This post is just to give hope to everyone in the business and to the media and to those who think the Real Estate Market is dead and to the buyers who are still waiting!  I am in the Chicago Real Estate Market and decided to think outside the box a little bit.  I kept reading how mortgage applications were down and how even though interest rates were low, people still aren't biting.  So, I thought I would share a marketing strategy with you to help you generate some business both on the Real Estate Sales side as well as the Mortgage side.  I decided to run a newspaper ad in the Chicago Sun-Times for individuals who were looking to Rent To Own (Rent with an option to buy).  I run the ad from Friday of one week to Sunday of the next week (10 days).  Within 5 days of running the ad, I have had 100 callers to call in, about 30% left messages, and the other 70% I have their number through the call capture 800# I purchased years ago and wasn't getting much utility from.  I am pleased with my results as 1 of the prospects has already paid for the cost of the ad 10x's and the other leads will go through a Rent to Own Program that I have partnered with a Realtor to complete.  If you haven't used classified ads, this is definately an opportunity for you to grow your business.  If you are a buyer who is on the fence, please look into this program.  For more information please feel free to visit my website www.ceceliaknowsmortgages.com  My pipeline is now growing and my Realtors love me for being able to send them referrals.  If you'd like more info on how myself and the Realtor partner on this program please feel free to contact me.  Just thought I would share some valuable tips to get your phones ringing again!

Cecelia Marlow - Senior Mortgage Consultant - 1-800-724-7001