real estate agent
If you’re a real estate agent Huntersville, sending text messages to clients might seem like a simple and smart way to stay in touch. It’s fast, direct, and everyone checks their phone, right? But here’s something important: not all messages are okay to send. Some could get you into serious legal trouble if you’re not careful.
Laws exist to protect people’s privacy, and if you break them—even by accident—it could cost your business a lot of money. This is why every real estate agent must understand the legal rules of text message marketing. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.
Real Estate Agent Huntersville Watch Out for A Shifting Landscape of Communication
Text messages are no longer just used for chatting with friends. Many businesses now use them to talk to customers, schedule meetings, and share updates. Real estate professionals are no different—they use texting to confirm showings, send house listings, or follow up with potential buyers.
But texting clients isn’t like texting a friend. The law treats business messages more seriously. That’s because phones are personal devices, and people don’t want to be bothered by messages they didn’t agree to get.
The Power and Risk of Text Messaging
Text messages work well because they feel personal. But this can also make them risky. People may feel uncomfortable getting unexpected texts, which can lead to complaints or even lawsuits.
Here are a few things that can go wrong:
- Sending messages without asking for permission
- Texting early in the morning or late at night
- Using apps that don’t follow the law
- Forgetting to give people a way to stop the texts
These mistakes can lead to fines, and some fines can be very expensive—sometimes thousands of dollars per message.
Tip: Always ask for permission before sending a business-related text.
Timing and Frequency Matter
Laws say you can’t send marketing messages too early or too late. You’re not allowed to text people before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in their time zone.
Also, sending too many messages can feel annoying. Even if someone said texting them is okay, they might change their mind if you message them daily. So, keep it polite and space out your messages.
Sending the right number of texts at the right time shows that you respect people’s time.
Compliance Requires More Than Just Good Intentions
Being a real estate consultant Huntersville today means understanding more than just homes—you need to know the laws about marketing too. Some think hiring a marketing company or using a texting app protects them from legal problems. But that’s not true. You’re still responsible if your name is on the message.
Expert Insight: “Even if someone else sends your texts, you are still the one who must follow the rules.”
Real estate consultants should always check that their tools and services are legal and safe. Ask for proof that they follow the law. Look at the messages before they go out. Make sure your name is not being misused.
Opt-In Is Not Optional
Before texting someone about your business, you must get their permission. This is called “opting in.” You can’t just grab a phone number and start texting—it doesn’t work that way.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Make it clear what kind of messages people will get
- Use a checkbox on a form, but don’t check it for them
- Tell them how to stop messages anytime
People should know what they’re signing up for, and you should keep a record in case you ever need to prove it.
Marketing with Integrity: Common Sense Meets Legal Sense
Text messages should always be honest and easy to understand. Don’t send messages that promise too much or sound tricky. For example, don’t say “guaranteed deal” unless you can make that happen. It’s probably not a good idea if the message sounds too pushy.
Quote: “If you wouldn’t say it on a phone call, don’t send it in a text.”
Being truthful keeps your clients happy and keeps you out of legal trouble. Honest communication builds trust, which is very important in real estate.
Don’t Underestimate Local and State Laws
It’s not just national laws you have to follow. Some states have even stricter rules about texting customers. For example, California and Florida want businesses to follow more privacy steps.
These might include:
- Sending messages only during certain hours
- Using clearer language when asking for permission
- Adding legal information in your first message
If you live or work in a state with tougher laws, you must follow them. Ignoring them can lead to extra fines and headaches.
Transparency Builds Trust
Before sending a text, ask yourself: “Would I feel okay if someone sent me this message?” If the answer is no, then you shouldn’t send it.
Every message should include who you are, why you’re texting, and how the person can stop the messages. Also, don’t use confusing shortcuts or words people might not understand. Simple words are always better.
Tip: Say your name and give clear opt-out steps. For example: “Hi, this is Kelly from XYZ Realty. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.”
Beyond the Sale: Protecting Your Business Long-Term
In real estate, closing one sale is great, but building trust for the future is even better. A smart real estate agent Huntersville uses text messages correctly: with honesty, clear permission, and respect for the law.
Don’t take shortcuts. Learn the rules. Make sure every message helps your business, not hurts it. That’s how you keep growing and stay safe from legal trouble.
At this, Kimberly Price – Real Estate Broker – REALTOR® offers smart, legal, and client-friendly real estate services that respect both privacy and professionalism. Every step is done with care, trust, and clear communication, from showings to closings.
