Laid Off (Again)

Hi, Todd,

Why not do what a lot of new licensees do...get on your walking shoes and hit the pavement. Instead of seeking listings (I wouldn't turn one down, however, if I were you), why not leave a brochure asking if they know anyone who might be looking to become a first time home buyer.

If there's a predominantly rental homes area, this might be a good starting point to knock, introduce yourself, and ask if they'd like to be a first time home buyer. If not, do they know of someone who is or will be in the market? No harm in asking, right?

If you're serious, don't be afraid to try whatever works...or might work even if it hasn't been tried yet. Think about what a prospective new home buyer might want to know, where they might like to go to dream or find info, who they'd contact etc. Then you make the same contacts, go the same places where they go, and just schmooz and share some tips.

You might work up a mini-presentation directed to first time home buyers giving them helpful tips for planning and purchasing. Then contact likely spots for them such as hardware and land brokers, even contractors and sub-contractors, and offer your presentation and pick up leads for you and the other party. The local library, tourist bureau, community center are all possibilities. Dig in and go for it!

The Toastmasters is still a good idea, Todd. Many of the new families and managers in training will be looking to buy their first home...and there's usually quite a few of them in Toastmasters and other community organizations. You'll find a lot of them there. Even the old-timers have relatives just starting out. Open your eyes and look at opportunity then jump on it!

Good luck.

Sandi Bowman