When should you set expectations for how often you will communicate with a client during the listing period?

When should you set expectations for how often you will communicate with a client during the listing period?

• A. In the final contract
• B. After closing
• C. Only when they request updates
• D. At the listing appointment

Answer: (D)

Setting expectations about how often you’ll communicate should happen at the listing appointment. This moment is when you present the plan for marketing, timelines, and what the client can expect from you. Agreeing on a cadence—such as weekly updates, status on showings and feedback, and any market changes—helps build trust and reduces uncertainty for the client. If you wait until the contract is signed or, worse, after closing, you miss the chance to establish a proactive communication routine and risk frustration or misunderstandings. Waiting for them to request updates makes you reactive rather than guiding the process. Establishing the communication cadence upfront shows professionalism and sets a clear path for the listing period.

Setting expectations about how often you’ll communicate should happen at the listing appointment. This moment is when you present the plan for marketing, timelines, and what the client can expect from you. Agreeing on a cadence—such as weekly updates, status on showings and feedback, and any market changes—helps build trust and reduces uncertainty for the client. If you wait until the contract is signed or, worse, after closing, you miss the chance to establish a proactive communication routine and risk frustration or misunderstandings. Waiting for them to request updates makes you reactive rather than guiding the process. Establishing the communication cadence upfront shows professionalism and sets a clear path for the listing period.