This question seems to be a reoccurring question asked by many writers who are trying to sell a screenplay. The answer is simple; no you do not have to live in Los Angeles to be a screenwriter. There are many talented writers who have made it in this business without living in the L.A. area. So now the question becomes: how do I sell a screenplay if I don’t live in Los Angeles? Here are a few pointers and some things that can help you take the first steps on this difficult journey.

• Get ready to pitch. Just because you don’t live in L.A. doesn’t mean you won’t have to pitch your screenplay.
• Write an excellent query letter. This letter is the single most important part of selling a screenplay. This is what agents and producers will read and if they don’t like it, then you can forget about them reading your script.
• Enter competitions. Screenplay competitions are not only a great and cheap way to get your script analyzed, but also a great way to test its potential. Another added bonus is that producers are always looking at these competitions for scripts to use.

There are professionals such as Smart Girls Productions that will help you get established in the screenplay selling business. Here are some of the advantages of hiring a professional to help sell a screenplay:

• They have a wide range of contacts and they know exactly who will be more likely to look at your script.
• Normally, professionals will help you with script analysis, query letters, and pitching.

It’s not necessary to live in Los Angeles to sell a screenplay, so never let that keep you from trying to live your dream. Three final words are probably the most important you will ever hear: never give up!