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Ambassador
3,345,091
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

Don't do it. 

Just. Don't. Do. It. 

Not a fan for many reasons. 

The world has changed since the Fuller Brush Man!

 

Jan 14, 2020 09:28 AM
Rainmaker
1,052,211
Candice A. Donofrio
Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker - Fort Mohave, AZ
928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text

Okay, you're gonna do it. How 'bout mailing to your hood that you're PLANNING TO VISIT THEM [day or date range] with info if they've been pondering a move? And invite them to call you with any questions.

You may get calls that say 'not interested' and you may get calls that want info NOW. 

But AT LEAST they will know you are coming . . . this may increase your return.

'warm calling' . . .

Jan 14, 2020 01:22 PM
Rainer
417,221
Caroline Gerardo
Licensed in 20 states - Newport Beach, CA
C. G. Barbeau the Loan Lady nmls 324982

Go with a buddy. Your buddy should be different than you but outgoing and thick skinned. People will be hostile. Have something to give them that is seasonal or helpful. Smile,  rise, repeat. This is very hard

Jan 14, 2020 12:28 PM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

I did it for a couple of weeks in 1978 !!   I created a script, and it worked well enough to get some laughs and be remembered....

once the door opened, I introduced myself and asked if the person had thought of selling his/her home; then after a "no" I'd ask if they knew of anyone who was thinking of selling; after that "no" I'd ask if there was anyone they wanted to get rid of!! that one always broke the ice, and we started talking .... 

of course, when you're saying all of that, you need to be relaxed ... I always had my arms going and put on a performance...yup, it needs to be showtime, when you knock on doors... 

personality at the door always wins....but it's a lot of work.... I like the path of least resistance, even if it costs me money!!!! 

 

Jan 14, 2020 11:00 AM
Rainmaker
1,502,998
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

When I do it, it's around an open house, a just listed or a just sold of mine.  I don't worry about it and I'll even have a script for the video doorbells.

Jan 14, 2020 09:56 AM
Rainer
231,948
Eva B. Liland Century 21 Doug Anderson
Century 21 Doug Anderson - Lancaster, CA
Glad to be of Service 661-714-1643

I wish I could but since having a stroke 6+ years ago, I still need a cane to walk unfortunately. I once saw a bottle of Tabasco with a label on from the Realtor saying something like "Your local Realtor that always gets your house sold, call me when you are ready" and left the bottle on the doorsteps if no one answered.

Jan 14, 2020 10:51 AM
Rainmaker
2,390,620
Bob "RealMan" Timm
Ward County Notary Services - Minot, ND
Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker

Nicole Schrock be armed with relevant information as to sales and listings in the immediate neighborhood. If you were my wife I'd also insist you be armed either with a weapon or mace. Trust your gut! If someone invites you in to evaluate their home be sure you know the proper safety protocols such as NEVER enter a room 1st, follow the homeowner into the room and never let them get between you and the exit.

Jan 14, 2020 10:47 AM
Rainmaker
4,572,117
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

When it comes to any lead-generating activity consistency along with providing the information your intended audience wants/needs.  That said, this "audience" doesn't want someone unknown knocking on my door and I will tell those who practice this method.  Either by not answering or words much stronger.  It all depends on the circumstances.  Are you really prepared to knock?  

Jan 14, 2020 09:21 AM
Rainer
195,422
Karen Climer
Demetree School of Real Estate - Orlando, FL
Teaching people to pass the real estate exam

Some have commented about safety...  I have never done door knocking for real estate, but I frequently door knock for political campaigns.  I've knocked on hundreds of doors - usually alone, sometimes with another volunteer.  I have never once felt my safety was in jeopardy.

Don't be stupid.  Take your phone pay attention, etc.  But if you use the basic safety protocol you would use in any public setting, you should be find.

The reason it is national news when a real estate agent gets attacked on the job is because it is so rare.  If it happened every day, it wouldn't be news.  If it happened every month, it would be local news, but not national news.  If it happens once and year or two, it because national news.

Jan 14, 2020 12:12 PM
Ambassador
2,061,792
Alan May
Jameson Sotheby's International Realty - Evanston, IL
Home is where the hearth is.

My best strategy for door-knocking is not to do it.

There are agents who do a great job cold-calling and door-knocking, but it's just not for me.  That's not how I choose to make a living.

Jan 14, 2020 11:46 AM
Rainmaker
2,781,173
Richie Alan Naggar
people first...then business Ran Right Realty - Riverside, CA
agent & author

A well-dressed woman will get a good response. If that woman bears a gift even better and two things: 1. Keep it short and pleasant because of attention spans. 2. Answer this question: What's in it for them because that is what they are thinking from first contact with you. Lastly...go production or quantity and follow it all up in 30 days. Repetition in this business helps

Jan 14, 2020 10:46 AM
Rainmaker
7,836,134
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Offer a service such as a free CMA. 

Jan 14, 2020 09:26 AM
Ambassador
3,125,763
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent

Don't let the dogs out...Woof, woof, woof, woof, woof ! 

Jan 14, 2020 09:09 AM
Ambassador
1,452,819
Susan Emo
Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Brokerage - Kingston, ON
Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area

What else have you tried that has led you to believe this is the right approach to becoming a successful and respected expert in your field?

Jan 14, 2020 04:31 PM
Rainmaker
469,510
Dan & Laurie Pittsenbarger Team
Keller Williams Western Realty - Bellingham, WA
Lakeside & Coastal Single Family Homes

I've had luck with a few different things.

1. If there is a neighborhood association you can check with them and tell them that you are a realtor and you are going to be door knocking int he neighborhood and ask them if they have a few questions they would like you to ask for them like, "what improvements would you like to see in the neighborhood? or "are there any neighborhood issues that you would like addressed?" or "what do your favorite neighborhood amenity?" Just two or three questions about the neighborhood to get them talking - be a good listener and take notes. If you did contact the association and they gave you questions to ask - be sure to ask those and give them the results. Good chance to become the neighborhood expert  - get the board member's contact info to send the results to them plus a neighborhoomd market report monthly afterwards.

2. Have a simply one page market report with you. When someone answers the door after exchanging introductions - show them the report showing all the neighborhood Actives, Pendings and Solds and ask if they would like the report emailed to them every month, or quarterly or on whatever schedule they wish.

3. If you have a budget. Have $5 coffee cards or whatever type and amount is appropriate and just give them the card.  Tell them that you love the neighborhood and and that part of your business model is to come from a place of contribution and helping folks with their real estate needs is what you are good at. Enjoy a cup on coffee on me and hand them the card with your biz card. You can also ask for their contact info to receive market reports.  And if they know someone right now that is talking about selling or buying, they can have a second card if they give you their name and contact info (the referral).

 

Jan 14, 2020 03:45 PM
Rainmaker
2,220,323
Anthony Acosta - ALLATLANTAcondos.com
Harry Norman, REALTORS® - Atlanta, GA
Associate Broker

I just don't do it...  

Jan 14, 2020 03:32 PM
Rainmaker
911,338
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

I don't. I prefer to mail post cards. These days, the legal risks are too great. Suppose you fell, got bit by a dog, fell down steps, etc. i know of one case where a door knocker slipped off the steps and broke their ankle. Then they sued the homeowner claiming the step wasn't safe and won in court and were awarded a $50,000.00 settlement. Also, if kids are out playing in the yard, you can bet many parents won't like seeing uninvited stangers walking onto their property. Those that came here know never to come back. If I want anything from a real estate agent, I'll decide which one(s) I want to call and invite over to interview.

Jan 14, 2020 02:50 PM
Ambassador
3,164,294
Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

I did some of that early... very early in my career and it was dreadful.  People don't want to be bothered at their door unless you have girl scout cookies.

Jan 14, 2020 02:26 PM
Rainer
378,517
Don Baker
Lane Realty - Eatonton, GA
Lake Sinclair Specialist

Do you want random people knocking on your door?  I don't. I tell them to leave and wouldn't do business with anyone who thought it was okay to do.

Jan 14, 2020 11:36 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

Nicole, now that is an EXCEPTIONAL idea. The MOST important part of building a client list is getting the 'face-to-face.' It is actually what all real estate marketing endgame is, the meet up.

Now, my suggestion is:

1. know your objective (getting face recognition, list building, branding, 90 day market)

2. bring something that is of value to  the homeowner. This creates a warm meet up. I have found collaboration with local businesses, especially new starts, a perfect door knocking accessory

3. Bring a 'wing man.'  This not only provides security but this team member also removes the distractions.

4,  Leave behind your irresistible offer. There will be those who will invite you to the kitchen table as soon as they hear, "real estate agent" (there will be curmudgeons also)  but most will 'check you out' after you leave.  So, do the same thing you would do with an appraiser, make their job EASY.

5. Follow up with direct mail message that builds on your knocking narrative.

6. Plan your next 'knock and talk' and precede the event with a direct mail announcing the exciting news you want to share the coming weekend. Word it well and you might get  a "I can't wait till weekend' call.

Always be alert to what the citizen can SEE.  Whether it is the For Sale sign down the street, the FSBO.com mail/email they may have recieved or the heavy equipment on the lot at the main road, be prepared to answer question about it  for offer "Ever wonder what's happening there?"

Go out and breaks the fake rules others want to impose. Do not fear taking risks. That is where the BIG BUCKS live. And when you can see most agents going left, you go right. Yeah, it will ruffle the traditionalist, but these will NEVER be your client/customer. 

Sent from the Dodgeball Penalty Box (Yep, I got my wrists smacked, but the outcome has proven me correct. Standing alone takes a special type.)

And there is nothing wrong with being the agent who has defined themselves.

Jan 14, 2020 10:34 AM
Rainmaker
2,182,502
Michael J. Perry
KW Elite - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

Circle prospecting around a list/open house and a 6 month MLS update on that subdivision’s activity

Jan 14, 2020 09:45 AM
Rainmaker
900,128
Olga Simoncelli
Veritas Prime, LLC dba Veritas Prime Real Estate - New Fairfield, CT
CONSULTANT, Real Estate Services & Risk Management

I did not do that. Not sure it's safe...

Jan 14, 2020 09:42 AM
Ambassador
5,049,083
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

I don't do this bit hear some people have success. I'd be wary of the no soliciting signs!

Jan 14, 2020 03:57 PM
Rainmaker
1,844,291
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

A smile & a good attitude. A nice pair of shoes helps also. Keep your spirits up & keep your contact goal in mind.

Jan 14, 2020 03:45 PM
Ambassador
3,587,960
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
HomeSmart Real Estate - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Never did it, never will.  Build a referral business instead!

Jan 14, 2020 02:42 PM
Rainer
509,449
Susie Kay
Ultra Real Estate Dallas Fort Worth - Plano, TX
North Dallas Specialist

I found most people in my area nowadays do not want to be bothered when they are home.   They won't even open the door and many put no solicitation sign. So in the end, I found it not to be productive. 

Jan 14, 2020 02:25 PM
Rainmaker
1,712,676
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

Sorry, never have and never will but a thick skin is important.

Jan 14, 2020 12:14 PM
Rainmaker
5,216,398
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Chicago, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Kathleen Daniels has this one well covered!

Jan 14, 2020 12:08 PM
Rainmaker
5,772,575
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Nicole,

From reading the comments and your replies, it seems like you have already made up your mind, so do what you want to do.  Don't ask!  A

Jan 14, 2020 11:13 AM
Rainmaker
5,104,931
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Realtor

I have never in 26 years door-knocked and never will. So my strategy is: don't do it, no way, no how!

Jan 14, 2020 10:53 AM
Rainmaker
556,536
Greg Cremia
Shore Realty of the Outer Banks - Nags Head, NC

They talk a lot about it here. Hope it helps.


https://www.agentsonline.net/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/435907/I_KNOCK_9999999_DOORS_A_DAY_I_.html

Jan 15, 2020 04:01 AM
Rainmaker
763,883
Tony Lewis
Summit Real Estate Group - Valencia, CA
Summit Real Estate Group Valencia & Aliso Viejo

I've found the phone a better option.  People aren't often at home and it is too time consuming for my taste.

Jan 15, 2020 12:18 AM
Rainmaker
2,362,948
Lise Howe
Keller Williams Capital Properties - Washington, DC
Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC

Have a survey or a reason to door knock such as inviting them to a neighborhood open house

Jan 14, 2020 07:34 PM
Ambassador
6,393,179
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

A plan and a reason for knocking.

Jan 14, 2020 06:41 PM
Rainmaker
666,539
AJ Heidmann ~ CRS
McEnearney Associates, Inc. - Alexandria, VA
YOUR Alexandria & Arlington, VA Real Estate Expert

Nicole ~ I don't door knock other than right around a property that I will be holding open over the coming weekend.  Generally I will apologize in advance for any extra traffic and street parking during the open and then invite them over to take a look in case they have someone that is looking to move into the neighborhood.  The vast majority react positively, as it is more a "public service announcement" rather than  a sales call.

Be safe and best of luck with whatever you end up doing!

Jan 15, 2020 08:12 AM
Rainmaker
1,543,662
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego

Not a good idea unless you are in a small community where everyone knows each other like a lake community for example, it's simply a different era and most big city communities do not want you knocking on their door.

We're 200 homes of No Soliciting where I live.

Jan 14, 2020 06:16 PM
Rainmaker
1,311,397
John Juarez
The Medford Real Estate Team - Fremont, CA
ePRO, SRES, GRI, PMN

Have a item of interest to discuss with the person who answers the door.

Be consistent.

Jan 15, 2020 10:34 AM
Rainmaker
1,196,798
Doug Dawes
Keller Williams Evolution - 447 Boston Street, Suite #5, Topsfield, MA - Topsfield, MA
Your Personal Realtor®

Be aware some communities have adopted anti-solicitation bylaws

Jan 15, 2020 08:19 AM