Postcard content

[David H.]

I am brand new and ready to dive into some direct mail marketing. I have decided to send postcards to absentee owners. My question is: Is there anything specific I should be putting or not be putting on these cards. Any help would be appreciated.

[Chris Feltus]

David Hiatt great question.

If you have decided on postcards for your primary direct mailer piece in targeting absentee-owners, its all about consistency and putting yourself in front of these potential sellers.

You will likely want to mail to each group, 4-5 times a year. By approaching your mailing list in this manner it allows them to become familiar with the service you offer. In addition, the initial post card you send them might catch them at a time where they are not prepared to sell. Then on consecutive mailings, throughout the year, something may have changed in their life, a trigger event etc. where they are now ready to sell the property. It is not uncommon to hear of individuals who have sold a house off a post card TWO YEARS later. Like Sharon said in her most recent blog post, you want to be the last investor standing so to speak. Can check out her post here, its a good read.

http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2012/12/04/how-to-use-direct-mail-successfully-in-your-business/

With that being said I like to keep it simple with postcards. We buy houses or Sell your house this month/week as the title. Perhaps a picture of you or your wife, but try not to get a "Realtor picture" it might turn some people off.

Additionally, show them the how your service benefits them. For instance: cash offer, close in 30 days or less, we handle repairs and cover closing costs etc. In my opinion, I wouldn't waste too much space telling an elaborate story or anything. You should be mailing to MOTIVATED SELLERS to begin with. You cant create urgency or motivation, if they are interested they will call. Having something fancy is probably not likely to bring in more qualified calls. It might increase total calls. For instance, calling out of curiosity, but they will likely not be qualified.

I hope this has been of some help David, hopefully some more experienced wholesalers will chime in as well.