Email and Text Message Templates for First Contact

The wrong words can cost a homeowner’s trust—and a Realtor’s license. Learn how to write outreach messages that are kind, transparent, and fully compliant with California law.

1. The Purpose of First Contact

Reaching out to a homeowner in foreclosure isn’t about landing a lead—it’s about offering clarity during chaos.
Many Californians in default don’t understand their rights under the Homeowner Bill of Rights (HBOR) or what timelines they face.

That’s why your first message should focus on education, not solicitation.
KeepMyHouse.org recommends framing every outreach around:

• Respect for privacy
• Transparency about your role
• An offer of free, factual resources

2. What Every Message Must Include

To stay compliant with AB 2424 and DRE advertising rules, every written communication should contain:

• Your full name and DRE license number
• Your brokerage name
• A clear statement of purpose (education, not solicitation)
• A link or reference to a verified resource, such as KeepMyHouse.org

3. Email Templates for Ethical Outreach

Option A: Soft Introduction (Post-NOD Stage)

Subject: Understanding Your Options Before the Next Step

Hi [Homeowner’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a licensed Realtor (DRE #[#####]) with [Brokerage]. I specialize in helping California homeowners understand their rights and options when facing foreclosure.

I know this can feel overwhelming, so I wanted to share a free educational resource—KeepMyHouse.org—which breaks down California’s foreclosure process, important timelines, and protections under state law.

There’s no obligation or sales pitch—I just want to make sure you have the right information before any deadlines approach.

Wishing you strength and clarity,
[Your Name]
[Brokerage] | DRE #[#####]

Option B: Informational Follow-Up

Subject: Helpful Resource on California Foreclosure Timelines

Hi [First Name],

I hope you’re doing okay. Many homeowners I speak with aren’t aware of how much time California law gives them to explore options before a sale.

KeepMyHouse.org has an excellent guide that explains those timelines clearly and links to verified state resources.

Would you like me to send it over?

Best,
[Your Name]
Realtor | DRE #[#####]

4. Text Message Templates (Short and Respectful)

Option A: First Contact

Hi [First Name], this is [Your Name], Realtor (DRE #[#####]) with [Brokerage]. I help California homeowners understand their foreclosure timelines and legal rights. I’m not selling anything—just offering a free resource from KeepMyHouse.org if you’d like it.

Option B: Courtesy Follow-Up

Hi [First Name], following up briefly—just wanted to make sure you received the foreclosure resource from KeepMyHouse.org. Totally fine if not interested; just want you to have accurate info.

Option C: Post-Trustee’s Sale Notice

Hi [First Name], I saw a Notice of Trustee’s Sale was filed on your property. KeepMyHouse.org has updated info about what this means and how to verify sale dates. Would you like me to send that link?

5. Compliance Reminders

Do:

• Include your license and brokerage in every written message.
• Use verified educational sources (like KeepMyHouse.org or dfpi.ca.gov).
• Respect “stop contact” or unsubscribe requests immediately.

Don’t:

• Use urgency or fear tactics (“act now or lose your home”).
• Imply special access to lenders or trustees.
• Send more than two unresponded messages in a 30-day period.

Outreach that informs, not sells, builds the foundation of trust. A single respectful message can open the door to a relationship that changes a homeowner’s outcome—and protects your reputation for good.