Can’t sell your home? Give it away! More and more homeowners are utilizing new and creative methods of “selling” homes in a recession in an effort to be proactive as the country continues to struggle with the economy. With the problems many are having purchasing homes and getting loans, these creative ways are becoming more popular and are receiving a lot of interest and participation, according to their sponsors/organizers. Although these methods are not new, in the past, the majority are rarely completed successfully due to a variety of reasons. The trend seems to be that raffles and contests are popping up more and more on the internet as a method of selling homes in a tight economy and are now seeing success.
In states where raffles are illegal (unless attached to a charity), others are opting for contests of skill, in particular essay contests although there are also other creative contests ongoing. One such essay contest, on the leading edge of this trend is www.WinHawaiianHome.com and will run until 8/11/09. Although not officially attached to a charity, the sponsor has decided to give back to the community via a $30,000 donation to the local schools, which are suffering budget cuts. Essay 101 is a contest of skill, where anyone (21 years old or older) can write a short essay (101 words or less) and pick from two topics. For a $101 entry fee, entrants get a chance to win a brand new, custom home on the Big Island of Hawaii. The contest is open worldwide, but essays must be submitted in English, and must be original work. 101 finalists will be chosen and then judged by community leaders - teachers. For those shivering in record-breaking cold climate right now, it might be interesting to note that the chances of winning this prize are better than any state lottery. I entered! I researched them and checked them out... so wish me luck!

Reply