For Sale By Owner sellers are a great source of listings for new agents, but only if you approach them the right way. FSBOs expect agents to call and argue about commission. When you offer help instead, you stand out.
Why FSBO sellers list with agents
Most FSBO sellers try to save the commission. Many end up listing with an agent after a few weeks once they deal with pricing questions, showings, unqualified buyers and paperwork. The agent who helped them along the way, without pressure, is usually the one they call.
The FSBO script
YOU: Hi, I'm calling about the home for sale on [Street]. Are you the owner?
YOU: Great. I'm [Your Name], a local agent. I'm not calling to talk you out of selling it yourself. I just wanted to ask, how's it going so far?
[Listen. Ask about showings, offers and timeline.]
YOU: If it helps, I put together a free seller guide with pricing tips and a paperwork checklist. Can I drop it off or send it over? I can also run a quick pricing review so you know you're priced right.
FSBO follow-up texts
Day 3: "Hi [Name], [Your Name] here. Just sent over that seller guide. Any questions on pricing or paperwork, happy to help."
Week 2: "Hi [Name], a home near you on [Street] just sold. Want me to send you what it went for? Could help with your pricing."
Week 4: "Hi [Name], how's the sale going? If you ever want a second opinion on getting it sold faster, I'm around this week."
What not to do
- Don't argue about commission on the first call.
- Don't criticize their price or their photos.
- Don't disappear after one call. Follow-up is where FSBO listings are won.
More texts and scripts
Want more messages like these? Get 7 free texts that book listing appointments, including the private-seller helper. For the full set of scripts, FSBO letters and objection handlers, see The 30-Day Listing System. Pair it with our expired listing script and the 30-day plan to get your first listing.
Always follow your local licensing rules, brokerage policies and do-not-call laws.