Why Marketplace leads go quiet
- Too slow. The buyer messaged four sellers. The first useful reply got the conversation.
- "Yes it is!" That answers the question and ends the conversation. Ask something back.
- No price or payment. Buyers want numbers. Dodging them reads like a dealership trick.
- No next step. No time offered, no reason to come in.
- Unit sold, conversation over. No alternative offered.
A better first reply
It confirms availability, restates the key facts, gives the all-in price, asks a qualifying question and offers two concrete times. More in our Messenger sales scripts.
Habits that convert
- Reply in under 5 minutes during business hours. LotBoard alerts the rep with a chime when a message sits unread for 3 minutes.
- Have the facts beside the chat. VIN, price, mileage and VDP link, without switching tabs.
- Answer payment questions with an estimate on your dealership's approved terms.
- Offer two times, not "when works for you?"
- Make the appointment real. Send a pass with the time, vehicle, rep and directions.
- Pivot when it's sold. Offer up to three similar units at a similar price.
- Ask about the trade early, and log it for the used car manager.
Measure it
Track first-reply time and appointments set per rep each week. The manager dashboard shows trade leads and appointments from Marketplace conversations.