Mailing to Probates

[Justin Silverio]

I know the best method is to mail to the executor but what happens if you don't have their address? Is it worth mailing to the home of the deceased and address it to the executor?

[Rick H.]

How do you 'KNOW the best method' is to mail to the executor?

I've been admin perhaps 12-15 times. I've been trustee probably close to 50+. If you mailed to me at the subject property address (assuming there is only ONE property) you have about a zero % chance if me ever reading your letter.

What about other people who are PR's? While some mail may get forwarded at the PR's request, most don't want to read solicitations while visiting a property. A certain percentage, of course, live too far to make regular visits.

I suggest using skip trace software or a cost-effective researcher to pull your PR's addresses to complete your list. I've found that the harder it is to reach people, generally speaking, the more profitable it is to do business with them because they tend to have fewer choices in front of them. Maybe they'll have fewer resources available, too.

As long as you're getting addresses, get phone numbers, too. A simple call, "I'm following up on my letter to you..." May expedite a profitable conversation.

Most people will play with the idea of working probates (or some other niche) and will fail to follow through, follow up, or follow the leader. And I thank them for their short attention spans!