Yes, I love bulletin boards. Now, just so you know...I'm not talking about "electronic bulletin boards" found on the Internet. That's a different topic for another day. I'm referring to those old fashion "cork boards" that in order to post notices require the use of push pins, thumb tacks or even staples (a bulletin board no no).

Today in some cities, bulletin board marketing is so hot that there are companies that exist for the sole purpose of providing this service to people who want their signs posted on bulletin boards. These service companies also distribute your fliers in stores and shops and post them in windows and hand them out at concerts and events. In some cases they'll help design and plan your promotion and even write and distribute a press release for you.

If a service like this is not available, the bulletin board idea is still a winner. Just do it yourself! The cost is extremely low and your investment is only your time and energy. This is still one of the all time great origination ideas for Mortgage Professionals and the returns are great.

Here are a few things to think about if you're considering about implementing your bulletin board marketing program:

1. Every townhouse and condominium complex has a bulletin board. Your job, should you wish to accept it, is to find the location of that bulletin board and gain access to it. You may find it in a common laundry area or even located within the clubhouse or pool area. If so, you may need permission to gain access and post your notice. Have no fear...you'll find that this is rarely denied.Remember, you're providing a valuable financial service to the residents and the complex itself.

2. Apartment complexes also have bulletin boards. Unfortunately, you probably won't be welcomed with open arms since you're really trying to help qualified renters move out of the complex. But, I have on occasion found a forward thinking property manager that allowed my notices to be posted. Their logic: They can't prevent qualified renters from looking at home ownership as an option...so, why not allow the postings. Don't forget to remind the property manager that you track your leads and that you never forget the source of where those mortgage leads come from. I'm continually amazed at the good things that can happen when you just ask.

3. Bulletin boards can be found in hospitals, fire and police stations, Laundromats, supermarkets, local building supply stores (Are there any left?), plumbing supply, electrical supply, bookstores, company employee lounges, waiting areas, your local Dunkin Donuts (mine has a great one), and a myriad of other locations where people happen to congregate.

4. Every business has a bulletin board and it may be accessible by employees only. Should that be the case, ask an employee or the manager to post for you. Remember, you're providing a valuable service not only to their employees but to the company as well. All companies want to retain their good employees and home ownership and/or good financing guarantees they'll stay in the area for the foreseeable future.

5. The notice that you post needs to be on the small side. A full page flier is usually too big as it over powers and dominates the bulletin board. You'll probably find full page fliers removed within minutes of their placement, so don't even go there. Half page fliers are better and postcard size fliers (Avery postcards 4.25" X 5.5") are the ideal size. You could thumb tack multiple business cards or cards especially designed with your message however, your message size is severally restricted and your response will be low using this size.

6. The best responses come from fliers that have a multiple "tear offs" at the bottom. You've seen them and probably torn one off and placed it in your wallet or purse as a reminder to call. This extends the life of your little flier as it won't disappear with the first person interested in your offer.Yes, it's a pain to set up initially, but once it's done, it's done forever. Your little flier is ready to work for you for many months and years to come.

7. Lastly, visit your bulletin boards on a regular basis and treat them well. Replace notices that show wear (and tear :-) and those with only a couple tear offs remaining with brand new ones.

You've worked hard to gain access to your bulletin boards...maintain them well...and, you'll be surprised at how well they will reward you and your mortgage business with good solid mortgage leads.