Brad Papa Featurned In National RE/MAX News Story

Mix: Brad Papa uses a variety of things to market his business

By Deborah Ball, RE/MAX Times Online Associate Editor

Brad Papa appreciates the power of a memorable catchphrase.

He asks clients to "Come to Papa," and announces that "Papa's in the House" in his marketing.

The branding has helped the 100 Percent Club member with RE/MAX State Line Real Estate in Leawood, Kan., differentiate himself in the Kansas City market.

"When it comes to advertising and marketing, you have to be aggressive," says Papa, whose wife, Kelly, helps him with his marketing and social media campaigns. "There are a few people who don't like it, but most of my clients love it. They know I'm not Joe Shmoe Realtor; I'll get the job done."

Papa has taken the catchy slogans and his "Papa's in the House" logo beyond his business cards and Web site. They're on T-shirts, coffee mugs, key chains and grocery tote bags - all free gifts he gives to clients. Papa plans to expand his branding with refrigerator magnets, and he's already advertising his Web site on the family cars.

Investing wisely in marketing now, Papa says, leads to bigger, better paychecks later.

Papa maintains a robust presence on popular social networking and media sites such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Twitter. Agents who aren't using these vital outlets are missing some great opportunities to network and create more business, Papa says.

"Social media is low-maintenance, and it's a great way to expand your sphere without spending a dime," he says. "You may not get a ton of random hits from it, but it enhances search engine optimization and puts your name in front of more people."

Now is the time to be persistent, Papa says.

"If you have a great last or first name, figure out a great rhyme or do something else that's clever," he says. "Put time and effort into making yourself stand out. Follow up with your leads - especially past clients - until they tell you to go away.

"Too many people don't stay in touch with past clients because they're so busy looking for the next deal. If you take care of the people you have now and those you've already helped, it'll come back to you."

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Posted 3/31/09

Brad Papa is a licensed real estate agent in both Kansas and Missouri and can be reached at bradleypapa@remax.net , 913-526-4985 or http://www.papasinthehouse.com/ today!