BEST Response To #1 Question From Mortgage Consumers Online

Every Mortgage professional ever can attest to getting this question all the time online:

What's your Best Rate & Fees? 

No Contact Info. No Further Details. Just that. 

Well, the classic reply to that of course is: 

"This depends on your specific circumstances, please provide your phone # and email so we can do an application". 

Fair enough. You don't know what they'd qualify for, and you'd hate to be pigeon-holed into offering something you can't deliver on. 

Pro Tip: Consumers want ANSWERS.

They will work with the person who GIVES THEM answers, because you are providing valuable knowledge and information. 

Guiding Principal: Get Out Of Your Own Way.

You started your original reply by being disagreeable to the customer, thwarting their efforts to learn what the best rate and fees were. By 'Negging' or being negative, you have obstructed your own efforts on a sale in a small but significant manner. I know it didn't feel like that, but ultimately that's how it translates in the microsecond it takes them to process your words.

Solution: Give Them What They Want.

Assume that they are smart, curious, and earnest about their inquiry. GIVE THEM what they asked for (an answer) before you request anything from them. Explain why you are hedging the answer, which incidentally tell them what the qualifying factors are. Since you started the response with gratitude (Thanks), followed by humility (to the best of my ability), and also gave them the benefit of the doubt (as I'm sure you know), you've started things off on a more agreeable note.

Try this on for size instead. Use it as a standard-reply for your internet marketing efforts. You're welcome. 

Hi (Name), 

Thanks for reaching out, I'll try to answer you question to the best of my ability - but as I'm sure you know, that all depends on your particular circumstances in terms of equity, term length, credit, income, and of course where the property is located. 

The Best Rate on the Market is a 5-year term for 2.39%*  

Regarding Fees: This depends on the specific mortgage solution you qualify for. Broker fees range from $0/None if you qualify with a Prime/A Lender, 1-2% of the mortgage amount for private first mortgages, and 1-4% for private second mortgages. 

If you provide your email & phone number with the best time to contact you, I can approve you in 10 minutes over the phone. Whatever the need, I am sure I can provide some insight or assistance.

Best,