I have a regular day job, so Im not home to answer calls. However, if I use my cell# and start getting lots of calls it could rack up my minutes easily. If Im not answering the calls however, the potential seller might move on to another number they see. So I guess the real question comes down to whether or not do I want to risk loosing a potential sale by having them go to voice mail during the day. The answer is, at least for me, no. There, problem solved. I will just start out small with 25-50 signs and see where that takes me.
Developer · Santa Clarita, CA · Member since 2008 · 15k+ posts · 10k+ votes
17y
There are some great 800 number services as well where you can leave a recording of whatever you want and then the caller can leave their contact info.
I personally would not want people calling my cell number at all hours of the night. Of course you option is to turn it off after a certain time, but I choose not to use my cell number for signs.
Residential Real Estate Agent · Chandler, AZ · Member since 2009 · 1k+ posts · 928 votes
17y
Randal-
I use a virtual assistant to answer my calls during the day, and I call them back that evening. I just forward my business cell to her cell number. She goes through the questionnaire I provided her and scans them to me every night. Most service providers all you to pick up an additional line for $10 (the business line). You can probably even find a virtual assistant that will let you use thier number. I tried the voicemail route but having someone there to answer is much better. Do a websearch for area and you'll find someone with a fair price.
Developer · Santa Clarita, CA · Member since 2008 · 15k+ posts · 10k+ votes
17y
Great advice Justin!
The virtual assistant is a great way to go. I have used them in the past, but not recently as my business model did not require it, however, things are changing again and I may again use this option.
Thanks everyone. I think that for myself, just starting out I want to be there when they call, so for now I will just use my cell number. I ordered up some signs and vehicle magnetics from banditsigns.com with my cell# on them. If things start going well maybe I will look into getting a different number.
Rental Property Investor · Mercer Island, WA · Member since 2008 · 22k+ posts · 14k+ votes
17y
You do realize the bandit signs are prohibited by local ordinances in most places. So, one of your callers may be a code enforcement officer. Just be aware.