Is this cheeky/ have you heard of it before?

supersaversarah

A firends of mine's parents sold there house via this method....

I been looking at properties for what seems like forever....I have finally found the street I want to buy on. Problem is that none of the houses are for sale.

Would it be completely inappropriate of me to drop a letter through their letter boxes, saying something along the lines off...

If you decide to sell in the next 3 months, please contact me as I would be very interested. P.S I am not a property developed'

Is it too cheeky? Totally rude? or has anyone else done it before? Any success stories?

silvercar

That's how I found my buyers!

They put a little note through the door saying they were looking in the area and giving their first names and mobile number.

When I lost my buyer I found the note and sent them a text.

They came round, we had a deal. (hopefully!).

I must say we get these sort of notes every couple of months, so plenty people do it.

Be prepared to wait for a response. My people left their note 6 weeks before I was in a position to ring them!

reverie

I think it's a really good idea, with the amount estate agents charge to sell, I am sure people would be keen if you can convince them that you are genuine. Good luck!

annie-c

Phil and Kirsty (from Location, Location, Location) recommend this in their book How to Buy a House. It is a long shot, but has to be worth a try!!!

bobsa1

A friend of mine did this and found a property, however 2 weeks before exchange it fell through and the solicitor did say that this can often happen when you advertise, as you put the idea of moving into someones head and then they change their mind at the last minute.

Having said that I would still give it a try.

supersaversarah

Right, well I am going to pen a letter.

Its just down the road from where I am now (living with my parents). Should I post them via Royal Mail, or put them through by hand?

bobsa1

By hand, then if anyone is out in their garden you have have a friendly chat and ask them if they know of any properties that people will be putting on the market soon.

Say you are local etc.

supersaversarah

ok will do.

Just hope they dont chase me down the street with a rake instead

annie-c

Yes, sorry to go on about Phil and Kirsty, but they advise dressing quite smartly, to impress, and delivering by hand, so as to take advantage of opportunities to chat.

supersaversarah

Good point. I'd have probably gone in my trackies after work

ETA : I dont go to work in my trackies, I meant after I'd got home and changed. Just wnated to make that clear.

silvercar

Should I post them via Royal Mail, or put them through by hand?

Three lines of type on a slip of paper, not headed notepaper in a lined envelope!

Bear in mind that you will have no idea what the interior of these houses are like and whether they are actually in your price range.

Also, if you have a whole street to do, you don't want to waste time talking to people who are just curious to know what you will pay. Be prepared for people in houses worth £120,000 to say they'll sell if you give them £200,000.