As the year comes to a close, real estate agents have a unique opportunity to reconnect with clients, friends, and leads. An end-of-year home maintenance call can serve multiple purposes: offering value with helpful tips, ensuring your client database is up-to-date, and keeping yourself top-of-mind for future real estate needs. Here’s how to structure this conversation to build rapport and position yourself as a trusted resource.
Start with a Warm and Friendly Introduction
Kicking off the conversation on a positive note sets the tone for a productive call. A personalized approach makes the interaction feel genuine rather than transactional. Instead of jumping straight into your purpose, take a moment to ask about their well-being.
Example:
“Hi [Contact’s Name], this is [Your Name] with [Your Company]. How are you doing today?”
A friendly greeting establishes rapport and opens the door to a relaxed conversation. Listen attentively to their response—it’s a chance to connect on a personal level and make the call more engaging.
Provide Value with Home Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve broken the ice, transition into the value-driven portion of the call. Share a few actionable tips that are especially relevant at the end of the year. Focus on tasks that help homeowners save money, protect their property, and prepare for the upcoming season.
Suggested Tips to Share:
- Change HVAC Filters: Remind them to replace their filters to improve air quality and keep their heating system efficient during the winter months.
- Check for Drafts: Suggest inspecting windows and doors for drafts to reduce heating costs and stay cozy.
- Drain and Store Hoses: Encourage them to drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior faucets to prevent freezing and damage.
Positioning Tip: Frame these tips as a friendly reminder rather than a lecture. For example:
“A few things that are always good to tackle before the new year include changing HVAC filters, checking for drafts, and draining outdoor hoses. These small tasks can make a big difference in keeping your home in great shape during the winter.”
Offer a Checklist as a Helpful Tool
Once you’ve shared the tips, take the next step by offering a convenient way for them to stay organized: a home maintenance checklist. This positions you as someone who goes above and beyond to make their life easier.
How to Offer the Checklist:
“I’ve put together a simple end-of-year checklist to help you stay on top of these tasks. It’s quick, easy, and covers everything you’ll need. Can I confirm your email address so I can send it over?”
This approach feels helpful rather than sales-driven. By confirming their email address, you’re also updating your contact information for future follow-ups.
Update Contact Information
While confirming their email, take the opportunity to verify or update other details, like their phone number. This is a subtle but effective way to ensure your database is accurate without feeling intrusive.
Example:
“And just to double-check, is this the best phone number to reach you if there are any exciting market updates next year?”
This phrasing keeps the conversation light and emphasizes potential benefits to them.
Maintain a Positive and Professional Tone
Not every contact will be immediately interested in the tips or the checklist, and that’s okay. Keep the tone upbeat and respectful, and leave the door open for future conversations.
If They’re Uninterested:
“That’s no problem at all! If you ever have questions about your home or want to chat about the market, feel free to reach out. Have a wonderful holiday season!”
By maintaining a positive demeanor, you reinforce your role as a helpful resource rather than a pushy salesperson.
Set Up Future Opportunities
End the call by wishing them a happy New Year and reminding them that you’re available for any real estate questions. This keeps the conversation open-ended and plants the seed for future engagement.
Example:
“If you’re curious about market updates as we head into 2025 or need anything else, don’t hesitate to give me a call. Have a great holiday season!”
Follow-Up Strategies
For contacts who don’t respond immediately to your offer, consider sending a follow-up email with the checklist. A brief message thanking them for their time and reiterating your tips can leave a lasting impression.
Follow-Up Email Template:
Subject: End-of-Year Home Maintenance Checklist
Hi [Contact’s Name],
Thanks for taking the time to chat with me earlier! As promised, here’s the end-of-year home maintenance checklist to help you wrap up the year smoothly.
[Attach Checklist]
If you have any questions or want to discuss real estate plans for 2025, feel free to reach out. Wishing you a happy holiday season!
Best,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
An end-of-year home maintenance call is more than just a friendly check-in—it’s an opportunity to provide value, update your client database, and strengthen relationships. By offering actionable tips, a helpful checklist, and a warm, professional approach, you position yourself as a trusted advisor who genuinely cares about your clients’ needs.
Call-to-Action: Make your end-of-year calls today and watch your relationships flourish into the new year. For more resources on building client connections, subscribe to our newsletter or contact us directly!
