Cold Calling Owners

[KC Morgan]

Hi Guys,

I have found a property that appears on the surface to be a cherry deal! It's been vacant for almost 4 years, looks quite distressed on the exterior and peeking through windows, but from my limited and inexperience perspective, seems to have really good bones. I know they went through a divorce about 4 years ago which I presume is why the house was left in such a state of disarray. It's in a gated community that is difficult to get into, and all the postings on the house pointing prospective buyers led to dead ends. It's been very difficult to find contact information. I've been searching for the owners number since December and I think I finally secured a phone number via the gate call box and his voicemail which says his number. I have since called his number multiple times but just get his voicemail each time. My question is, should I leave a message stating I want to buy his house and can pay cash, or just keep trying to call in hopes that he will pick up one of these times? If I should leave a message, any tips on what to say? Thanks guys!

[Julie Marquez]

Congrats, Detective!

I'd leave a voicemail, but with a different message. First, I just say that I'm interested in connecting with him in regards to this house at this address. Then I'd say who I am (ie a local real estate investor), and that I just love to chat with him, or get connected with someone in regards to the house (if that number isn't actually the direct line to him). Of course you want to buy his house for cash, but first I'd build up some report and hear his story, and then give him a solution to his problem. I'd leave the message a little more open ended, and more warm toned than just "Hi, I want to buy your house." Basically, your goal is to connect, listen to him, and then offer a customized solution. Good luck!