What to say when you make THAT call?

[Sagnik Lahiri]

With the inventory in my local market getting tight, I've had to have my assistant drive around and get addresses for homes in very poor shape.

I've gotten my agent to give me the home owners names.

Now, I've got a list of 50 homes that are in very poor shape and I'm going to start calling the owners to buy the properties.

Does anyone have any suggestions on a script? Or some pointers that will increase the chance of success on these calls?

Thanks in advance.

[Jason Grote]

Cold calling will be tough, but...

In the tax roll in Austin, they have a DO NOT CALL selection. If you have such a thing in your area, respect their wishes and send them a letter instead.

Have you filtered out the absentee owners? If so, this is how I would approach them:

"Hi, I am Sagnik and I live in and am looking to buy a home in your neighborhood. I noticed your home at and wondered if you might be thinking about selling it?"

You want to express to them that you are local, and not calling from some remote call center.

If they happen to catch them at a time when they are considering it, they will open dialogue on you. Otherwise, prepare yourself for some hang-ups, brief conversations, and criticism.

Also, if you do not have a website or something will validate you saying who you are, I would get one. People are going to be cautious when approached over the phone.

Hope this helps!