The popularity of essay contests has increased over the years because the prizes are typically valuable and the entry fee is low. If you have ever seen the movie "The Spitfire Grill", you are aware of the mechanics of these types of contests. A home or business owner will offer their asset to the chosen winner in exchange for submitting an essay and a small entry fee. A limit is usually placed on the number of contestants, which increases the odds of winning while collecting more money than an outright sale. It creates a win-win situation for both the contest host and the entrant.

Winning prizes have included a 188-year old country inn, an Irish pub, airplanes, campgrounds, houses, cars, scholarships and other incredible assets.

So here we have a situation where a person is given the opportunity to win a house, a business, or some other valuable asset. Just what does it take to actually win? Here are some tips that will increase your chances of coming out on top and perhaps living your dream.

Read the rules. The rules are typically very specific. Follow them to the letter or you might possibly be disqualified. Submit your entry according to the prescribed method. This is no time to guess or assume. Don't leave anything to chance. If the contest calls for an essay of 200 words, get as close to 200 words without going over. If there is a certain method of payment of the entry fee, do exactly that. If you need clarification on a particular rule, contact the host for more information.

Submit your entry well ahead of the deadline. Last minute entries may not arrive in time. If the fee is paid by check, give it time to clear to avoid an embarrassing situation.

If the contest allows or requires handwritten entries, make sure it is legible. If typewritten, use spell checker for punctuation, grammar, and spelling. Have someone proofread your essay.

Be creative. Creativity plays a major role in the essay contest. Your essay must stand out. Use your strengths. For example, if you are a poet, consider using prose in your submission.

Be original. Try to create an angle that is out of the ordinary. Use vivid descriptions. A thesaurus is an invaluable resource. Write from your heart. Remember that there may be hundreds or thousands of entries, and the judges will spot insincerity.

If you have more than one idea, find out if multiple entries are allowed. Many contests do not limit the number of times you may enter. Keep in mind that multiple entries may require separate submission and entry fees.

Important: If you smoke, be sure that your entry does not smell of smoke. Paper retains this odor, and it may turn the judges against you.

Using these tips will improve your chances of winning. The rest is up to you. As the old adage states: "You can't win if you don't enter." Good Luck