What to Say on a Real Estate Call (Even If They Sound Angry)

What to Say on a Real Estate Call (Even If They Sound Angry)

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Every call in real estate is a chance to make money.

Whether it’s someone asking questions, wanting to be removed from your mailing list, or just thinking about selling, the way you handle that phone call can make or break the deal.

Many real estate pros lose leads because they don’t know what to say in the moment. But with the right phone scripts and a calm, confident approach, even a tough call can lead to a motivated seller and a profitable deal.

In this blog, you’ll learn how to respond to seven types of common real estate phone leads. These proven responses can help you build trust, book more appointments, and convert real estate calls into real income.

Prefer to watch instead of read? Check out this quick video that walks you through how to turn real estate calls into real deals, step by step.

What Are the Best Phone Scripts for Real Estate Calls?

Use these simple phone scripts to respond to the most common seller calls and turn them into deals:

  • Remove Me From Your List – Calmly agree to remove them, then ask if they’ve ever considered selling

  • I’m Confused – Thank them for calling, and explain the purpose of your letter in plain language

  • Saving for Later – Ask about their timeline and offer a no-pressure valuation now

  • Listed but Not Selling – Ask about their current listing experience and offer future help

  • Offer Too Low – Ask what they expected and offer to view the home before adjusting your offer

  • Influencer Calls – Treat the caller with respect and ask if they can connect you with the decision-maker

  • Selling in a Few Months – Create urgency by explaining the benefits of planning ahead

1. The “Remove Me From Your List” Call

These calls typically come from individuals who are upset about receiving mail from you. While they might sound angry, about 1 in 10 of these calls can still lead to a deal.

How to handle it:

  • Stay calm and agree to remove them from your mailing list

  • Ask for their address to complete the removal

  • Explain that they might still receive a few more letters

  • Then ask:

  • “It sounds like you're never selling this property, is that right?”

This question often gets them talking. Some will admit they’re open to selling or want more info about your offer.

2. The “I’m Confused” Call

These are common real estate cold call responses. People call in, unsure about the letter they received.

Your response should be:

  • Thank them for reaching out

  • Let them know others have felt the same way

  • Explain clearly who you are, why you sent the letter, and how you can help homeowners who need to sell their homes fast or explore their options

This helps turn confusion into curiosity and opens the door to a real conversation.

3. “I’m Saving Your Info for Later”

When someone says they’re “saving your info,” it usually means they’re not ready yet, but they’re thinking about it.

What to do:

  • Ask friendly questions about their plans or timing

  • Offer to give them a no-pressure cash offer or valuation now

  • Let them know it’s helpful to have options even if they don’t plan to sell today

This positions you as helpful, not pushy, and keeps the conversation open for when they’re ready to move forward.

4. On-Market Homes That Aren’t Selling

Some properties are listed with agents but are not getting offers. These homeowners may be disappointed or unsure what to do next.

How to respond:

  • Ask how things are going: any showings, feedback, or agent communication?

  • If they’re unhappy, offer to reconnect once their contract expires

  • If they’re loyal to their agent, ask if you can speak with the agent directly to provide a second opinion on pricing

This gives you a chance to add value without stepping on toes.

5. “Your Offer Is Too Low.”

Low offer objections are very common in real estate phone calls, especially with cold leads.

Try this:

  • Acknowledge their concern

  • Ask, “What price were you expecting?”

  • Explain that a final offer depends on seeing the home in person

  • Suggest setting an appointment so you can evaluate the condition and make a fair offer

By meeting face to face, you can explain how your offer is based on repairs, upgrades, and local market comparisons.

6. Influencer Calls

Sometimes the caller isn’t the decision-maker. It might be a family member, neighbor, or attorney.

How to handle it:

  • Be respectful and professional

  • Ask how they’re involved in the process

  • See if they can connect you with the property owner

  • Ask their thoughts on the best way to move forward

These influencer calls can turn into highly qualified leads when they result in warm introductions.

7. “We’re Selling in a Few Months.”

This is a classic real estate phone lead from motivated but not urgent sellers. Don’t write them off.

Turn this into an opportunity:

  • Thank them and explain that smart sellers start planning early

  • Offer to provide a no-obligation offer or home value now

  • Let them know this helps them prepare for when they are ready

This keeps you ahead of the competition and shows you’re thinking long-term.

Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate Calls

Q: What’s the best way to convert a real estate seller lead on the phone?
A: Keep it simple. Ask open-ended questions that help you understand their situation. Show you’re there to help, not pressure them. Then offer next steps like an estimate or visit.

Q: Can angry callers still become leads?
A: Yes. Many great deals start with upset callers. If you stay calm, listen, and respectfully ask if they’ve ever thought about selling, you can turn the call around.

Q: How should I handle someone who says, “Your offer is too low”?
A: Ask what price they had in mind. Let them know you’ll need to see the property to give your best offer. Use it as a reason to schedule a visit.

Q: What do I say when someone says they’ll keep my info for later?
A: Thank them and ask about their timeline. Offer to give them a no-pressure offer now, so they have something to think about when they’re ready.

Q: What if the home is already listed with another agent?
A: Respect their current agreement. Ask how the process is going and offer to follow up after their contract ends. If they’re happy with their agent, ask for an introduction.

Final Thoughts on Real Estate Phone Leads

When it comes to real estate, it’s not just about listings or signs in the yard. It’s about conversations. Every cold call is a chance to connect with a potential seller, solve a problem, or open the door to a future deal.

Learning how to handle real estate calls the right way helps you stand out, build trust, and grow your business. Whether you're helping someone sell fast, working with a referral, or following up on a mailer, your words matter.

Ready to take your next call? Start using these scripts today and turn more conversations into closings.

Maria Tresvalles

About Maria Tresvalles

Maria Tresvalles is the dynamic Marketing Specialist at DealMachine, where she has been a key player for the past five years. With a strong background in customer relations, Maria started her journey at DealMachine as a Customer Success Coordinator, where she honed her skills in understanding customer needs and driving satisfaction.