Well, I guess since I've written several different stories to help others avoid some of the costly mistakes that I've made, I might as well add one more.  I've actually considered writing a book on "how to keep some of your money for yourself and not give it to people who claim to be able to put your name on the top of everyone's list for a real estate agent."  I know, it's a very long title for a book, but I think you should be able to get the jest of it.  I didn't realize that I was such a sucker for advertising.  I've always said, "it takes money to make money."  Well, maybe in some cases it actually works, LOL.

Since becomming an agent earlier this year, I've literally spent thousands of dollars in advertising money.  I spent over $4200.00 for ads in 2 of our local grocery stores by buying ad spots on the fronts of the carts.  I later found out that the ads were falling onto the floor and the employees didn't know what to do with them, so they trashed them.  The company I have a contract with was supposed to replace any lost or missing ads.  (I had to threaten them with legal action to get that accomplished.)  And now, for many weeks, my newly installed ads are still sitting in the "extra storage" coral up against the building because they can't seem to make their way into the store.  (even though I've complained to store management numerous times.)  To put it mildly, this has been a nightmare!

I bought the whole back cover of our new local phone book for a mere $2200.00.  (it's not out yet, so I don't know if it'll do much good or not.)

I've spent hundreds of dollars on postage.  I've done various kinds of mailings and post cards, etc.

I'm on an "automatic" mailing campaign with a marketing company.  It's personally addressed to the actual homeowners.  They are sent "updates" on their neighborhood sales and other information.

I could go on and on, but I'll just stop here.  The bottom line is this:  Save most of your marketing money until you can actually afford to put it out there.  Walk your farming areas and meet the people one on one.  (I sure could use the exercise anyway)  Attend as many local and city functions as possible.  Volunteer at a local nursing home or for activities for the kids in the area.  There are so many ways to get your name and face out to the public and not have to spend your life savings doing so.  I'm not saying don't spend any money on ads, just spend it a little more wisely than I did!