A healthy SMS delivery rate is the foundation of effective seller outreach. Target 90% minimum, aim for 95%+. This guide covers template design, carrier compliance, platform-specific tips, and data segmentation strategies to maximize your SMS performance.
Rotate Prospecting Templates
Your Action Plans must rotate prospecting templates for initial outreach. All initial messages should be dynamic, using merge fields such as owner name or property address. Static templates should never be used for prospecting -- they significantly reduce deliverability.
Create Unique, Conversational Messages
While 8020REI provides default templates, create your own after a few days of use. Copied or generic templates reduce deliverability and authenticity.
| Do | Write like you speak -- natural, direct, and relevant. Be purposeful. Lead with value. Use merge fields for personalization. |
| Avoid | Apologizing ("sorry to bother you"), phrases like "out of the blue," links in first messages, and anything that reads like unsolicited lead generation. |
Use Merge Fields and Dynamic Templates
Prospecting templates should include 2 to 5 dynamic parts, each with multiple variations. The more a template is sent, the more variation it needs to avoid carrier filtering.
| Daily Volume | Template Requirements | Target Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 100+ uses/day | Dynamic with 2-5 parts, 7+ variations per part | 90% min, aim 95%+ |
| 35-100 uses/day | Dynamic with 2-3 parts, 5+ variations each | 95% min, aim 97%+ |
| Under 35 uses/day | Can be static or lightly dynamic | 97%+ expected |
Segment Your Data by Distress Type
Different distress types respond to different messaging angles. Segment your lists so each message feels relevant to the recipient's situation.
| Pre-Foreclosure | Lead with urgency and a path to resolution. These sellers are often under time pressure. |
| Probate / Inherited | Be empathetic and patient. Focus on simplifying the process for heirs managing an unfamiliar property. |
| Vacant / Absentee | Highlight the cost of holding and the ease of selling. These owners may not realize the burden of the property. |
| Tax Lien / Delinquent | Offer a way out. Frame the sale as a solution to their financial obligation. |
Launch Control: Optimize Urgent Outreach
Launch Control limits messaging to 3 numbers at a time per contact. For Urgent property lists, use a two-pass strategy:
- First outreach: Text the top 3 numbers.
- Second outreach: Follow up with the remaining 2-3 numbers.
This ensures fast, efficient outreach to your highest-quality leads while working within platform constraints.
Monitor and Maintain Compliance
Review template performance weekly or bi-weekly. Watch for delivery rate drops, which often signal carrier filtering. Replace underperforming templates immediately rather than waiting for them to recover.
Compliance reminder: Always include opt-out language. Respect DNC lists. Never message contacts who have opted out -- violations risk account suspension and legal liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my delivery rate dropping?
Common causes: overusing the same template, sending too many messages per day from one number, or including links/flagged phrases. Rotate templates, reduce daily volume per number, and remove spam-triggering language.
Should I use the same template for all distress types?
No. Segment your lists by distress type and tailor your messaging. A pre-foreclosure owner needs a different message than an absentee landlord. Relevance drives response rates.
How many templates do I need?
At minimum, 3-5 unique prospecting templates that rotate automatically. High-volume users (100+ sends/day) should maintain 7+ variations per dynamic part.
