Following up with Realtors who have started working with another lender can be a delicate process. It's essential to maintain a professional approach and respect their decision while expressing your interest in continuing a business relationship. Here are some steps you can take to follow up:
Give them space and time: If you find out that a Realtor you used to work with has switched lenders, give them some time to settle into their new arrangement. Avoid immediately reaching out, as they may be busy adjusting to the change.
Congratulate them on the new partnership: When you're ready to reach out, start by sending a congratulatory message on their new partnership. This shows that you acknowledge their decision and are supportive of their career growth.
Express your interest in working together again: In a follow-up email or call, let them know that you enjoyed your past collaboration and would be interested in working together again in the future. Keep the tone friendly and positive.
Highlight your strengths as a lender: Remind them of the benefits of working with you as a lender. Mention any unique programs, rates, or services you offer that may be appealing to them and their clients.
Request a meeting or catch-up call: Ask if they would be open to meeting for coffee or having a quick phone call to catch up. This gives you an opportunity to discuss your potential collaboration further.
Stay informed about their business: Keep track of their recent deals and real estate activities. When you reach out, demonstrate that you've been following their success and are genuinely interested in their work.
Provide value upfront: During your conversation or follow-up email, offer something of value to them, such as market insights, industry news, or useful resources. This gesture shows that you are invested in their success and not just seeking business opportunities.
Be patient and persistent (within reason): Building or rebuilding a professional relationship takes time. Don't be discouraged if you don't get an immediate response. Be patient and continue to engage periodically without being overly pushy.
Attend industry events: If possible, attend real estate industry events, networking gatherings, or workshops. You may run into the Realtor there and have a chance to reconnect in person.
Respect their decision: Ultimately, it's essential to respect their decision to work with another lender. If they indicate that they are not interested in working together again, gracefully accept their choice and remain courteous. You never know when circumstances may change in the future.
Remember, the key to successful follow-ups is to be sincere, professional, and understanding. Building strong professional relationships takes time, effort, and a genuine interest in helping each other succeed in your respective fields.
Sample Scripts:
Script 1: Follow-up Email
Subject: Congratulations on Your New Partnership!
Dear [Realtor's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I recently learned about your exciting new partnership with [New Lender's Company], and I wanted to extend my heartfelt congratulations on this fantastic opportunity. It's evident that your dedication and hard work have led to this well-deserved milestone in your career.
I truly enjoyed our past collaborations, and I believe we made a great team. I value the relationships we've built with clients and the smooth transactions we've accomplished together. I understand that changes in the industry are natural and sometimes necessary for personal and professional growth.
As you embark on this new chapter, I wanted to express my interest in working with you again in the future. I'm continually striving to enhance my services as a lender, and I believe we could still achieve great results together. If you have any interest in discussing potential opportunities or catching up over a cup of coffee, I would be delighted to do so.
In the meantime, I'd like to offer my assistance and support in any way possible. If you need market insights, industry updates, or valuable resources for your clients, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time, and I wish you all the best in your endeavors with [New Lender's Company]. I look forward to staying connected and hope that we can collaborate again soon.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Script 2: Follow-up Phone Call
[Wait a week or two after sending the initial congratulatory email before making the phone call.]
[Phone rings]
Realtor: Hello?
You: Hi [Realtor's Name], this is [Your Name]. How are you?
Realtor: Oh, hi [Your Name]. I'm doing well, thank you. How about you?
You: I'm doing great, thanks. I just wanted to follow up on the email I sent a little while ago. First, congratulations on your new partnership with [New Lender's Company]. It sounds like a fantastic opportunity for you.
Realtor: Thank you. I'm excited about it.
You: I completely understand that career moves are part of the industry's growth, and I respect your decision. I've always valued our past collaborations and the work we've done together, and I wanted to express my interest in working together again in the future if the opportunity arises.
Realtor: That's kind of you to say. I enjoyed working with you too.
You: I'm glad to hear that. I'm continually enhancing my services as a lender, and I believe we could continue to achieve great results together. If you ever feel like exploring potential opportunities or catching up to discuss any real estate matters, I'm more than happy to make time for that.
Realtor: That sounds nice. I'll keep it in mind.
You: Great! And remember, I'm here to support you in any way I can. If you need market insights, industry updates, or any valuable resources for your clients, just let me know. I'm always happy to help.
Realtor: Thank you, I appreciate that.
You: It was my pleasure. Anyway, I won't keep you too long. I just wanted to touch base and let you know that I'm here whenever you need assistance or want to talk further.
Realtor: Thanks again, and I'll definitely keep that in mind. Let's stay in touch.
You: Absolutely! Take care, and have a wonderful day.
Realtor: You too, bye!
You: Goodbye!
Remember, the key to successful follow-ups is to be sincere, respectful, and understanding of their choices while expressing your willingness to work together in the future. Adapt these scripts to your own communication style and tailor them to each specific Realtor for a more personalized approach.