25+ FSBO Scripts That Actually Work in 2025 (Phone/Text/Email/Voicemail)

In this article, we’re going to walk through a 25+ next-level FSBO scripts (plus tips, strategies, and personal anecdotes) that help agents like you not only stand out but also demonstrate true value to these DIY-minded sellers. Because trust me, if you lead with empathy and real help, you can get a foot in the door and walk out with a signed listing agreement - even a FSBO seller.

If you’re a real estate agent who’s hungry for listings, you’ve probably found yourself eyeing For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) signs from time to time.

Maybe you’ve even given one a call, only to be met with the dreaded “We don’t need an agent!” click-hang-up.

Yeah, it’s not always the warmest reception.

But more homeowners are testing the FSBO waters to avoid commissions and take advantage of digital marketing tools that seem (on the surface) pretty accessible. It’s 2025, and technology is only getting easier to use. Sellers can post professional-looking property tours on YouTube or Instagram Reels in a snap.

DIY marketing can only go so far before they realize they’re in over their heads.

That’s where you come in, my friend.

Are FSBOs Part of Your 2025 Strategy?

They should be. FSBOs account for roughly 7-8% of home sales most years according to NAR, and that slice isn’t going anywhere. With DIY listing tools getting easier, plenty of homeowners will keep trying the “for sale by owner” route. If you’re hungry for listings in 2025, FSBOs remain a reliable pipeline.

Why FSBO Sellers Dodge Most Agents

Picture the FSBO seller’s perspective: They’ve decided to “save” perhaps 6% by selling alone, and they’re convinced it’ll be a piece of cake with all the DIY resources online.

They get bombarded by a swarm of real estate agents calling day and night, often spouting generic lines like, “Hi, I saw your property, would you be interested in listing if I could get you top dollar?” or “I can help you sell faster - let’s meet!”

No nuance. No empathy. No genuine offer of help.

Result? They’re turned off.

Sellers see you (and every listing agent) as the same pushy, money-hungry salesperson. That’s exactly why your script and approach must be different.

You have to lead with value, not a sales pitch.

Phone: Calling FSBO Leads

Script Snapshot

1. Greeting & Acknowledgment
   “Hey [Name], this is [Your Name], a local real estate agent here in [Town]. How are you doing? I promise to keep this super short - I know you’re probably sick of agent calls!”
2. Compliment & Curiosity
   “I saw your FSBO listing on [Zillow/Facebook/Wherever]. Your photos look fantastic - especially the kitchen. Are you still taking calls, or have you already found your lucky buyer?”
3. Align & Empathize
   “Totally get why some people try to sell their home without listing with an agent yourself. Who wouldn’t want to avoid paying commission, right? It’s a smart move to at least try. How’s the interest been so far?”
4. Offer & Ask
   “I’d love to swing by for 10–15 minutes (no obligation) to see the place in person. I actually have a few buyers who might be a match, and I’d hate to miss the chance if it fits one of them. Worst case: you get some free feedback from a pro. Fair enough?”
5. Scheduling
   “I’m around [day/time range]. What works best for you?”

That’s it.

Short, sweet, and puts them at ease by acknowledging their frustration with constant calls. You’re not overpromising or faking you have a guaranteed buyer - just stating you’ve got some people in mind.

You’re also offering something for free (feedback, maybe a micro-staging consultation on the spot) while respecting they want to stay FSBO for now.

Call when you can be consistent; many agents like late afternoons. (One study often cited pegs 4–6pm as effective, but consistency beats theory.) 

If they’re cold, move them to voicemail + text and try again later the same day.

Compliance note (U.S.): Check Do‑Not‑Call rules and text‑messaging consent in your state before outreach. Keep DMs polite and stop after two touches without a reply.

FSBO Voicemail Scripts

Voicemail is tricky with FSBOs: you want to say enough to sound credible, but not so much that they delete it before the end. The sweet spot is under 20 seconds with one clear point and one ask. Leave your number once, keep it light, and always follow with a quick text so they can respond in whichever way they’re most comfortable.

Voicemail #1 - Quick Heads-Up

Use this when you just want to get on their radar without sounding salesy.

“Hi [Name], it’s [You] with [Brokerage] here in [Town]. I noticed your FSBO on [site]. I’ll be in the area on [day] and could swing by for a quick look - no pitch, just ten minutes so I can see if it might match a couple buyers I’m working with. I’ll text you my number as well. Call or text if that’s useful - happy to help.”

Voicemail #2 - Net Sheet Angle

Best when you want to add quick value up front.

“Hey [Name], this is [You] - I’m a local agent here in [Town]. I ran a quick net sheet based on your asking price and recent comps. If you’d like, I can text it over so you know what you’d actually walk away with after costs. Totally no strings attached. Call or text me back at [###].”

Voicemail #3 - Buyer Interest Check

Use if you genuinely have an active buyer in their range.

“Hi [Name], it’s [You] with [Brokerage]. I’m working with a buyer in your price range who’s focused on [neighborhood/feature]. Would it be alright if I previewed your place so I don’t waste anyone’s time? If it’s not a fit, I’ll still leave you with a couple quick tips on what buyers are asking about right now. You can call or text me at [###].”

Voicemail #4 - Friendly Resource

Works if you’ve already left one message and want to stay on their radar without pressure.

“Hi [Name], it’s [You] again. I know selling by owner can feel like a lot, so I put together a short checklist I give to my own sellers - covers showings, paperwork, and buyer financing. Happy to send it over. Just text me back at [###] and I’ll share it.”

Pro Tips for FSBO Voicemails

• Keep it tight: aim for 18–22 seconds. Any longer and you sound scripted.
• Say your number once: clearly, without rushing. Your follow-up text will carry it too.
• Follow up with text: a quick “Hey, just left you a voicemail - [your first name], local agent, here if you need anything” doubles your response rate.
• Timing: many agents swear by late afternoon (4–6pm), but the real key is consistency. Call when you can be clear and prepared.
• Tone check: record one of your voicemails and listen back - if it sounds like a pitch, re-do it until it sounds like a quick favor.

Record one you like and use it as your template; small wording tweaks are fine, but keep the length and pace.

Text Message: Best FSBO Text Scripts that Actually Work

If you’re like most people, your phone call pick-up rate is dropping year by year. Not everyone wants to chat with a stranger.

That’s where texting can shine.

Especially for FSBO leads who might block unknown numbers.

Text #1: Friendly Local Agent

“Hey [Name], it’s [Your Name], a local Realtor here in [Town]. Saw your FSBO on Zillow - love the backyard! Hope you don’t mind me texting. Are you getting a lot of interest so far? Anything I can help with - tips, market info, etc.? No pressure. Cheers!”

• Why it Works: It’s casual, short, and non-threatening. You flatter them a bit (the backyard). You ask a low-stakes question about how it’s going.
• Stat: Over 90% of texts are read within three minutes. If your call gets ignored, a friendly text can break the ice.

Text #2: Possible Buyer Angle

“Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Brokerage]. I work with a few buyers who might love your FSBO at [Street Address]. Mind if I stop by for a quick look? No listing pitch - just want to see if it’s a fit. Let me know!”

• Caution: If you say you have one, make sure you have a legit possibility. Or phrase it as “I’m actively working with several buyers looking in your area - might be a match.” Honesty is key here.

Best first touch: same day, 30–60 min after a missed call or voicemail. If no reply, try again in 48–72 hours with a different angle (value or invite).

Real Story: Texting Success

One of my coaching clients sent a casual text to a FSBO after trying (and failing) to get them on the phone.

Within 24 hours, the FSBO replied, “Yes, you can come by Thursday.” That led to a friendly walkthrough, which then led to a signed listing - after the FSBO got zero offers in two weeks. Her text was all about being friendly, acknowledging their efforts, and offering a genuine buyer possibility.

That’s all it took.

FSBO Email: For Sale By Owner Script

Most FSBO sellers think the hardest part is getting an offer. But in reality? The toughest part is knowing what to do next.

FSBO Email Template for Net Sheet / CMA

Subject: Selling FSBO? This is where most sellers get stuck

Hey [Name],

Deciding to sell your home is a big decision, whether you go the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route or work with an agent. Either way, there’s one moment that can catch sellers off guard: when the offers start coming in.

There’s a lot more to an offer than just the listing price. Things like:

✔ Commissions, closing costs, and contingencies - how much are you actually walking away with?

✔ Negotiation pressure - when to counter, when to stand firm, and when to say no.

The best way to prepare? Knowing your home’s true market value.

If you want to sell your home, I’d be happy to put together a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) that shows what homes like yours are actually selling for - not just what online estimates say. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re pricing strategically and ready when buyers start making offers.

Would you like me to prepare one for your home?

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Subject Line Ideas

• Your FSBO net sheet (no strings attached)
• Offer in? Here’s what to check first
• What buyers are paying for in [neighborhood] this month

FSBO Social DM Scripts (Facebook, Marketplace & Instagram)

A lot of FSBO sellers post their homes on Facebook Marketplace, community groups, or Instagram. That makes DMs one of the easiest ways to break the ice. The trick is to sound like a helpful neighbor, not a stranger dropping into their inbox with a pitch. Keep your first message short, specific, and friendly. If they reply, that’s your cue to ask for a quick call or preview.

DM #1 - Compliment & Quick Tip

Best for breaking the ice in a friendly way.

“Hey [Name], saw your place on [Marketplace/IG]. Great photos - really liked the [specific feature, e.g., kitchen island or backyard setup]. If you’d like, I can share a couple quick tips I use with my listings to help with pricing or staging. No strings, just happy to help as a local agent.”

DM #2 - Buyer Angle

Use if you genuinely have buyers in their price range.

“Hi [Name], I’m [You], a local agent here in [Town]. I’m working with a couple buyers looking in your price range and thought your place could be a match. Would you mind if I previewed it quickly? Even if it’s not a fit, I’ll leave you with a few marketing ideas sellers in the area are using.”

DM #3 - Resource Share

Positions you as helpful without asking for anything up front.

“Hi [Name], congrats on putting your place up - it looks great. I put together a short FSBO checklist for sellers around [Town] (covers photos, showings, and paperwork). Want me to send it over? No pressure - sometimes it just helps to have a guide.”

DM #4 - Follow-Up Ping

Use if they don’t respond to your first message within a few days.

“Hey [Name], just circling back - I sent you a quick note last week about your FSBO on [site]. Totally understand if you’re set, but if you’d like any pricing feedback or help finding qualified buyers, just let me know. I live right here in [Town] and happy to share local insight.”

Pro Tips for FSBO DMs

• Personalize: call out one detail from their photos (“nice backyard,” “updated bath”). It shows you’re not spamming.
• Keep it casual: DMs should read like texts - short sentences, no jargon.
• Respect boundaries: if they don’t reply after two tries, stop. Move them to a different touchpoint (voicemail, postcard, or door knock).
• Timing: weekends and evenings get the fastest DM replies, but send when you can reply quickly if they engage.
• Bridge to phone/preview: the goal of a DM isn’t to sell - it’s to earn permission to call, text, or stop by.

If they engage, ask for a phone number or offer a 10‑minute preview window with two time options.

Video Marketing For FSBO Leads

Welcome to 2025, where video rules. Imagine you send a short, 60-second personal video - taken on your phone or using a tool like BombBomb - directly to a FSBO’s email or text.

You greet them by name, mention their property, and flash that friendly face so they know you’re a real human, not just a random telemarketer.

Quick Video Outline

1. Greet by Name: “Hey, Sarah! Didn’t expect a video from a Realtor, did you?”
2. Compliment: “I love that front porch swing in your pics - makes me want to grab lemonade right now.”
3. Empathy: “I know you’re selling by owner to save some bucks. I respect that.”
4. Offer: “If you don’t mind, I’d love to pop by, take a quick 10-minute look for my buyers, and share a couple of tips I’ve learned from helping other FSBOs. No strings attached!”
5. Close: “I’ll shoot you a quick text too. Feel free to reply wherever’s easiest. Cheers!”

People are more likely to trust someone they can see and hear. And a personalized video message is still pretty novel in our industry. If you do it right, you’ll stand out from 99% of agents making cold calls.

Pro Tip - One take only. If you fumble, smile and finish. Authentic beats perfect on video.

Common FSBO Objections (and How to Pivot)

FSBO sellers usually raise the same handful of objections. The best way to handle them isn’t to argue, but to acknowledge their point, pivot with value, and offer a simple next step.

Objection 1: “I don’t want to pay commission.”

• Your Response: “I totally get it. If I were selling my house, I’d try to save money too. Here’s the thing: I’m happy to give you some free insights - help you decide on the best price, maybe connect you with a few buyers - and if you do sell it on your own, hats off! If not, I’d love to at least prove I can net you more even after my commission. No pressure. Sound fair?”
• Stat to use: According to NAR, FSBO homes typically sell for 5-10% less than agent-represented properties. Only use this talking point after you’ve built rapport - stats land better once they trust you.
• Pivot Line: “I can show you two paths: sell solo at [X], or list and aim for [X+Y] with stronger terms. Want to see the numbers?”

Objection 2: “If you have a buyer, just bring them. I’m not listing.”

• Your Response: “Awesome. I’d love to come see your property so I can tell my buyers firsthand how great it is. Zero obligation on your part. If it’s not a match, I’ll let you know. Simple, right?”
• Pivot Line: “Totally fine. Let me preview first so I don’t waste your time. Would [Tuesday at 5] or [Saturday morning] work better?”

Objection 3: “We already have interest from several people.”

• Your Response: “That’s fantastic! Hopefully, one of them comes through with a solid offer. But if things stall - or if those offers don’t look as good as you hoped - let’s stay in touch. I can quickly tap my network of buyers, so you’re not starting from scratch. Fair enough?”
• Pivot Line: “That’s great - hope one sticks. If it doesn’t, I can tap my buyer pool so you’re not starting over. Want me to check back next week?”

Objection 4: “We’re just testing the market.”

• Response: “That’s smart - you don’t want to rush a decision. I can show you how buyers in [neighborhood] are reacting right now, so your test is backed by real data. Want me to send over a quick snapshot?”

Objection 5: “We already have an agent friend if we list.”

• Response: “Good to have someone you trust. If you decide to shop around, I’d love to earn a spot in that conversation. Can I send you a one-page plan so you know how I’d approach it?”

Pro Tips for Handling Objections

• Lead with empathy: Acknowledge their reasoning before pivoting.
• Keep it light: You’re planting seeds, not closing in one call.
• End with a step: A check-in, a market snapshot, or a preview keeps the door open.
• Log the patterns: After 10–15 FSBO calls, you’ll notice the same lines repeat - save your best pivots for reuse.

Pointers for In-Person Previews

Alright, so you’ve snagged a listing appointment to “preview” the FSBO. This is your chance to shine in person - just be careful not to unleash a full listing presentation they never asked for. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Show Genuine Curiosity: Ask about the home’s history, the improvements they’ve made, and what drew them to the neighborhood initially.
2. Offer Subtle Advice: See a glaring clutter issue? Politely suggest a simple fix. Notice a weird odor? (Hey, it happens!) Give them a friendly heads-up.
3. Gauge Their Motivation: Are they moving for a job? Family? Need money quickly? The more you learn, the better you can tailor your eventual pitch.
4. Be Helpful, Not Pushy: I like to say, “I’m here to help you sell your way - if at some point you need more help, I’m happy to chat about what I can do.”

What NOT to Say at a FSBO Preview

Preview appointments are where you move from “stranger” to “potential resource.” But the wrong line in those first few minutes can shut the door before you’ve even stepped through it. Here are three phrases that tank trust fast - and what to do instead.

❌ “I have a buyer.” (if you don’t)
It’s tempting to dangle a buyer as your ticket in. FSBOs have heard it from ten other agents this week, and most know it’s a bluff. If you can’t back it up, you lose credibility.

❌ “You’re priced wrong.” (before you’ve seen comps)
Even if the number looks high, don’t start by telling them they’re off. Without context or comps, it comes across as pushy. Pricing is where you earn trust later - with data, not gut instinct.

❌ “Let me take over.” (too early)
Telling them to hand over the reins before you’ve shown value just reinforces why they went FSBO in the first place. It feels like a pitch, not help.

What to Do Instead

• Ask 2–3 good questions. (“How’s showing traffic been so far?”, “What kind of buyers are reaching out?”, “What feedback are you hearing so far?”, “Any deal‑breakers buyers keep mentioning?”, “If the perfect offer came tomorrow, what would it look like?”)
• Offer one useful tip. Share something small but actionable - like tightening photo order on their listing or pointing out a staging tweak.
• Suggest a quick next step. A short follow-up (“Mind if I check in next week to see how interest looks?”) keeps the door open without pressure.

Tips for Using FSBO Scripts Effectively

Sometimes you call, text, or email - and crickets. Don’t assume they hate you or that you should give up.

Maybe they’re busy.

Maybe they’re still trying FSBO. A gentle follow-up can make all the difference.

Follow-Up Text Example

“Hey [Name], [Your Name] here again. Just checking in - any luck with your FSBO? If you need a fresh set of eyes or a quick free market update, I’m around. Shoot me a message!”

• Keep it easygoing and supportive.

Follow-Up Email Example

Subject: Making Progress?

Hey [Name],

Just wanted to circle back. How are things going with your FSBO listing? If you’re happy with your progress, awesome - just let me know if you need anything. If you’re feeling stuck or need more exposure, I can always share how I market homes like yours.

Either way, wishing you the best!

Cheers,
[Signature]

It can take 5–7 touches before a FSBO warms up. Rotate channel + angle. If last contact was value (CMA), make the next one an invite (10‑min preview).

If they don’t respond at all, let them breathe for a week or two, then ping them again. Persistence without pestering is key.

The Magic of “No-Strings-Attached” Help

If you’ve noticed a theme, it’s this: Help them first. Resist the urge to instantly pitch your “Commission includes X, Y, Z!” FSBOs have heard it. Instead, consistently offer small bites of value - market stats, staging tips, a quick CMA - so they see you as a friendly advisor, not a pushy salesperson.

A Quick FSBO Stat

NAR reports that around 58% of FSBO sellers say the most challenging part of the process is attracting the right buyers and handling the paperwork. You can help with both - often from Day 1. Showing them you’re willing to share resources (a blank contract form, for instance) or provide feedback (like “Your listing photos might need better lighting”) is how you position yourself as invaluable.

Handling Hardline Sellers

Yes, some FSBOs will be downright hostile. They’ll practically drop the phone when you mention “agent.”

That’s okay. Not everyone’s a match. But sometimes the hardest nuts to crack are the ones who become your biggest success stories once they realize not all real estate professionals are created equal.

Quick Tip

If someone’s extremely short with you, try a last-ditch empathy statement: “Sounds like you’ve had a rough time with agents calling nonstop.

Let me be direct: I’m not calling to pressure you - just letting you know I’m here if you need an extra hand or a buyer lead. If you’d rather I not follow up, just say the word and I’ll respect that.” Sometimes that disarms them enough to continue the convo.

Cross-Pollinate: FSBO Meets Expired Listing Strategies

You might be wondering, “Hey, Jimmy, can I use these FSBO scripts to help with expired listings too?” Absolutely - some of the empathy and value-forward approach is universal. Expired listings also face a barrage of agent calls. If you get comfortable with FSBOs, you’ll find expired listings are a cousin in terms of approach: lead with help, highlight what went wrong (or could be improved), and gently position yourself as a resource.

In fact, one of my colleagues merged his FSBO and expired marketing into a single campaign. He’d say, “If you’re selling on your own or if your listing expired, I’m the agent who helps folks who just need a break from the typical agent routine.”

The synergy was surprisingly effective.

Setting Yourself Apart: Small Gestures, Big Impact

• Send a Handwritten Note: After your first call or preview visit, mail a short thank-you card. Mention one feature you loved about their home. So rare these days - and extremely memorable.
• Bring a Small Gift to the Preview: Maybe a $5 Starbucks card with a note, “Your next coffee’s on me - house-selling is hard work!” That small kindness stands out.
• Follow Them on Social Media: If they’re marketing on Instagram, comment positively on their listing photos (without being salesy). It humanizes you.

Tracking and Follow-Up Schedules

Not everyone you call or text today will be ready tomorrow. Some might wait 30, 60, even 90 days before they give up on FSBO. Create a simple tracking system:

1. Database/CRM: Tag them as “FSBO” with a date and note of your last contact. Add a “Pivot” field (what moved the convo last time). It saves you from repeating the same angle.
2. Set Reminders: Follow up every 10–14 days if they’re somewhat open; every 21–30 days if they’re cold.
3. Vary Your Touches: Alternate between text, email, phone, and maybe a postcard or letter.

I can’t stress how important it is to stay organized. I’ve seen agents lose out on easy conversions because they forgot to follow up after the initial call.

Ready to Win FSBO Listings in 2025?

If you’ve been ignoring FSBOs or treating them like “that annoying bunch that doesn’t want me,” it’s time to shift your mindset. They’re real people with real homes to sell - and many eventually realize they need professional help. The trick is to be the agent they remember, the one who actually tried to help. These FSBO scripts will help you get more conversations started with homeowners, and I'm confident, if you put in the work, sellers will consider selling their home with you.