1800 vs local number

[Avery Davis]

I just started my 1st campaign 2days ago. I was talking to a friend of mine to milk ideas from people that aren't in real estate. long story short the idea of standing out from the other investors came up. I looked up a  phone service few weeks back and remembered they offer a 1800 number or a local number with their service. My pal told me yea "If I saw something that said 1800nostressprops for example that would stick in my head rather than a random local number such as 513-467-8394" .

 Does that seem like a good idea has anyone else used 1800 numbers with a saying for it to stick in peoples head? Or do you all think this would scare some people off because they think its some big corporation?

have to switch strategy next campaign

Thanks for the help

[Scott Arpan]

I have been involved with direct mail for over 20 years albeit in a different part of REI.

My experience is a toll free number (800, 877 etc prefix) makes your operation appear more professional and large scale. A local number gives your company a more hometown and personal feeling. Some people feel safer working with "large" companies, others would rather work with someone local where the owner is directly involved with every step of the operation. 

Also, don't assume everyone you mail has a calling plan that allows them to make long distance calls as local. Many older and poorer (needing cash) prospect do not have these plans and respond better to a toll free number if they are out of your number's calling area.