How to Ask for Real Estate Referrals: Use these 5 Proven Referral Scripts
From expired listing scripts to objection handling, scripts are one of the best resources out there for agents.
In this guide, we’ll go over how to ask someone for a referral so you can gain more leads and close more deals. You’ll also find a selection of referral script examples you can use in real conversations, so you can grow your network and expand your business. Use these five tried-and-true real estate scripts to ask confidently.
Expert Tip: In order to deliver a successful script and remove all awkwardness, you must memorize it and practice, practice, practice. Do not practice on your clients.
What Does “Asking for Real Estate Referrals” Really Mean?
When we talk about asking for real estate referrals, we’re talking about making it easy and natural for the people who already trust you to connect you with someone else who needs your help. It’s not a hard sell or an awkward pitch. It’s reinforcing the value you’ve already delivered and inviting your clients, friends, or past customers to share your name when the moment comes up. When done consistently, this small habit becomes one of the most reliable drivers of new business in your pipeline.
And here is a big mindset shift: if you want to know how to ask for a referral, start by focusing on service first, then make the ask simple, specific, and easy to follow through.
How & When to Ask for Real Estate Referrals
Referrals in real estate are important for several reasons. First, they can help you increase your profit margins, as a referred customer is more likely to seek out your services because they received your referral from someone they trust. Second, they help raise brand awareness through word of mouth, social media, and other platforms.
With that said, there are many reasons why you should work on referral marketing strategy in your business. But what goes into building a consistent approach to how to ask for referrals?
Tips on How to Ask for Real Estate Referrals:
Don’t be too salesy:
One of the top reasons why real estate agents don’t ask is that they don’t want to come off as too salesy. While this fear is valid, there’s a way around it.
When asking for real estate referrals, it’s important to build a strong relationship that’s built on trust. Check on how your client is doing, talk about your own interests and personal life, and show that you care about their wellbeing. Doing so will make the referral conversation feel natural and timely.
Get the timing right
Another tip for how to ask someone for a referral is to get the timing right. There’s always a time and place to ask a client to spread awareness about your work. To get the timing right, make sure they’re relaxed and happy, not in the middle of a stressful moment like negotiating a price.
Additionally, make sure you ask after you’ve delivered real value. Asking too soon doesn’t allow you to showcase the results you create, and it can feel premature.
Create an incentive:
Like any great marketing technique, it’s important to have an incentive. Creating a referral program with incentives is an excellent way to encourage clients to recommend your services to someone else. In real estate, incentives can include gift cards to local restaurants, a finder’s fee, or a gift basket. When you pair that with a simple referral script, you make it easy for people to take action.
When to Ask for Real Estate Referrals
These are just some of the top strategies for how to ask for a referral. Now that you know different ways you can get clients to recommend your business, it’s time to learn when you should ask.
There are a few moments when asking for real estate referrals is appropriate, such as:
- During the showing: When you’re showing a buyer a property, you have time to build rapport and trust. If the buyer is pleased with how the showing went, you can end the conversation by asking for a referral and letting them know you’d be happy to help their friends and family as you did with them.
- After listing: If you’re working with a seller, asking after listing their property can be beneficial. You went through key stages to get their home ready, and if they’re satisfied, they’ll be more than happy to recommend you to people they know.
- At closing: One of the best times to ask is when you finally close on the house. Closing is an exciting moment, and it’s often the easiest time for clients to think of someone else who is talking about moving.
You know how and when, so let’s explore some examples. In the next section, you’ll find scripts for different scenarios so you always know how to ask for referrals in a way that feels natural.
How to Ask for Referrals in Sales Without Feeling Awkward
When it comes to how to ask someone for a referral in sales, the goal is to create new opportunities while keeping the interaction genuine and value-driven. The most effective approach is simple: remind clients what you helped them accomplish, show real appreciation, then casually invite them to share your name when someone in their world needs the same support.
Here is the key: you do not need to overthink it. If you want how to ask for a referral to feel effortless, you need a repeatable approach and a short line you can deliver with confidence. That’s exactly what a referral script is for.
What Is a Referral Script and Why Do Agents Need One?
A referral script is a simple, repeatable line or conversation framework that helps you confidently start the referral conversation without sounding pushy or unsure. The best scripts help you highlight your value, deepen trust, and open the door for future introductions.
And here’s a practical move most agents skip: give your clients a simple one page share card that includes who you help, the neighborhoods you serve, and the easiest way to reach you. When you give this to your clients when asking for referrals, you remove friction and make it easy for them to follow through the moment a friend brings up real estate. Then you are not just asking, you are equipping them.
Referral Script: You just got a new listing.
Our first script can be used if you just got a new listing. The next time you sign on with a client, use this:
Mr. and Mrs. Seller … Thank you so much for your listing; I have two goals while working with you.
First, is to sell your home as quickly as possible for the highest price.
Second, is to give you such great service that you automatically refer me to anyone you know who wants to buy or sell. Sound good?
Before I let you go, who else do you know now that might need my services?
Referral Script for when you just sold a home.
As you know, one of the best times to ask is right after you sell a home. This is because you proved you have the skills and expertise to get the home sold. Now keep the ball rolling by asking with this script:
Mr. and Mrs. Seller … I am so happy we were able to sell your home.
At this point, ________, my closing coordinator will take over to make sure your sale closes smoothly.
As you know, my business is based on referrals from great clients like you.
You’ve probably been involved in lots of conversations about moving lately.
Before I let you go … who else do you know that may need my services at this time?
Referral Script for when you just found a buyer their dream home.
There’s nothing better than helping a buyer find their dream home. Once they get handed the keys, they’ll be filled with joy and extremely thankful for your help. It’s during this time that you can encourage introductions using this script:
Mr. and Mrs. Buyer … I am so happy we were able to find you a home.
At this point, ________, my closing coordinator will take over to make sure your sale closes smoothly.
As you know, my business is based on referrals from great clients like you.
You’ve probably been involved in lots of conversations about moving lately.
Before I let you go … who else do you know that may need my services at this time?
Referral Script for when your clients’ transaction is pending.
Staying connected throughout the entire process is essential. During waiting periods, such as when a transaction is pending, it’s a great time to stay in communication and ask. Use this script if someone else besides you is doing the follow-up:
Hello … its _________ calling … how are you?
I am in regular communication with _______ your closing coordinator who assures me everything is on track with your sale.
Now that your home is sold/purchased … I am calling to see … who else do you know that needs to buy or sell in the near future?
Thank you so much. Referrals from great clients like you are the lifeblood of my business.
Referral Script for when you run into an old friend.
You never know who you’ll bump into. Whether it’s an old friend, coworker, or acquaintance, use this script to generate more leads and keep your name top of mind:
(After small talk) (Name) … by the way, do you know I sell real estate? (pause) I’ve been doing it for XX years. (wait for response)
I was just wondering if you’ve talked with anyone recently who might be interested in buying or selling a home? (If they can’t think of a name to share immediately)
That’s ok. But if you do hear of someone in the future, will you keep me in mind? I’d really like to get the chance to work with anyone you know who’s looking to buy or sell. Please just give me a call or drop me an email if you hear of anything. (wait for response)
Just to make it easier for you to share my contact info when the subject comes up, may I give you a couple of my business cards?
Wrapping Up: How to Ask for Real Estate Referrals
Asking can feel daunting at first, but the right language takes the pressure off and gives you a repeatable path to more opportunities. When you consistently deliver great service and practice how to ask for referrals, introductions become a natural part of your business.
And if you’re ready to book more appointments, convert more clients, and build a business fueled by referrals, our real estate coaching programs can help. Our real estate coaches will show you how to implement high-performing referral systems, strengthen your skills, and use the right tools to scale your business with confidence.
