Direct Mail targeted to get listings

[Andrew Frowiss]

Hello! 

My father and I are both realtors in the Austin area and are putting together a direct mail campaign targeting a specific neighborhood. We have never done this before (specifically for resale) and had some questions. I tried to find other discussions about this, but most of the direct mail discussions are targeted towards investing. Here is what our marketing plan looks like:

• First class flier 8.5''X 11'' 
• UV coated door hangers
• Post cards color front and back 6''X 8 1/2'' (size may change)

We are planning to do one of these every 3 weeks and are also considering calling the neighborhood and door knocking. Here are some questions we have.

1. Should we use the same mail piece every time? (ex. for postcards should we use the exact same postcard repeatedly) Or should we change the content on the postcard after each touch?
2. What types of mail pieces are you all finding successfull? 
3. What content do you recommend for new agents?
4. What service do you recommend for printing and mailing Postcards (including design)

We would love any and all feedback! Thank you all!

[Chris Farrugia]

Just one point--please tell me you're using Every Door Direct Mailing from the USPS.  I have literally seen agents put stamps on 1000 postcards before. Every Door Direct Mail is very cost effective.  Plus, don't go to a local printer.  UPrint or one of those is so much better and have specific sections of the site for EDDM pieces.  Best of luck!

One other thing... was just about to hit submit... I do "Just Listed," "Under Contract" and "Just Sold" post cards for neighborhoods.  In one neighborhood, the average days on market is 103 with the fast sale in the past 120 days being 33 days.  I had it under contract in 8.  That was a very powerful piece that goes out.