Track the “Almost Bought” List

Tracking the "Almost Bought" List is a powerful and underused tactic in real estate. Here's how to do it effectively and turn near-misses into future deals:

What Is It?

A running list of buyers or sellers who:

• Toured homes or listed a property but didn't follow through
• Backed out at the offer stage
• Lost a bidding war
• Delayed "until next year"
• Said "we're just going to rent for now"

• These people were once high-intent leads.
• Their situation may change unexpectedly—job relocation, lease ending, new baby, financial shift.
• Most agents forget them. You won't.

1. Create a Tag or Folder in your CRM or spreadsheet:
   • Label them "Almost Bought" or "Paused Clients"
   • Note the reason they stopped and their original search/listing criteria.
2. Set Calendar Reminders
   • Schedule touchpoints every 60–90 days: a call, email, or DM.
3. Use Quick Check-Ins
   • "Hey, just thought of you—there's a new property like the one we saw last fall. Want a link?"
   • "Market's shifted a bit since we last talked. Want a quick update?"

• Local market changes ("Prices dipped in your old target area…")
• New listings in their preferred neighborhood
• Changes in mortgage rates
• Holidays or life milestones
• Quick polls: "Still thinking of buying this year?"

Use a light, friendly tone—not salesy. You're just being helpful and staying top of mind.