Newbie investor in California getting zero leads - should I market elsewhere?

[David Tankersley]

Hello all, 

I have partnered with another BP person in marketing for absentee owners throughout southern California. We have presumably used the successful techniques as suggested by the various gurus here in BP and elsewhere in a 3 month postcard campaign via Yellow Letters that started in November.

Perhaps I am not patient enough, but as of yet we have had absolutely NO response from this campaign.

You folks are welcome to shoot back with any questions you may have for us, but my questions are:

1. As new investors/entrepreneurs,  are we wasting our time in trying to find wholesale deals in Southern California?

2. If so, I am willing to look into other states even though I have reservations about contracting out of state. What is a good market to target? (I'd prefer the western states, but am not averse to others)

3. If you are successfully wholesaling in California, please share any advice you may have.  

4. I have read in many places that it can take a while (3-6 months) before a marketing campaign can bring in results, but is Zero calls or responses normal in this market?

[Karen Margrave]

The market here in southern California is very strong, and sellers are not motivated to sell, whether they are local or absentee owners. As long as the owner is breaking even, more than likely their properties will appreciate, so no motivation. 

You might need to broaden your scope, and begin making calls to the owners, etc. I'll tell you, I don't work that niche, but if I did I wouldn't be putting a stamp on an envelope and hoping someone opens it and calls me. I would be calling them or knocking on their door! Most people are very receptive if you approach them right.