Introduction

Marketplace Messaging That Books Design Consults is a practical playbook for designers and makers who sell through Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, Houzz, Thumbtack, Craigslist, or niche directories. You’ll standardize first‑touch replies, showcase proof in two clicks, and book consults with a two‑slot close—without getting flagged.

Compliance: Follow each marketplace’s terms, avoid off‑platform contact until allowed, respect consent and quiet hours, and keep claims accurate. This is practical guidance—not legal advice.

1) Why “Marketplace Messaging That Books Design Consults” Works

• Low friction: Short DMs beat long forms when shoppers are browsing on mobile.
• Proof on demand: One tap to see relevant work removes uncertainty.
• Momentum: Two concrete times convert interest into action quickly.

2) Marketplace Rules & Risk‑Free Practices

• Keep conversations on‑platform until a consult is booked (if policies require).
• Avoid posting emails/phone numbers in first messages if restricted.
• Use neutral, accurate claims; no bait pricing or unverifiable guarantees.
• Store consent and honor opt‑outs; respect quiet hours.

3) Buyer Intent Map (Browse → Shortlist → Book)

4) Profile & Listing Setup That Pre‑Sells

• Top 6 images: hero, detail macro, before/after, in‑room scale, materials, process.
• Pin a proof album for each style (modern, rustic, transitional).
• Short bullet description with scope, timelines, and starting ranges.
• Badge trust: years in business, reviews, certifications.

5) First‑Touch Scripts (≤300 chars)

Universal Opener

Thanks for reaching out! For your space, most designs land between {$$–$$} depending on {materials/size}. 
Quick 15‑min consult to match style + layout: {Tomorrow 11:30} or {4:30}? I’ll send a 1‑page plan after.

Budget‑Check Variant

Happy to help! Typical {category} projects run {range}. 
Two quick options to review pics + sizing: {Tue 10:00} or {Wed 2:00}. Works?

After‑Hours Auto‑Reply

Got your message—thanks! We open at 8:00. 
Want first pick tomorrow? {8:30–9:00} or {11–11:30}. 
Reply with room size + inspo photo if you have one. STOP to opt out.

6) Micro‑Survey to Qualify Without Friction

7) Proof Assets: Photos, Plans, and Mini‑Videos

• Before/after carousel with 1‑line captions: size, materials, lead time.
• 30‑sec walkthrough video; start on the hero angle, end with detail macro.
• Plan snippet or moodboard tile with brand‑neutral fonts.

8) Consult Offers & Deliverables

9) Scheduling Flows & Two‑Slot Close

• Always offer two real times; hold for 10 minutes, then release.
• Send confirmation with map, parking, and prep checklist.
• Remind at 24 hours and 2 hours; allow one free reschedule.

10) Pricing Ranges & Deposits

• Share bands tied to materials/size; avoid bait numbers.
• Small deposit (if allowed) credited to project; explain refund rules simply.

11) Ready‑to‑Send Templates by Category

Custom Furniture

We build to room size + finish. Most tables land {range}. 
Consult to finalize dimensions/wood: {Thu 11:30} or {Fri 3:30}? I’ll bring finish samples.

Kitchen/Bath

Layouts vary by plumbing + cabinets. Typical design consult {fee/range}. 
Two options: {Tue 9:30} or {Wed 1:30}. I’ll send a layout sketch after.

Landscape/Outdoor

Great yard! For {size}, designs usually {range}. 
Quick video consult to shortlist plants + hardscape: {Sat 10:00} or {Mon 4:00}?

Interior/Decor

Style match is key. Share a photo, and we’ll tailor a moodboard. 
Free discovery {15 min}: {Today 5:30} or {Tomorrow 9:00}?

12) SLAs, Routing & Tone Guides

• Reply in ≤ 5 minutes during hours; set after‑hours auto‑reply.
• Route by category (kitchen/furniture/landscape) to the right specialist.
• Tone: friendly, concise, helpful; one ask per message.

13) KPIs, UTMs & Dashboard

UTMs (when allowed): utm_source=marketplace&utm_medium=dm&utm_campaign=design_consults_{city} • Stages: Inquiry → Qualified → Consult Set → Shown → Proposal → Won.

14) 30–60–90 Day Rollout Plan

Days 1–30 (Foundation)

1. Refresh profile photos and pin proof albums.
2. Install first‑touch scripts + after‑hours reply.
3. Define two‑slot times; add confirmation + prep page.

Days 31–60 (Momentum)

1. Segment templates by category and style.
2. Add paid consult with credit‑back policy (if allowed).
3. Launch a KPI dashboard; coach tone and speed weekly.

Days 61–90 (Scale)

1. Expand to bilingual scripts and seasonal offers.
2. Retarget visitors with proof‑matched ads (where permitted).
3. Publish two case studies with before/after galleries.

15) Troubleshooting & Optimization