A variation on #1, along with other sources like my SOI and Fsbo's.

Not going after #2, I have better things to do than dealing with first time home buyers, securing listings is far more efficient use of my time.

Market and brand yourself.  Build your network and work it.  Invest in your business.

Build the referral network by face to face contacts. Be active in the builders association and the chamber of commerce.

Find a mentor and listen intently. Then incorporate one and two! Throw three out the window!

Of the 3 choices picking only 1 I would pick number 2 but change the pitch.

Notice how I managed to use all three numbers lol 

Of those three choices? I would say number 2  ... but this alone will not build the pipeline enough to pay the bills. 

My opinion is that all new agents join a team and be mentored. Not just any team but a team with a mentor / leader that carries 15 or more listings at a time, has a business that produces 75 PLUS transaction sides a year and steadily advertises. 

2 - it would shield the conversation that they are a noob. Benefits of working with them.

Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041 1. Working your SOI is always beneficial.

SOI....

or referrals.....

It's been 25 years since I was a new agent.... and times were different then.

I believe it is about asking for the business so all 3 can work and new agents should be doing all of these and many other things.

#1 is the must because those people already know you and likely to support you by referring business to you. 

1 and 2 look good to be and 3 is for the lazy.

For some, I think they become their own "first client".    

Door #1 - worked for us!

A little of all of the above BUT they are all passive activities which may or may not result in business. I am big on direct mail but not EDDM, farming or targeted mailings would be better. Networking is key so that should be a priority along with sitting open house and doing floor time. It's all about been seen and being remembered.

SOI

I think a combination of them all, Annette; plus doing open houses for agents, volunteering and taking call time. They need to put at LEAST 40 hours into doing those things during the week. 

I think it is calling everyone you know so they know you  have a new Profession.

1.

Asking  "Do you know anyone who  could benefit through down-payment assistance?" is a novel idea. I like it.

Well I'm not seeing the 'either or" of 1 & 2; I'd combine them and use them in my own words.

#3 is tired. Not postcards, but the call to action is.

I think the first option would catch the most prospects.

If I had to say one answer based on what you have

I would go in this order

2

1

3

#1. 

When I was a new agent I did all three.  I invested heavily in personal branding and direct mail to 1,300 homes.  Working 1 or certain ... and 2 if family is of a variety that is inclined to help in any way.  Not all families are June and Ward Cleaver - like.