"Is this still available?" How car dealers should answer Marketplace messages

Why this message matters

"Is this still available?" is the message Marketplace suggests to buyers, so most conversations start with it. It looks like nothing, but it's a buyer raising their hand. Since March 2026, Meta AI can also draft and send automatic replies to availability questions using your listing's details, and sellers can turn them on, preview and edit them (Meta). An automatic "yes" is a start. What wins the visit is the next message.

The 3 rules of a good reply

1. Answer in minutes. The buyer messaged other dealers too. The first real reply usually gets the visit.
2. Confirm, then add one useful detail. Mileage, a feature, the condition: something the buyer didn't have to ask for.
3. End with one question. "Would today or tomorrow work for a test drive?" moves the conversation forward. "Let me know" doesn't.

10 replies you can copy

Swap in your own names and vehicle details.

1. Still available

Hi Sarah, yes, the 2021 RAV4 XLE is still available. It has 58,000 km and new winter tires. Would today or tomorrow work for you to see it?

2. Already sold

Hi Sarah, this one just sold, sorry! We have a 2020 RAV4 LE with 64,000 km. Want me to send you photos?

3. "What's your best price?"

Our price is the one in the listing, all fees included, plus taxes. Marc, our sales manager, can go over the details with you. When would be a good time to call or visit?

4. A low offer

Thanks for your offer! Our price reflects the low mileage and full service history. Marc can call you to go over your options, including financing. What's the best number to reach you?

5. Trade-in

Yes, we take trade-ins. Send me the year, make, model and mileage of your vehicle with a few photos, and we'll give you an idea before you come in.

6. Financing

Yes, we offer financing. You can apply on our website, or we can go over it together when you visit. Would you like to book a time?

7. "Can I see it today?"

Yes! We're open until 7 p.m. today. What time works for you? I'll have it ready.

8. Accident history

Yes, we have the full history report, and I can send it to you right now. Any other questions?

9. Buyer far away

We're about 30 minutes from you. I can send you a walkaround video first so you know exactly what you're coming to see.

10. After hours

Thanks for your message! Yes, it's still available. Our team is back at 9 a.m. tomorrow. Would you like me to book you a time to see it?

And if the buyer goes quiet (next day):

Hi Sarah, following up on the RAV4. Any questions I can answer? I can also send you a walkaround video.

What never to say

• A price different from the listing
• "Come anytime" without a time: book a time
• Your home address or a personal phone number
• Promises you can't keep, like guaranteed financing approval
• Anything in all caps, or an argument with a low offer

Person, automatic reply or AI?

Track two numbers

• Time to first reply. Aim for minutes.
• Conversations that become appointments. If it's low, your replies need a better closing question.

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