Reputation

Getting a seller testimonial after property valuation only

You can get a valuable seller testimonial even if you only provided a property valuation and did not close a deal. The key is to focus on the value you offered him or her during that interaction, such as clarity, information, or a professional assessment, rather than the transaction itself.

October 26, 2026 · 3 min read

Identify the value you provided

Even if a seller does not accept your offer, he or she often appreciates the effort you put into evaluating his or her property. You gave him or her information he or she did not have, helped him or her understand values, or simply treated him or her with respect. Focus on these points.

Think about what specific parts of your interaction were positive. Did you explain the market clearly? Did you provide a quick, no-obligation assessment? These are the elements you want to highlight when you ask for a testimonial, as they are real benefits he or she received.

Timing your request

The best time to ask for a testimonial is shortly after you have delivered the valuation and the seller has had a chance to process it, but before too much time passes. A day or two after your interaction, when the experience is still fresh, is often ideal. Do not wait weeks or months.

When you follow up to see if he or she has any questions about the valuation, this is a natural opening. You are already in communication, and the conversation can flow smoothly into a request for feedback.

Crafting your request

Be specific in your request. Instead of asking for a generic review, ask him or her to comment on the part of your service that was most helpful. For example, 'Would you mind sharing a quick thought on how our property valuation helped you understand your options?'

Make it easy for him or her. Offer to send a simple email with a link or a brief question he or she can reply to. Avoid making him or her do extra work. A short, honest testimonial about a positive experience with your valuation service is what you are looking for.

Provide an example of what you are looking for

Sometimes, sellers are unsure what to write. You can offer a hypothetical example of what a testimonial might look like, focusing on the valuation process. For instance, 'Something like, 'I appreciated how quickly [Your Name] provided a clear valuation and explained the current market.''

Emphasize that you are looking for his or her honest feedback about the value he or she received from your service, regardless of whether he or she decided to sell to you. This reassures him or her that you are not trying to pressure him or her for a certain outcome.

Respect his or her decision

If a seller declines to provide a testimonial, thank him or her for his or her time and move on. Do not push or badger him or her. Maintaining a positive relationship, even if he or she does not provide a testimonial, is more important for your overall reputation in the long run.

The goal is to gather genuine feedback that reflects the positive aspects of your interaction. Any testimonial, even if short, can demonstrate your professionalism and value to future sellers who might be considering working with you.

Questions people ask

Why would a seller give a testimonial if he or she didn't sell to me?

A seller might still give a testimonial if he or she found value in your interaction, such as clear information, a respectful conversation, or a professional assessment of his or her property. He or she may appreciate your help, even if your offer wasn't the right fit.

Should I offer an incentive for a testimonial?

It is generally better to ask for an honest testimonial based on the value you provided, rather than offering incentives. This keeps the feedback genuine and avoids any perception of being bought. Focus on the positive experience he or she already had.

Can I use the testimonial if he or she didn't sell?

Yes, as long as the testimonial accurately reflects his or her experience with your valuation service and he or she has given you permission to use it. Make sure it clearly states what he or she is endorsing, which is the quality of your valuation or interaction, not the sale itself.