"borrowing" listings for a print publication

[Gretchen333]

As I mentioned in my other thread, I'm new with NO listings. I am considering running an ad in the local freebie publication. The ad rep suggested I find some listings that would appeal to my prime demographic (first time buyers) and ask the listing agent to "borrow" them and put them in my ad.

Is this common? Will I need to explain in my email why I am asking, or do people do this all the time? Will I offend anyone by asking this? Are the listing agents likely to say yes?

Thanks!!
G

[jamesww]

As I mentioned in my other thread, I'm new with NO listings. I am considering running an ad in the local freebie publication. The ad rep suggested I find some listings that would appeal to my prime demographic (first time buyers) and ask the listing agent to "borrow" them and put them in my ad.

Is this common? Will I need to explain in my email why I am asking, or do people do this all the time? Will I offend anyone by asking this? Are the listing agents likely to say yes?

Thanks!!
G

It is very common. They do it frequently but you will still have to explain yourself. Some agents will be offended and behave rudely. Some people are just overly uptight. Some agent will say yes especially if you offer to note that it is their listing in your ad. Then in your ad just say it is (agents first name) house. You will have much more success getting people to say yes or even respond to you if you call them.