Marketing / Direct Mail

Comments(17)

• 
  JerryF10th July, 2003

  I had great response direct mailing a "sympathy letter" to foreclosures I found in local public notices. My letter simply explained that foreclosure doesn't have to mar a person's credit report, and that if they are unable to get out, my partners and I would be interested in making an offer to buy their home. From the first 12 letters I sent, I got 2 calls back within 48 hours! This can be a great way to screen motivated sellers before you even drive by their home.

• 
  jrtechy10th July, 2003

  JerryF,
  Are you willing to share a copy of that letter?
  JR

• 
  jvano10th July, 2003

  I'd like to see that letter as well if you are willing.
  
  Jason

• 
  fauche6510th July, 2003

  Send me a copy as well. Thanks.
  **Please See My Profile**

• 
  buywithcash10th July, 2003

  Hi JeffyF,
  
  I would be interested in seeing your sample letter if you don't mind sharing it.

• 
  hrash10th July, 2003

  did anyone answer the original question on theis thread? Did I miss it?

• 
  10th July, 2003

  thanks hrash, although by the time i got doen with the other responses I wanted a copy of the letter also.
  
  is there certain terminology on what i should ask for in terms of a mailing list?
  
  Does she just provide names and addresses?
  
  Anyone, bueler, bueler?

• 
  gbp10th July, 2003

  Well, once she does her search using your criteria, addresses are the resulting info. Just ask her what you need. Technically, she is not to give out any other info. She could get in trouble with her board.

• 
  11th July, 2003

  thanks all.

• 
  Bianca11th July, 2003

  I would love a copy too
  
  Thank You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• 
  JerryF15th July, 2003

  Here it is - use it verbatim with your own name and phone number, or hack it up all you like! Sorry it took me so long. The main objectives I tried to hit with this letter are to inform the seller that just because foreclosure has been filed doesnt mean its already on their record, and also to alleviate feelings of shame or guilt by letting the seller know they aren't alone as a foreclosee. Given a non-judgemental attitude on your part, most people seem to realize its their chance to get out scott-free, and as a result they're usually ready to help in any way they can.
  
  -------------------------------
  Hello Friend,
  Your situation came to the attention of myself and my *****ociates during one of our foreclosure searches. I was notified that your home may be under pending foreclosure, and I'd like to help. At JM Partners, we're local real estate investors specializing in helping people in your situation, every day.
  
  Foreclosure is a very stressful process that often happens to good people who don't deserve it. Each day thousands of honest Americans are put into your situation by creditors who just don't seem to understand the concept of a second chance. This is where JM Investment Partners can help you. If you are financially unable to pay off your debt and prevent foreclosure, we would like to make an offer to buy your home and relieve you of your debt. Foreclosure doesn't have to mar your credit record and cause you problems down the line - there is a way out!
  
  If you're interested in recieving an offer on your property, please call me during business hours at 816-555-8726. We're looking forward to talking with you!
  -----------------------------------
  When sellers call, I typically ask the following questions:
  1. How long have you been in your home?
  2. What was the original purchase price?
  3. How much do you owe on your mortgage?
  4. What was the amount and date of your last appraisal?
  5. Where may I reach you later so that we can talk more?[ Edited by JerryF on Date 07/15/2003 ]

• 
  15th July, 2003

  Great letter thanks.

• 
  rottzilla15th July, 2003

  That's a better letter than many I've seen. Great post.

• 
  jrtechy15th July, 2003

  Good job, thanks for sharing!

• 
  maryjanel20th August, 2003

  That is one of the best letters. It seems to cater to the home owners emotions also.

• 
  LloydDobbler22nd September, 2003

  I'm just writing to second what all the others have said. As someone relatively new to this game (well - been dabbling for about a year, but haven't begun putting myself out there until now), the hardest thing for me is writing the letter.
  
  Funny, for someone who spent four years in school as an English major.
  
  But it is a very thin line to walk, trying to convince someone that you want to help, even though you stand to make a bit of money off of it. Seems dichotomous...even though I don't really think it is.
  
  But congrats. I can see why you're getting such response. Well done, and thanks for letting us eavesdrop.

• 
  kmaples5th November, 2003

  great insight! I appreciate your willingness to share in your successes