Staying Within Bounds: Compliance Tips for Real Estate Cold Calling

Posted In | CRM | Help Desk | Calling Solution | Real Estate, Contractors & Construction

Real estate cold calling is a powerful tool for real estate professionals looking to grow their client base and sell more properties. However, like all marketing activities, it requires careful observation of the law to ensure that you don't cross any lines or violate any regulations. Here are some tips to help you stay within bounds and maintain compliance during your real estate cold calling efforts.

 

Understanding Cold Calling Laws

Before diving into cold calling, it is essential to understand the laws that govern this activity. In the United States, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the Do Not Call Registry list are two primary regulations to be aware of. Violations of these laws can result in hefty fines. Therefore, ensure you understand the specifics and adhere strictly to these rules.

 

Check the Do Not Call Registry

The National Do Not Call Registry is a list of phone numbers from consumers who have indicated their preference to limit the telemarketing calls they receive. It is unlawful to call any numbers on this list for sales purposes. Therefore, before initiating any cold calling activities, check this list and remove any contacts that are on it from your call list.

 

Obtain Consent Where Necessary

According to the TCPA, businesses are required to obtain written consent from consumers before making automated calls or sending text messages. If you plan on using any form of automated dialing system for your cold calling activities, ensure you have the necessary permissions in place.

 

Respect Business Hours

Another critical aspect of cold calling compliance is respecting the time of your prospective clients. It is considered best practice not to call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in the client's local time. This consideration shows respect for your potential clients' personal time and can also increase the effectiveness of your calls.

 

Maintain Accurate Records

Keeping accurate records of your cold calling activities can be extremely beneficial in ensuring compliance. These records should include when the call was made, who was called, the consent given, and the outcome of the conversation. These records can serve as proof of compliance should there be any complaints or disputes.

 

Transparency and Disclosure

During your cold calling activities, be transparent and disclose the purpose of your call at the beginning of the conversation. This transparency allows the person on the other end of the line to make an informed decision about whether to continue the conversation or not.

 

While real estate cold calling can be a powerful tool for client acquisition, it is crucial to keep compliance in mind to avoid penalties and maintain a positive reputation. By understanding and adhering to the laws, respecting people's preferences and time, maintaining accurate records, and being transparent in your communications, you can ensure that your cold calling activities are both effective and compliant.