How To Find Wholesale Properties: 13 Ways To Find Real Estate Deals

The popularity of real estate wholesaling is a tribute to its viability and potential profitability as a real estate investment strategy. While it is essential to understand how to complete a wholesale real estate deal, your knowledge of this investment is incomplete until you know how to find wholesale properties.

Distressed, outdated, or damaged properties are becoming more accessible, and the time has never been riper for investors to capitalize on them. But how does one pivot from ideas to action?

Wholesaling isn't just about transactions, It's the finesse of locating undervalued properties, the diamonds in the rough, that can be wholesaled. While traditional avenues like the MLS offer the best pathways, the true art is leveraging unconventional methods to identify those elusive wholesale deals.

In this guide, you'll learn exactly what wholesale properties are and how to find properties to wholesale - whether you're a retail buyer, seasoned investor, or new wholesaler. Let's dive right in!

• What Are Wholesale Properties?
• 13 Strategies To Find Properties For Wholesaling
• Can You Find Distressed Properties To Wholesale With No Money?
• How To Find Wholesale Deals That Will Turn A Profit
• Final Thoughts On Finding Wholesale Properties

Ready to take your real estate investing to the next level? Learning how to find wholesale properties is just the beginning. Schedule a FREE Strategy Session with us to learn how our Ultimate Investor Program can unlock even more opportunities and strategies in the Virginia market. We'll also help you tailor an investment strategy that's right for you. Don't miss out—take the next step toward maximizing your investment potential today!

*Before we begin our guide on finding properties to wholesale, we invite you to view our video on How To Wholesale Real Estate Step by Step (IN 21 DAYS OR LESS)! Host and CEO of Real Estate Skills, Alex Martinez, provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for beginners to start wholesaling real estate!

What Are Wholesale Properties?

At their core, wholesale properties are often distressed properties, making them invaluable assets for those diving into the wholesaling realm. It's crucial to note that the term "wholesaling" isn't a descriptor for the property itself but denotes the strategic approach investors adopt to profit from such properties.

Wholesale properties encompass a broad range—ranging from single-family dwellings and multi-unit residences to rental establishments and even commercial properties. What they have in common is the presence of highly motivated sellers seeking to expedite the selling process.

There are two prevalent strategies that property wholesalers typically employ to navigate wholesale property deals:

• Assigning the Contract: This is the more favored method among many investors. Here, instead of purchasing the property outright, wholesalers strike an agreement with the owner, securing the rights to buy the property. This right is then sold to another potential buyer. In essence, the wholesaler serves as an intermediary, bridging the gap between the seller and the final buyer.
• Double Closing: In this approach, the wholesaler initially purchases the property and then swiftly sells it to another buyer. While it involves two transactions—the purchase and the resale—it's a strategy that can yield significant profits if executed correctly.

In both strategies, the aim remains the same: acquire properties at a lower cost and sell them for a profit. However, the pathways to achieve this end goal differ, with each offering its unique advantages.

Read Also: Wholesale Contracts In Real Estate (2024): FREE PDF & Template

How To Find Properties To Wholesale: 13 Expert Strategies

Unlocking the potential of wholesaling in real estate hinges on one crucial aspect: how to find houses to wholesale of how to find wholesale houses. For beginners wondering how wholesalers find properties, these often come in the form of distressed real estate—properties teetering on the brink of tax or mortgage pre-foreclosure or those that have already been repossessed. Learning how to find wholesale deals and how to find real estate wholesalers can be essential strategies. Partnering with local networks and platforms to find wholesalers real estate can also provide leads on properties that fit wholesaling criteria, maximizing the chances of a successful deal.

A property that has been "listed" refers to one that's been added to this extensive database. It's crucial to note that the MLS isn't just accessible by anyone—it requires the expertise of a licensed real estate professional. This exclusivity comes from its restricted access, necessitating membership and associated fees. For those asking, how do real estate wholesalers find deals or seeking real estate wholesalers near me, the MLS can be a powerful tool in locating properties for wholesale. But what makes the MLS such a vital resource for wholesale property seekers?

1. Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
2. Foreclosures
3. Pre-Foreclosure Homes
4. Auctions
5. Local Marketing
6. Family & Probate Attorneys
7. Direct Mail
8. For-Sale-By-Owners (FSBO)
9. Driving For Dollars
10. Networking Events
11. Local Banks
12. Cold-Calling
13. Paid Data Resources

Read Also: How To Find Cash Buyers For Wholesaling Real Estate (2024) 

1. Multiple Listing Service (MLS)

The Multiple Listing Service, or MLS, stands as a pivotal tool in the world of real estate. Established by cooperative real estate brokers, the MLS is a consolidated database, housing detailed information about properties up for sale. Its primary objective is to aid brokers in viewing one another's property listings, streamlining the process of matching prospective homebuyers with sellers.

A property that has been "listed" refers to one that's been added to this extensive database. It's crucial to note that the MLS isn't just accessible by anyone—it requires the expertise of a licensed real estate professional. This exclusivity comes from its restricted access, necessitating membership and associated fees. But what makes the MLS such a vital resource for wholesale property seekers?

The MLS provides unparalleled exposure. It's a hotbed for property listings, both regular and distressed. And because of its prominence, those who venture into the MLS realm are likely to face fierce competition, especially from seasoned veterans. Thus, collaborating with a real estate agent or licensee can give you a strategic edge, amalgamating your strengths.

However, not all that glitters on the MLS is gold. While it can be a treasure trove of undervalued or distressed properties, it's essential to have a discerning eye. Not every listing translates into a lucrative wholesale opportunity. Given the presence of real estate agents, the wholesaling process, when sourced from the MLS, might present a unique set of challenges. There might be additional steps and protocols to adhere to.

Yet, amidst these intricacies, with the right property in sight and a seller motivated to make a deal, the MLS can emerge as a potent source for wholesale leads.

While the MLS stands as the best way to find properties for wholesaling, it usually requires access from a licensed real estate professional. However, Real Estate Skills has proven methods to get access to the MLS even without a license! Find out how to get access in our video below.

2. Foreclosures

A foreclosed property is the result of a borrower’s failure to keep up with their mortgage obligations. Each state’s foreclosure laws may differ, but most will commence a foreclosure filing when a mortgage goes 90 days delinquent. There are a number of free websites dedicated to listings of foreclosures and properties in various states of ownership:

• Free Wholesale Foreclosure Listings
  • Equator.com
  • Freddie Mac’s HomeSteps

• Government Wholesale Foreclosure Sites
  • HUD.gov
  • IRS Seizures

• Subscription Wholesale Foreclosure Sites
  • Foreclosure.com
  • RealtyTrac

Read Also: Foreclosure.com Review

3. Pre-Foreclosure Homes

Pre-foreclosure refers to the stage in the foreclosure process when proceedings are still pending. It's the critical period initiated by the lender, marked by the filing of a lis pendens (in a judicial foreclosure) or a notice-of-default (in nonjudicial foreclosure scenarios). But why are these properties particularly enticing for wholesale investors?

The essence of pre-foreclosure lies in the property's potential to become a short sale. The clock is ticking during this phase, leaving property owners in a race against time to salvage any residual equity. As the sand slips through the hourglass, these sellers become increasingly motivated, desperate to finalize a sale before foreclosure reaches its inevitable conclusion. This high motivation level creates a fertile ground for wholesale opportunities.

However, sourcing wholesale deals from pre-foreclosures isn't a straightforward endeavor. Unlike properties from private sellers, pre-foreclosures require the bank's stamp of approval to wrap up the transaction. While it might seem that banks would eagerly facilitate such deals, it's not always the case. Certain banks impose restrictions, prohibiting buyers from reselling or assigning the property within a set timeframe—often extending beyond what a typical real estate investor would find palatable.

The world of pre-foreclosure wholesaling demands meticulous attention to detail. Prospective wholesalers must invest time in comprehending each bank's contractual language related to short sales, ensuring the possibility of wholesaling remains on the table.

Moreover, it's crucial to grasp the nuances of a real estate wholesale contract. While the road might seem riddled with obstacles, the sheer complexity of pre-foreclosure deals could deter competitors, granting budding investors a clear pathway to potentially untapped wholesale leads. Popular platforms where one can access pre-foreclosure listings include PropertyRadar, Realtor.com, LoopNet, and Movoto.

4. Auctions

Real estate auctions offer a unique and transparent platform for various sellers, be it homeowners, lenders, government agencies, or even homebuilders, to showcase their properties to the public. But what makes them so attractive to real estate wholesalers? The primary allure lies in the nature of these properties: they're usually distressed, competitively priced, and in need of some tender loving care.

The bidding process typically starts with an opening price, set to cover the outstanding loan balance of a property in default. However, owing to the competitive nature of auctions, it's not uncommon for the final sale price to surpass this initial mark significantly. As a potential buyer, it's crucial to come well-prepared. Equip yourself with thorough research, set clear boundaries for your bids, and always be ready with a cash payment, as most auction wins demand immediate cash settlements.

Diving into the world of auctions can seem intimidating, but resources like the Treasury Department can be an invaluable guide, offering insights and listings for potential wholesale properties. Moreover, numerous federal and quasi-federal agencies host auctions, such as the FDIC, USDA, and Public Land broadening the horizons for wholesalers in search of their next big deal.

5. Local Marketing

Local real estate marketing can often be a great way to start and develop a database of properties to utilize for current or future wholesale real estate market deals. There are affordable marketing options to catch the attention of homeowners or sellers who are looking to unload a property off-market properties. 

Marketing can take on many forms – from local T.V. advertising to simple bandit signs; there are many cost-effective ways to attract potential new business. Bulk order bandit signs of getting the best price per sign.

The reality is that a sign placed at the right intersection may be more effective than some of the more traditional ways to find wholesale properties. Other options include a magnetic car sign or door hangers, to name a few.

In addition to traditional marketing, targeting distressed homeowners can be highly effective for local wholesaling. Look for properties with signs of neglect—like overgrown lawns or structural damage—which may indicate motivated sellers.

Visiting local courthouses can also uncover leads by identifying foreclosure filings, probate cases, or tax liens, which often involve owners eager to sell quickly. Building relationships with local real estate agents, contractors, and community groups can also help uncover off-market deals and boost your local presence.

6. Family & Probate Attorneys

Visiting local attorneys who specialize in family or probate law is a smart way to find wholesale properties because these legal professionals are often facilitating the sale of a property that is due to a death, divorce, or separation. These property sales are often last minute and defined by a sense of urgency. There are online opportunities such as USprobateleads.com, Successorsdata.com, and Batch Leads.

Family and probate attorneys can be excellent sources of potential wholesale deals. These attorneys work with clients dealing with inherited properties or properties involved in divorce, probate, or family disputes. Often, the parties involved may prefer to sell these properties quickly rather than go through prolonged legal or financial responsibilities, making them ideal leads for wholesalers.

By building relationships with local family and probate attorneys, you can gain early insights into properties that may soon be available and present a solution to clients who are motivated to sell. Networking with these attorneys through local events, business meetups, or direct outreach can be a valuable addition to your lead generation strategy.

7. Direct Mail

Direct mail, a time-tested strategy leveraging the U.S. Post Office, has been an invaluable tool in the real estate realm for numerous years. Contrary to the belief that direct mail is a relic from the past, its efficacy remains undiminished.

So, why is direct mail a standout? For one, it resonates with recipients due to its tangible nature, fostering a sense of trust. Moreover, while it demands ingenuity to make your campaign stand out, it tends to face less competition compared to digital alternatives. Whether it's through postcards, brochures, or other formats, the modern landscape offers a plethora of innovative ways to present your proposal. Essential elements of a successful campaign include attractive promotions and an unmistakable call-to-action (CTA).

However, to unlock the true potential of direct mail, specificity is key. This means narrowing down your target audience and conducting trial campaigns before ramping up your efforts. Targeted lists can hone in on high-potential leads such as properties in probate, absentee owners, or those on the brink of pre-foreclosure. In essence, direct mail equips real estate wholesalers with the power to sow the idea of selling even before a potential seller has given it serious thought.

8. For-Sale-By-Owners (FSBO)

For-sale-by-owner properties, abbreviated as FSBOs, have perpetually been a goldmine for astute real estate investors. One of the cardinal reasons homeowners opt for the FSBO route is to sidestep the often substantial realtor commissions, rendering them more inclined to negotiate.

An innovative approach to leverage this opportunity is by curating workshops tailored to provide FSBOs with pragmatic and insightful advice. Such workshops can be organized at diverse venues ranging from hotels and community centers to even local eateries. By advertising these workshops either through local mediums or by zeroing in on potential homeowners who might gain from them, you enhance your chances of striking your next lucrative deal. It's entirely possible that your next seminar attendee is also your next deal.

Remember, while FSBO properties do hold immense potential, they must be competitively priced to be considered feasible for wholesaling. Often, FSBO sellers are motivated by the prospect of evading the typical realtor fees, which means they might expect a higher profit from the sale. However, they may also be avoiding these fees due to financial constraints, making them more open to offers. Always be transparent about potential savings, like the 3% buyer’s agent commission, when presenting your proposition. It's this strategic blend of offering value and identifying opportunities that can set you apart in the FSBO arena.

9. Driving For Dollars

Driving for dollars retains effectiveness In a world that thrives on digital technology and online opportunities. This hands-on strategy has real estate wholesalers literally driving around neighborhoods, scouting for distressed properties that hint at eager sellers. When you drive around, your goal is to spot properties that visibly show signs of neglect. Some of these telltale indicators are:

• Overgrown lawns or unkempt landscapes
• Windows that are broken, boarded up or covered with unconventional materials
• Piled-up mail suggesting a vacant property
• Foreclosure notices or other legal announcements
• Exterior damage that's gone unrepaired

As you spot these signs, the key is to log details meticulously. For instance, noting down: "4567 Maple Street — Damaged roof, overgrown bushes, uncollected trash in the yard" helps in future outreach.

While driving for dollars may seem rudimentary, it's a tactic that has proven its mettle time and again. It’s not just about finding properties but also about understanding neighborhoods, their dynamics, and the hidden opportunities they present. With a mix of diligence, keen observation, and the right tools, it remains a method every real estate wholesaler should consider.

Advanced Driving For Dollars Tips

• Software Assistance: Tools like PropStream offer functionalities that make the process streamlined. Their mobile applications can assist in quickly saving addresses, taking snapshots, and jotting down key details.
• Engage and Expand: Don't limit your observations to the property alone. Engage with neighbors. They might provide invaluable insights, and often, they'd prefer the distressed property to be handed to someone who'd restore its charm.
• Outsource and Grow: As you scale, consider hiring drivers to cover more ground. This expansion can enhance the number of potential properties you uncover.
• Monetize Data: The data you accumulate is gold. Not only can it be used for your real estate ventures, but it can also be an asset for local contractors like painters or roofers, who might be interested in properties requiring renovations.
• Collaborative Driving: Think about collaborating with local delivery personnel or mail carriers. Offering them a commission for every property they spot can transform them into your scouts, effectively multiplying your eyes on the ground.

10. Networking Events

Part of finding a local wholesale property means becoming a part of the fabric of the community and this gives you an advantage if you manage to build up your real estate network. In addition to meeting potential wholesalers and real estate professionals, there is a lot to learn from other more experienced wholesalers attending these events.

Check out local real estate meetups, social media events, local networking events, or investment clubs, among others. Proactively engage real estate licensees who may become future colleagues.

11. Connect With Local Banks

A smaller lender may be willing to share their foreclosure lists with trusted professionals. These properties offer great opportunities to grab a wholesale property before they hit the real estate market and strong competition from other investors.

Connecting with local banks can be a valuable strategy for finding wholesale deals, especially when it comes to distressed or foreclosed properties. Banks often have a backlog of Real Estate Owned (REO) properties—properties that didn’t sell at foreclosure auctions and have reverted to the bank.

Since banks are usually motivated to clear these non-performing assets from their portfolios, they may be open to selling at discounted prices, making them ideal opportunities for wholesalers. Establishing relationships with local bank representatives, particularly those in the foreclosure or REO departments, can give you access to these properties early.

Additionally, banks may have other distressed properties or clients looking to sell quickly due to financial constraints. Regular communication and networking with local banks can help you stay informed about potential deals and develop a strong pipeline of wholesale opportunities.

12. Cold Calling

Cold calling stands as a tried-and-true method for uncovering hidden opportunities. It's not everyone's favorite strategy, but for those with a knack for conversation and a keen sense of persistence, it can be incredibly fruitful.

Whether you're reaching out to potential sellers directly or connecting with experienced private money lenders, each call might just lead you to an unexpected wholesale deal. The key is to gather data, either from real estate websites or public records, to hone in on potential targets.

Couple this with a genuine approach, and you might be surprised at how receptive people can be, even over a cold call. So, take a deep breath, pick up the phone, and dive into the world of possibilities. Remember, every successful deal begins with a simple conversation.

Dive into real estate wholesaling with confidence. Download our FREE Wholesaling Cold Calling Script! 

Read Also: The BEST Wholesaling Cold Calling Script [FREE PDF Download]

 13. Using Paid Data Resources

Some companies specialize in compiling and customizing lead generation lists. These lists can be used to locate a motivated owner who wants to sell their wholesale investment or rental property. Examples of these paid data resources include:

• CoreLogic’s RealQuest & Property Data Solutions is a database that covers nearly all of the nation and offers a free seven-day trial and then several levels of subscription.
• CoreLogic’s ReboGateway offers lists that target tax defaults, FSBOs, divorce or default notices, etc. The cost is about $400 per year, with multiple zip codes adding to the yearly fee.                                     

Can You Find Distressed Properties To Wholesale With No Money?

To maintain a consistent flow of wholesale property opportunities, a real estate wholesaler should have several deals working at various stages – from lead generation to assignment to closing. There are two primary ways to ensure a steady stream of leads –

• Working with a real estate agent who is a real estate licensee. This professional is privy to property sales information through the MLS.
• Building a network of real estate professionals, investors, end buyers, or cash buyers.

The internet has various free marketing channels, like Craigslist, that may offer a golden opportunity for a wholesaler.

If you are creative and have the skills, put together a short video (there are free services like Animoto) explaining how you can help a seller with an urgent need to sell.

Wholesale Real Estate Tips: How To Find Deals That Will Turn A Profit

Real estate wholesaling is a low-risk strategy compared to other real estate investment techniques. This does not mean that wholesaling houses is a slam-dunk and done without effort. On the contrary, wholesalers with the ability to appropriately evaluate potential wholesale properties are the ones that tend to be most successful.

Before a wholesaler makes an offer, they must first understand the laws and regulations that govern the area in which they work. Then, a wholesaler must “crunch the numbers” to calculate potential profits and return on investment.

The profit a wholesale deal generates equals the difference between the original purchase price and the price of the home denoted in an assignment of contract - or the price delineated in a completely new real estate contract.

Wholesalers and flippers tend to follow industry-standard investment criteria – known as the 70% Rule.

For example, a wholesaler contracts a home priced at $300,000 with an after repair Value (ARV) (future market value) of $600,000.

Assigning or selling this rental investment property at a price above the $300,000 contracted purchase price would fall within the established investment criteria. House flipping experts look for distressed properties priced with a price tag that is no more than 70% of the ARV. So, in this example, the maximum price (@70% of ARV) would be $420,000.

As a result, a wholesaler would likely have the opportunity to assign their equitable interest to an alternative buyer at any price above the contracted $300,000 but below $420,000 – which provides impressive profit wiggle-room. 

The above analysis is critical to understanding the maximum allowable offer (MAO) for any particular property.  This analysis is not as simple as it sounds. While it is imperative to check similar properties in the neighborhood (called real estate comps), this is not the only applicable factor because specific properties –

• Will need renovations or repairs for the wholesaler’s end buyer (a fix and flip buyer), who will need to make a profit when making the property saleable at the retail level.
• Require a few carrying and closing costs (like real estate property taxes and insurance) until an Assignment of Contract is issued or a double closing occurs.
• Will have resistant sellers, so learning how to approach a home seller is essential.

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Final Thoughts On Finding Wholesale Properties

Finding wholesale properties is a critical part of closing a successful deal. Once you find a property that meets your investment criteria, you must be ready to move quickly to avoid losing the deal to another wholesaler waiting in the wings.

Wholesaling offers these benefits:

• Properties can be found in most markets across the country.
• A reduced investment timeline and, therefore, reduced risk.
• No credit is involved in closing the deal with an assignment of contract.

Finally, be transparent and do your due diligence. Real estate wholesaling requires transparency, which builds professional trust. 

Every month will be different. Some months may provide a viable investment with ten leads; other months may require twice the amount. But note, once a wholesale deal is located, the effort becomes completely worthwhile.

Ready to take your real estate investing to the next level? Learning how to find wholesale properties is just the beginning. Schedule a FREE Strategy Session with us to learn how our Ultimate Investor Program can unlock even more opportunities and strategies in the Virginia market. We'll also help you tailor an investment strategy that's right for you. Don't miss out—take the next step toward maximizing your investment potential today!

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.