Sending distressed homeowners to a pre recorded message

With so many upside down and distressed homeowners, getting more short listings in the funnel is an undeniable way to grow your business. Yet as I stated in many earlier posts, many of these homeowners are gun shy, and not may not initially open up to a stranger. The reality is, this business takes people skills, and business will not fall in your lap. A CDPE made a memorable comment... she viewed her efforts as "social work." An adept investor or realtor that can empathize with the homeowner during this difficult period of their life and help them build memories will be successful.

I spoke to a gentlemen today that is having success by sending troubled homeowners to a toll free, recorded message to hear a short message on the alternatives to foreclosure. I know what's coming next... your going to say, "Jim, that's absurd. People want to talk to a live person, they don't want to hear a machine." I've been told that already, but hear me out.

Let's say you are a distressed homeowner at your wit's end. You are eager for hope and learn how you can move on and get from underneath your hardship. You are contacted by a realtor and investor but you don't know this realtor or investor from a can of paint. You are embarrassed and hesitant to pick up the phone.

If you are a troubled homeowner that doesn't want to call up right away, chances are you'd feel more comfortable calling up a toll-free number to hear a message that informs you on the several options you have available to stave off foreclosure, the dangers of foreclosure and the benefits of a short sale. Of course, you can enable the caller to be transferred to talk to a live person.

The conventional wisdom is people don't want to hear a recorded message - they want to talk with a live person. But this may not yet be the case of a distressed homeowner. They need to be warmed first, and have a non-threatening call to action such as downloading a free report or listening to a recorded message. In this way, distressed homeowners can remain anonymous and learn more about your educational message without opening up just yet. 

There are inexpensive services that can provide the capability of a 24/7 hotline, such as Voice Nation.

Any feedback is most welcome.