ByPatti Greco , Greco Writing

atural promotional opportunities present themselves during the holiday season -- ideas often overlooked by communities owners, managers, and staff.

I. Organize a house-decorating contest -- with a prize($100. off one month's rent) for the best home display. Call the local newspaper ahead of time, describe your creative contest, and ask if their local reporter wants to choose the winner or winners(3rd party judge). Or stage and publicize one evening where neighbors are invited to drive through the community, then call the office with their choices by a certain deadline(Mention considerate, show driving -- 1 night only). What a nice way to show off your community to potential new residents! This single agenda inspires: A) Pride in home ownership, neat front lawns. B) Interest from the outside community in the beauty of this community. C) Good feelings between management and residents -- the prize! D) Possible local P.R. and photos. NOTE: An alternate prize could be your community's contribution of a holiday meal, clothes and toys to a needy family.

II. Community managers could send a holiday card or postcard to their prospective mailing list. Make it unusual enough and people who once inquired about your community may hang this on their refrigerators(for all their holiday guests to see.

III. Use the high spirits of the holidays to remind residents to be considerate of their neightbors (Have you been naughty or nice? ).

IV. Host a holiday Open House. Make it an annual tradition. Invite the Mayor, town leaders, and prepare a brief, colorful talk on the benefits and value of manufactured homes.

V. Community Owners might send holiday thank you cards or gifts to all their on-site managers. Send a leather calendar or other unique gift to the top managers, with a special letter of recognition.

VI. Place a holiday REWARDS ad in The Journal, Merchandiser, Community Management Magazine naming your top community managers and thanking them.Plan this advertising as a surprise for them!

For more promotional ideas for
Spring, Summer and Fall, contact:

Patti Greco,   GRECO WRITING
8 Wintergreen Court
Lunenburg, MA 01462
978-582-0961,   FAX: 978-582-0399
Email: patti@mfdhousing.com