BiggerPockets

Could go either way. You might get a P.O'ed owner when knocking on doors. By mailing you have a lot of competition and spend more money, yet at the same time you save time. If you have time and no money, it might be worth a shot. The seller should remember you b/c not many knock on doors. Most will agree that mailing pre foreclosures is your best bet.

I like the door to door concept. Usually when I go door to door good things happen. I recommend that you find an area / subdivision that has a high foreclosure rate then work it.

I remember when I was younger and did a lot of door to door canvassing there were several things we did like clockwork. One...., like Jason stated was to carry a pen and a legal pad and make sure it's not blank on the top page. Write down a couple of names and street names in the neighborhood so that they can glance at it when they open the door. People sometimes feel more comfortable talking to you if they feel that their neighbors are doing the same. Make sure you maximize your time with door hangers for the houses that don't answer.

I remember how we used to fight over the houses that had christmas lights still up in the middle of summer.....lol, they were usually lay-downs.

Anyway, it's great exercise and a good way to obtain top of mind awareness in a market area.

Learn to read body language. Then it's easier to tell when you're about to get punched in the mouth!! Meet alot of pi**ed off people out there. It is good to talk to people face to face though.

I would use door-to door as a last option. If all other forms of communication are not working, then I would pay the owner a visit. Other than that, some people just dont understand and might take things the wrong away. Especially, when someone is inquiring about their home during dinner time.

An additional observation though...

I think door to door works well especially when you have that professional attitude emanating from within. Sometimes, or rather, most of the times, people will believe you more if you are talking to them face to face.

As well all know, there are a lot of scammers and people who take advantage of the weakness in others. The bottomline is.. door to door imbues credibility on another person. Because I believe that you wouldn't be able to talk to a person straight in their face if you have some ill motives.

Just my two cents.