Trend Surfacing - Selling Homes in a Recession - Raffles & Contests

July 30, 2009 - PRLog -- 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.

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 http://www.WinHawaiianHome.com and will run until 8/11/09. It is sponsored by Sheri Smith and John Williams and although not officially attached to a charity, the couple has decided to give back to the community by donating $30,000 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. The chances of winning this prize are better than any state lottery.

This home offered in Essay 101 (affectionately called the “Sweetheart Cottage” due to its many design details) was built by Smith’s husband, John Williams, a local builder, with the goal of selling it and using the proceeds to finish construction of their castle (http://www.CastleInHawaii.com), a future vacation rental or bed and breakfast. The couple has plans to write an e-book to share their method with others to try to turn the economy around, one house at a time.

This contest was covered by local Hawaiian television KGMB9 and has ignited a controversy storm on the internet with both passionate supporters and skeptics sparring about its legality - involving government agencies and authorities. WinHawaiianHome.com is represented by counsel and has been reviewed by the  Prosecuting Attorney's office as well as the Department of Consumer Affairs.