Last updated: January 2026

Real Estate Cold Calling Scripts

Proven cold calling scripts for real estate investors. Use these for absentee owners, pre-foreclosure, expired listings, and general motivated seller outreach.

Try FlipMantis Free

General Opening Script

For any lead list

"Hi, is this [Name]? Great, my name is [Your Name]. I'm a local real estate investor and I came across your property at [Address].

I work with homeowners in [City] and I was wondering if you've ever thought about selling that property?"

If YES: "That's great to hear. Can you tell me a little about the property and what your timeline might look like?"

If NO: "No problem at all. Would it be okay if I checked back with you in a few months? Sometimes situations change."

Absentee Owner Script

For owners who don't live at the property

"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name]. I'm a real estate investor in [City]. I noticed you own a property at [Address] but your mailing address shows you're out of the area.

I work with a lot of landlords and out-of-state owners who sometimes get tired of managing properties from a distance. Is that something you ever deal with?"

If they express any frustration: "I hear that a lot. Managing from [Their City] can be a hassle. If you ever wanted to cash out and not deal with it anymore, I could make that really easy for you. What would you need to consider selling?"

Pre-Foreclosure Script

Sensitive approach for distressed situations

"Hi, is this [Name]? My name is [Your Name]. I help homeowners in [City] who are going through some challenging situations with their property.

I came across your property at [Address] and wanted to see if there's anything I might be able to help with. Do you have a minute to chat?"

Key: Don't mention foreclosure. Be empathetic. Listen to their situation. See our full pre-foreclosure scripts guide.

Expired Listing Script

For properties that failed to sell with an agent

"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name]. I noticed your property at [Address] was on the market but the listing expired. I'm not an agent trying to get your listing. I'm actually an investor who buys houses directly.

Are you still interested in selling, or have your plans changed?"

If still interested: "Great. Sometimes when houses don't sell, it's because of condition, price, or timing. I buy houses as-is and can close quickly. Would you be open to a cash offer?"

Inherited Property Script

For probate or inherited properties

"Hi, is this [Name]? My name is [Your Name]. I understand you may have recently inherited a property at [Address]. First, I want to say I'm sorry for your loss.

I work with families who inherit properties and sometimes aren't sure what to do with them. Are you planning to keep the property, or are you exploring other options?"

Key: Be respectful of their loss. Many heirs don't want the burden of maintaining an inherited property.

Handling Common Objections

"I'm not interested."

"I understand. Things change though. Would it be okay if I followed up in a few months? What's the best way to reach you?"

"How did you get my number?"

"Public records. I research properties in [City] to find homeowners who might be interested in selling. I apologize if this call is unexpected."

"I'm going to list with an agent."

"That's a great option. Just so you know, I can close in as little as 2 weeks, pay cash, and buy as-is. If the listing doesn't work out, feel free to reach back."

"How much are you offering?"

"It depends on the property condition and what repairs are needed. Can you tell me a bit about the home? I'd want to see it before giving you a number I can stand behind."

"Take me off your list."

"Absolutely, I'll remove you right now. I apologize for the inconvenience. Have a great day."

Cold Calling Tips

Best Times to Call

• Tuesday-Thursday: 5-8pm
• Saturday: 10am-2pm
• Avoid: Monday AM, Friday PM

Track Your Numbers

• Calls made
• Conversations had
• Leads generated
• Appointments set

Mindset

• You're offering a solution
• Not everyone is a fit
• Rejection is part of it
• Consistency wins

Tools Needed

• Power dialer
• Skip tracing
• CRM for follow-up

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I say when cold calling property owners?

Introduce yourself, mention the property address, explain you buy houses in the area, and ask if they've ever considered selling. Keep it conversational, not salesy. Listen more than you talk.

What's the best time to cold call motivated sellers?

Evenings (5-8pm) and Saturday mornings typically have highest connect rates. Avoid Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. Test different times and track your results.

How do I handle objections on cold calls?

Don't argue. Acknowledge their concern, ask questions to understand, and offer to follow up later. "I understand, situations change. Mind if I check back in a few months?"

How many calls does it take to get a deal?

Typical conversion: 100 calls = 10-20 conversations = 3-5 leads = 1 deal (varies by list quality and market). Track your numbers to understand your conversion rates. Try FlipMantis free.

Make more calls with less effort

FlipMantis has power dialer, CRM, and scripts built in.

Start Free Today

Free Video Courses

Go deeper with step-by-step video lessons.

Cold Calling & The 7-Day Strike System Drip Campaigns & Automated Follow-Up for Investors Negotiation for Real Estate Investors