Posted by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 9:35am
Msg #131877

Mkting to Lenders...got my work cut out for me

I am looking to kicking up my marketing to the lenders directly and work with them for all out of title closings...have everything in place, my 'meet the public outfit'; my handouts (prescription bottles full of little blue pills to cure the end of month ills)...(no not those!)...my fliers. Now I'm looking at the MLD list here in Nevada. Oy...you think WE are plentiful. In the Nevada area, there are a total of 1070 brokers (serving the entire state, not just Southern Nevada). Take into account each brokers MAY have about 100 or so lenders under him/her, and there are approximately 107,000 mortgage loan officers in the state. I'm now trying to break down the brokers in my general area (so to cut down on driving)...this may take a few hours (ya think!)...stand by for more exciting news with "The Signing Doc"...

Reply by Kelly M Robertson on 7/9/06 10:20am
Msg #131885

Doc - why limit yourself just to Nevada?

Get a Jumbo Postcard with a sharp graphic on the front and market out-of-state as well. I've had great luck with this type of campaign in PA, for example. A couple bucks can make you thousands.

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 10:58am
Msg #131888

Re: Doc - why limit yourself just to Nevada?

good idea...but for now I will stick to the local market...let 'word of mouth' referrals from lender/brokers HERE be used to 'talk me up' in the outer markets. For example, one of the brokers I used to work for as a LO, can do loans in 14 or more states. Which means, that if I 'cure all their ills' here, THEY will refer me to their out of state offices when THEY need to do loans here. Also, the out of state offices I can't come back every week or so and 'refill their prescription'...which keeps me in front of them and keeps me "...gentle on their mind" (sorry Glenn Campbell).. I just took my MLD list, arranged it by zip code, and i ended up with a total of 143 broker/banker offices. Taking a conservative guesstimate of the number of LO's in each office (let's say 100 or so)...that means there are a potential LO's who need my services, in JUST my immediate area of 14,300. Figuring on a low side, we are still looking at about 5,000-10,000 active lenders. I would say I have my work cut out for me in JUST my local area. I am using the Zip codes close to me, since I offer "free" pickup and delivery of docs. This way, I don't have to shlep all the way across the valley for docs. (thank G-d for my Prius). "Doc"

Reply by Kelly M Robertson on 7/9/06 11:15am
Msg #131894

I think that Free Pick Up & Delivery is Hurting Yourself

AND other LSA's, Doc -- Gas is way too high for that. In theory, it sounds great but in the long run, you're going to regret it (at least that's what I think) and you'll hurt other LSA's that are trying to get some respect for all we do PLUS get the fees WE DESERVE. I might add that I'm not too sure that title/escrow really appreciates that offer - I'd just include pick up and delivery in your price, let them know that and not say i'ts "free". Just my opinion Doc - you have some great ideas and I'm sure you'll be successful.

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 11:25am
Msg #131902

Re: I think that Free Pick Up & Delivery is Hurting Yourself

Kelly...you're right...I offer free pickup and delivery, but the cost is added into my base fees, therefore, if I get the docs...or they have the docs already, my fee is the same. IF I have to print the docs, THEN there is additional charge for THAT. The main reason I offer it, is due to one LO I work with, who...in my opinion, is not doing things on the up and up for his clients. By ME getting and returning the docs, then I'M sure that they are getting a FULL set of docs and NOT just the docs the LO wants to give them. I know it is not my problem if they do or don't, but...sorry that's the way I was 'brung up'...I don't think I hurt other SA's because, as we have said over and over on this board..."it's MY business" and I run it the way I feel that I can make a profit. Customer service and courtesy go hand in hand in ANY business, but especially in a service oriented business. You (the big you) need to find your niche, the thing that puts YOU in their minds. That is the whole story behind the personna of "Doc Stuart" The Signing Doc. "I Make House Calls", my email address, even wearing a lab coat with the name "Doc" Stuart, Siging Agent embroidered on it, makes me unique. BrendaTx and others; Bob Berg for one, talk about the importance of branding. If this small service makes them think of "Doc" Stuart, then it is a cheap price to pay. gas is currently $2.85 here and again, I have a hybrid so that makes it easier. Sorry for getting long, but I hope this helps you and other understand 'the method to my madness'

"Doc" Stuart Board certified in Notarology specializing in the treatment of difficult loan documents.

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 11:38am
Msg #131907

Re: Doc you run your business as you see fit and I think you

have some great ideas....also I think most folks understand nothing is free if you've been around the block a time or two. It's a selling point, a gimmick and it gets one's attention. Once it is all broken down everything is generally accounted for and smart business person knows to read the fine print....
Hurting other signing agents, sadly the ones you least expect will take a stab any chance they get......Hint Hint....like folks driving totally out of their area to work in another's area because they are slow.......I guess we need to view it, as all fair game.....

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 11:47am
Msg #131915

Re: Doc you run your business as you see fit and I think you

<<like folks driving totally out of their area to work in another's area because they are slow>>

you're right. Anytime you see "but wait, you also get..." or "return it to us for a FULL refund....(small print) less s/h". Ain't nothing FREE, but it's the ILLUSION of 'free' that will help them remember me. Your point above is also well taken. There are many NSA in the Las Vegas area, and there is even one in my synagogue congregation. The congregation has other LO's besides my wife in them. I will not solicit them directly because, the OTHER Signing Agent has already contacted them and has an arrangement with them. I will not go behind her back and negotiate a lower fee JUST to get the business. It is NOT ethical. It may be the way SOME SA's work (apologies to Riders in the Sky)..."but it's NOT the COWBOY Way!" would'nt be prudent...not at this juncture... As I stated, I can only speak for myself in the Las Vegas area. You can see from my previous posts, there are literally thousands of LO's to go to...not even going to the Title Companies which are numerous. There are enough 'pies' for us all to get our 'fingers' in that there is NO reason (if you are moral and ethical) to undercut a fellow NSA. IMHO.

"Doc" Stuart

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 12:47pm
Msg #131925

Re: Yep Doc I totally agree...... n/m

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 11:23am
Msg #131899

Re: Doc-I like your thinking...... n/m

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 11:25am
Msg #131903

Danke (thank you thank you very much) LkArrowhd/CA n/m

Reply by Joe Ewing on 7/9/06 12:17pm
Msg #131919

Re: Danke (thank you thank you very much) LkArrowhd/CA

When I was a kid growing up in the New Orleans area there was this kook on TV that dressed in a lab coat, a set of fake teeth and a fright wig. He called himself Morgus the Magnificent! His assistant "Chopslee" was a big guy in a Henchman's costume . Lots of dry ice in alcohol, skulls and cobwebs. I like to think of him as "Elvira's" dad.

Free pick up and delivery or not, if you wear that lab coat into a borrowers house while carrying paper for a LO and the LO finds out. I bet you his next loan goes to a different title company.

Reply by hcampersFL on 7/9/06 12:27pm
Msg #131920

I don't think so Doc. I think you have a gimmick and it makes

you stand out from the crowd.
It is your "trademark" and I'm sure locals that hire you get your shtick. Your in Las Vegas for crying out loud. Its full of gimmicks on every corner. You are reaching your market in a distinctive way. It leaves an impression.
Is it the way I would do it? Maybe.
Its your business and if it wasn't working you would have changed tactic's long ago.
Good luck!

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 12:30pm
Msg #131922

Re: I don't think so Doc. I think you have a gimmick and it

Thanks hcampersFL...I was writing my reply to Joe when you sent your message, but it seems we are on the same wavelength. Like I said, it may not work in Hannibal MO (no offense), it may not work on Omaha NE, but here in Vegas.......need I say more?!

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 12:29pm
Msg #131921

Re: Danke (thank you thank you very much) LkArrowhd/CA

yes and there was also Bill Nye The Science Guy, but I think your analogy misses the mark. My lab coat is of the size a dentist would wear. Zipper up front, two large pockets at bottom and a place about shoulder height for pens/pencils. Some people have spent money on polo shirts or short sleeve dress shirts with their name and logo on it to wear at work or as 'free advertising' when not 'working'. My coat falls about 2 inces or so below my belt. This is more professional looking than a lab coat would appear. (this is the reason I didn't go with a lab coat). Also, you have to remember Joe, "this is Vegas Baby." We have Elvis on every corner...and our own "happiest mayor in the whole world" Oscar Goodman. You need to know your 'audience' and dress the way the area dresses. This is a very laid back area, casinos, dealers, show people, backstage people..."and the rest". We are the home of "The Chopper" (on A&E). I wear the coat and bring my prescription bottles of blue pills to the LO's when I go for my meet and greet. The ones who may object, then I advise them that I can dress in a shirt and tie if that makes them 'feel better.' So, thanks for your concern Joe, but here in Vegas, I don't think it's a problem. "Doc" (I'm not a doctor and I don't play one on tv)

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 12:54pm
Msg #131927

Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, lordy I married there

32 years ago and it has only become more outrageous......one must go with the flow...in some situations.... It brings the mind the movie "Goodfellas" and in the end the changes that took place from old Vegas to the new Vegas......Things change times change.....Gimmick is the key word here.....

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 12:58pm
Msg #131929

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, lordy I married th

you are spot on about Vegas....I used to sing in a barbershop quartet and we called ourselves "Bugsy's Boys" (think Bugsy Siegal)...and all dressed in fedoras and 'gangster coats'...you market yourself for your area...in CA when I was growing up, we had Cal Worthington and his dog "Spot" (which usually was an elephant or something else large)..."Mad Man Muntz" (the 8 track king)...and we all know Earl Shieb "I'll paint ANY car ANY color for $29.95" Look at Ron Popeil...anyway, I wax eloquent. TTFN (ta ta for now)

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 1:01pm
Msg #131930

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, lordy I married th

That is so funny I was going to mention Cal....... and yes I know them all very well.....from their advertising that is.....the images last a life time as meaningless as they are in your life.....but you never forget them.

Reply by BrendaTx on 7/9/06 1:05pm
Msg #131931

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, lordy I married th

Regional concepts are always a consideration.

This is an interesting thread!!

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 1:15pm
Msg #131935

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, lordy I married th

brenda-le...always good to hear your 2 cents worth...

Reply by BrendaTx on 7/9/06 1:25pm
Msg #131936

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, ...Doc...

Thank you, Doc.

I have gleaned new thoughts from reading this nice thread of information and opinion to replace the timeworn others. Great point / counter-point stuff here today.

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/9/06 1:28pm
Msg #131937

Re: Re:You are right Doc, it's Las Vegas, ...Doc...

I will be taking a pic of moi in my 'doctor' coat soon...you want a copy sent to you so you can see "The Mad Baritone" for yourself (my nom de voice) when I was in the barbershoppers)

Reply by Beverly Nichols on 7/9/06 1:36pm
Msg #131939

Brenda I put Doc's tactics in line with your tag line " Deep

in the heart of Texas" Customers will remember these things and when they are looking for someone to fill a job they will remember the "tag line or gimmick" before they remember only the person. We should all have something that makes us stand out. Even if it is only "Nichols Notary".

Reply by LkArrowhd/CA on 7/9/06 1:52pm
Msg #131941

Re: Doc I would love a pic, do send n/m

Reply by christiSocal on 7/10/06 12:15am
Msg #132016

Cal's still around, I haven't see spot for awhile though! n/m

Reply by Signing_Doc on 7/10/06 1:16am
Msg #132028

Re: Cal's still around, I haven't see spot for awhile though

ok...i'll bite...what am I missing here?

Reply by christiSocal on 7/10/06 2:17am
Msg #132032

Cal Worthington

He still sells cars! I see his commercials late night. You can go to calworthington.com and see old outtakes of his spot commercials. Just reminiscing with you