If you’re still thinking “email marketing is dead,” here’s the truth: It’s not. In fact, email is still one of the fastest ways to turn curiosity into closings — if you use it strategically.
The key? Follow-Up Funnels — pre-planned sequences of emails (and sometimes texts/DMs) that:
- Lock in appointments within 48 hours of someone raising their hand
- Keep the conversation alive without chasing people one-by-one
- Build trust so you’re the agent they call when they’re ready to act
Here’s how to do it ⬇️
1. Event Promo Funnel – For open houses, webinars, or buyer seminars
Your goal isn’t just sign-ups — it’s show-ups. Use a 3-act reminder sequence:
- 72 hours before – “It’s coming up” (what to expect)
- 24 hours before – “Happening tomorrow” (benefits of showing up)
- 1 hour before – “We’re starting soon” (add excitement + urgency) Follow up with:
- Replay/recap email the same day
- Offer recap the next day (e.g., featured listings or resources you promised)
- Last chance 2 days later (if there’s a time-sensitive offer)
2. Abandoned Inquiry Funnel – For leads who ghost after asking for info
When a lead stops responding after requesting a CMA, property info, or showing:
- Email 1 (same day) – Friendly nudge (“Just wanted to make sure you got the info…”)
- Email 2 (next day) – Proof (“Here’s how I helped a client in a similar situation…”)
- Email 3 (day after) – Urgency (“This home may be under contract soon… want me to check?”) Never offer discounts — it trains people to wait. Instead, add unadvertised bonuses (extra neighborhood reports, staging tips, etc.).
3. Post-Closing Follow-Up Funnel – Turn clients into referral machines
Immediately after closing:
- Deliver the goods – Send any promised resources (e.g., home maintenance checklist)
- Thank you message – Personal and heartfelt
- Quick win email – Tips for settling in or a “first 30 days in your new home” guide
- Social connection – Invite them to follow you on Instagram/Facebook for local events and market updates
- Referral/Review request – Make it easy for them to say yes
From there, plug them into your weekly or monthly market updates to stay top-of-mind.
4. 5-Email Promo Sequence – Perfect for hot listings, special offers, or events
This is a rapid-fire 4–5 day push:
- Heads-up – “Something big is coming…”
- Announcement – “It’s here” (details + benefits)
- Proof – Testimonials, success stories, or social proof
- Reason to act now – Why they shouldn’t wait (market movement, limited slots, etc.)
- Urgency/Deadline – “Last chance”
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a 25/75 balance — for every 1 sales-focused email, send 3 pure-value emails (market updates, tips, local events). This builds goodwill so when you do sell hard, people lean in.