Why Real Estate Agents Who Send Handwriting-style Letters Close More Referrals
The closing gift is standard. The real note six months later is not. That's exactly why it works.
The closing gift is standard. Every agent does it.
The real note six months later — on the anniversary of the closing — is not standard. Almost no one does it. And that's exactly why it works.
The Math on Referral Business
The average real estate transaction generates 2-3 referrals over its lifetime if the agent stays in contact. Most agents don't. They close the deal and move on.
A $10 letter sent at the 6-month and 12-month mark costs $20 total. If it triggers one referral on a $400,000 home at 3% commission, that's $12,000 from a $20 investment.
What to Write
Don't lead with "I'd love your referrals." That's the wrong foot.
Lead with: How's the house? Did you end up painting the living room like you mentioned? Show you remember them as a person, not a transaction.
Close with: If anyone you know is thinking about buying or selling in the area, I'd be honored to help them the way I helped you.
The Volume Problem
You can't handwrite 200 letters after a busy quarter. SentInstantly's bulk mail merge lets you upload your past client list as a CSV, personalize each letter with their name and closing date, and send them all in minutes. Each one arrives looking personally handwriting-style.