Texting for Lead Generation - Two Sides of the Coin

Welcome back to Coach’s Corner on the Double Duty Agent Podcast! I'm your host, Karla Higgins, and today we’re diving into an important topic: Texting for Lead Generation.

Texting is a powerful tool for growing your real estate business, but can you rely on it alone to build deep, lasting client relationships? Unfortunately, no. In this episode, we explore both sides of the coin—why texting is an effective lead-generation tool and why it shouldn’t be your only method of communication.

Why You Can’t Rely on Texting Alone

• The Communication Pyramid (based on The Seven Levels of Communication by Michael Maher):
  • Face-to-face conversations are the richest form of communication.
  • Phone calls convey tone and voice but lack body language.
  • Emails provide long-form communication but lack immediacy.
  • Text messages are the most limited form of communication.
• Risks of Over-Reliance on Texting:
  • Miscommunication due to lack of tone and body language.
  • Emotional disconnect that prevents strong relationships.
  • Decline in social skills and conversation confidence.
  • Higher risk of conflict escalation due to misunderstandings.
• When is Texting Appropriate?
  • Quick updates (confirming appointments, sending reminders, etc.)
  • Initial contact before transitioning to a phone call or meeting.
  • Keeping in touch with long-distance clients.

The Power of Texting for Lead Generation

• Why Texting Works:
  • 98% of text messages are read (compared to 20% for email).
  • Text messages have a 45% response rate (compared to 6% for email).
  • Clients find texting convenient and less intrusive.
  • Instant communication makes it ideal for quick updates.
• Best Uses for Texting in Real Estate:
  • Initial Contact with Buyers & Sellers: “Hi [Name], thanks for reaching out! I’m [Agent Name]. I’d love to help. What are you looking for?”
  • New Listing Alerts: “Hey [Name], I found a property that fits your criteria! Want to schedule a tour?”
  • Viewing & Appointment Reminders: “Hi [Name], quick reminder about your showing tomorrow at 10 AM. Let me know if you need to reschedule!”
  • Price Reduction Notifications: “Exciting news! The home at [Address] just had a price drop. Let’s chat if you’re interested.”
  • Follow-Ups & Check-Ins: “Hi [Name], checking in on your home search. Do you have any questions?”
  • Referral Requests: “Hey [Name], I loved working with you! If you know anyone looking to buy or sell, I’d love an introduction.”

How to Use Texting Effectively & Avoid Pitfalls

• Use clear, concise language.
• Be mindful of tone—use emojis carefully.
• Follow up important messages with a phone call or in-person meeting.
• Schedule texts to send at appropriate times to maintain professionalism.
• Never use texting for sensitive or complex conversations.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Balance

Texting is great for: Quick updates, reminders, and lead engagement.  Texting is NOT a replacement for: Building trust, negotiating, or handling major decisions.

To maximize success:

1. Use texting strategically—it’s great for touchpoints, but not for deep conversations.
2. Balance communication methods—combine texting with calls, video messages, and in-person meetings.
3. Know when to switch mediums—if a conversation requir