Referral Request Scripts Script
Scripts for asking past clients and your sphere of influence for referrals in a natural, non-pushy way. Referrals remain the number one source of business for top-producing agents, and having a proven script makes the ask comfortable for both parties.
The Post-Closing Referral Ask
Script 1 of 3You just closed a transaction and want to ask your satisfied client for referrals while the positive experience is fresh.
Hi [Client Name], congratulations again on your [new home / successful sale]! I hope you are settling in and enjoying the space. I wanted to reach out because working with you was truly a great experience, and I hope you felt the same way. One of the things I am most proud of is how we marketed your home — the AI virtual staging photos really made a difference in getting buyers through the door, and I think the final result speaks for itself. I have a quick favor to ask. My business is built almost entirely on referrals from happy clients, and I would be honored if you would keep me in mind when friends, family, or coworkers mention anything about buying or selling real estate. You do not need to do any selling on my behalf — just an introduction is all I need. I will take it from there and make sure they get the same level of service you received. Is there anyone you can think of right now who might be considering a move in the next six to twelve months? Even if they are just thinking about it casually, I am happy to provide a free market analysis or answer any questions they have with zero pressure. And of course, I have a referral appreciation program — when someone you refer closes a transaction with me, I send a [gift card / donation in their name / thank you gift] as my way of saying thanks. Your recommendation means the world to me. Thank you again for trusting me with one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.
The Annual Check-In Referral Request
Script 2 of 3You are reaching out to a past client during your annual check-in to maintain the relationship and ask for referrals.
Hi [Client Name], this is [Agent Name] — I hope you are doing well! I like to check in with my past clients once a year to see how things are going with the home. Has everything been working out since you moved in? Any questions about the market or your home value? I ask because the market in [Area] has been really active lately. Homes in your neighborhood are currently averaging [Price Range], which means your equity has likely grown significantly since we closed. I would be happy to send you an updated market report if you are curious. Also, I wanted to mention something. I have been investing heavily in new technology to help my clients — including AI virtual staging for listing photos that makes every property look absolutely stunning online. The results have been incredible, with my staged listings getting significantly more views and selling faster. If you know anyone who is thinking about selling or buying, I would love the opportunity to help them the way I helped you. Even a casual mention — hey, I know a great agent — goes a long way. Referrals from past clients like you are the backbone of my business, and I never take that trust for granted. How is everything else going with you?
The Sphere of Influence Referral Script
Script 3 of 3You are reaching out to someone in your personal network — a friend, family member, or acquaintance — to remind them you are in real estate and ask for referrals.
Hey [Name], how have you been? I know we usually talk about [shared interest], but I wanted to bring up something quick on the business side. As you know, I am a real estate agent with [Brokerage], and I have been having a really strong year. I just helped a client sell their home in [Area] for [impressive result], and I have been getting great feedback on the marketing I do — especially the AI virtual staging photos. They transform empty or cluttered rooms into magazine-quality images, and buyers absolutely love them. The reason I am mentioning this is that I am always looking to help more people, and the best clients I have ever worked with came through personal referrals from people like you. If you ever hear someone mention they are thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate, I would really appreciate you passing along my name. I promise I will take amazing care of them and make you look good for the recommendation. I am not asking you to go out of your way — just keep me in mind when real estate comes up in conversation. And of course, if you ever have any questions about the market or your own home value, I am always happy to help. Is there anyone you can think of right now who might benefit from a conversation with me?
Pro Tips
Ask for referrals within 30 days of closing when client satisfaction is highest and the experience is fresh in their mind.
Be specific about who you help — saying "I specialize in first-time buyers" or "I focus on the downtown market" makes it easier for people to think of someone to refer.
Create a referral reward program and mention it every time you ask — even a small gift card shows appreciation and incentivizes future referrals.
Follow up on every referral within 24 hours and always report back to the referrer about the outcome, even if the lead does not convert.
Send handwritten thank-you notes to anyone who sends a referral, regardless of whether it closes — the gesture builds long-term loyalty.
Make the referral ask a regular part of your communication, not a one-time event. Include it in your email signature, newsletters, and social media posts.
Pair Scripts with Stunning Photos
Virtual staging transforms empty rooms into beautiful listings. Combine powerful scripts with professional-looking photos for maximum impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I ask past clients for referrals?
Ask directly at closing and then maintain regular contact throughout the year — quarterly check-ins, market updates, holiday greetings, and home anniversary messages. Each touchpoint is a natural opportunity to remind them you appreciate referrals. Avoid asking more than twice a year in a direct, explicit way to prevent coming across as pushy.
What is the best way to incentivize referrals?
Popular referral incentives include gift cards ranging from 25 to 100 dollars, charitable donations in the referrer's name, closing gift upgrades, and handwritten thank-you notes. Some agents offer a tiered system where repeat referrers receive larger gifts. Always check your state's regulations regarding referral fees to non-licensed individuals to ensure compliance.
What if a past client does not respond to my referral request?
Do not take it personally. People are busy, and not responding does not mean they are unhappy with your service. Continue nurturing the relationship with valuable content — market updates, home maintenance tips, and community news. The referral will come naturally when someone in their circle mentions real estate. Consistency and patience are key.