7 High-Converting Expired Listing Script Examples for 2026

The difference between a frustrated seller hanging up and a signed listing agreement often comes down to the first 30 seconds of your outreach. Expired listings represent one of the most valuable lead sources in real estate, but these homeowners are also the most skeptical. They've just been through a stressful, disappointing process and are now bombarded with calls from agents all promising the same thing.

Standard, generic scripts don't just fall flat, they reinforce the seller's negative perception that all agents are interchangeable. This is why a powerful expired listing script isn't just about what you say, it's about how you say it and the value you provide instantly.

This guide is different. We are breaking down seven battle-tested, high-converting expired listing script examples for every channel: phone, voicemail, text, email, door-knocking, and even in-person presentations.

Each script is a strategic framework built on empathy, data, and a clear value proposition. We will dissect why each one works, provide specific rebuttals for common objections, and show you how to personalize your approach with modern tools. You will learn to leverage instant CMAs, AI-powered virtual staging, and hyper-local market data to build trust from the very first interaction.

Prepare to transform your approach. This collection goes beyond simple templates, offering a comprehensive playbook to turn these challenging leads into your next closed deals. You will not just get scripts, you will get the strategy behind them.

1. Expired Listing Phone Call Script

An expired listing phone call script is a real estate agent's first direct line of communication with a homeowner whose property has just failed to sell. Unlike a completely cold call, this outreach is "warm" because the seller has already demonstrated a clear intent to sell. This script's primary goal is to acknowledge their frustration, quickly establish your expertise, and secure a face-to-face meeting to present a new, effective marketing strategy.

The key is to move from being just another agent calling to being a specific solution provider. A successful expired listing script bypasses generic pitches and instead leads with value, insight, and empathy. It proves you have done your homework and have a tangible plan to succeed where the previous agent failed.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a high-converting expired listing phone call script:

1. The Opener (Establish Context & Credibility): Start by directly and confidently stating who you are and why you're calling. Mention their address to show this isn't a blanket call.

• Example: "Hi [Seller Name], my name is [Your Name] with [Brokerage]. I’m calling about your home at [Property Address]. I saw it recently came off the market, and after reviewing the listing, I believe I've identified a couple of key reasons why it didn't sell. I also have a specific plan to fix it."

2. The Empathy Bridge (Acknowledge Their Frustration): Quickly connect with their likely emotional state. This shows you understand their situation and aren't just focused on a commission.

• Example: "I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to go through the entire listing process without getting the result you wanted. My goal is to show you how a fresh strategy can change that outcome entirely."

3. The Value Hook (Differentiate Yourself Immediately): Introduce a unique tool or insight that sets you apart from the dozen other agents who will be calling them. This is where you mention your advanced technology.

• Example: "Many agents are still using outdated market reports. I use an AI-powered CMA from Saleswise that analyzes comparable properties in seconds. I also utilize virtual staging to make your online photos truly stand out. Would you be open to hearing how these tools could make a difference?"

Why This Script Works

This expired listing script is effective because it follows a proven psychological sequence: Acknowledge, Differentiate, and Solve. You first validate their experience ("I know this is frustrating"), then you introduce a new, superior method (AI-powered CMAs, virtual staging), and finally, you offer a concrete next step (the listing appointment). To further expand your verbal outreach beyond expired listings, you can explore other powerful real estate cold calling scripts that target various lead types.

By preparing thoroughly with tools like Saleswise and leading with a value-driven, empathetic approach, you transform a potentially intrusive call into a welcome consultation. You can delve deeper into the nuances of phone outreach by reviewing our complete guide to cold calling scripts for real estate agents.

2. Expired Listing Voicemail Script

An expired listing voicemail script is a concise, high-impact message designed to capture a homeowner's interest when they don't answer the phone. Far from a generic "call me back," this strategic tool serves as an essential part of a multi-touch outreach plan. Its primary goal is to create curiosity and demonstrate immediate value, compelling the frustrated seller to return your call over the dozens of others they will inevitably receive.

The key to an effective expired listing voicemail is to be different. While most agents will leave a vague message, a powerful script leads with a specific, data-backed insight or a tangible offer of value. This positions you not as a salesperson but as a problem-solver who has already invested time in understanding their unique situation.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a voicemail that gets callbacks:

1. The Opener (Direct & Specific): Immediately state your name and the property address. This confirms you are calling about their home and have done your research, instantly grabbing their attention.

• Example: "Hi [Seller Name], this is [Your Name] with [Brokerage]. I was calling about your home at [Property Address] and noticed it was recently taken off the market."

2. The Value Hook (Offer a Tangible Insight): This is the most critical part. Offer a piece of information or a unique resource that addresses their problem. Mentioning a specific number of comps or a unique marketing angle creates immediate intrigue.

• Example: "I actually found three comparable homes that sold recently at prices I think would be very relevant to your situation. I'd love to share that data with you; it might shed light on what happened and what's possible moving forward."

3. The Call-to-Action (Clear & Low-Pressure): End with a simple, clear instruction. Repeating your number slowly makes it easy for them to write it down.

• Example: "My goal is just to provide some value. You can reach me at [Your Phone Number]. Again, that’s [Your Name] at [Your Phone Number]. Thanks."

Why This Script Works

This voicemail script is effective because it’s built on Curiosity, Value, and Brevity. It avoids the common mistake of a sales pitch and instead offers a "solution teaser." By mentioning a specific insight (e.g., "three comparable homes" or a "virtual staging visualization"), you trigger the seller's desire to know what you know. This approach respects their time, bypasses their sales defenses, and dramatically increases your callback rate.

This method transforms a missed call from a dead end into a warm lead. By leading with valuable information, potentially generated from a tool like Saleswise, you establish credibility and position yourself as a helpful expert before you even speak to them directly. This makes any subsequent follow-up, whether by text or email, feel more familiar and welcome.

3. Expired Listing Follow-Up Text Script

An expired listing follow-up text script is a brief, high-impact message sent to a homeowner after an initial call or voicemail. In a world where text messages have a 98% open rate, this script is a crucial, non-intrusive tool for cutting through the noise. Its primary goal is to re-engage the seller, deliver immediate value (like a link to a CMA or virtual tour), and prompt a quick response to move the conversation forward.

The power of this expired listing script lies in its modern, direct approach. It respects the seller's time by getting straight to the point and provides a tangible piece of information that differentiates you from other agents. A well-crafted text feels less like a sales pitch and more like a helpful, tech-savvy consultation.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a high-converting expired listing text script:

1. The Value-First Opener (Offer Instant Insight): Lead with a compelling piece of information or a valuable asset. Don't waste space on a lengthy introduction; jump straight to what's in it for them.

• Example: "Hi [Seller Name] - it's [Your Name]. I pulled your home's market analysis this morning. I found 3 comps that explain pricing & what'll work next time. Can I send you a link? Reply YES and I'll get it to you in 2 min. 📊"

2. The Visual Hook (Show, Don't Just Tell): Use technology to present a new vision for their property. Visuals are powerful and can quickly demonstrate your marketing prowess.

• Example: "[Seller Name], I created a virtual staging mockup of your [Property Address] home. Shows how some updates could transform the listing. Interested in seeing it? Reply with your email."

3. The Low-Commitment CTA (Make it Easy to Respond): End with a simple, direct question that requires a minimal-effort response, like "Y/N" or "YES." This dramatically increases the likelihood of a reply.

• Example: "[Seller Name], I noticed your listing expired. I respect your time, so I'll keep this short: I can have a complete repricing & marketing strategy to you by tomorrow. Interested? Y/N"

Why This Script Works

This text-based expired listing script is effective because it aligns with modern communication preferences: Brevity, Value, and Simplicity. You bypass the formality of calls and emails, deliver an immediate "what's in it for me" benefit (a CMA, a visual), and make responding effortless. This approach positions you as an efficient, tech-forward agent who respects the seller's time.

By using an AI-powered tool like Saleswise to generate a compelling CMA or virtual staging visual, your text becomes a gateway to demonstrating your superior marketing plan. For agents looking to refine their communication sequences, you can explore more strategies on how to follow up with leads effectively. This transforms a simple text into the first step of a successful partnership.

4. Expired Listing Email Script

An expired listing email script serves as a powerful, data-rich follow-up to an initial phone call or voicemail. It allows an agent to present a detailed, visual case for their strategy in a format the seller can review at their own pace. Unlike a brief phone call, an email can deliver high-value assets like market analyses, virtual staging mockups, and a clear, written plan of action. The goal is to move beyond a simple introduction and provide tangible proof of your expertise and a different, superior approach.

This method is ideal for sellers who prefer written communication or for agents who want to provide a compelling, professional package that stands out from the competition. A well-crafted email establishes credibility not by what you say, but by what you show. It transitions the conversation from "why you should hire me" to "here is the data-driven plan I've already prepared for your home."

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a high-converting expired listing email script that gets opened, read, and acted upon:

1. The Subject Line (Create Irresistible Curiosity): Your subject line is the gatekeeper. It must be personalized, specific, and offer clear value to avoid being deleted.

• Example A: "[Property Address] – 3 reasons it didn't sell (and how to fix it)"
• Example B: "Your [Property Address] home + New market data = Different outcome"

2. The Opening (Lead with Insight, Not a Sales Pitch): Start by referencing their property and immediately introducing new, valuable information. This proves you have done your homework.

• Example: "Hi [Seller Name], I reviewed your listing at [Property Address] and pulled the market data from the last 90 days. I found something interesting. Three comparable homes sold at prices that suggest a major opportunity was missed, likely due to [specific factor: staging, marketing, pricing]."

3. The Body (Present Evidence with Visuals): Use bullet points and short paragraphs to present your findings. This is where you attach your high-value assets and explain their significance.

• Example: "Here’s a quick breakdown of what my analysis revealed:
  • Market Shift: Since your home was listed, buyer demand in [Neighborhood] has increased by X%, but only for properties presented in a specific way.
  • Visual Marketing Gap: I’ve attached a virtual staging mockup to show how we can highlight the [specific room] to attract the right buyers online.
  • Data-Driven Pricing: My attached CMA from Saleswise shows the exact price points that are currently succeeding. Let's aim for that sweet spot."

Why This Script Works

This expired listing script is effective because it leverages the Show, Don't Tell principle. Instead of just claiming to be a better agent, you provide irrefutable evidence in the form of CMAs, data points, and visual aids. This approach positions you as a strategic partner and problem-solver from the very first interaction. You are delivering a free consultation packed with value, making a follow-up call a logical next step rather than a cold intrusion.

By leading with data and visual proof, you appeal to the seller's logical need for a better plan and their emotional desire for a different result. To master this and other email strategies, you can explore our comprehensive guide to powerful real estate marketing emails designed to convert leads. This method builds trust and demonstrates a high level of professionalism before you even meet in person.

5. Expired Listing Door-Knock Script

An expired listing door-knock script is a high-touch, direct approach used by agents to engage sellers who have not responded to other forms of outreach. This face-to-face interaction cuts through the digital noise of calls and emails, creating an immediate personal connection. The goal of this script is to respectfully present a unique value proposition, demonstrate expertise, and secure an appointment by showing you are a dedicated professional willing to go the extra mile.

This method requires confidence, situational awareness, and a genuine respect for the seller's time and space. When executed professionally, a door-knock can be incredibly effective because it establishes trust and credibility much faster than a phone call. It transforms you from a name on a list to a person at their door with a tangible plan.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a compelling expired listing door-knock script:

1. The Opener (Establish Context & Respect): Immediately state your name, brokerage, and the property address to clarify your purpose. This shows you're not a random solicitor and that your visit is specific and professional.

• Example: "Hi [Seller Name], my name is [Your Name] with [Brokerage]. I specialize in this neighborhood and was reviewing your property at [Property Address]. I noticed it recently came off the market, and I have some specific market data I believe you'll find very insightful. Do you have just a moment?"

2. The Value Hook (Present a Tangible Asset): Differentiate yourself by offering something of physical or high perceived value. This isn't just a pitch; it's a deliverable. Mentioning a specific tool like a Saleswise CMA or visual aids makes your offer more concrete.

• Example: "I understand you're probably getting a lot of calls. The reason I stopped by is that I prepared a detailed market analysis using Saleswise that highlights a few opportunities the last campaign may have missed. I also brought examples of how virtual staging can dramatically increase buyer interest online. It will only take five minutes to show you."

3. The Professional Close (Handle Hesitation & Secure the Next Step): Acknowledge their potential skepticism and offer a clear, low-pressure next step. If they decline, remain professional and leave your contact information, planting a seed for future contact.

• Example (If Hesitant): "I completely understand your hesitation. The last thing you need is another generic sales pitch. My approach is data-driven, and I just wanted to leave this report with you. Here's my card. If you see something that makes sense, I'm available for a no-pressure chat anytime this week."

Why This Script Works

This expired listing script leverages the power of in-person communication to build rapport and trust instantly. It follows a respectful Disarm, Deliver, and Depart sequence. You first disarm their natural resistance by being professional and direct. Then, you deliver a tangible piece of value (like a market report or visual examples). Finally, you offer a clear next step or depart gracefully, leaving a positive and professional impression.

This approach is highly effective because it demonstrates commitment and allows you to read body language and adapt your pitch in real-time. By preparing with specific data, such as a Saleswise CMA, you prove your expertise and show the seller you have a concrete strategy to achieve a different result.

6. Expired Listing Presentation Script

An expired listing presentation script is the structured dialogue an agent uses during a face-to-face meeting with a seller whose home failed to sell. This isn't an initial contact; it's the critical "closing" conversation where you diagnose the previous failure, present a superior data-backed solution, and secure the new listing agreement. This script is your roadmap to transforming a skeptical seller into a confident client by demonstrating precisely how your strategy will succeed.

The goal of this presentation is to move beyond promises and showcase tangible proof of your value. It requires a blend of empathetic listening, sharp market analysis, and a compelling marketing plan. By using this script, you shift from being a salesperson to a trusted advisor with a clear, actionable plan for success.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft a winning expired listing presentation script, broken down by key stages of the meeting:

1. The Opener (Set the Agenda & Build Rapport): Start by acknowledging their past frustration and clearly state your objective for the meeting. This shows respect for their time and positions you as a professional.

• Example: "Thanks for having me over. I know the last experience with getting your home sold was frustrating, and my goal today isn't to make empty promises. Instead, I'd like to walk through exactly what's happening in the market right now, show you how that impacts your home's value, and then detail a specific, different plan to get it sold. Does that sound fair?"

2. The Diagnosis (Analyze the Market & Past Listing): This is where you establish credibility with data. Use your research to explain why the home didn't sell, focusing on market conditions rather than blaming the prior agent.

• Example: "Let's look at the data. When you first listed, the average days on market was 21. Today, it's 45. This means the strategy that may have worked six months ago is no longer effective. I've pulled up a Saleswise CMA that shows the three homes that did sell in your neighborhood recently, and they all had one thing in common: professional staging and an aggressive digital marketing launch. This is the new baseline for success."

3. The Solution (Showcase Your Differentiators): Introduce your unique tools and strategies. This is the moment to visually demonstrate your superior approach, making your value proposition impossible to ignore.

• Example: "Here’s where my approach is fundamentally different. I use Saleswise's AI-powered virtual staging to show buyers the home's full potential online before they even visit. Look at this... here is your living room as-is, and here it is virtually staged with modern furniture. We use these compelling images in every ad, which has proven to increase showing requests by over 30% for my listings."

Why This Script Works

This presentation script is effective because it follows a logical and persuasive framework: Problem, Analysis, Solution. You start by acknowledging their problem (frustration), analyze it with objective data (market shifts, comps), and present a concrete, visually impressive solution (your unique marketing plan featuring tools like virtual staging). It’s a consultative approach that builds trust and makes the decision to sign with you feel logical and safe.

By preparing with a detailed CMA and interactive tools, you change the dynamic from a sales pitch to a strategic working session. This expired listing script empowers you to take control of the conversation, prove your expertise, and walk out with a signed listing agreement.

7. Expired Listing Objection-Handling Script

An expired listing objection-handling script is a vital toolkit of prepared responses for the inevitable pushback from frustrated sellers. These homeowners are often skeptical, discouraged, and wary of repeating a bad experience. This type of script isn't a single conversation flow but rather a collection of empathetic, data-driven rebuttals to common objections like commission concerns, timing doubts, and pricing disagreements.

The primary goal is to transform a point of conflict into an opportunity to build trust and demonstrate expertise. Instead of becoming defensive, a well-rehearsed objection-handling script allows an agent to validate the seller's feelings, pivot the conversation back to value, and reinforce their position as the strategic partner needed for a successful sale.

Script Breakdown & Examples

Here is a structured approach to craft compelling responses for the most common expired listing objections:

1. The Pricing Objection: "We don't want to lower our price." This is often the biggest hurdle. Avoid direct confrontation; instead, use data to reframe the discussion from price to market position.

• Example: "I completely understand. You believe your home is worth that, and my goal is to get you the highest possible price. The market, however, has given us feedback. Would you be open to looking at the three homes that did sell in your neighborhood last month? We can see exactly how they were positioned to attract those winning offers."

2. The Commission Objection: "Will you reduce your commission?" Sellers often see commission as a simple cost, not an investment in marketing and expertise. Connect your fee directly to the services that will get them sold.

• Example: "That's a fair question, and it's important you know where every dollar goes. My marketing plan includes professional photography, virtual staging, and targeted digital ads that expose your home to thousands more buyers than a standard plan. A discounted service often leads to discounted results. My full-service fee ensures we have the resources to get your home sold for the best price, which ultimately puts more money in your pocket."

3. The Timing Objection: "We're going to take a break from the market." Acknowledge their burnout but create urgency by highlighting the cost of waiting.

• Example: "Taking a break after such a frustrating experience makes perfect sense. However, the top buyers for your home are actively looking right now. Every month your home sits off the market is another month you're paying the mortgage, taxes, and insurance. What if we could implement a new strategy that gets you the result you want in the next 30 days? A brief 15-minute meeting is all I'd need to show you how."

Why This Script Works

This objection-handling approach is effective because it follows the Validate, Reframe, and Redirect model. You first validate their concern ("I understand," "That's a fair question"), which disarms them and shows you're listening. Next, you reframe the issue from a negative (price drop) to a positive (strategic market position). Finally, you redirect them to a productive next step (reviewing a CMA, discussing your marketing plan).

An effective expired listing script for handling objections is less about winning an argument and more about guiding the seller to a new perspective. By preparing and practicing these responses, you remain in control of the conversation, build credibility under pressure, and successfully move past roadblocks to secure the listing.

7-Way Expired Listing Script Comparison

From Script to Signature: Your Action Plan for Expireds

Throughout this guide, we've dissected a comprehensive playbook of expired listing scripts, from the initial phone call to handling tough objections. We've moved beyond simple word-for-word templates, instead focusing on the underlying strategy that turns a cold outreach into a signed listing agreement. The core theme is clear: success in this competitive niche isn't about having a single magic script. It's about deploying an arsenal of well-crafted, value-driven messages across multiple channels, all powered by empathy and undeniable data.

The scripts for phone calls, voicemails, texts, emails, and even door-knocking are not isolated tools. They are interconnected components of a systematic outreach campaign. The phone script initiates the conversation, the voicemail script maintains momentum, and the text script offers a convenient, low-pressure touchpoint. Meanwhile, the email script serves as your digital powerhouse, delivering tangible proof of your expertise through Saleswise CMAs, virtual staging examples, and targeted market insights. This multi-pronged approach ensures you remain top-of-mind without being intrusive, building a case for your value at every step.

Synthesizing Strategy: Your Core Takeaways

Mastering any expired listing script requires a shift in mindset from "selling" to "serving." The homeowners you contact are often frustrated, disappointed, and skeptical of real estate agents. Your primary goal is to cut through that noise with genuine empathy and a data-backed plan that addresses their core problem: their home didn't sell.

Here are the most critical takeaways to implement immediately:

• Speed and Value are Your Currency: The moment a listing expires, the clock starts. Your ability to be one of the first to reach out with a compelling, data-rich message (like a hyper-local market report or a preliminary marketing critique) sets you apart from the dozens of other agents who will be calling.
• Empathy Precedes Persuasion: Every script we've covered begins with acknowledging the seller's frustrating experience. Starting with phrases like, "I can only imagine how frustrating this must be," or "I know this isn't the outcome you were hoping for," instantly disarms the homeowner and opens the door for a productive conversation.
• Data Defeats Doubt: Objections are not rejections; they are requests for more information. Instead of arguing, use objections as an opportunity to present evidence. When a seller doubts the market, show them the Saleswise CMA. When they question your marketing, show them a virtual staging mock-up of their own living room. Data-driven answers build trust and position you as the expert.
• Persistence is Systematic, Not Annoying: A strategic follow-up cadence using different channels (phone, email, text) demonstrates your commitment without overwhelming the prospect. Each touchpoint should offer a new piece of value, not just a repeated "Are you ready yet?" This methodical approach is a cornerstone of effective client acquisition. For a holistic approach to securing new clients, integrating proven lead generation best practices is essential to complement your script-based outreach.

Putting It All Into Action

Information without implementation is just trivia. To turn these scripts into commissions, you need a repeatable action plan. Start by time-blocking 60-90 minutes every single morning dedicated solely to expired listing outreach. No exceptions.

Your daily workflow should look something like this:

1. Identify & Research: Pull the latest expired listings and use a tool like Saleswise to instantly generate a CMA and analyze the previous listing's marketing weaknesses.
2. Execute the First Touch: Make the initial phone call using the script framework. Be prepared to pivot to the objection-handling script at a moment's notice.
3. Deploy Follow-Up: If you get voicemail, leave the precise, value-driven message we outlined. A few hours later, send the follow-up text.
4. Deliver the Value Package: The next day, send your comprehensive email, complete with the personalized CMA, marketing suggestions, and visual assets that showcase your superior strategy.

By consistently executing this plan, you transform from an agent who simply has a good expired listing script into a strategic advisor who provides solutions. You are no longer just another voice on the phone; you are the agent who showed up with a plan, backed by data, and ready to solve their problem from day one. This is how you win the listing before you ever step foot in the door.

Ready to stop guessing and start winning? The scripts in this article are your roadmap, but Saleswise is the engine that powers your journey. Instantly generate stunning, data-rich CMAs, create compelling virtual staging mock-ups, and craft AI-powered listing descriptions that will make your value proposition irresistible to frustrated sellers. Stop just telling sellers you're different-show them. Try Saleswise today and turn expired listings into your most predictable source of closings.