Get that Press Release!

Want free advertising in your local paper? Many times your local publication (rural and metropolitan) are starved for "local interest" stories. Understanding how to get recognized in your paper can net you exposure and even some credibility by the readers, so long as the newspaper article is positive.

How to get a press release!

• Write the article yourself
  This is probably the hardest part. The editor will usually edit some, or even interview you and edit, but it has to be written as a whole upon presentation.
• Grab the readers attention
  The first line or two has to grab the reader and intrigue them to read on. It's not about you, its about a topic that interest the reader (your name and company just happens to be part of the news article). Don't be afraid to attempt the tag line (headline) yourself.
• If it's not news, its not going to Press
  You can't just talk about what you have accomplished, or a new service you offer. You have to create the news for the current market. Is it worth publishing?
• Don't give up easily
  If you start to doubt your news story then look at the recent paper in the real estate section. Go online and look at archives of your real estate section. You'll be surprised that your news story may be more interesting than some of the past articles.
  

Once you have your story, take a few pictures of yourself representing the story. Call the news editor for the Real Estate section of your local newspaper and inquire about sending them a news article about (topic) to see if they would consider the story news worthy. Do not email them attachments and news story without getting their permission first, else it may not even reach them.

Sometimes, they will cut out portions and run the article. They also, may want to come out to an actual job you are on because they don't like to stage anything. For instance, if you are talking about radon testing, they would want to come out to a real home being tested for radon to take a picture. They will not likely want to stage the picture say in your friends house.

Here is an example of a topic that can be re-visited in your local paper from time to time:

• Radon testing. (example intro)Winter months mean higher "Radon" in some homes. Besides the worry of higher heating bills in the winter, homes that are well insulated can not only hold the heat in, but also trap radon gas in your home. The EPA considers a measurement of 4.0 or higher unsafe and radon is believed to be responsible for....etc.............Russell Buchanan of HomeBuyers Inspection says he tests for radon often when performing a home inspection. "Many buyers are aware of the dangers of radon and do not want to purchase a home without testing for it" says Buchanan. It is estimated that ...number of homes......have radon ......The average cost to test for radon varies. "We actually charge less for a radon test if we are performing a home inspection because it saves a trip charge" say Buchanan. Placing the test requires a period of time usually 2-4 days in the home undisturbed. Then a return trip to the home to pick up the test. ....Radon levels can vary in the home throughout the year and in winter months.......etc.

Some other ideal topics are: Energy, Thermal imaging technology used in home inspections, Re-financing, Sellers inspection in a down market, 10 ways a home seller can reduce the impact of a home inspection, The current market based on inspections, Value of a home inspection, Negotiating a better price with a home inspection, Sell your home quicker with a home inspection first, "Hi Tech" inspections can now provide a "See the home inspection link" that can be displayed online at your real estate listing.