Direct Mail - to homes active on the MLS too?

[Ronald Perich]

I'm building up my first direct-mail list from scratch. Why from scratch? I'm attempting to offer solutions to folks going through the probate process and the list cost is just isn't worth the expense the providers are charging. I can find the same information for a lot less money and feel confident the data will be at least as good as what they are providing.

My real question centers on scrubbing the list. Before a potential client is added to our CRM system, we check county records to see if they actually have property in the estate. If they don't (because it already sold or they never owned anything) we don't bother mailing to them. This has cut down my list by about 40% so far.

But there are some of these potential clients who have already listed their properties on the MLS.

I'd like to hear some opinions as to whether we should send them our direct mail or not.

If you believe we should send them DM, would you change the piece in some way? For example, mention you'd like to be a second option for them should the listing expire? 

If you don't think we should send them DM, is there anything else we should be doing with these potential leads? Maybe reach out to the agent directly to get a feeler on the motivation factor?

Exit strategy on the properties is likely wholesale, fix and flip, or rental (in that order).

Thanks in advance for all of your help!