I'd like to hear everyone's thoughts on this: My son is doing a fundraiser for his school (with the American Heart Association)- he gets his own website where people can go online and donate money. I was thinking about going door-to-door and giving out business cards with info on the charity on one side and the website where they can donate, and my business card on the other side. I don't think we can collect cash donations without a permit this way, but there's no law about giving out cards with a link to a website, right?

I don't think I'd do it, for the simple fact that the occupant might lose focus on the fundraiser. I would just keep it about your son's project. Just my .02.

Linda

I agree with Linda. Getting your name out in the community is valuable. Who knows, maybe you'll get into a conversation with someone, and it will lead to business, but you just want to get your face out right now. People who find out you're in Real Estate later will be remember you, and remember that you were out with your son and taking donations without mixing business.

I'd make a note of which homeowner is pleasant and which one is not and go back and door-knock on the nice peoples' doors later by myself.

You guys are probably right. What about putting my info on the back but just not mentioning to them about it (figuring they might glance at the back after we've left)?

Why not simply leave a business card on the front door when you go? Why mention business at all?

This is your son's time. He is going to be so bored, not to mention possibly let down, if he has to stand there while you're talking to a potential client.

It's not always a good idea to "multi-task".

Linda

I concur with everyone else on this. It's about your son and his charity event. If you have a name badge, wear it. If someone asks "Hey you a realtor?" and seems interested in talking with you about re, then leave a card and ask them if you can call them later in the week and write down their number in a little pad you keep in your pocket.

If somebody showed up at my door doing what your describing consider them an "Ambulance Chaser" and wouldn't consider dealing with them ever.

So I agree with the other posters, bad idea.

I agree with Artiste...take notes to stream line your future efforts.

I think this is a great way to put your face out there but do not hand out the cards or any literature. Anytime you get face to face time with homeowners it is a bonus. Advertise in their newsletter or send them something in the mail with your picture. Then they might remember your face and recall your polite son and not the 'pushy Dad."

Focus on the fund driver, but wear a nice name tag. Could be a conversation starter, but on their terms.

Ding ding ding ding ding! We have a winner...