If you are a real estate investor, there are several steps to keep in mind to write a pre foreclosure letterin order to maximize its effectiveness. Assuming you have already done your homework using public record information to identify likely prospects, the first step to writing this letter is to consider your audience and your budget. A pre foreclosure letter can be handwritten, typed, a professionally printed postcard or include other professionally printed brochures that describe your business.
Hand Write Unique Letters
If your approach is more casual and friendly you might want to consider taking the time to hand write each letter; many investors have reported these letters get good results because they are seen as non-threatening by the recipient. If your approach is all business but you don't have the budget or desire to pay for professionally printed materials then opt for a typed letter on white paper sent in a business sized envelope. Adding your company logo if you have one to your letterhead (easy to do with most common word processing programs) makes you look more professional.
You can use the internet to search for sample pre foreclosure letters to get some inspiration, but remember not to directly copy any letters unless the author has given permission. This letter is a sales letter, intended to get enough of the home owner's attention that they take the next step and contact you. The letter is not your entire proposal; it's purpose is uncover those people who are most likely to respond to your business proposition.
Keep it Short and to the Point
Keep the letter short, no more than 1 page and 3 paragraphs. Use the first paragraph to briefly introduce yourself and your company and state the reason the letter has been sent. Try to remember that people make decisions within mere seconds, so just the fact that they opened the envelope is a good sign, but now you have just seconds to get their attention so don't be too wordy.
The second paragraph should restate your purpose in a different way, perhaps including a very short story about how you helped someone else avoid foreclosure by purchasing their house at a mutually agreeable price. If you happen to have a one sentence testimonial from a former client, include it here.
The last paragraph should explicitly invite the reader to contact you and also outline how you plan to follow up. And then follow up! Sales is a process of effort and more effort.
