Since my oldest was moving out of state for college, I wanted a professional photo of our family. Those candid shots we always try to take usually turn out horrible! Not knowing any local photographers I searched the phonebook and internet to find someone to work with.
I was interested in price, but most were comparable. One that I found and interviewed was Shan Renee . I was impressed with her website (take the time to look at her intro with sound. It’s wonderful!) I then saw that she offered 30 free 4x6 photos – which was perfect for Christmas cards since I only have 30 friends. She was also very personable and was willing to work with our completely insane schedules.
How does this apply to your mortgage business? In every way! Are you comparable on price? Make a few inquiries and see where you stand. What does your website look like? Is it compelling? Are visitors impressed enough to give you a call? Are you personable and willing to be flexible with clients schedules?
Do you offer something extra? How about a closing gift different from everyone else’s? Do you offer value by telling them how they can end annoying, unsolicited credit offers? What about your Realtors? Do you offer them something extra or help them find new clients? Do you guarantee your services? Very few of your competitors have a guarantee, use this to set yourself apart from other lenders.
I was lucky enough to find a photographer that filled all my needs…are your clients feeling this way about you? 
Bliss,
The web is a powerful tool! I found my photographer the same way via the internet. Let me recommend for those in the Dallas-Forth Worth area a great photographer. Her name is Ann Martin of Ann Martin Photography. View her site at http://www.annmartinphotography.com
Bliss, something should be noticed by your comments as well as mine. If there is not a strong recommendation by a friend or acquaintance people in the new economy will search for a professional via the web. So this should cause us to ask ourselves what is our presence like on the web? When someone sees your site are they "touching" you or just reading about you? Is it the same old stuff that you typically find or does it help the viewer feel the passion of what you offer? From my perspective of the two photographers they both show passion and professionalism. Thanks for sharing Bliss.
Kind regards,
Jeff
Jeff Payne
Chairman
JPayne Mortgage
1100 E. Campbell Road
Suite 220
Richardson, TX. 75081
Web: www.Jpaynemortgage.com
Blog: www.Jeffpayne.net
Posted by: Jeff Payne | October 23, 2006 at 12:48 AM