How do you find motivated sellers?
Motivated sellers are people who need to sell quickly or simply, such as owners facing foreclosure, inherited properties, landlords tired of a rental, or owners with a home that needs major repairs. Direct mail, driving for dollars, a seller website form, referrals and outreach to targeted lists all reach them.
Pick lists that signal a reason to sell: absentee owners, tax delinquency, probate, pre-foreclosure or long ownership with high equity. Then reach out consistently, because most sellers say yes after several contacts, not the first.
Texting and calling are regulated. Follow the do-not-call rules and obtain consent where it is required, and keep a record of every contact.
Common mistakes
- Mailing a list once and stopping. Most deals come from the fifth or tenth contact, not the first.
- Texting or calling people without the consent and opt-out handling the law requires.
- Chasing every lead equally instead of ranking them by equity, condition and how soon the owner needs to sell.
- Pressuring sellers. A seller who feels pushed cancels, and in many states can do so within a set period.
More questions
Which lead source is best?
The one you can run consistently in your market and budget. Many wholesalers start with one channel, such as mail or a seller website form, and add others once it works.
How many times should I contact a lead?
Several times over weeks or months, because circumstances change. Stop when a seller asks you to, and follow the consent rules for calls and texts.
Are motivated sellers always distressed?
No. Many simply want a quick, simple sale, such as heirs who live far away or landlords who want out. Ask about their situation rather than assuming.