The rule behind every reply
Answer the question, then ask one easy question back. Never end a message on a statement, because that's where chats die. And reply fast: a buyer who waits an hour has usually booked somewhere else.
The 7 replies
- "Is this still available?" Yes, it's here and ready to drive. Then ask: are you trading something in, or buying outright?
- "What's your lowest price?" It's already priced against everything comparable. Offer two specific times to come see it, because the best numbers happen in person.
- "Any accidents?" Share what the history report says, offer to send it, and ask when they'd like to see the car.
- "What would the payments be?" Give an estimate on approved credit with the term you used, then ask about their trade or down payment.
- "Do you take trades?" Yes. Ask for the year, model, km and a couple of photos so your used car manager can look before they visit.
- "Can you hold it?" Explain your store's deposit policy honestly and offer the next available time to come in.
- Sold, or over budget? Don't let the chat end. Offer a similar in-stock unit and ask if they want photos.
Use the builder below to fill in the vehicle and your name, then copy the reply straight into Messenger.
Follow up the buyer who went quiet
One light, honest nudge 24 hours later works better than three pushy ones. Ask a yes-or-no question: would you like to see it this week?
Turn the chat into a visit
When a time is agreed, send something the buyer can keep: the vehicle, the time, who to ask for and directions. LotBoard's VIP Showroom Pass does that in one click from the Messenger sidebar, and its 10-minute reminder chime makes sure no message waits too long.
Free dealership floor toolkit
Messenger reply builder, listing copy formatter & warm-up planner
Use it right now for free. LotBoard does all three automatically inside your reps' Chrome.
Why it works: Confirms it's on the lot, then asks an easy two-choice question so the chat keeps going.
Frequently asked questions
How fast should a dealership reply to Marketplace messages?
As fast as possible, ideally within minutes. Buyers message several dealers at once, and the first useful reply usually gets the appointment.
Should reps give their best price in Messenger?
Give a real price and real payment estimates, but steer the negotiation toward a visit. Offer two specific times to come in rather than an open-ended invitation.