In one the local papers that reaches residents in the Gainesville, Haymarket, Bristow and Manassas areas I have been using part of my advertising to make the community aware of either events going on in the community, or bringing awareness to  different fund raisers that are occurring and need the community's support.

The last few months I have asked people to drop off supplies that are needed by the soldiers in Iraq and I am so happy because it has paid off. Several people have dropped off supplies such as toiletries and snack foods to both drop off locations.  The Weichert Office in Gainesville Virginia and The Kitchen Connection in Manassas (my husband's business).

One mom, I wish had left her contact information left some things from her boy scout troop and I wish I could thank her in person. Not only for bringing the supplies and helping with this cause but also for doing what she is doing for these boys in that troop. Every time we take the time to give, and we involve our children we are making a difference in their life and how they see the world. 

 A Huge THANK YOU to ALL of the people that called me to pick up their donations and all of those that dropped their donations off. Thank you so much!

So, I have not had any calls from anyone looking to buy a house or sell their house from these ads, but I am not giving up on the ads just yet relocatingNot only because I know that advertising is one of those things we have to do long term for the payoff, but more so because I am more than thrilled that I have been able to do a small part in helping a worthy cause.

A few boxes were delivered to the soldiers last week and reports state that everything was greatly appreciated   More boxes are being prepared to be sent before Christmas.  I know those packages of kleenex and playing cards, or phone cards help to put smiles on their faces.

 That is better than selling a house.

However, I am still available to help you buy or sell a home in the prince william county area, so please do not hesitate to call me.

 
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15 Comments on Advertising that pays off

I can understand the joy you have from pioneering such a successful venture. Because it is truly for a good cause. I'm sure our troops will appreciate all that is received. Congratulations!!!

12/19/2007 07:33 AM by DDR Realty, Orange County, NY


Sally,  That's excellent and very good advertising.  One thing I wanted to do but didn't have time this year was to send out a postcard stating 'Will Work for Food' and collect food for the 2nd Harvest Food Bank here for the holidays.  Instead of people coming to my office, I was thinking of picking it up.  Therefore meeting them in person possibly or at least have their home address.

12/19/2007 08:20 AM by Marc Grossman, GRI - Central Florida Real Estate Specialist (Keller Williams Premier Realty)


Sally, as you alluded to...even if the advertising did not pay monetary rewards, the thought, time, and effort are worth every penny. 

Outside of that, name familiarity is a big thing in marketing yourself.  You are doing a great job getting out there!  Take care...

12/19/2007 08:31 AM by Sarah Eubanks ~ Preferred Oregon Loan Consultant & Notary Public (Hill Valley Financial Services)


I've been meaning to tell you that I like your new ads.  They look great!

12/19/2007 04:32 PM by Chelle Gassan-NOVA Realtor and Stager (Weichert, Realtors and Staged Homes VA)


Derrick  There is always a little more we can do. This was just a small way for me to do something

Marc That is a great idea. I love it! Except in this market it may be more literal than initially intended"o)

Sarah  Thank you and that is very true. I have to keep my name out there as much as I can

Chelle  Thanks, Chelle.

12/19/2007 09:19 PM by Sally Zatkoff (Weichert)


Derrick  There is always a little more we can do. This was just a small way for me to do something

Marc That is a great idea. I love it! Except in this market it may be more literal than initially intended"o)

Sarah  Thank you and that is very true. I have to keep my name out there as much as I can

Chelle  Thanks, Chelle.

12/19/2007 09:19 PM by Sally Zatkoff (Weichert)


Derrick  There is always a little more we can do. This was just a small way for me to do something

Marc That is a great idea. I love it! Except in this market it may be more literal than initially intended"o)

Sarah  Thank you and that is very true. I have to keep my name out there as much as I can

Chelle  Thanks, Chelle.

12/19/2007 09:21 PM by Sally Zatkoff (Weichert)


Derrick  There is always a little more we can do. This was just a small way for me to do something

Marc That is a great idea. I love it! Except in this market it may be more literal than initially intended"o)

Sarah  Thank you and that is very true. I have to keep my name out there as much as I can

Chelle  Thanks, Chelle.

12/19/2007 09:21 PM by Sally Zatkoff (Weichert)


Sally, what a great way to get yourself out there and the payoff is far greater than the advertising.  Good Luck to you.

12/21/2007 06:31 AM by Peggy K - Illinois Virtual Tour Provider and Real Estate Photographer (Grand Property Virtual Tours)


Sometimes it all boils down to just being in the right place at the right time. In front of people is always a good place to be, regardless of how you do it. I'd be interested in hearing more about whether this particular aspect of advertising pays off for you down the road.


12/27/2007 06:48 PM by Elizabeth Weintraub, Sacramento Real Estate Broker (Lyon Real Estate)


Great idea and great that you could do something positive for the troops

12/27/2007 07:06 PM by Vincent Coccia (Construction Services Integration)


Sally - This is wonderful on so many levels. I can tell you having met some of the recipients the troops appreciate those packages more than you can imagine. What a wonderful post. Bless you.

12/31/2007 07:42 AM by Tom Plant - Murrieta Real Estate Expert - Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage)


Anything that can be done for the troops is beneficial to all..

12/31/2007 09:09 AM by The Joel Schmidt Team The Fastest growing Team in Livingston (The Michigan Group)


Tom- Thank you. It is definitely one of of those things I feel good about and hope it has made a difference for them.

Joel- Amen

12/31/2007 11:08 AM by Sally Zatkoff (Weichert)


Good for you, Sally.  I have never had any success with advertising in the local paper, but it's good to see that your efforts have produced something of higher benefit than a new prospect.  I hope the clients follow suit shortly.  Best wishes for 2008!

12/31/2007 11:23 AM by Paul Slaybaugh, Scottsdale AZ Real Estate (Realty Executives)


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