Think about all the opportunities you have in your practice to give something of VALUE to your prospects and clients, without asking for something in return.

Here are some ideas:

1. Coffee Cups - why not order some coffee cups with your name and real estate company on them? Fill them with candy kisses and give one to viewers of property listings, your Sellers, and to your Buyers. You can also give them as a "congratulations" gift when Buyers buy a house from you; wrap it up with clear cellophane paper and put a pretty ribbon on it. (You don't want to "hide" your name on the cup by using regular wrapping paper.)

2. Special Occasion Giveaways - if you distribute a newsletter on a regular basis, you can plan some "giveaways" on special occasions:
   • Valentine's Day - a box of candy.

   • Easter - a basket of chocolate Easter bunnies.

   • July 4^th - a picnic basket

   • Halloween - coupons for the kids from your favorite fast food restaurant.

   Make sure you ask your newsletter subscribers to mail in their "entry" with your name and theirs on an envelope. After several times of doing this, they're sure to remember who you are and that you're giving them something without asking for anything in return.

3. Flower Seeds - I've used flower seeds before in my column. Forget-me-nots make great little gifts to put into an envelope with a short note to say, "I haven't forgotten about you; hope you haven't forgotten about me."

4. Real Estate Market Update - Everyone is interested in what's going on in the real estate market. A general market update sent out quarterly "as a service to my friends and clients."

Now why would I do all of this? It's really very simple. Obligation and reciprocation occurs any time someone feels they have received something of value from you. And interestingly, that value doesn't have to be monetary. Always let them know you're a REALTOR^® and available when it's time to buy or sell. By constantly giving without asking for anything in return, you'll be the one they call.

What do you have to lose? Try it. The results may surprise you!

See you next week.

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