322: Buyer Boundaries — How to Deal with Looky Loos
Ever found yourself halfway through a showing thinking, “This buyer has no intention of buying anything”? You, my friend, have met the infamous looky loo. They’re curious, charming, and often a black hole of time, gas money, and sanity unless you set firm boundaries.
In this episode, we go deep on managing buyers who just want to look — the ones texting Zillow links at 9 pm, the ones who take years to commit, and the ones who drain your energy. We share real stories, solid strategies, and permission to run your business like a business.
If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to lose the deal,” and also, “I might lose my mind,” this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn
- How to spot looky loos early
- How to set boundaries without guilt
- How to professionally qualify casual buyers
- When and how to quietly quit on energy-draining clients
Understanding Looky Loos in Real Estate
The term “looky loo” describes someone who appears interested in browsing homes, but has little intention of making a purchase. Realtors often run into them during showings or open houses, especially in hotter or fast-moving markets.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
According to Realtor.com’s “Stop Playing Peek-a-boo” series, the real differentiation between a looky loo and a serious buyer comes down to authority and buying power.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} That’s why qualification is key.
8 Signs You May Be Dealing with a Looky Loo
- Refuses to share contact info or details about their search.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Gives vague, non-committal answers.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Claims they “hit send by accident.”:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Shows indecisiveness, bouncing between areas and price ranges.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Attends every open house in the area.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Says they want to “not bother their agent” or avoids mentioning one.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Declares “I don’t deal with agents.”:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Appears engaged but never moves forward.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Setting Buyer Boundaries (Without Guilt)
Boundaries are essential—not just for your sanity, but for running a sustainable business.
- Communicate your availability clearly (e.g. “I respond to calls/texts from 9–6”).
- Use a script to qualify early: ask budget, timeline, and areas of interest.
- Require a buyer consultation or worksheet before showing homes.
- Push back politely when asked outside your boundaries (e.g., late-night messages).
How to Professionally Qualify Casual Buyers
Qualification isn’t about gatekeeping—it’s about being efficient and respectful of both parties’ time. Use frameworks like BANT (Budget, Authority, Need, Timeline) to guide your questions.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
For example:
- “What’s your price range or maximum loan amount?”
- “Are you pre-approved, or do you need help with that?”
- “What’s your ideal move-date?”
- “Who else is involved in the decision process?”
Those who struggle with these answers might be in “looky-loo” mode.
When & How to Quiet Quit on Energy-Draining Clients
Quiet quitting isn’t disrespectful—it’s strategic. By stepping away from draining prospects, you free time for serious ones.
- Stop proactively following up; let them reach out to you.
- Use auto-emails/texts for low-intent clients (“I’ll reach out again in 90 days”).
- Don’t bend, apply your standard showing terms consistently.
You’ll be surprised how many “lookers” fade when you show consistent boundaries.
Turning Looky Loos into Future Leads
Even casual browsers can become future clients—if treated with respect and placed into your nurture system.
- Ask to send more info: “I can text you listings in your price range.”
- Invite them into your newsletter or market updates list.
- Follow up periodically with value: “Here’s a home that hit the market today.”
Resources Mentioned
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