Getting started with direct mailing/finding off market deals

[Matthew Charron]

I'm looking to start doing some direct mail marketing, driving for dollars and door knocking to stir up some off market deals. I've heard of two websites to get mail listings off of and I'm sure there are other ways to find the target audience as well. I'm curious as a beginner how exactly do you get started sending out these post cards and letters. More specifically I'm looking to know do I need a "business" or do I just use my name and contact information? I'm sure it would seem more professional to send it as a letter from a company as opposed to just a guy trying to buy your house wouldn't it? If anyone can point me into the right direction to figure out how and where to get started in this process I would be very appreciative. Thanks BP friends!

[Ray Lai]

Hi Matthew,

A LLC is nice for protection and pretty easy to setup in most states, but the more important thing is how you come across.

If you want a game plan to start up your marketing, I'd be happy to provide one. In the meantime, here are some questions to ask yourself before you start your campaign:

If you can answer Yes to all these questions, then you should start. If not, you should do more prep work:

1) Do you have enough money saved up for a sustained campaign of at least 200 addresses and can mail them at least once every 3-4 weeks, for at least 6 mailings?

2) Do you have the system built in place for your funnel: ready to answer that number without letting it go to voicemail, have a website landing page to capture the lead if you include a link in your DM.

3) Do you want to maximize your response rate? Get a area code that is familiar to the people you're mailing to if you want to increase their comfort

4) Are you familiar with the questions to ask a seller to see if they are distressed or not?

5) Do you have buyers ready in that area for when you close a deal?

6) Do you have someone in person that that isn't just boots on the ground, but understands rehab costs so they can get a proper rehab estimate so you know whether it's a deal or not?

7) Do you have access to MLS or comps to know the ARV of the property you're buying?

Those are just a couple of things to get ready prior to starting your campaign. I'd highly recommend getting a real estate license as well.