I'm trying to do more marketing in my area including door knocking, calls, and mailings. I'm having a tough time coming up with a letter to mail out to clients for expireds and fsbos, I know some people are just really good at this sort of thing, if you have one and don't mind sharing it will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

I have a postcard design that got me about a 1% response rate (out of those that were delivered, however more like a .5% response rate considering Red-X and the USPS are a combination for wasted postage) if you want to see it, inbox me.

borino has good ones at..

http://www.expiredplus.com/

Lindenmoe - I'm having a little bit of a hard time with, "I was a 24-year old immigrant, barely speaking English, broke and clueless." Was he selling himself to homeowners who barely spoke English, were destitute and clueless?

Do you have this Borino system? Have you tried it? Know someone who's using it?

You know when you click on the "yes, I want the FREE letters", one gets sucked into the eternal email spamming blackhole.

I clicked on a "free" report one time, and still receive emails from that person.

So, who do you know who uses it successfully and is NOT affiliated with Borino?

Hi VABroker, I actually ordered it and tried it. Over all I liked it a lot. Granted I didn't use the system exactly as he prescribed, I did use many of the concepts.

I ordered the C Proctor one as well, I thought the material on both was a bit out dated but again it's the concepts I liked. I model my business plan around a hybrid of these systems and books from 3 other familiar names in RE.

I don't know how good these would be to a seasoned agent, but for a new agent they were great. I got the "now" business I was looking for and am about to make it threw my first year. To date got 20 listings, with 7 closings scheduled (had 3 others fall through,) 3 leases closed, and one referral paid off, yet made zero the first 6 months (that was rough.)

Gonna try and triple the listings for 2012 and yeah I wanna close more too. Hopefully the add marketing channels I've started in the summer will be ripe buy spring.

Borino is pretty regular on ActiveRain. Checkout some of his video posts. My business partner and I plan to cough up the 249 bucks before the end of the year.

Borino does not spam. I have purchased his system and plan in implementing it....Jennifer Allan who used to frequent this board a lot and who does real estate in a way I respect holds Borino's system in high regard.

I have been a receiver of Borino's email newsletters for a long time - he has never spammed me.

Now, I had signed up for something from Kinder-Reese and had to mark them as spam because I repeatedly requested that they stop sending me their high pressure gimmick laden emails - and they continued to send them (Hurry this video won't be up long!) So after two or three times of still getting their emails after I asked them to stop, I finally started marking their stuff as spam in Gmail.

I like Borino's program - I just need to take the time to work it. I think like anything, it only works if you actually work it. I have not pursued ANY expireds in ages but I plan on doing so this year - as I want to move more toward having saleable listings more than anything else, and be very selective with the buyers I take out.

Can I just ask why on God's green earth does anyone ever get on Active Rain? I absolutely find it to be the most ridiculous thing ever.. although I think they have discussion groups.. the whole blogging (and commenting) for referral things is just the most ludicrous thing I ever heard of... even if it works 'okay' (which I do not think it works that well most likely although I never gave it a chance) it seems like you will never catch a top producer on that black hole vortex for sub-mediocre agents (sorry if you use). Right here, agentsonline.net I've found 100's of times more useful for learning and sharing than "ActiveRain" oh yes please make it rain, when I was a brand new agent I bought a rainmake account, let them charge me 1 month until I realized I was paying for nothing but a subdomain and a wordpress account with a crappy theme that had my broker's logo.. oh that's worth $20 a month! Plus the guy they have giving webinars insults anyone of average intelligence (if you know a modem from a mouse anyways) and he has quite the pompous and brash air about him..

look if I google this ridiculously long long-tail keyword phrase with quotes "homes under $254,420 in ABCville, Arkansas around the water with no frogs burping" then our associate who wrote a blog post with those exact words is #1 on Google!!! Look, it works for my name too!!! OMG MAKE IT RAIN!!!

/end rant.

Sorry.

Debbie from Remax California Oranges writes: "Ibsellin, could not have said it better myself!"

Kurt from Keller Williams Maine writes: "Interesting Article!!!"

Douchebag McGee from Century 21 writes: "HI I just joined Active Rain and am looking for referrals in BFE because I have no clue!!!"

ibdrinkin...

LMAO. Funny stuff. I realize that it's Saturday night for most people (almost 6pm here, still on floor duty) and that may have a bit to do with ibdrinking's rant above. Nonetheless, I'm not on AR (made a small effort at it a long time ago, but that's about it) but I know of many people who swear of how helpful it is as a platform, both to generate leads and to get referrals. Like most things, YMMV depending on your efforts.

Back to topic, can anyone who has used Borino's program share their success rate?

ok ok,..im am not a theory kinda guy..i implement test track..

here is how i track..i use a 1-800- number with different extention for every marketing piece and a different url each marketing piece..i never guess anything..

i use borino program..and letters with others..


first a lil rant of my own..

how would you call jay kinders stuff gimmicks?
I respect and trust borino..no question..
but how do you place a higher trust level on borino..who does not sell real estate..
over jay kinder..who is in the top 50 agents in the world today.
this year wall street trends..jay kinder is in the top 25
in the world TODAY.
The y#1 agent in the state of oklahoma
2010 team did 400 transactions in Lawtoon Oklahoma? In this market?
Thats breathtaking..that you would place a higher level of advice on someone who doesnt even sell real estate..
oh think thats a fluke? Michael reese..jay kinder partner is also on the wa;ll st journal top 250 agents in the world
oh thats a fluke..how about top 50 in the wall st journal personal friend of mine Blake Sloan 28 years old #37 on the wall st journal top 250 list..352 transactions in myrtle beach devastated market
oh fluke you say..how bout christine lee..jacksonville florida
top 30 under 30..another fluke huh? adam top 30 under 30 vermont..
all using kindereese.."gimmicks"

all 3 realtor magazine top 30 under 30 winners..

ok ok rant over,..you people are nuts..

ok on Borino letters..
gets about a 1% response rate
I have taken about 5 listings..2 sold..made about $9,000

Now lets compare last week took 6 listings 4 came from jay kinder and mike reese marketing expireds program
2% response rate and hands off postcards..

I use both because borino's is low key and appeals to certain homeowners
kinder reese pieces are in your face..and appeals to certain homeowners..

kindereese expireds program goes out automatic handsfree-oversized postcards=huge benefit

borino, you have to print handwrite the envelope and add live stamp for it to work..but it works..problem is I get lazy and dont mail these as consistent..thats not Borino fault..thats Lindens fault

I have took listings and made money from both..

now lets talk about jay kinders "gimmicks"
it cost $1.00 to mail cause you have to use a oversized color invitation envolope, live stamp and include real plastic army men inside
But here the kicker I used the army man referral letter from kinder reese- cost $100 mailed 100 past clients
got 4 referrals 1 listing 3 buyers
1 already closed a $22,232.48 commission check.
from a $100 dollar mailing. I got directly from that jay kinder.

you see out of jay 400 transactions-200 of those were referrals.
so when he said mail this piece..i trusted him and did it.

Im not affiliated with Borino or Kindereese..I dont get anything for reccommending either.

But know this..I would NEVER reccommend something I didnt try test track AND MADE MONEY FROM..NO THEORY!

here is my best advice
get Borino first cause its free..
mail it to 100 expireds..
wwek 2
mail letter 2 to those same expireds,
week 3 mail letter #3 to those same expireds
call them and ask have they recieved your letters you sent
fist you must use a live stamp and handwritten envelope
you must pick up the phone and ask have they recieved the letters
you must actually do it..instead of crying and complaining
dont try to be clever and change his letters..use it word for word
go mail it today

good luck guys

Lindenmoe, the emails they kept sending me are gimmics - "Hurry, you don't know how long this will last" blah blah blah. The fake sense of urgency they tried to instill in my annoyed me. I do not like to be "sold" to - I do not like to be manipulated into checking something out because "Only 800 of these will be made available...hurry and reserve yours now while you can" and all that crap.

I signed up for their little newsletters and tips, etc, PERSONALLY DID NOT LIKE IT, mainly because I was getting too many emails from them, THEY WERE ANNOYING ME... and then I politely tried to get out of their emails. They kept sending it to me. I unsubscribed, clicked the unsubscribe link, sent replies back telling them take me off their list, and still their stuff kept coming.

That, my friend, is spam, and therefore, they lost my total respect. I asked them to stop sending me stuff multiple times and they continued to send it. I still see it in my spam folder from time to time.

I'm sure their system works but if it's anything like what they were using to try and "market" to me - no thanks. I do not believe in that kind of marketing. If it's annoying, out it goes.

I really don't care about who in Oklahoma has made a million sales using Kinder Reese. I don't. Neither does anyone else, really.

My comment was in reply to VABroker's question about getting spammed by asking for a free report from someone.

Context, dude. Context.

LOL @ibsellin. Actually I have learned a great deal of good stuff on ActiveRain but it's harder to find that stuff now - the problem is, most realtors are idiots, and only know how to spam. And ActiveRain is made up of realtors. Therefore, since most realtors are idiots, and ActiveRain is made up of realtors, it makes sense that most ppl on ActiveRain are idiots.

However, there are some good ones in there with great articles and tips and advice - if you know who to look up and follow, if they are actually still there.

Back in 2007 - 2009, it was a terrific place. And you're right - you can accomplish the same search engine results for free with Wordpress. But if you can find the gems, they're there...you just gotta mine for them.

I still read Jennifer Allan's blog, Borino, Broker Bryant (Bryant Tutas), Katerina Gassett, and a few others - but I'm pretty much done with ActiveRain myself, I just spam my own blog with listings when I think about it. :p

lets talk about that..

yres kindereese and craig proctor are MARKETERS..
they have crazy over the top aggressive marketing..

yes..no question. Im saying for your own pockets try to look past that..dont let it bury the content..its dangerous to your bank account..

now, you dont have to care how successful these guys are..the point is..
im trying to inspire you..the media, your fellow agents..all talk about how bad the recession is..
my own broker repeats over and over "its the worst market in 50 years"
ok ok ok ok I get it. I wanted to point out that even in this market, even in this economy..
there are agents doing very well,..following proven systems.. its not a fluke..
and if they can do it.. WE can do it!
my top 3 mentors
Craig Proctor
Mike ferry
Kindereese

I have sppent ALOT of money with these guys..ALOT
all 3 are the MOST hated despised mentors in the industry..

here is my own personal results from GETTING OVER how I feel about thier tactics personally

I got licensed in 2006..went full time end of 2007
in that time from 27 years old to 32 years old..
those 3 have made me
over 700k in Gross commissions..

Dont ask me where it all went-(I mismanaged lots of it..I grew up poor)-winning all kinds of silly stupid awards I dont care about..
But for me..just me that money has allowed me to do some wonderful things for my family..create some awesome memories
and live a life I only dreamed about as a kid..
I've been able to pay for and take my ENTIRE family over 10 people
on 7 day cruises..that they never might have experienced..
I have been able to provide an AWESOME life for my 3 lil kids
with trips to Disney, camping trips ETC..
I worked in a warehouse from age 17-27 making 20k a year..
I made more than that in the last 10 months!
read that part again..I made more in the last 10 months than in the 10 years prior to having these mentors!
I owe them big time..BIG TIME!
I could care less if nobody wants to hear it..wont hurt my income one way or the other..trust me.
Im sharing this for those going through hard times..all ky friends I started with in this business are no longer in the business..
some of them have lost thier homes to foreclosure, went bankrupt, lost thier minds..breaks my heart thinking about it..

All this to say.. I put my trust in mentors...I listened to them
and cxan provide a lifestyle for my family..that is indescribable from a poor kid from brooklyn NY..
I shudder to think what if I had not found these guys..What if I had not listened to them..
If you are doing well and happy with your income..feel free to ignore me and everybody giving any advice..
but if you are struggling and thinking of leaving this business..then I want to say..
Keep going..mail letters..make calls..hang in there..
invest in yourself..believe in yourself
Dont try to do this alone..
get help..

Download Borino expired letters mail them..
when you get some money..
download kindereese expireds.. then add that to the mixx..

It works..

P.S this is not magic pill stuff, it takes hard work and massive effort..i went through some serious trials along the way..
including last year being robbed of my former broker for almost 100k in commissions.
Thje real estate commission shut him down..revoked his license for life..but they never helped me recoup that..
I had to start over from scratch..I have over spent on marketing magic pills and nearly lost it all..
I have been on the brink of bankruptcy..
I have lost my entire team and had to start from scratch.

But because I never gave up..
and because I implement proven stuff without bias
I have been able to turn it around..YOU CAN TOO!

"all the best, here is to your wealth and success in 2011, 2012 and beyond"
Good luck and Godspeed..
Linden
if you have question on implenting this stuff..
call me 732-857-0285

just not during 8am-11am..I'll be prospecting..
Im a real person thats my real phone number..

*sigh*

You're missing my point entirely.

No perky..I totally get it..

Kindereese and Craig Proctor,..

Thier marketing TACTICS..are waaaay over the top..
trust me I get some of thier stuff and feel a lil disgust myself..

But I do understand..they both share a mentor called Dan Kennedy and Bill Glazer..

They teach Outrageous, Over the Top Marketing..Direct response...
They do it to fill seminars, and sell thier coaching..

I said, if you can can past thier hype,..they give extremely valuable advice and thier stuff just flat out out works..

I OWE my entire success to these guys,..and mike ferry..

I know its hard to get past the crazy headlines..
but they are following thier mentors advice..practicing what they preach..

just because Borino way..is less salesy and hypy..doesnt mean its more effective..
cause its not..

but borino is ultra generous..and his stuff works
and his famous tagline..

was directly swiped..

From Craig Proctor..
but I dont blame him Borino uses it cause it flat out works..

"Your Home SOLD In 90 Days..GUARANTEED"
message ..was created by craig proctor..

its in Jay kinders and Borinos marketing pices..
neither kindereese nor borino will admit it..but yeah..Craig proctor created it..
its called a performance guarantee
and boost responses up to 400%

But they both swiped it from Craig cause it WORKS..period.
Hype or NOT..

Just like the Expired..who chooses a agent

"Cause they liked that Agent more,They felt more comfortable with that agent"
When I ask why they chose thier previous agent..
this is the most common I hear..
the next question I feel like asking is..How did that work out for you..?
Choosing the agent because you Liked them more, trusted them more.."

Instead of choosing the most effective, with the PROVEN gameplan..

I understand..why most agents choose certain mentors
Who they "like more"
mentors who say..
Dont call people..
just do open houses and floortime
Just blog.. Just do meetups..
just do social media..

Those types of mentors resonate more with agents..
cause they are advocating stuff that is really passive and involves zero risk..and even less hard work..

they "like that person more"

does it means it most effective?

Over 500 expireds a month in my market realize NO..
its not who you liked more..its who is the most efeective..wins..period. wether you like them personally or not.

I understand and totally get why my advice here..even though
I spend thousands on education, testing and marketing isnt appreciated here..
And why Jay Kinder,.. And Craig Proctor charges so much for thier advice and here is why..

Dan- Kennedy Universal Business priciple #1

"When they show up..BILL THEM"
heres why
"FREE ADVICE- Is NEVER EVER Beneficial"
It Benefits Neither the giver Nor Reciever of It
The Giver of it most often times waste his valuable time and energy
to convine someone who neither cares nor respect it..
The reciever often times doesnt pay any value whatsoever to the free advice given, no matter how valuable"

Best Selling Author of several books
Business Owner Consultant
Fortune magazines "Millionaire Maker"
and the highest paid copywriter on the planet"
Dan Kennedy

I dont "Like" Mike Ferry..at All.. but he has helped me turn my business around..and has added to my life...
I TOLERATE ..Mike Ferry..cause he is effective and PROVEN..and his stuff ABSOLUTELY works..

I dont "like" MIke ferry... but i "LOVE..what he has done for my business, my bank account and my family

But I don't have time to get past their hype, I have no desire to get past their hype, and I don't have to get past their hype... esp when there are others out there who I like better.

All I wanted to do was assure VABroker that Borino is not like them and is low-key and not spammy.

I don't need inspiration - I inspire myself, seriously...I am self motivated all the time. When I want something, I hunt for it...and I usually find it. I don't need it screaming at me in my inbox every other day "HURRY WHILE YOU CAN!!!!" Blech.

but just because you "like" bOrino more..
doesnt mean he is more effective..

"Just like expireds.." who "liked" the last agent more...
doesnt mean that agent is more effective..

by your own admission..you never even used Borino stuff..how can you say it works?

I know Borino stuff works cause I use it..not cause I "like" him more

its nowhere near as effective as kinderrese, mike ferry or proctor stuff..

but i use it cause it works..and is a different approach..

I tested and tracked it..in my own business..with my own dollars..

Borino pieces are NOT as effective as kindereese pieces..
but it works and as long as it works im using it..

but not cause I "like" him more..

I have to agree with Perky about ActiveRain. I used to love it but it changed and now is nothing like it used to be. I am grandfathered in so my posts still go public but I use it now to drive traffic to my website/blog.

Sometimes change is good, sometimes....

You know what Linden, I am giving MY opinion based on the context of VABroker's comment....BORINO WON'T SPAM HER. THAT'S ALL I WAS TRYING TO SAY AND THE ONLY POINT I WAS TRYING TO MAKE IN THIS THREAD!

Will you get that through your head and lay off? For GOSH SAKES! I rarely feel the need to shout but thanks for bringing me to that point! Egads!!!!!!!!

Sorry Linden, but you totally DON'T get it. Perky's point was clear: the emails she received were gimmicky. Period. Yet you took that as somehow your mentors, their philosophies, their backgrounds, their followers, their methods, etc. as being ineffective. You don't get her point, period.

Now I'll have a bit of a rant myself. Linden, you keep giving us numbers/statistics to prove your point. I know for a God-given fact that at least in a few occasions those 'facts' have been utterly and completely false (not saying that you're making it up, but I question the credibility of some of your sources of information). Have yourself a good day.

Maui,

Im calling you out..

whats false

Jay kinder in top 25 of wall st journal 2011 agents in the world
blake sloan wall st journal top 50 in the world
realtrends.com
mike reese top 250 realtor in the world..

whats false buddy?

regarding perky, her point as I saw it was..

Jay kinder and kindereese "gimmicks"

as far as I go I take pics of all my checks..let me know if you want me to send you a copy..

Whats false..

Craig Proctor #1 in the world for remax at age 29 years old..

Whats false maui?

you wanna see my birth certificate Maui?
its the new thing..maybe I was born in Kenya...lol

Iconstantly watch you guys attack jay kinder, craig proctor
mike ferry..anyone who doesnt fit in with you guys way of doing it..

so I bring the flip side of the coin..they are spammers..?
that implies... what?

and I dont take anything personal..
Lucky is a far nicer guy than me..
and you guys attacked him vicous..its all there to see...

im just telling the other side of the story..
are they spammers..wouldnt go that far..especially if you opted on thier list

im just letting people know they dont only spam..
they provide extremely valuable content..

you know who spams?

ACTIVE RAIN DAILY DROPS..
nothing but crying complaining about buyers and sellers..
with the odd..gem..evey once in awhile..

thats right ACTIVERAIN is the spammers..everyday they spam me while providing virtually ZERO value...

VAbroker,

yes they are ahgressive..use a lil used gmail account..
however they provide awesome..awesome value..as well.
ok im done.

Fair enough. In another post you wrote:



No one by that last name has EVER been licensed in the State of Hawaii. Not as a licensed massage therapists, not as an attorney, not as an electrician, NOT as a real estate salesperson or broker. So yes, I'd question how someone who has NEVER been licensed in the state could be so successful in selling here. Professional and Vocational Licenses are searchable by the public, feel free to do so at http://pvl.ehawaii.gov/pvlsearch/app Again, this is not a dig against Brent Gove (never met him, never heard of him before you mentioned him), just questioning the validity of your statement. And well, there are other 'facts' that I'd equally question, but I think the one above serves as a good example. Not questioning your income, nationality, religious affiliation, familial status, etc. Just some of the 'facts'.

I have actually grown to like and respect Linden. Although I disagree with just about everything he says, he seems like a hardworking, family-oriented, genuine person with good intentions.

well I dont know if they consider california and hawii a region..thats what it says..

I respect you too

This is congruent with who I am..
If anybody bad mouths anybody that has helped me and my family..
I would stand up for them..

If somebody bashed you Maui, I would stand up for you..
Cause I know you are a giving guy..who gives advice freely..

I would defend Perky as well for giving generous advice..

But for some reason on this forum..
Certain people get bashed hard.. I dont understand

the hatred for Mike Ferry, Craig Proctor and Kindereese...

All provide valuable content and good solid advice..

I just dont understand hoe Lucky gets bashed..yet he gets thanked and
shares more than almost anyone..

I heard SPAMMMERS aND GIMMICKS..
when used to pro describe one of my mentors..
I defended against that..in my opinion..
those are not words..I would describe kindereese..
Hunter called Craig Proctor a big fat liar and likened him to Goldman sachs in another forumm..I defended that as well..

Jay kinder himself tried to offer advice on this forum and was attacked...

check out Realtrends wall st journal..and Realtor Mag top 30 under 30 and then cal them liars and stuff...

To use spammers and gimmicks to me was wrong..unless you say they spammed me but there are valuable content..or they spammed me but I have no clue what they are about.

These are just my own opinions..MY STORY.. How I FEEL...

All the Best and much success,

as far as inspiration..I know I need it..the media is vicous..
I dont even go to my office anymore..because of the negativity..

So Im trying to show that this stuff works for some
and there are plenty of rockstar agents doing big numbers..

The media would have us believe NOBODY is buying or selling houses...

I don't listen to the media. I listen to the people emailing me on my website every week. I glance at news headlines to keep abreast of world events but i believe almost none of what is put out - because it's all spin and smoke and mirrors meant to sell papers. just like these guys spin stuff to sell their programs. they are excellent marketers to be sure.

And yes, when someone sends you email you don't want anymore and refuses to honor your request to STOP that is S P A M. And that is kinder reese.

Sorry linden but more of your heroes are to me the same as the creeps on late night tv infomercials, selling their snake oil to whoever is willing to pay for it.

Perky,

Im sorry you feel that way..

All I can say to all the others reading this is..
They have been instrumental in my life and my family..
I love Craig Proctor, Jaykinder ..and those guys..
They have helped me and my career and keep me motivated..
I wont try to convince you perky..
In your court they are already found guilty and hung..
its a shame you didnt give them a trial first.
To all others,..always try something first,..cause you might miss out on something special
Respectfully,
Linden

NOBODY is a bigger spammer than the beloved Activerain...
im showing 285 in my email this year alone..
99% of it complaining about buyers and sellers..lots of whining..1% value.


By the way Vabroker,

They were the ones who gave me the whole home evaluation request system idea,.. works really well.

Use a email account you dont use much. they are agressive.

Also here is the cost..

Borino full expireds program $249k
Kindereeese full expireds program-2 payments of $67 or $140

Both work really good. goodluck guys. start mailing.

by the way,.. I gave out my number in an earlier part of this thread,..some of you used it and I will return your calls after 11am.

Spoke to Maui, we had a great convo,..hoping to visit him in Hawaii..one day.

Perky, you are welcome to call as well,..although you dont need anyones help..I do and always looking to trade ideas...

olive branch extended.

How can you advocate to ask your broker for advice..
Jennifer Allan-NO LONGER SELLs Real ESTATE
Borino- NO lONGER SELLS REal Estate

Over

Jay Kinder- Wall St Journal 2010 conformed-Must have affidavit from MLS
#23 agent in the WORLD- in 2010 in this economy
Michael Reese
Top 250 Agents in the World in 2010
confirmed by wall st journal Real trends and the national association of Realtors..
Need a signed affadavit from your board of realtors- and a signed affidavit from your mls, and need a signed affidavit by your local MLS
Double confirmed by Nar to 30 under 30- go the realtor Mag and read the documents required.
Jay kinder was ALSO confirmed Coldwell Banker top 10 in the world for the last 5 years straight-
#1 agent in the entire state of oklahoma

1 year is a fluke- 5 years in a row in the worst economy is no fluke

Wanna call the Wall street Journal, Coldwell Banker And the National association of realtors-all liars?

Could it be that Allan and Borino no longer sell real estate because real estate is one industry that is a constantly revolving door. New agents coming in all the time. New people to buy the Allan/Borino products?

I want actual people to tell me the letters are phenomenal - that their response rate is 90-100%, not some person on that product's website exclaiming it is a wonderful product.

I'll believe 100 agents on the AOL website before I'll believe those 'agents' on a product's website.

Anyone have a used Borino system (with a working CDs) they want to sell me cheap?

Lindenmoe did Jay Kinder do that all by his lonesome or does he have a team working for him?

heck no
craig proctor system is the team approach.
buyers agents, listing agents and support staff...

they are awesome..im using the free ones, and made money..
you dont have to buy the system yet..
download the free ones and use those..first

yes they work..
download the free ones..send it to all the expireds..
or start small..send 20 a day..you will get responses and appointments..
2nd week mail out the same 20 a day you mailed in week 1


it works..but you do have to actually use them and mail them :-)

nothing works 100% of the time-nothing..
good news it doesnt have to
mailing 100 letters cost about $50 in postage , paper etc
you get just 1 response take the 1 listing and it sells
you make $5000

if you put $100 in your bank..how much will they give you back?

I was here when Jay came on and had a couple of conversations with him and seemed like a nice enough guy.
I looked at Jay's website and one of them has pictures of 23 people (assuming team members) and saw he had 402 transactions in the Wall Street...didn't show up in the Top 100 for volume and 100 was right at 60 million so it appears that he sold less than 60 million with his team.

yep,..hes just turned 33 years old..just wished him happy birthday..
he is in Lawton Oklahoma- the average purchase price is very low..
yes he has a big team
and switch that view to number of transactions..you will see..
he is in the top 50 in the world and he is only 33 years old..
and he did this 402 transactions in the worst economy and market in 50 years..

Also

back 7 years ago or so..jay kinder did 200 transactions with no buyers or seller adents..when he started
just him and 4 administrative assistants..

my friend blake sloan is in the top 100 for volume and top 50 for transactions..
he is 28 years old. him and his team did 352 transactions and there is only 12 of them. he was featured in this years..top 30 under 30..

craig proctor teaches the team approach- kindereese teaches the team approach..

its kinda just business 101..

my dentist doesnt do it all..he has dental assistants and receptionist
my favorite resturant-the owner doesnt cook the food, greet the guest, serve the guest or pour the wine..

I think it's rather dishonest then to say "Jay did this, Jay did that" (or any one, actually) when in actuality, the person could not have accomplished it without "the team."

My broker doesn't go around saying he does hundreds of transactions a year. The office does - but not him.


Just sayin'.

correction-
The Jay Kinder Team or Jay kinder and his team
or them..
or the folks over at jay kinder team
or jay kinder and his agents and staff
did over 400 transactions in 2010
Jay kinder himself ONLY did 200 transactions with 4 admin
sheesh.
So then you dont give anybody who has ever been in top 30 under 30 ANY credit..cause they ALL had help with its one assistant or 4
What a shame because they probably worked hard for that honor.

does your broker still actively list houses himself?
cause Jay kinder still goes on listing appointments himself
does your broker still calls clients? cause jay kinder does..
and isnt your broker Jim Weichert?
cause weicherts arent idependently owned and operated like remax..
isnt your actual broker really just a broker associate?
how many transactions did your entire office do last year?

No my broker is not Jim Weichert. He does not own my office, nor is he my broker. My office is independently owned and operated.

Regardless, my point was (which you always seem to miss) that Jay (and these other so-called super powers) needs help to get these accomplishments done.

oh yeah..and does your broker/associate spend his own money generating leads for you guys?
cause where i am jim weichert spends his money..
but wants an additional 30%
for the lan network-that it looks like hes using you guys own listings to generate that lead in the first place
on top of the 30% commission split..right?
Cause the weichert agents in my market are always crying about what they actually net..
in fact a close friend of mines is a weichert agent
we split a commission he got $11,000
I got 11,000 after my split I netted $10,250
I think he said -since his lead was company generated..
after all fees- he walked away with about $5,000..OUCH!
point is no system is perfect..is it dishonest..they Weichert tried to recruit me on a 0-30 split
when my friend gave up more than 60% to weichert?
lets discuss fine print and dishonesty then...

I never said they do it alone..I bet the top agent in your MLs has assistants..right?

You always miss my point as well..whoever said they did it on your own..
since when is getting help to be shamed on.. I tell my own kids to get help with schoolwork.
the number 1 agent in my mls is a mike ferry 32 year old 115 transactions 2010
he had help..2 full time assistants..so what?
he is still the #1 agent in my mls..period.
he earned it and is a hardworking kid.
when I pick up keys at his office he is usually the ONLY one there..
his office has over 100 agents.. and 9am- just him and the receptionist. So what..he has 2 assistants..
he is the #1 agent in my Mls..over 1.3 million in gross commissions..at 32 years old.
did he have help? HECK YEAH..2 FULL TIME ASSISTANTS..
I know these guys..they are hard workers..they are up at 5am
they work 8 hours a day. or 10 hours a day.. you feel better stealing thier deserved accolades? shame.

I don't recall you saying "his team" but I could have missed it. It seemed like you were giving him all the credit.

Yep and there is one agent I know who takes all of the credit for almost all of the work his assistant does. It's not right.

wait a second..
why should the assistant get the credit..
they get the salary..at least we can get the credit..lol
cause they get paid wether we get paid or not..lol

Linden & Perky, you BOTH make great points, but you are comparing apples and oranges. One can't help but see things from a personal perspective, which is what each of you are doing. While personality wise, I am a lot more like Perky, I still see valid points in Linden's statements.

I like the "personal" connection with clients, but I do admit that the more aggressive, all business personalities USUALLY do more business overall.

There was more I wanted to say but my puter froze up.

I guess one thing that I am thinking about here is if an inexperienced person is reading these threads and they think wow, I can implement this stuff...then come to find out in order to achieve the outrageous results they need a team...then..that's different.

I don't have a team and don't plan on building a team - it's not easy to build a good team - someone who has the same work ethic as you and perhaps different talents and an ability to share the workload easily....all of the good agents I know are already building their own brand, they don't want to build MINE with me...and all of the agents I know who aren't doing so hot either a) are working full time at another job, b) whining by the phone waiting for it to ring while they play solitaire or wish there were flyfishing, or b) just whine period that the market sucks and they "cant." Can't blog, can't take good pictures, can't come up with descriptions, can't can't cant....

The only teams I know who are doing well are husband/wife teams.

I'm actually not criticizing anyone for HAVING a team but perhaps for not making it more obvious that their work is a TEAM effort, not the work of some superhuman "superstar."

Amen, girl, amen! Saying "I" did this when "we" actually did it. Take total sales volume divide by number of people on team - that's the actual, individual sales volume. I could say I make $6 million gross a year...when I actually mean you have to count my family, extended family, in-laws - ALL the family. Yeah, "I" made $6 million last year.

And, I agree, newbies see this one 'agent' claiming via internet or elsewhere that I did it, you can too. Yeah, alot of agents could do it with 'staff' behind them.

Although this forum seems to be going off point (always a good reason to 'search' first but then you come up with 8 or more search pages with many, many forums.)...back to the point of my distraction.

Tell me how one FINDS team members who have the qualities that Perky names? Very difficult. You have a slacker in the group and the system starts to crumble.

I have even thought of finding one person to 'share' with me, but what happens when one person ends up doing more than 50% of the work?

It depends..right?

if you dont want to get help you will never do 100 transactions and up..
maybe you dont want too.. BUT I Do..

here why..
your customer service will go to crap
you will burn out
you will drown in paperwork

for the record Im a Craig Proctor follower
Im a single agent..due to implementing Craig Proctor, Kinder Reese and Mike ferry
Im 32 years old and will NET over 250k this year..

Now Im already drowning in paperwork..
I have 11 pending sales
which means 22 attorneys to deal with
11 buyers
11 agsellers agents
11 inspectors
11 appraisers to deal with..
if I want to close

in the middle of that I have to service my 9 listings
and other 13 buyer clients

plus lead generate to get new business
provide customer service etc..

Leads are starting to fall through the cracks..and so are deals..
Im working evenings and 7 days a week..
my customer service is suffering..NOT GOOD

Guess what.. its STUPID for me not to get help..
Im interviewing a for an assistant and buyers agents now..

first of all
Im drowning in paperwork..
Im staring at 2 listings that I just took that has to be completed and loaded in the mls
I have 6 buyer appointments this week
and 2 closings this week..1 for $14,000 thats making me nervous..
Im thinking how the hell am I gonna get these signs up, lockboxes on
etc..

I need a assistant at least who will take this paperwork off my hands so I can BETTER SERVE MY CLIENTS..
then I need some buyers agents to take these buyers out
SO I CAN BETTER SERVICE MY LISTINGS

so there you have it..

we build teams to provide BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE
you can not do it all...
I have a family dammit..

I need help To SPEND MORE TIME WITH MY KIDS

craig proctor did over 100 transactiond by HIMSELF
He almost suffered a nervous breakdown
'his wife threatened to divorce him
His clients was complaining

he was #1 in the world for remax at age 29..contemplating suicide..imagine that.

So he started hiring like crazy
for a customer service girl and Administrative assistant
then some buyers agents..
then more staff..

he finally got time to spend with his wife and kids,..
his customer service went up..
he regained his sanity

he made a lot less money than he did when he was #1 in the world for remax at age 29
but..he got time back with his wife and at the time 2 young sons..


his team concept was born out of necessity..
to get his life back..

now im aware next year,..im going to net alot less..my mentors warned me..about that..
im going to have to budget 20-25k for a full time assistant

but I get More time with my kids and happier clients.., thsats all that matters

Yep and I hope you can find a good assistant. Maybe you could look into a virtual assistant.

My husband and I are both loners - he's a contractor who takes on only jobs he can do himself. that limits him but it also limits the stress of not having someone show up to help, having someone get hurt on the job, blah blah blah. I'm the same way...

I tried teaming up with another agent - it did not work. I have teamed up with my boss on a few listings and that worked out well but it's not our model...and we only do that when it's necessary.

If you can find a competent assistant who will work for 25K a year you can count on the fact that when they see what you make (and they will) they will be long gone about two weeks after you finish training them.

This is really a conundrum we face. I have one part time assistant who is retired an is no threat but I need another one and they are hard to find.

I tried the virtual route but they were more concerned with building up their business and my business got passed around to their fly by night employees. The virtual assistant forums will confirm this.

Now I am looking to advertise to hire out of town but living in a resort I have to be careful I don't train someone who is looking to move here.

My part time assistant does my expired program and it just runs itself and the only feedback i ever get id the request for more materials and sellers calling me. I could use 3 or 4 more like her.

yeah, my last one quit after she saw what i was making..
but thats silly..
any other business gets questioned on what they making?

by the way that assistant came crawling back after she was unemployed for 6 months..i hung up on her..
i think she still unemployed..
i live in america..last i check there was 25 million americans seeking work.
more than enough to choose from.

let the receptionist question, what the doctor, law firm..etc makes..they will be joining those 25 million unemployeed

i could care less.

Im njot worried about an employee trying to compete..I am a Champion,

they dont have the marketing budget, the training or the will to win as me.

Its like any country going against the us armed forces..
We are too prepared,..better trained ...better funded..

so let them try.

Im prepared to fight and die for my success and the success of my business for my children..

I will do battle with fsbo, expireds, bad clients, unrealistic sellers, market conditions, economy, the media, negativity and WIN! for who am I? I am a CHAMPION!

By the Way this video sums up..How We Champions..Get it Done..With No Whining every day

"NOONE will tell me who I can and cannot be for my belief shapes my world. Who Am I? I am a CHAMPION"

"I am a Champion..Defeat is Not in my creed, My enemies expect me NOT to win..for they do NOT know my heart..who am i? I AM A CHAMPION!"- The Champion Creed

watch full 3 minute video..why its not a good idea to bet against a CHAMPION..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX39J_YyKbs

Perky..WARNING do not click for it may inspire you..

Comparing ourselves to doctors and lawyers is what's silly. In most states you can get a license within 6-8 weeks. The public perception is that it doesn't take a lot of skill to do what we do. We all know it's not true, but that doesn't change the fact that when you have an assistant, if you are only using them to put stamps on letters and deliver signs and lockboxes you don't have much to worry about, but if they become your "right hand person", my point is that position is worth more than 25K. If you hold them at that level you will either have a stupid person or they will move on.

thats your SELF Limiting belief ...my friend.
and the biggest problem I see in this forum..

25 MILLION AMERICANS out of work..I will find ONE of those...

"NONE will tell me what I Can or Can NOT be or do.. for MY BELIEF shapes MY WORLD"-Champions Creed

you say i will not find someone good for 25k

sit back and watch me..

"those that say what is impossible..Everyday is proven wrong by those ACTUALLY DOING IT"

Obviously as a poor kid from Brooklyn..I been told what I can NOT do all my life..

Today I sit amongst the top 5% wage earners in the country..

Obviously I LOVE being told what I can NOT do...

Then laughing at the naysayers... Impossible? Can NOT do?

In the words of the immortal General Patton- "NUTS!"

Go for it then, and good luck to you.

Just remember that people have different goals and different things they want to accomplish and how they want to run their business - and it makes them no-less a champion.

And seriously - I'm inspired daily by my bank account and by the bills in the mail. As the account goes down and the bills pile up, I'm inspired to do more and work harder. I don't need rah-rah cheerleaders to do it for me. That's just my personality - and a reason why I am pretty much immune to most marketing gimmicks and techniques...I don't like to be considered a sheep to manipulate.

(Sigh) It's not a self limiting belief it's a piece of friendly advice after 25 years in the business. If you want to continue with the fantasy that we are like doctors and lawyers check into what a PA makes or and executive assistant to an attorney makes. Its not 25K, its considerably higher.

All of the rah rah hype is great and the truth is when you have more business than you can handle yourself and an assistant leaves you high and dry you might understand that you get what you pay for.

But do it your way... apparently you know it all already, I will cease with any further offers of my perspective.

appreciate your perspective..
and what a riduculous statement..I know it all..
Im the one being bashed for advocating hiring coaches, mentors, and trainers..remember?
In fact , 25k is what ,..all my mentors and trainers pay thier assistants.

I appreciate your advice. In only 32..how can I know it all?
must got me confused with Navarac, or the others saying they dont need help, inspiration or a coach anfd trainer..

I DONT know it all which is why I spend thousands on coaches, trainers and mentors.

Im referring to your negative standpoint....all my mentors and buddies pay they assistants 25k..its a model..
somehow they are killing it..

im just saying..and it doesnt matter..because a 50k assistant can leave you high and dry as well and embezzle your business.

nothing is perfect,..

but if I had a nickle for everytime someone said..

Craig proctor wont work, direct mail wont work, hiring assistants wont work, growing a team wont work,..

paying someone 25k wont work..

does anything on this forum work?

and just for the record I compare myself to THE MOST TRUSTED ADVISOR all the time..
who should I compare us too..janitors, care salesman,..

I tell buyers and sellers..If you needed a surgeon..would you want the guy who has done it successfully 100 times..or the guy who does it 4 times a year?

I also say..Mr buyer or seller, If your facing the death penalty, do you want the guy who did it 4 times a year? or who has done it over 100 times successfully?

This is the biggest investment of your life..Do you want some average agent..who does 4 deals a year? or do you want the expert who does it each and every month successfully..over 100 times?

I have over 100 past clients..in my 5 year career.

By the way I got the above script from my high producing buddies..

Its how they are slaughtering the competition..by saying these types of things..and its true..

Amen. Only the truly stupid ones would stick around and you don't want the stupid ones - that's when things start to crumble. I was a legal sec. for an attorney about 12 years ago - that salary was $50k/year+benefits for my confidentiality, redacting information, keeping 'mums'. I can imagine it's probably $80-90k now. Why? You want the best, you gotta pay for the best. In fact, it was my background in criminal and international law working with these guys that got me interested in real estate - contracts and being my own boss. Want a paper-pusher - get an high school student to help after school if you want to go on the cheap.

And why is this forum OFF POINT?

Linden, although I'm sure you can get someone to work for $25K, given the high cost of living in Hudson/Bergen Co's, you will probably be getting low-quality work. If you need to raise the salary to the $50K range in order to get a quality employee (and for that much, you definitely could), don't see it as wasting money. Their assistance/efforts would leave you to concentrate on the money-making endeavors of your business.

Thanks all for your input..
I've decided not to pay 50k for an admin..
a receptionist..
they will not be doing paralegal work nor 50k work..
omg 50k to input listings in the mls? push papers..and answer calls?
please show me even one real estate company paying this..
check monster.com, check all the job boards..
show me who's offering 50k to input listings, answer calls and do paperwork.. my 8 year old daughter does mailings and craigslist..are you kidding> but i do appreciate the advice..think i'll just follow my mentors model and system

sigh..va is right back on topic..

im mailing more fsbos and expireds..tommorrow..

linden, do you eat healthy, get 7-8 hrs sleep/night, & exercise?

Your writing sounds like you're living on caffeine & nicotine, at least. And you're not sounding too healthy.

Remember: part of being there for your kids is taking care of your own health.

As a former member of the 101st I wonder if the "Nuts" quoted above was credited to the wrong person - But "NUTS!" did come to mind reading all this - just not a quote. maybe tooo much TV

lots of caffeine lately..about 6 hours of sleep

the word I believe you are looking for is.."passion"
ever hear steve jobs speak about apple..thats how I FEEL about about my business... "being Fanatical..at times is very helpful"- Bill Gates

don i say the same thing about agents doing bpo's
for like six dollars an hours
agents who rely on open house, floor time, only referrals,
waiting on business in todays changing market..
they are still riding horse and buggy..
the resturant owner..doing the dishes, cooking the food, serving the customers, being the hostess,etc..
thats nuts to me..

so everybody has there definition of nuts..right?
whats also nuts is the average agent doing 4-6 deals a year and earning 35k..thats also nuts to me..
whats also nuts is advice i see on this forum and active rain..like
be creative, do social media,
dont use scripts, dont use canned presentations, dont get a coach, mentor, or trainer..

all of those things..sounds "nuts" to me..
but hey if being "average" and earning 35k a year is cool with them..its cool..with me..

I get it..why the resistance to things I say...I see the hatred for coaches , mentors and trainers..before I ever joined here..I knew what I was getting myself into..so Im fine..
The attacks arent reserved for just me..Lucky from the prospecting thread got bashed waaaay harder..before I started posting..So I understand..This isnt 2006..dinosaur stuff will get you hurt in todays market..are you familiar with what happened to the dinosaurs...

Well I'm actually grossing six figures this year before taxes and expenses...and because I don't subscribe to every gimmick that comes down the pike, I don't have too many expenses...I won't net six figures but I'm very happy with what I've made. I'm making more money than I ever made in my life. And i've also done quite a bit more than 5 or 6 deals a year...

So not everyone who doesn't like to use scripts, who doesn't cold call, and who likes to be creative and use the internet are doing only 5 or 6 deals a year. I've done 24 transactions so far this year and have another 3 in pending, one more being negotiated...I know it's not a deal every week but it's respectable...and I'm #5 in my entire MLS right now for sales $$ volume and number 16 for number of closed transactions.

Just because I said I don't want to be a superstar doesn't mean I'm not doing anything either. And that can be said for a lot of folks who don't do it "your way."

That's one thing I'll never understand and that will always annoy me - it seems that some agents feel the only kind of success and the only path to success is the way they're doing it. Every market is differnet.

And in my area, making $35,000 a year is pretty darn good since the average per capita income for my county is around $27,000, and for my entire state is only about $26,000, with the avg household income being around $50,000. I'm making significantly more than that.

Even in Bergen County NJ - the average per capita income is about $42,000 - which means $35,000 isn't anything to turn your nose up at. It's a little lower than average but still not bad. I wish I could make $35,000 doing only 5 or 6 deals LOL

Well said perky, I agree with you. And thats goes BOTH ways..

Not every agent who does it the Passive way is right either..
open houses, floor times, BPO's, referrals only, seo,

those things arent the only way either..

just cause I choose to be more agressive and get help..I shouldnt be bashed either..
just cause I do..Direct mail, Cold call, and pay per click..
doesnt mean its wrong or right.

You yourself bashed my techniques and luckys..
so be fair and practice what you preach.

Just cause some agents are Ok with 35k and being average..thats ok..to eaxh , his own..
But Dont dare bash me..
for wanting to be a top 1 % agent..have a big team..and want to do over 100 transactions..

There is no right or wrong way..to do things,..
my destination is different..so my road map is different..thats all..
remember I am looking to do 100 transactions..
so my gameplan has to be different from an agent doing 4 deals a year..thats all.

The road map to 100 deals..is waaay different than the road map to ten deals...
my destination is different than yours..so my road map..is gonna be different than yours..

perfect example..for those reading this..
if you ok with 4-6 deals..you dont need a mentor trainer or coach..you can stumble on that many transactions
open houses, floor time, blogging , winging it..being creative..will get you there..

when you trying to do..50-100 transactions..that road map wont work
because now the destination has changed...
find your destination first..
then choose the road map to that destination..

And be fair another thing..
you wanted me to disclose jay kinder having a team..I did.

Now you disclose that your success is driven..
by your super skills in blogging and seo..
thats hard work and is not over night neither

you are successful because you are a damn good agent who worked damned hard to build an massive internet system, with thousands of visitors..

Thats not exactly a way.. a newer agent with NO internet system
seo and blogging know how.. to duplicate..

here is the test we use in my systems..drop me in another market from scratch..and see if I can survive and thrive..

if I got dropped in another market ..say yours..
and lets assume I need to actually get a paycheck in 30-90 days.. I cant try to build a massive seosystem..or rely on referrals and sphere..

But I can pick up the phone and start calling fsbo and expireds..
I can launch a direct mail campaign
I can start a ppc campaign
I can start knocking doors, aggressively TARGETED DIRECT RESPONSE farming..
I dont have time to be creative and wing it..
But I can use proven scripts..to convert buyers and sellers..
Then I can use a VALUE DRIVEN..BENEFITS Orientated canned presentation
to convince the buyer and sellers to use me..

Okay...back on the subject.

I uploaded Borino's free letters. I started with the 250-350k range because that is the most popular price range (and worth working with). Went from Jan.2011 forward for expireds (and expanded to withdrawns). There were only maybe 100 listings, some duplicates. Weeded out duplicates, re-listed, re-listed and under contracts, rented out, ugly homes, homes in neighborhood location that would make it more difficult for that property to sell, and, also homes where, in the tax records, it LOOKS like they are not under water (although they could have refinanced and cashed out in the past few years. Tax records don't always reflect this since ownership never changed). I have a grand total of 23 homes (this includes 2 rentals I really like).

This is a far cry from the goal of 150 expireds. Must go back to drawing board for the lower-priced properties (not as popular) and the higher-priced properties (not as popular).

P.S. I don't believe the MLS remarks when listing agent has deleted all information and says, "Do not call. Sellers changed their minds about selling."

AWESOME job , taking the first step..good market research first too

open up your range a little..not area..but price range..
maybe 200k-500k
the other criteria keep..its good.
try to get at least 50..better to get 100
in a couple weeks they will know who you are..

week 1 send letter 1
week 2 send letter 2
week 3 send the resume
week 4..call them- just to see if they recieved your letters and
if they need any help.

dont change his letters..

great job..
its easier to do 20 a day..
dont print labels..or use a #10 envelope
use a off color invitation envelope
handwrite the envelopes..dont say dear homeowner
make it personalized..
use a live stamp..
on the envelope on the return address
just use your name
and office address
dont scream in thier face on the envelope-WE A REALTOR company..
save that for the bottom of the letter.

good luck VA! good job getting started..its the hardest part..isnt it?

As a Patton fan, I need to correct the credit for the quote "nuts". It was said by General MacAuliffe as his response when surrounded by the the Germans in 1944 during the battle of the bulge and asked to surrender. Four days later Patton arrived and broke the German lines surrounding MacAuliffe.

Now back to real estate, any producing agent who doesn't add help is automatically limiting their production. My second assistant had learned an amount that she felt would produce a good living for her so she moved to another broker and started her career. I reviewed the situation and decided I would first decide how many hours I wanted to work, then I went to work making the amount I wanted in the hours allowed.

But rule #1 was I would divide the work among many and pay was based on the kind of work, also they were physically separated and not in contact with each other so each only had a piece of my business puzzle and no great general knowledge. If I lost one it wasn't any great loss, I would just plug in a new one to fill that little hole.

Sorry for the Misquote..I love Patton..

Awesome awesome post..great idea on seperating the work and departments..
Im taking notes on that..
Thanks

Hitting roadblocks - sales turned to rentals - no new forwarding address for sellers in tax records either.

Also, I dealt mainly with buyers in my previous yearsand am reaching into the sellers' area for listing for the future (REO listing will not last forever), but, Borino's letter talks of enclosing the name/addresses of happy sellers or if don't have those using sellers from the offices' agents. I am one-woman band don't have that. My only seller-client is the ONE client - REO asset manager.

Any suggestions for changing the letter - anyone?

change that to here is a list of references..like a resume.

anybody who will vouch for you..friends , family, church members, your dentist, doctor, lawyer..etc.

or delete the sentence. but dont change anything else.

dont overanalyze this to much..

get your first 50-100 and mail them.

open up your price range criteria,..

im fortunate in my market there are over 500 expireds each month..
i pick the top 100 and go after them.

I hit one city and two counties. I could expand it out more but I don't want to do alot of heavy travelling. Perhaps I'll add one more county - a higher-priced county.

Interesting that I had emailed Borino this morning and finally answered around 6:30 p.m. (I just checked). Had the same comment as you, Linden, don't over-analyze.

I'll have to change that paragraph somehow. He recommended using the REOs because that's what I'm listing right now; but, these REOs are 1/2 the value of the target homes. My own opinion (maybe over-thinking), if I were a homeowner and my house had a value between $250-450k (target prices), and an agent sent me a list of their solds and they were $50k-260k, I'd say this agent's not 'qualified' because of the price difference; although one REO was over $300k sold, but that was just luck in getting that lovely home. Give me one more reassuring comment before I make this plunge.

500 expireds a month is incredible! Any reason why there are so many? When you say the top 100 - what makes them the top? Condition (gorgeous, not messy decorating)? Higher price range? Location?

location..location..location..take the plunge girl..just take out the paragraph and launch..

need words of encouragement!

you dont need the testimonials yet..you are awesome enough..
now mail them..before I come mail them for you...lol

I'll make you a risk free offer right here in front of everyone..

send at least 100 with proof of postage..
if you dont at least feel better..
I'll mail you half the postage...

First start with your market area and ignore the rest. If you want to expand your area later fine, but focus on one area now. yes adding testimonials is nice, but it is really just one step above yelling look at me and look at what I did once, but still a good idea. so if you have to wait it's OK when you finally do one you can use a testimonial from that deal, here is what the seller of my last one had to say!!! and build on that.

The truth is you never know what will work, get an idea and try it or copy someone Else's which is what you indicate your going to do.

I once used a expired campaign of your house expired without selling, did you do it, or did your agent do it, or were you both it in together? Find out which now with my exclusive review program. You want answers and I will give you my findings, so if you think you are at fault and your overly sensitive please do not call me, call someone that will be the yes man you probably looking for, and maybe just have it expire again. Sometimes only small changes are needed and that is good.

If your agent was doing a good job and it just didn't sell then re-list it with them now, they know you and your house better than anyone else at the present time and deserve the chance to finish the job they started for you. A lot of real estate activities are not visible and so much of what a good agent does for you doesn't show, and most good agents don't spend their time blowing their own horn, they just do what they need to do and hope the desired results show up.

I didn't do it the area I worked at that time but into an adjoining area just to check response and it worked really well but when I tried it into the next area I expanded to after that, it bombed big time but kept working well in the first test area, go figure, homes were similar in price, etc.

But it did lead to my next program which was a program where I declared myself xyz counties only marketing review broker. It was designed where an agent that had a listing heading for it's expiration date, 30 days prox, would call me and I would analyze their marketing and the property and then sit down with the sellers and if the seller extended or re-listed I would receive my consultation fee from the listing agent payable at the close of escrow. Sometimes the sellers wanted to list with me and I had permission from the agent to write me in as a co-lister and my fee became twice the consultation amount normally payable at the close of escrow. But I found out with the same time and effort spent I could produce more full listings with a much larger financial reward. But it seemed like a good idea at the time. Many of the agents wanted me to continue and offered to pay the fee whether the property sold or not but the difference in income was too great.

Lindenmoe - I appreciate the postage offer but it's not gonna break the bank, and, besides that, it's an expense I get to deduct - hubby already panicking because we're gonna get hit with more federal/state tax this year. He says, 'make money' then I make it and he says 'we have to pay taxes, don't make money'. Lord, and I thought women were supposed to be the complicated sex. I'm not backing out of this. I'm just not finding that TOP 100 choice as easily as you are.

Bay Area Brian - That experiment was very interesting. Curious how much you charged for consultation, but, yes, the larger financial reward is the goal.

I've chosen location, price range, nice homes, but there's just not that many in my area right now (that is, those under MY qualifications) - and that's 2 counties and 1 city! I weed out the short sales because those are iffy's anyway. I weed out the ones where the tax record shows a deed transfer of a price higher than what the neighborhood market values are. I did pick homes that were 16 years or younger though. We have alot of new home construction still going on.

Do you think I should expand to the older homes? They don't seem as popular.

Am I being too particular? I don't want to market to homes that are going to be losers and alot of buyers do not want an older home unless that's all that's in their price range...and right now...pricing is totally haywire!

Added later: I am going through the older homes now. This is not easy, but it will get done!

I recommend you open a Google gmail account for just such encounters. Then at some time in the future you can just get rid of that email account.