Abstract: Methods for preparing a catalyst precursor material from dihalo-substituted metalloids are provided. The methods In include mixing a first solution of a halogenated alkane, at least one solvent, and a first component selected from a dihalo-substituted-group-14 metalloid or an organolithium reagent in a first reaction zone. Continuously adding the first solution to a second reaction zone, and continuously adding a second solution to the second reaction zone. The second solution including at least one solvent and a second component of either the dihalo-substituted-group-14 metalloid or the organolithium reagent, the second component is different from the first component. Mixing the first solution and the second solution in the second reaction zone.