Referral Requests script for local businesses introducing new residents

Introduction

Hi there! My name is [Your Name], and I'm a local real estate professional (or Loan Officer) dedicated to helping people smoothly transition into our wonderful community. I'm reaching out because I believe we share a common goal: providing exceptional service and a warm welcome to new residents. By working together, we can truly enhance their experience and help them feel right at home from day one.

Opening Lines

"Good morning/afternoon, [Business Owner's Name]. I'm [Your Name] from [Your Company Name]. I truly admire what you've built here at [Business Name]; it's clear you're a cornerstone of our community. [PAUSE] I was hoping to take just two minutes of your time to share an idea that I believe could genuinely benefit your newest customers, and perhaps your business too. Would that be okay?" [LISTEN for "yes" or "what is it?"]

Main Script Body

"Fantastic, thank you. So, my work focuses specifically on helping new residents find their perfect home, whether they're buying or looking for mortgage solutions. I often find they're not just looking for a house; they're looking for where to get their coffee, where to find great local services like yours, or even just reliable childcare. [PAUSE]

That's where I saw a great opportunity for us to collaborate. You see, when a new customer walks through your door, they're likely also navigating the complexities of settling into a new area. Imagine if you could easily offer them a trusted resource for their real estate or mortgage needs, ensuring they get expert guidance right from the start.

Conversely, when I help a family move into the neighborhood, one of the first things they ask is, 'Where do I go for [your business's service]?' By partnering, I could confidently recommend your business as a top-notch local resource.

It's a simple, no-cost way to add significant value to your clients' experience. We provide them with a seamless transition into the community, and in doing so, we mutually grow our networks with satisfied new residents. It's about making their first impression of our community truly exceptional, right from their first visit to your establishment. What are your initial thoughts on that?" [PAUSE] [LISTEN carefully]

Handling Objections

1. "I need to think about it." "Absolutely, take all the time you need. This is about building a relationship, not rushing into anything. [PAUSE] To help you think it through, is there any specific aspect that I might clarify, or any concerns that immediately come to mind that I could address for you right now?" [PAUSE] [LISTEN] "My goal is to make sure you have all the information to see how beneficial this could be for your clients."

2. "What's the commitment or cost for my business?" "That's an excellent question, and it's important to clarify. There is absolutely no monetary cost or significant time commitment for your business. My team and I handle all the real estate and mortgage expertise. All we're asking is that when you encounter a new resident who mentions needing a home or mortgage, you simply mention our service as a trusted local resource. We'd provide you with some easy-to-share materials – like a beautiful welcome packet for new residents that prominently features your business, for instance – to make it effortless for you. It's about providing an added layer of service to your clients, at no expense to you."

3. "I'm already working with someone else." "That's completely understandable, and it's great you have an existing relationship you trust. My intention isn't to replace anyone, but rather to be an additional, valuable resource. [PAUSE] Perhaps there's a specific niche we could focus on, or maybe I could serve as a backup for unique situations. There's no exclusivity required. Many successful businesses find value in having a diverse network of trusted professionals to refer to, ensuring their clients always have options that best fit their needs. Would you be open to exploring how we could complement your existing relationships?"

4. "I'm not ready to start something like this yet." "No problem at all. I completely respect that. Building these kinds of partnerships happens when the time is right. [PAUSE] How about I leave you with some of my contact information and a brief overview of how we assist new residents? That way, if a client ever brings up a real estate or mortgage need, you'll have a trusted option readily available, with no pressure to refer until you feel completely comfortable. I'm here when you are, and I'd love to share some of our 'new resident' welcome guides, which could be a nice added touch for your customers, regardless."

Closing Sequence

"So, to summarize, this partnership is a win-win: we help your new clients settle in faster and more confidently, and we both grow our businesses by enhancing the overall new resident experience. [PAUSE] How about I leave you with some of my information and a quick 'New Resident Welcome Kit' that already features some great local spots? We can connect later this week for a brief 15-minute chat to discuss the finer points and see how we can immediately put this into action. Does that sound good?"

Follow-up Strategy

Send a personalized text or email within 24-48 hours. Reference a specific point from your conversation and reiterate the value proposition. Suggest a quick, no-pressure coffee meeting to outline the specific benefits for their clients and the simple logistics of the referral process.

Now, go out there and build those win-win referral relationships! You're providing an essential service that genuinely helps new residents feel at home, and that's something every local business should want to be a part of. – Edi Shek (NMLS# 216981)