Target area for direct mail?

[Matthew Charron]

Quick question for you wholesalers and direct mail folks out there. I'm getting ready to start building my target areas for sending direct mail. Was going to start building the list by some driving for dollars at first. Is there a way to target certain price point areas to start with? Do you just find a zip code you like and punch in random addresses to see what they're assessed at? What's a good way to find this out or should I just pick a zip code and just write down all distressed properties and add them to the list regardless or price? Or should I just skip all this and buy lists online? Was trying to save up money before I start to make sure I can keep up with the mailings and figured this would help me kill two birds with one stone. Thanks all.

[Braden Smith]

Hey @Matthew Charron. When selecting a target area you should look at the activity in that area to begin with. What is the turnover or absorption rate of the area? This is important information you need to know. You also need to look at the average sales price and price per foot, as well as the average days on market. Are there cash sales in the area? That will tell you if investors are buying in the area.

Start with driving for dollars. It will be more cost effective for you and it will help you to learn the different areas and neighborhoods. See here for more info on D4D - https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/05/03/driving-for-dollars-bible-part-1/