Hold the Phone: These Cold-Calling Mistakes Could Cost You a Client

Cold calling continues to be one of the most effective ways for real estate agents to generate leads and build meaningful client relationships. However, it’s also one of the easiest methods to mess up. Small missteps—like using a bad script or calling without context—can instantly turn off a potential seller or buyer.

Let’s explore how agents can avoid these mistakes and turn leads into clients.

Failing to Research the Lead

Jumping on the phone without doing your homework is one of the fastest ways to lose a prospect.

If you can’t confidently speak about their property, neighborhood or potential selling motivation, you come across as unprepared. Before dialing, take a few minutes to gather details—use tools like PropStream to view ownership information, mortgage data and local market trends. The more you understand about the prospect’s situation, the easier it is to frame the call around helping them, not just selling to them.

Sounding Too Scripted

Scripts are helpful—but reading one word-for-word can make you sound robotic and impersonal.

People can tell when you’re going through the motions. Instead of memorizing every line, use a flexible framework that allows for natural conversation to evolve. Adapt based on how the person responds and inject your personality to make the interaction feel genuine.

Talking Too Much, Listening Too Little

A cold call isn’t a one-sided pitch—it’s a two-way conversation.

If you’re doing all the talking, you’re missing valuable information about the prospect’s needs, which allows you to tailor your next points accordingly. Ask open-ended questions, then really listen to their answers. Not only will this help build rapport, but it’ll help you and the prospect determine if you’re a good match.

Not Getting to the Point

Let’s face it—people are busy.

If your intro drags on, they’ll hang up before you get to your point. Start strong by briefly introducing yourself, stating why you’re calling and how you can help them. A focused, benefit-driven opener can buy you more time to make your case.

Neglecting to Follow Up

You had a good call—but then you moved on to the next lead without following up.

Many deals are lost not because the lead wasn’t interested, but because the agent didn’t circle back. Set a reminder to follow up, whether it’s a quick check-in call, an email or a text message. Consistent, thoughtful follow-up keeps you top of mind and increases your conversion chances.

Prepare for Your Cold Call More Efficiently—PropStream It!

Already have a list of prospects? Use PropStream to dive deep into property values, mortgage history and selling motivations so you’re prepared when you make the call.

Still searching? PropStream’s 20+ Lead Lists and 165+ additional filters help you quickly find motivated sellers.

Work smarter—research, build high-converting lists and reach out from one easy platform.

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