The 24-Hour Rule: The FSBO Follow-Up Strategy That Closes Deals

For most FSBO sellers, the goal is simple: get buyers through the door. You clean, prep, light every candle, and nail that showing.

Then the buyer leaves… and silence. This is where most FSBO sellers lose momentum.

Professionals know that what happens after the showing often decides who gets the offer.

Follow-up isn’t pushy—it’s professional. Done right, it shows confidence, care, and readiness. Let's walk through how you can follow up like a pro—and turn that good showing into a serious offer.

1. Why Follow-Up Matters More Than You Think

Think of the buyer’s mindset: they’ve probably seen multiple homes that day. By the next morning, details blur together. Your job? Make sure your home stands out in their memory.

A simple, friendly message can re-spark interest and remind them of what they loved most.

• It Signals Professionalism: Follow-up signals that you’re organized, proactive, and easy to work with—traits buyers value highly when dealing directly with a seller.

• It Prevents Assumptions: Without it, buyers may assume you’re disinterested, inflexible, or already under contract, making them move on quickly.

2. Timing Is Everything: The 24-Hour Sweet Spot

The optimal time to reach out is within 24 hours of the showing.

• Too soon (e.g., five minutes after they leave), and it can feel rushed or desperate.

• Too late (e.g., 48 hours later), and they’ve moved on to shortlisting other properties.

Your message should feel casual but intentional—not like a script.

• Initial Script Example: “Thank you for coming by yesterday—we appreciated your time and hope you enjoyed seeing the space! If you have any questions about the home or would like to revisit, feel free to reach out anytime.”

3. What to Say (and What Not To)

A great follow-up message is short, positive, and buyer-focused. The goal isn’t to sell again—it’s to build connection and gather feedback.

Do (Builds Trust & Connection)

Thank them genuinely for their time.
Offer additional details (photos, inspection report, etc.).
Mention one memorable feature they seemed to like.

Don't (Triggers Pressure/Desperation)

Ask if they're making an offer right away.
Sound defensive or overly eager.
Overshare ("We’ve had a lot of interest already...").

4. Capture Feedback Like a Pro

Buyer feedback is gold. It helps you adjust your pricing, presentation, or description before the next showing—saving you time and frustration.

Ask questions professionally:

Pro Tip for Feedback: After your initial thank you, add a soft request: “If you have a quick moment, any initial feedback on how the home compares to others helps us refine our listing. Thank you!” This makes the request sound helpful, not needy.

Final Takeaway: Interest Is Only the Beginning

In FSBO sales, showings open doors—but follow-up closes deals.

Every follow-up message is an opportunity to remind buyers why your home matters and signals your confidence and readiness to close.

Stay organized and confident. REDBO’s Flat-Fee MLS tools give you the system to track leads and execute the follow-up strategy that turns interest into a signed contract.

👉 Visit REDBO.com to start your smarter sale today.