“When the market slows, I have three goals:  first, add more prospects to my database, second, practice my sales skills, and third, make money.  Here’s how I accomplish these and come out of hard times stronger than ever…

I follow these three steps in slow times to build my business:

Step 1:  Show Rental Properties

I search the MLS and identify good rental properties to show.  I also start advertising rental properties on free websites or put cheap classified ads in the local paper.

Here are two great (and free) places to post local ads for renters online:

• Craigslist.org
• Kijiji.com

Here’s an example classified ad I use to pull in renters:

Renters!  Find your perfect place.  Free

consumer report shows you how to

negotiate your lease and save money.

Call 24 hr. recorded msg 888-8888

Step 2:  Provide Excellent Service

Even though I’d rather sell someone a home, with renters I want to build a life-long relationship for future business.  So, I take them through the same process as I would with buyers and provide just as excellent service to WOW them.  This really pays off in referrals as renters are around other people who are just like them—ready to find another place to rent or buy a home.

Step 3:  Follow-Up After the Transaction

After a renter signs their lease, they get added to my database and I follow-up with them throughout the year until they are ready to buy a home.  You can use regular post card mailings or a monthly newsletter for this since you know their exact address!

Rentals usually pay anywhere from $200-$500 and I now have a prospective home buyer. I love it!  And these steps will help you too during this slow market.”

Would you like an easy way to attract buyers to your business for free?

Agent Rob Hernandez went from struggling rookie agent to attracting hundreds of buyer leads, without listings.  He explains how he gets unlimited access to new listings and how he promotes these listings for free on Craigslist.org.  Rob also includes an example ad you can use as a template to quickly post ads to Craigslist and start profiting immediately.

Here’s Rob’s description in his own words:

“When I first started in the real estate business, I only worked with buyers.  My problem was that I wanted to generate buyer leads, but I had no homes listed to advertise to attract those buyers.

And then I discovered the secret on how to legally advertise hundreds of listings that were not mine.  The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allows you to advertise their homes to attract buyers.  In my area, HUD pays a 5% buyers agent commission, which makes it worth it to sell just about any property they have available.

Fast forward to present day – I am still advertising HUD properties, but now instead of paying for classified ads I generate tons of free leads on www.craigslist.org.  HUD supplies me with a new batch of listings every week and I take about 20 minutes a day to post them on Craigslist.org.

Last month I generated over 100 leads who were interested in getting a list of foreclosures in my area.  I hope this helps some of the new buyers agents out there who are hungry and ready for new business.  Go to www.hud.gov to find out which homes are available in your area.”

Craigslist Ad Example:

I do Short Sales. I take out small ads in the local paper, advertise on Craig’s list, etc. Last month I changed my online name on several local chat rooms I visit. The flood gates opened and questions flew!

Last month I picked up 1 new listing and 3 leads. It also allows me to tell people about the local market and how the correct realtor (me!) can help them solve their housing problems. Recently I have been getting e-mails from all over the state asking my advice. This has added to my business with no cost. Now within minutes of going on-line the IM’s start.

By the way, I closed on the 1 listing last week!

Here’s Rick’s ad: