Tools You Can Use…
By Julie Escobar
Back in the DAY…(ever notice how people always say that about what they did ions ago?) I used to love working with First Time Home Buyers. They were excited, eager, a little nervous and usually very appreciative of an agent’s experience and help. Today’s consumers (even the newbies) are a lot more savvy than they used to be but I still find this niche a great source of prospects (and referrals) for agents today!
One great way to attract First Time Home Buyers is by hosting Home Buying Workshops in your market.
Many agents find that holding them at the local libraries, schools (many PTAs or PTSAs would be happy to include a segment in one of their meetings for valuable information!) In many areas, you’ll find clusters of higher end apartment complexes that you could easily target for first time home buyers.
You can even use our mailing list options to specifically search for high-end renters and create a marketing database to connect with this demographic.
Couple up with a mortgage lender and real estate attorney to help spread the word and bring more value to the table. I’ve even known agents who invite local restaurants (especially start ups that are trying to market themselves as well) to bring in sample appetizers or refreshments in return for letting them share their contact information or coupons as well! In today’s world, this kind of smart, intuitive shared networking is making a big difference for a lot of agents.
We’ve got a terrific free report just for agents that’s filled with lots of ‘goof-proof’ tips on how to host a successful workshop! We’ve even got ready made postcard invitations that you can send out in a matter of
minutes!
It’s easy to use and easy (and free) to get! Click here to go to our Resource Page – scroll about half way down the page until you see “Free Consumer Workshops” – then just click download! Easy, breezy! While you’re there – also download “How to Save for a Down Payment” which is a great piece to share with those folks who WANT to buy but aren’t quite ready to just yet. Having your mortgage lender there will be very beneficial as you can help folks sort out where they are NOW in relation to what they need to purchase a home.
Be sure to get everyone’s contact information – then put them on a drip direct mail campaign every 30-45 days so
that when they are ready to purchase – they’ll know JUST who to call. Our First Time Buyers Series is perfect for that.
They really speak to the questions that these folks already have in their heads and keep you top of mind. I always like to use the alternative back on the postcard to write a little more information and create some calls and response by offering a free list of homes, list of foreclosures, additional home buying tips, local school information, etc. All great reasons for them to stay connected with YOU!
If you are hosting an event in your market – be sure to share that information on your social media networks, and in the rental communities you are targeting. And if this is the demographic you want to OWN in your market, consider setting up a Facebook page so that you can really continuously share news people can use relating to buying a home and your market. Don’t JUST talk business though! Share information about your local economy, schools, community garage sales, tips about new restaurants or businesses in the area. You can spotlight standout community leaders, kids who are making a difference, teachers, local heroes, specials you run across, testimonials from happy customers and more!
Need help getting started? Call our team at 866-405-3638 today. They’re smart, knowledgeable, friendly and here to help you suceed!