OR: "Tips for Door Knocking Without Feeling Like a Doorknob"
When I first got into the biz, I remember interviewing with a small firm with just a few independent-minded agents. (Read: Barely Working Agents) The head cheese was a veteran agent of about 40 years and his advice for getting started was "knock on every door in your neighborhood and ask whomever answers if they know anyone who wants to buy or sell a house!"
The only way I would ever knock on a stranger's door is if their house was on fire. I politely thanked him for the interview and moved on.
Flash forward. I now am a Door Knocker. (I can hardly believe I am saying this- I never even knocked on doors to sell Girl Scout Cookies!)
I have had the door slammed in my face by a 7 year old on the instructions of his mom (I know this because he told me. I just love kids.).
I have been greeted by a man with a parrot climbing up his leg.
I now have a detailed list of the meds that one of my neighbors is on and which allergies affect her at certain times of the year.
But, I have also closed 2 deals in my farm since I started Door Knocking only 9 months ago. I have an additional 5 listings in the pipeline for the coming 6 months.
Because of what I bring to the door. And when I bring it.(Quarterly. No more, no less) I still have to screw up my courage to knock on some doors. I still have to make myself go.
But, I can do it. So can you. Here's how:
- Put together a Market Data Report. EVERYONE wants to know what is going on in their neighborhood. Really. They want to know what houses are selling for, how long it takes, what's on the market, what the asking price is. They want to know if something is under contract, if it's a short sale, if it's REO, if it's vacant. It takes a little research, but it is easy to find this information. And it's all in the report.
- Provide information about neighborhood happenings. If there is a rec center in your neighborhood, this is a great way to get this info. List several upcoming events and how to participate in them.
- Pictures. Break up the text with relevant photos of the neighborhood and it's amenities- parks, playgrounds, rec center, pool. But Be Careful Here: don't print a picture of a child unless you have gotten permission from their parents. Also, if you take a photo of someone's home, it doesn't hurt to ask if you may use it in your newsletter.
- Don't Knock After Dark. There are so many reasons why this is true. Safety is number 1. But also, no matter what time of year it is, after dark it is either dinner time, bath time for kids, or bed time (for kids or grown ups).
- Don't Knock if There is a No Solicitors Sign. This should be a 'duh' moment, but it's worth saying. Granted, you aren't selling anything, but this sign tells you "don't knock on my door, don't invade my space."
- If the House is a Rockin', Don't Bother Knockin'. But don't come on in! Unless it's your house. Or you were invited to a party there.
I provide this informational newsletter quarterly and most people look forward to it. I introduce myself and tell that what it is I am giving them. Sometimes we stand and talk for while. And on those occasions when they don't, it's not a big deal, they thank me and I move on. Very rarely, they tell me they "aren't interested"- although I don't believe them!
After all, I am just providing information.
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