A better way to give referrals

The Art of the Follow-Up: What to Say to a Client After You've Sent Them a Referral

Most referring agents go silent after making an introduction. This article provides word-for-word scripts and templates for the three critical follow-up touchpoints that will keep you top-of-mind, support your client, and solidify your reputation as a world-class connector.

image of networking event (for a hr tech)

Table of Contents

You've made the introduction. You've connected your client with a top-performing agent in their new market. The referral agreement is signed. Your job is done, right?

Not quite.

The space between sending a referral and closing day is where most referring agents go silent. And that silence can feel like abandonment to your client. They might wonder: Does my agent still care? Did I get passed off? Should I reach out if I have questions?

The truth is, your role hasn't ended—it's just evolved. You're no longer the agent showing homes or negotiating contracts, but you're still the trusted advisor who got them to this point. How you handle the follow-up can be the difference between a one-time transaction and a client who sends you referrals for the next decade.

This article provides word-for-word scripts and templates for the three critical follow-up touchpoints that will keep you top-of-mind, support your client, and solidify your reputation as a world-class connector.

The Three Critical Follow-Up Touchpoints

Think of your follow-up strategy as three distinct moments, each with a specific purpose.

  1. Immediately After the Referral (within 1 hour): Confirm the connection and reassure your client
  2. Week 1 Check-In (3-7 days later): Ensure the introduction happened and gather feedback
  3. After Closing (within 1 week of closing): Celebrate and request a testimonial

Let's break down each one with exact language you can use.

Touchpoint #1: The Immediate Confirmation (Within 1 Hour)

Goal: Reassure your client that they're in great hands and position yourself as still being involved.

The moment you submit the referral through a platform like GiveReferrals.com or send the introduction email, your client should hear from you. This confirmation message does three things:

  1. Shows you're on top of things
  2. Sets expectations for what happens next
  3. Keeps you in the loop (they'll likely reply with questions)

Text Message Template (Recommended for Speed)

Hey [Client Name]! Just wanted to let you know I connected you with [Agent Name] in [City]. She's fantastic and specializes in [neighborhood/client type]. She'll be reaching out within the next few hours. I'll check in with you early next week to make sure you two connected. Excited for you! 🏡

Why this works: It's warm, brief, and personal. The emoji adds a human touch without being unprofessional.

Email Template (If You Prefer More Detail)

Subject: You're connected! Meet [Agent Name], your agent in [City]

Hi [Client Name],

I just wanted to send a quick note to let you know I've officially connected you with [Agent Name] in [City/Market].

I've known [him/her] for [X years / through our professional network], and I'm confident you're going to love working together. [He/She] specializes in [specific niche/neighborhood] and has a fantastic reputation for [quality: communication, negotiation, market knowledge, etc.].

Here's what happens next:

  • [Agent Name] will reach out to you within the next 24 hours to schedule a time to talk.
  • I've already shared your timeline and priorities with [him/her], so you won't have to start from scratch.
  • I'll check in with you early next week to make sure everything is going smoothly.

Even though I'm not the one showing you homes, I'm still here as your advisor and advocate. If you have any questions or concerns at any point in the process, don't hesitate to reach out.

You're in great hands!

Best,
[Your Name]

Why this works: It sets clear expectations, shows you're still involved, and opens the door for ongoing communication.

Touchpoint #2: The Week 1 Check-In (3-7 Days Later)

Goal: Make sure the introduction happened, gather feedback, and demonstrate that you care.

This is the touchpoint most agents skip, and it's the one that matters most. It's your opportunity to:

  • Ensure the receiving agent followed through (and is providing great service)
  • Show your client you're still thinking about them
  • Catch any issues early before they become problems

Text Message Template

Hey [Client Name], just checking in! Have you had a chance to connect with [Agent Name] yet? How did your first conversation go? Let me know if you need anything!

Why this works: It's casual, caring, and opens the door for honest feedback.

Email Template (For a More Formal Relationship)

Subject: Quick check-in on your move to [City]

Hi [Client Name],

I hope you're doing well! I wanted to check in and see how things are going with [Agent Name].

Have you two had a chance to connect? I'm hoping the first conversation went well and that you're feeling good about the partnership.

If for any reason things aren't clicking, or if you have any questions about the process, please don't hesitate to reach out. My goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience, and I'm here to help however I can.

Looking forward to hearing how it's going!

Best,
[Your Name]

Why this works: It positions you as a quality-control partner, not just a middleman.

What to Do If They Say It's Not Going Well

If your client expresses concern, don't panic. This is your chance to add value. Here's a response template:

I really appreciate you letting me know. Can you tell me a little more about what's not working? [Listen carefully].

I want to make sure you have the best experience possible. Let me reach out to [Agent Name] to see if we can address this, and if it's not the right fit, I can connect you with another top agent in the area. You're my priority here.

This response shows you're solution-oriented and puts the client's needs first.

Touchpoint #3: The Post-Closing Celebration and Testimonial Request

Goal: Celebrate the win, reinforce the relationship, and gather social proof for future referrals.

When you get the notification that the deal has closed (either from the receiving agent or through your referral platform's dashboard), this is your moment to shine.

This touchpoint does four things:

  1. Celebrates your client's success
  2. Reminds them you were part of the journey
  3. Requests a testimonial (while the positive experience is fresh)
  4. Keeps the door open for future referrals

Email Template (Send Within 1 Week of Closing)

Subject: Congrats on your new home in [City]! 🎉

[Client Name],

Congratulations! I heard the news that you officially closed on your new home in [City], and I couldn't be more excited for you.

I hope the process with [Agent Name] was everything I promised it would be. It was such a pleasure to be part of your journey, even from afar, and I'm so glad I could connect you with someone who truly took care of you.

Quick favor: If you have a minute, I'd love it if you could share a few words about your experience working with me and [Agent Name]. A short testimonial (even just 2-3 sentences) would mean the world and help me continue to serve other clients who are moving to new markets. You can reply to this email or leave a review [link to your preferred platform].

Even though you're in [City] now, I'm still here if you ever need real estate advice, have a friend moving to [your market], or just want to catch up.

Wishing you all the best in your new home!

Warmly,
[Your Name]

P.S. – Don't be a stranger! Let's stay connected on [social media platform].

Why this works: It's celebratory, makes a clear (but gentle) ask, and leaves the relationship open-ended.

Alternative: The Handwritten Note + Small Gift

If you want to go above and beyond (and you should for high-value clients), send a handwritten card and a small housewarming gift. This makes an enormous impact.

Example Card Message:

[Client Name],

Congratulations on your beautiful new home! It's been such a joy to be part of your journey. Wishing you many happy memories in [City].

If you ever need anything, I'm just a phone call away.

Cheers,
[Your Name]

Pair this with a small gift like a local gift basket, a personalized doormat, or a donation to a charity in their name. The ROI on this gesture is immeasurable.

What NOT to Say: Common Follow-Up Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, certain phrases can undermine the receiving agent or make you seem disengaged. Avoid these:

"Let me know if [Agent Name] doesn't work out."
Why it's bad: It plants doubt and suggests you're not confident in your referral.

Better: "I'm confident you and [Agent Name] will be a great fit, but I'm here if you need anything."


"I'm not involved anymore, so you'll need to talk to [Agent Name]."
Why it's bad: It sounds like you're washing your hands of them.

Better: "I've handed things off to [Agent Name], who is your main point of contact now, but I'm always available if you have questions."


"How's the house hunt going?" (with no context or warmth)
Why it's bad: It feels transactional, like you're just checking a box.

Better: "I was thinking about you this morning! How's everything going with [Agent Name]? Hoping you've found some great options!"

The Long Game: Staying Top-of-Mind for Future Referrals

Your follow-up strategy shouldn't end at closing. The best referring agents treat their clients as long-term relationships, not one-time transactions.

Here's a simple annual touchpoint calendar:

  • 6 Months Post-Closing: "How's the new house? Settled in?"
  • 1 Year Post-Closing: "Happy 1-year homeiversary! Can you believe it's been a year?"
  • Annually After That: Holiday card or quick check-in email

These small touches keep you top-of-mind. When their friend mentions moving, you're the first person they think of.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I check in with the receiving agent too, or just the client?

A: Both! A quick text to the receiving agent ("Thanks for taking great care of [Client Name]! Let me know if you need anything.") shows professionalism and builds your relationship with them. They'll be more likely to send referrals back to you.

Q: What if my client doesn't respond to my follow-up messages?

A: Don't take it personally. They're likely busy with the move. Send one or two follow-ups, and if you don't hear back, trust that no news is good news. Circle back after closing.

Q: How do I ask for a testimonial without sounding pushy?

A: Frame it as helping other clients. "I'd love to be able to share your experience with other clients who are moving to [City]. Would you mind writing a quick sentence or two?" Most people are happy to help when they understand the purpose.

Q: Should I send a gift to the receiving agent too?

A: Absolutely. A handwritten thank-you note after closing is standard. A small gift (coffee gift card, local treat) is a thoughtful touch that will make them eager to work with you again.

The Bottom Line

The follow-up isn't just good customer service—it's good business. It keeps you relevant, builds long-term loyalty, and generates more referrals down the line.

Most agents stop communicating after they make the introduction. By simply staying in touch with warmth and intention, you'll stand out as a class act in an industry that often forgets the human touch.

Your clients will remember how you made them feel. Make sure they feel supported, valued, and confident that you'll always be their trusted real estate advisor—no matter where life takes them.

Ready to send your next referral with confidence? Find a vetted agent on GiveReferrals.com and make a connection that lasts.