You’ve got names in your CRM that went silent. They downloaded a guide, toured once, then vanished. They weren’t a hard no. They just weren’t ready.
Bring them back with steady email touches and simple retargeting. Done right, you’ll book quiet wins without buying fresh lists every week.
Why This Topic Might Help
Cold contacts already know you, so reactivation costs less
Timing changed for them, not interested
Email plus retargeting keeps you visible where they scroll
A tight funnel turns clicks into conversations
Start by segmenting
One list won’t fit all. Group people so messages feel relevant.
Buyers vs sellers
Lead source: open house, portal, referral
Area of interest or ZIP
Last action: opened, clicked, visited site
Heat level: cold, warming, active
Build a simple 5 email series
Keep it helpful, short, and clear. Send weekly.
Friendly check in
“Still thinking about buying or selling?” Offer a quick reply or one click poll.Local market snapshot
A few stats by ZIP plus a link to valuation or listings.Address the stall
Financing, timing, rates, repairs. Offer a zero pressure call.Client story
Short win with one takeaway and a soft call to book a consult.Close the loop
“Should I keep your file open?” Invite yes, no, or later.
Tips: write like you talk, add one link per email, and recap the next step.
Add retargeting once they click
Stay present after they visit a page or open an email.
Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Google Display, YouTube
Creative: valuation offer, new listings this week, seller checklist
Audience: site visitors and email engagers from the last 90 days
Frequency: light touch so you don’t feel pushy
Send traffic to focused funnels
Don’t drop them on your homepage.
Instant home value → “Get a custom pricing plan in 24 hours”
Buyer guide → drip with weekly new listings under a set price
Relocation kit → calendar link for a 15-minute planning call
First time path → mini course with a simple loan step
Keep forms short: name, email, and one detail like ZIP.
Follow up fast and personally
Automation gets attention. People close with people.
Text within 15 minutes of a form fill
Short video message that says their name and the next step
Invite to a quick call or local event
Drop a handwritten postcard for high-intent leads
Track the basics
Don’t overcomplicate it.
Email: open rate, click rate, replies
Ads: cost per click, frequency, assisted conversions
Funnel: page views, form completions, booked calls
Fix the weakest link first.
FAQs
Q: How often should I email cold contacts?
A: Weekly for 4 to 6 weeks. Then shift to every 2 to 3 weeks with useful updates.
Q: What if a lead ghosted me months ago?
A: Keep it casual. “Hey [Name], still exploring your options in [Area]?” Offer one easy next step.
Q: Do videos help here?
A: Yes. A 30-second personal clip boosts replies and feels human.
The Bottom Line
Cold leads aren’t dead. Segment, send five useful emails, run light retargeting, and route clicks to simple funnels. Add a fast, personal follow-up up and those quiet names start turning into appointments.
Originally published on AmericasBestMarketing.com
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. AmericasBestMarketing.com does not endorse or receive compensation from third-party companies mentioned. All trademarks are property of their respective owners.
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