New LA direct mail,

[Will F.]

Hey guys, I'm a rehabber, b/h, LL, etc... Los angeles area mainly

I used to send out letters and realize that I've wasted a lot on untargeted mailers.

My goal now is to acquire 2-5 SFR-4 units in the next year.

I'm trying to figure out if cold calling could be a viable option versus direct mail.  I used to target pre-foreclosures in the past with mailers and some PPC.  I haven't sent any bulk mail in the last 2 years though.

What are the current best right now.  I'm targeting the LA area

In past I've tried

Absentee

pre foreclosures - this was biggest source in the past

probates

driving for dollars

expired listings

Any sources for leads, numbers, where to get lists etc.

I've used rebogateway, property radar, fsbo, craigslist scrubbing.... any other sources that are current and also STRONG targeted leads?

I want to be A LOT more efficient this time, as the last time, I wasted thousands sending postcards and basically not following up enough.  

In Los Angeles area I've only had about a 1-2% response rate and basically went stale...

[Jay G.]

With direct mail, you will fare best with repetition, repetition, repetition.  

Do you know where you can get a Harbor Freight or a Bed Bath & Beyond Coupon in the mail? 

It doesn't matter if you're targeting someone to buy screwdrivers, bed sheets or sell you their home. You want to be the one they remember when they are ready to do that thing.  

Of course you want to try to grab their attention right away with a great mailer, but people are often busy, not in the mood, or simply not ready for your pitch or offer. Just let them know you're there, and you're still there, and you're still there. That will help build credibility with your offer as well.