation market analysis. Show them what properties are selling for now and why theirs may have missed the mark.
    • Recommend cost-effective improvements. Suggest small changes, like fresh landscaping or decluttering, that can boost appeal without breaking the bank.
    • Be prepared to answer any questions they might have about the selling process. Cover topics like timing and offer negotiation, as well as what will happen if they list again but don’t get traction.

  • Owners of expireds are wary of being “sold” again. When you offer helpful insights without strings attached, you earn their goodwill and encourage future engagement.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Be persistent but respectful:

    There’s a fine line between being helpful and being overbearing. Respect the seller’s space while staying visible.

    • Set a follow-up schedule and stick to it. Space out your touchpoints, e.g., call in week 1, email in week 2, send postcard in week 3, so that you’re consistent but not overbearing.
    • Respect their space if they ask for time to think things over. Back off respectfully when they ask for time, but do ask when it’s OK to check back in.
    • Send occasional updates or valuable information without overwhelming them. Share local sales updates, interest rate changes, and the like.

  • Persistent agents get remembered. Show you’re committed, not desperate.
  • Confirmation icon showing a blue checkmark inside a light teal circle. Leverage technology:

    Use tech to stay ahead and provide homeowners with a streamlined experience.

    • Track leads and automated follow-ups. With one of the best real estate CRMs, you can ensure no lead slips through the cracks.
    • Implement virtual tours to showcase their property. Provide immersive experiences that help buyers fall in love with the home online by using one of the leading virtual tour software.
    • Deliver neighborhood activity and buyer interest insights. Use something like RPR, one of our top-recommended real estate apps, to generate real-time reports on local home sales, upcoming listings, and buyer behavior. Consider any platform that offers actual data to help keep sellers confident that demand in their area is active.

  • Tech helps you do more with less effort and gives homeowners a modern and polished experience.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Absolutely, but the key is personalization and strategy. A well-written letter that’s solution-focused and empathetic can set you apart from other agents. Remember, the letter targets homeowners who were unsuccessful in their first attempt at selling, meaning they’re often still motivated, but they’re also frustrated.

Ensure your letter addresses why the listing might’ve failed and offers your clear plan to relaunch with better results. When combined with consistent follow-up, like calls, in-person visits, or emails, your letter can open the door to valuable new listings.

As an agent, you should be empathetic and solution-driven. Acknowledge the homeowner’s frustration without blaming anyone, avoid criticizing their previous agent and instead focus on what you would do differently, provide value immediately by offering a free market review or fresh marketing plan, and stay professional. Remember, they’ve already had a rough experience.

To market an expired listing effectively, analyze why the property didn’t sell. Then, refresh the listing with professional photography, compelling copy, and possibly a price adjustment. Reintroduce the listing to the MLS with updated marketing materials, and then promote it across multiple channels, such as social media, email, websites, and targeted ads.

You may also want to host open houses or produce virtual tours to generate new interest. Most importantly, communicate your clear strategy to the seller, ensuring it showcases how your approach differs from the previous one and how it will yield better results.

When listings expire, the property is no longer active on the MLS, and any marketing efforts from the previous agent usually stop. The seller now has options to relist with the same agent, choose a new agent, try FSBO, or even take the property off the market entirely.

The final walkthrough

Expired listings are a goldmine if you’re ready to put in the work. By using my expired listing scripts, you can build trust, offer real value, and win new clients. The secret sauce? A mix of empathy, persistence, and professionalism.

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Sophia Doyle

Sophia Doyle is a staff writer at The Close and a licensed New Jersey real estate agent with hands-on experience in residential real estate. Sophia brings real world insight into today’s housing market, combining on the ground agent experience with a strong background in communications. She understands the full transaction lifecycle—from lead generation and client relationships to marketing strategy and deal execution. Through her writing, Sophia focuses on delivering clear, practical guidance that helps agents navigate an evolving industry with confidence and creativity.

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