Why do agents not want to talk to me?
Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes
Why do agents not want to talk to me?
Most Popular Reply
Real Estate Investor · Burlington, VT · Member since 2010 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
10mo@Samuel Shemtov Get a pre-approval letter from a U.S. lender showing how much you qualify for, and share with the agent. That will show you're more serious and won't waste the agents time.
I've come across a number of properties where the agent wouldn't show it unless you had the pre-approval letter.
52 Replies
- Investor · VA · Member since 2015 · 21k+ posts · 19k+ votes10mo
You're lucky you even get real estate agents on the phone. I would say more than 50% of the agents I call never return a call.
7e investments53 Reviews- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering? - 10moBruce WoodruffPro MemberContractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votesis there a reason all these agents aren't answering?
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?Bear in mind that a) Realtors (some) are notoriously 'flaky'. And b) most Realtors fail within a year or two, so you may be calling people who are not even in the business any longer.....
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @Bruce Woodruff:
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?Bear in mind that a) Realtors (some) are notoriously 'flaky'. And b) most Realtors fail within a year or two, so you may be calling people who are not even in the business any longer.....
That’s an interesting point.
However, I have been calling realtors on Zillow that have made sales in the last 12 months (at least according to Zillow), so they should be active…
Maybe I should be using some other source?
- 10moBruce WoodruffPro MemberContractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votesNot Zillow Realtors. They're usually the youngest common newest kids on the Block. Try and get some referrals, or call around and talk to older Realtors...
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Bruce Woodruff:
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
is there a reason all these agents aren't answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?
wouldn't they be losing customers by not even answering? unless they somehow know i'm an investor before even answering?Bear in mind that a) Realtors (some) are notoriously 'flaky'. And b) most Realtors fail within a year or two, so you may be calling people who are not even in the business any longer.....
That’s an interesting point.
However, I have been calling realtors on Zillow that have made sales in the last 12 months (at least according to Zillow), so they should be active…
Maybe I should be using some other source?
- 10moBrandon VukelichBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Tacoma, WA: 🏢 27 LTRs 🏡 3 STRs · Member since 2018 · 544 posts · 455 votes
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
You're lucky you even get real estate agents on the phone. I would say more than 50% of the agents I call never return a call.
I would be impressed if I experienced 50% in my area. It's well over 70% that never return an actual phone call. Some reply via text even though my vmail requests a phone call back to discuss the property/situation further.
Broker at Multifamily Properties519 Reviews
- Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes10moBecause you’re a small-time time waster. Supply is tight, so houses go for over asking. Investors make low ball offers that will get rejected and give the agent a bad reputation with other agents/brokers.
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
You might be worthwhile to deal with if you were Blackrock buying 50 houses at a crack, but you’re not, so you aren’t.
Then there’s the small matter of wholesalers being taught to lie and not say that they’re wholesalers but to say they’re buying for themselves, or are “investors.”
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
yeah, one of the agents was convinced I'm a wholesaler...
So how can i move forward with this in mind? - Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes10moThe first thing you could do is either admit or deny whether you are a wholesaler. I see you are ducking the issue.
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
yeah, one of the agents was convinced I'm a wholesaler...
So how can i move forward with this in mind?
Second, I see from another post that you are not in the US. How do you intend on viewing properties and making offers that do not require a boatload of extra work by the real estate agent?
- Lender · Cary, NC · Member since 2021 · 122 posts · 29 votes10mo
Where are you located? I know realtors locally (NC) that specialize and only work with investors. Some realtors just want to work with homebuyers. It all depends on the experience of the agent and where they feel most comfortable. Investors are a very different market than homebuyers.
If you go to your local Real Estate Investors Association (REIA), there will be agents in the meetings that want to work with investors.
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @Kate Nixon Taylor:
Where are you located? I know realtors locally (NC) that specialize and only work with investors. Some realtors just want to work with homebuyers. It all depends on the experience of the agent and where they feel most comfortable. Investors are a very different market than homebuyers.
If you go to your local Real Estate Investors Association (REIA), there will be agents in the meetings that want to work with investors.
well, im currently located outside of the US and targeting Indianapolis
- Lender · Cary, NC · Member since 2021 · 122 posts · 29 votes10mo
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Kate Nixon Taylor:
Where are you located? I know realtors locally (NC) that specialize and only work with investors. Some realtors just want to work with homebuyers. It all depends on the experience of the agent and where they feel most comfortable. Investors are a very different market than homebuyers.
If you go to your local Real Estate Investors Association (REIA), there will be agents in the meetings that want to work with investors.
well, im currently located outside of the US and targeting Indianapolis
Find the REIAs that are in Indianapolis and become a member. They should have a directory of members and you can reach out to people and network virtually over the phone/zoom and email. It will be a good idea to build a network there and as you do, the people you talk to can suggest who they have found helpful.
- 10moFrankie VozziBusiness MemberMember since 2025 · 332 posts · 82 votes
Happens a lot, man. Some agents have had bad experiences with “investors” who weren’t serious, so they get defensive fast. But there are a couple agents who understand your criteria and see you can actually move on deals, it gets a lot easier. Stick with it the right ones will call you back. I sent you a DM, Let's connect!
- Real Estate Investor · Burlington, VT · Member since 2010 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes10mo
@Samuel Shemtov Get a pre-approval letter from a U.S. lender showing how much you qualify for, and share with the agent. That will show you're more serious and won't waste the agents time.
I've come across a number of properties where the agent wouldn't show it unless you had the pre-approval letter.
- Specialist · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2025 · 18 posts · 18 votes10mo
Hey Samuel! What you need is an investor-focused agent. One great way to find one is using Bigger Pockets agent finder. Go to the "Build Your Investing Team." Click on the agent and then fill in your info. Bigger Pockets will send your information to agents that want to work with investors. You should have at least a few reach out to you instead of you reaching out to them. I hope this helps. If you shoot me a dm of where you are looking to invest, I may be able to refer you to a good investor agent in that area.
- Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes10mo
He's a wholesaler ducking every substantive question anyone asks. Case closed as far as I am concerned.
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @John Clark:
He's a wholesaler ducking every substantive question anyone asks. Case closed as far as I am concerned.
Not a wholesaler, i'm an investor, as stated.
what's the big deal with wholesalers anyway? If I may ask
- Investor · Las Vegas, NV · Member since 2013 · 8k+ posts · 10k+ votes10mo
They lie saying they are buyers.
They tie up a property for 30-t- days with zero intention of buying, only trying to find a buyer.They use up the property’s most valuable time on market while it’s new. While also wasting just as much of both realtor’s times as if you had made a purchase while they make zero dollars. And maybe lose other customers/sales.
Did I mention they START the relationship off with a lie. How excited would you be if the first words out of your realtors mouth were a lie?
Ps. You say you’ve contacted a bunch of realtors. Why? Why aren’t you finding one buyer and signing the buyers agent form I’m sure they are asking for. Heck. Signing that would probably get you a lot more attention. If you’re talking to kore than 2 realtors in one city what are you offering? A 25% chance you might deal with the, after they put in the work? I’d say you’re getting more attention than their possible reward deserves. Pick one, put in serious offers with no assignment clauses and a decent earnest deposit, especially non-refundable and you’ll get plenty of attention.
Put yourself in their shoes. Say your a mechanic and guy from another country calls you and says they’re working on their car. They’ve called several mechanics and if they get enough free help they might buy a part, from the most helpful guy, if he’s also the cheapest. Until then, help me for free immediately.
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @Bill B.:
They lie saying they are buyers.
They tie up a property for 30-t- days with zero intention of buying, only trying to find a buyer.They use up the property’s most valuable time on market while it’s new. While also wasting just as much of both realtor’s times as if you had made a purchase while they make zero dollars. And maybe lose other customers/sales.
Did I mention they START the relationship off with a lie. How excited would you be if the first words out of your realtors mouth were a lie?
Ps. You say you’ve contacted a bunch of realtors. Why? Why aren’t you finding one buyer and signing the buyers agent form I’m sure they are asking for. Heck. Signing that would probably get you a lot more attention. If you’re talking to kore than 2 realtors in one city what are you offering? A 25% chance you might deal with the, after they put in the work? I’d say you’re getting more attention than their possible reward deserves. Pick one, put in serious offers with no assignment clauses and a decent earnest deposit, especially non-refundable and you’ll get plenty of attention.
Put yourself in their shoes. Say your a mechanic and guy from another country calls you and says they’re working on their car. They’ve called several mechanics and if they get enough free help they might buy a part, from the most helpful guy, if he’s also the cheapest. Until then, help me for free immediately.
well I see your point, still, I can't really do anything if the realtor doesn't want to talk after hearing I'm an investor.
I do want to buy property and soon, but I cant start the conversation signing a contract
honestly i don't know how to move forward from here other than accepting that most realtors will just not want to talk to me as an investor - Real Estate Broker · Minneapolis, MN · Member since 2011 · 5k+ posts · 6k+ votes10mo
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Bill B.:
They lie saying they are buyers.
They tie up a property for 30-t- days with zero intention of buying, only trying to find a buyer.They use up the property’s most valuable time on market while it’s new. While also wasting just as much of both realtor’s times as if you had made a purchase while they make zero dollars. And maybe lose other customers/sales.
Did I mention they START the relationship off with a lie. How excited would you be if the first words out of your realtors mouth were a lie?
Ps. You say you’ve contacted a bunch of realtors. Why? Why aren’t you finding one buyer and signing the buyers agent form I’m sure they are asking for. Heck. Signing that would probably get you a lot more attention. If you’re talking to kore than 2 realtors in one city what are you offering? A 25% chance you might deal with the, after they put in the work? I’d say you’re getting more attention than their possible reward deserves. Pick one, put in serious offers with no assignment clauses and a decent earnest deposit, especially non-refundable and you’ll get plenty of attention.
Put yourself in their shoes. Say your a mechanic and guy from another country calls you and says they’re working on their car. They’ve called several mechanics and if they get enough free help they might buy a part, from the most helpful guy, if he’s also the cheapest. Until then, help me for free immediately.
well I see your point, still, I can't really do anything if the realtor doesn't want to talk after hearing I'm an investor.
I do want to buy property and soon, but I cant start the conversation signing a contract
honestly i don't know how to move forward from here other than accepting that most realtors will just not want to talk to me as an investorOk look Samuel, I'm gonna give it to you straight as you seem to have a disconnect as others try to put it politely.
Your are NOT an Investor, if and when your whole goal and strategy is as a Wholesaler.
Despite the gross over use of the word Investor, it does actually have a meaning other than to sell books/programs via it's attachment.
An Investor INVESTS. They actually buy an asset, do things with the asset, take positions in assets.
A Wholesaler is in simplest term selling leads. They find a "deal" aka a lead, they then sell that "deal" aka lead, to an actual Investor who's actually investing.
Do you know what a Real Estate Agent is in simplest terms Samuel?
Real Estate Agents match buyers and sellers to consummate a transaction.
Where in that picture does a person who isn't selling, who isn't buying, fit? You don't. Wholesalers are EXTRACTORS. They take-away-from the transaction, seller and/or buyer.
Now there is some exceptions. I have middle-people investors who actually bring value to it all. But that's the key differentiator, THEY BRING VALUE.
A Wholesaler, a tried and true Wholesaler, brings 0 value, they only extract. ONLY extract. Some may argue but they find a buyer, that's what licensed agents do. Or argue they help sellers, again that's what licensed agents do.
A tried and true "puritan" Wholesaler is an un-licensed real estate agent, seeking to achieve maximum extraction. That is not value-add that is predatory.
Hence, those of us in the business, focusing on bringing a service to market, we have 0 time for an extractor because you are the fundamental opposite of who and what we are, believe and stand for. We have o interest in facilitating you.
- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @James Hamling:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Bill B.:
They lie saying they are buyers.
They tie up a property for 30-t- days with zero intention of buying, only trying to find a buyer.They use up the property’s most valuable time on market while it’s new. While also wasting just as much of both realtor’s times as if you had made a purchase while they make zero dollars. And maybe lose other customers/sales.
Did I mention they START the relationship off with a lie. How excited would you be if the first words out of your realtors mouth were a lie?
Ps. You say you’ve contacted a bunch of realtors. Why? Why aren’t you finding one buyer and signing the buyers agent form I’m sure they are asking for. Heck. Signing that would probably get you a lot more attention. If you’re talking to kore than 2 realtors in one city what are you offering? A 25% chance you might deal with the, after they put in the work? I’d say you’re getting more attention than their possible reward deserves. Pick one, put in serious offers with no assignment clauses and a decent earnest deposit, especially non-refundable and you’ll get plenty of attention.
Put yourself in their shoes. Say your a mechanic and guy from another country calls you and says they’re working on their car. They’ve called several mechanics and if they get enough free help they might buy a part, from the most helpful guy, if he’s also the cheapest. Until then, help me for free immediately.
well I see your point, still, I can't really do anything if the realtor doesn't want to talk after hearing I'm an investor.
I do want to buy property and soon, but I cant start the conversation signing a contract
honestly i don't know how to move forward from here other than accepting that most realtors will just not want to talk to me as an investorOk look Samuel, I'm gonna give it to you straight as you seem to have a disconnect as others try to put it politely.
Your are NOT an Investor, if and when your whole goal and strategy is as a Wholesaler.
Despite the gross over use of the word Investor, it does actually have a meaning other than to sell books/programs via it's attachment.
An Investor INVESTS. They actually buy an asset, do things with the asset, take positions in assets.
A Wholesaler is in simplest term selling leads. They find a "deal" aka a lead, they then sell that "deal" aka lead, to an actual Investor who's actually investing.
Do you know what a Real Estate Agent is in simplest terms Samuel?
Real Estate Agents match buyers and sellers to consummate a transaction.
Where in that picture does a person who isn't selling, who isn't buying, fit? You don't. Wholesalers are EXTRACTORS. They take-away-from the transaction, seller and/or buyer.
Now there is some exceptions. I have middle-people investors who actually bring value to it all. But that's the key differentiator, THEY BRING VALUE.
A Wholesaler, a tried and true Wholesaler, brings 0 value, they only extract. ONLY extract. Some may argue but they find a buyer, that's what licensed agents do. Or argue they help sellers, again that's what licensed agents do.
A tried and true "puritan" Wholesaler is an un-licensed real estate agent, seeking to achieve maximum extraction. That is not value-add that is predatory.
Hence, those of us in the business, focusing on bringing a service to market, we have 0 time for an extractor because you are the fundamental opposite of who and what we are, believe and stand for. We have o interest in facilitating you.
Thanks for the detailed reply.
I already know what both wholesalers and investors are - I’m an investor myself since I’m looking to purchase the property directly.In any case, your comment and this thread have taught me a lot about the negative sentiment that many realtors have toward real estate investors, and especially wholesalers. I’ll definitely keep that in mind as I move forward on this path.
Thanks again!
- 10moAbel CurielBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · Queens, NY · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
Most agents fail/quit within a year or so in the business. A lot of agents in the business focus on retail buyers and sellers, not investors.
To find the 'right' agents, check out BP's agent finder for investor friendly agents OR check recent sales (investor deals) on Zillow, Redfin, Etc. to find active agents in your target area.
Many agents don't answer their phone or have a system a place to field calls. Try email and text with a short intro. Include your timeline, criteria, and the fact that you're willing to share pre-approval or proof of funds.
Lastly, when you speak with the agents, demonstrate what you know about your target market OR what you need help with. Be specific. Highlight neighborhoods you want to look into OR ask them which neighborhoods would be best for your strategy.
All the best!
Abel
REbuild Team - eXp Realty5234 Reviews- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @Abel Curiel:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
Most agents fail/quit within a year or so in the business. A lot of agents in the business focus on retail buyers and sellers, not investors.
To find the 'right' agents, check out BP's agent finder for investor friendly agents OR check recent sales (investor deals) on Zillow, Redfin, Etc. to find active agents in your target area.
Many agents don't answer their phone or have a system a place to field calls. Try email and text with a short intro. Include your timeline, criteria, and the fact that you're willing to share pre-approval or proof of funds.
Lastly, when you speak with the agents, demonstrate what you know about your target market OR what you need help with. Be specific. Highlight neighborhoods you want to look into OR ask them which neighborhoods would be best for your strategy.
All the best!
Abel
this was very helpful, thank you very much !!
could i dm you a short example email and get your feedback on it? - 10moAbel CurielBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · Queens, NY · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Abel Curiel:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
Most agents fail/quit within a year or so in the business. A lot of agents in the business focus on retail buyers and sellers, not investors.
To find the 'right' agents, check out BP's agent finder for investor friendly agents OR check recent sales (investor deals) on Zillow, Redfin, Etc. to find active agents in your target area.
Many agents don't answer their phone or have a system a place to field calls. Try email and text with a short intro. Include your timeline, criteria, and the fact that you're willing to share pre-approval or proof of funds.
Lastly, when you speak with the agents, demonstrate what you know about your target market OR what you need help with. Be specific. Highlight neighborhoods you want to look into OR ask them which neighborhoods would be best for your strategy.
All the best!
Abel
this was very helpful, thank you very much !!
could i dm you a short example email and get your feedback on it?Absolutely, my email is below.
REbuild Team - eXp Realty5234 Reviews - Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @Abel Curiel:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @Abel Curiel:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
Most agents fail/quit within a year or so in the business. A lot of agents in the business focus on retail buyers and sellers, not investors.
To find the 'right' agents, check out BP's agent finder for investor friendly agents OR check recent sales (investor deals) on Zillow, Redfin, Etc. to find active agents in your target area.
Many agents don't answer their phone or have a system a place to field calls. Try email and text with a short intro. Include your timeline, criteria, and the fact that you're willing to share pre-approval or proof of funds.
Lastly, when you speak with the agents, demonstrate what you know about your target market OR what you need help with. Be specific. Highlight neighborhoods you want to look into OR ask them which neighborhoods would be best for your strategy.
All the best!
Abel
this was very helpful, thank you very much !!
could i dm you a short example email and get your feedback on it?Absolutely, my email is below.
I sent an email, thank you!!
- Specialist · Cleveland, OH · Member since 2021 · 99 posts · 30 votes10mo
@Samuel Shemtov I'm curious why you need agents in the first place?!
- Real Estate Agent · Jacksonville, FL · Member since 2015 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes10mo
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
It is really simple…Agents are in business to make money. Investors are not in this as a charitable activity. Why would anyone expect otherwise? Agents only get paid if the deal closes. If you have no experience or money, it is going to be tough to find someone who will work with you, or be part of a "team." There are a ton of new agents who do not know or understand investment real estate and will offer to help you. They want to talk about the color of the carpet or walls, not the condition of the systems and the returns.
There is a reason why AROD is worth $350M. He is talented and knows his value and was paid for it.
- Member since 2025 · 47 posts · 23 votes10mo
Hey Samuel, So I’ve heard this before from my cousin@Jason Wray all the time. I work very closely now with him and his investors looking to build real estate investment portfolios. Wether it's STR, MTR, LTR, BRRR, ARV potential, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, and or flex I have you covered as I'm a commercial advisor who grew up in this industry from construction, property management, asset management, development, and more since I was 15. Licensed in multiple states and very vast network nationally and internationally. I be more than happy to work with you good sir. Please feel free to message me anytime.
- 10moDrew SygitBusiness MemberProperty Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
Logical Property Management4.9450 Reviews- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10moThanks for the detailed explanation!
Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers. - 10moDrew SygitBusiness MemberProperty Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Thanks for the detailed explanation!Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers.How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?
Logical Property Management4.9450 Reviews - Real Estate Broker · Minneapolis, MN · Member since 2011 · 5k+ posts · 6k+ votes10mo
Quote from @Drew Sygit:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Thanks for the detailed explanation!Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers.How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?
"How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?"Oh come on Drew, doesn't Cracker jacks send along all knowledge and wisdom of all things real estate along with their license.
Or, you know, because the agent says their "investor friendly". kinda like the shark saying their happy to be your swim instructor.
- 10moDrew SygitBusiness MemberProperty Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
Quote from @James Hamling:
Quote from @Drew Sygit:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Thanks for the detailed explanation!Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers.How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?
"How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?"Oh come on Drew, doesn't Cracker jacks send along all knowledge and wisdom of all things real estate along with their license.
Or, you know, because the agent says their "investor friendly". kinda like the shark saying their happy to be your swim instructor.
You're post made me smile, so I gave it a vote:)
Logical Property Management4.9450 Reviews - Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10mo
Quote from @James Hamling:
Quote from @Drew Sygit:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Thanks for the detailed explanation!Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers.How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?
"How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?"Oh come on Drew, doesn't Cracker jacks send along all knowledge and wisdom of all things real estate along with their license.
Or, you know, because the agent says their "investor friendly". kinda like the shark saying their happy to be your swim instructor.
I see your point... then how can I better understand my market through people?
Maybe other investors? Maybe I can find more creditable realtors? - Real Estate Broker · Minneapolis, MN · Member since 2011 · 5k+ posts · 6k+ votes10mo"then how can I better understand my market through people?"
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Quote from @James Hamling:
Quote from @Drew Sygit:
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
Thanks for the detailed explanation!Quote from @Drew Sygit:
@Samuel Shemtov there are several reasons:
1) Over 95% of agents have no idea how to work with investors.
They are trained and used to dealing with owner-occupied transactions.
These are emotionally-based sales, not analytical sales like investors should be doing.
BTW: be careful of agents claiming to be "investor-friendly"! Most are still clueless and are only "Commission-friendly".2) Newbie real estate investors waste a lot of an agent's time!
Newbies want lots of an agent's time, sending them potential properties, asking them to show them some of these properties, then writing low-ball offers unlikely to get accepted.
Why would an agent working commission-only, want to waste their time on all this?So, investors have a bad reputation in the real estate community as time-sucks and agents are recommended to steer clear of them.
Experienced investors do their own searches, run their own numbers and understand they don't need to see properties before making an offer. They'll see it during the inspection.
So, they don't waste a lot of an agent's time.What are your steps to find properties to make offers on?
My main goal right now is to better understand the market and identify 3–5 neighborhoods based on the realtor's recommendations.
From there, I’ll continue doing my own analysis and, if we’re a good fit, I’ll circle back with potential offers.How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?
"How are agents going to know the best rental neighborhoods?"Oh come on Drew, doesn't Cracker jacks send along all knowledge and wisdom of all things real estate along with their license.
Or, you know, because the agent says their "investor friendly". kinda like the shark saying their happy to be your swim instructor.
I see your point... then how can I better understand my market through people?
Maybe other investors? Maybe I can find more creditable realtors?
Why do you need to "understand" "through people"?
That makes literally 0 sense.
If all of your knowing and understanding is "through people" that makes you dependent and subservient unto those people.
It also means you adopt all their flaws and failings.
That is NOT how any "investor" operates or ever would operate.
Investors seek council, have advisors, but they do not live as sheep blindly led by whatever wolf they saddled too.
All the information, ALL of it, is out there on the internet, everything. Every data point readily available, no gate-keeper needed.
You keep calling yourself an "Investor" yet asking for a Homer Simpson strategy where you can just make a call, push a button, and vihuela it's done.
That isn't even an LP. LP's even do way more using of their own brains then that.
There is no viable path where you just call, some person directs you're everything to do, you blindly follow, and profit results.
Statistically speaking you have greater odd's of being hit by lightning on the same day your mauled by a bear.
You are NOT an investor Samuel.
You share that you want to be an investor.
Ok. Then your going to have to put in the work to make it happen, or suffer the consequences otherwise.
Nobody is going to do it for you UNLESS you have the kind of money to HIRE someone to do it for you.
It's simply not complicated.
- 10moRyan RomingerBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2018 · 340 posts · 144 votes
It happens more than you’d think. Some agents have had experiences with investors who move fast on calls but slow when it’s time to actually buy, so they get cautious.
The key is finding agents who regularly work with investors. Once you connect with the right ones, the conversations tend to be much smoother and more productive.
Intrigue Real Estate & Property Management4.6285 Reviews- Member since 2025 · 13 posts · 11 votes10moI see, that makes a lot of sense.
Quote from @Ryan Rominger:
It happens more than you’d think. Some agents have had experiences with investors who move fast on calls but slow when it’s time to actually buy, so they get cautious.
The key is finding agents who regularly work with investors. Once you connect with the right ones, the conversations tend to be much smoother and more productive.
where could I find realtors that specifically work with investors?
- Investor · Milwaukee - Mequon, WI · Member since 2010 · 5k+ posts · 7k+ votes10mo
Are you an "agent-friendly investor" @Samuel Shemtov?
If you are chasing a 100k deal a buyers agent will make maybe $1500 after splits. And that's before taxes and expenses, so cut it in half again.
You are out of the country, so you expect them to do vistual showings for several months, before you maybe write an offer, which maybe will make it through inspection and maybe will not fall apart on financing - all of that next year..
So what is an "agent friendly investor"? I was buying rental properties for 7 years working with a top agent (before I got licensed). I would make sure he had as little work as possible. I would do my own drive-by showings and look at the exterior, gauge the interior by the pictures, schedule a showing only if I was 90% certain I would buy it. He would write a realistic offer, most of which we got accepted after a couple counters (okay, this was before 2015) and I closed on almost every single one, because I made sure the inspection would not tell me anything I did not already know.
Was I small potatoes for my agent? Yes. But also very little work and a steady revenue source. For me it was important that I had a very experienced guy for those situations when stuff hit the fan and for tricky issues I had no experience with.
- 10moLeslie VillarealBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Albuquerque, NM · Member since 2021 · 67 posts · 32 votes
@Samuel Shemtov If you look to the top of the page there is a blue bar that says Build Your Investing Team. There you can click Agents and it will take you through a few questions and send you agents in your area of interest that work with investors. You could also try joining local investing facebook groups and see what people are saying or ask for recommendations there.
The VillaRealty Group- Leslie Villareal545 Reviews - 10moTravis TimmonsPro MemberRental Property Investor · Ellsworth, ME · Member since 2021 · 1k+ posts · 2k+ votes
In a market like Indy, agents are probably inundated with out of state investors calling about cheap properties. There are a few top of mind reasons why I would never take your call if I was an agent there.
1. The commission will be approximately $12 (exaggerating, but it's low wage labor)
2. The likelihood of you actually buying is almost zero.
3. The likelihood of you buying a deal and it working out is also almost zero. It's an unforgiving market, and I would not want to be a part of helping an out of country investor make a mistake and lose a pile of money.
If you want someone to take you seriously, get a pre-approval letter and get on a plane to go see properties in person.
- Real Estate Consultant · Ann Arbor, MI · Member since 2022 · 460 posts · 250 votes10mo
Hi Samuel-
Great question! You are calling agents as an investor and finding that only one out of five agents actually stays on the line to talk to you. Then, the conversation goes sideways when you tell them you are an investor and what you are trying to do.
The reality is most Realtors are not investors themselves and do not speak investor lingo or understand what you are trying to do.
The key is to find an investor friendly Realtor with a teacher's heart in the area you wish to invest.
A healthy percentage of my clients are investors from around the country.
Those Realtors are out there and happy to help.
To Your Success!
- Realtor, General Contractor, and Developer · Redding, CA · Member since 2009 · 7k+ posts · 4k+ votes10mo
This is one of my pet peeves. There's no such thing as an investor friendly agent. ALL agents are BUYER friendly. We don't care if you're an investor or owner user. What we do care about is if you are qualified to buy the property, and will follow through. All agents should know their local markets. What we want to know to help you is are you looking for a fixers? If so, are you able to do a major remodel or are you looking for a cosmetic fixer? Do you need a place that will cash flow, or are you ok with appreciation gains? If you are in the process of learning, go to meetups, etc. and learn. I am happy to give ideas to new investors that are ready to buy and wanting to know what might be possible, but I don't want to take investors around around just to look and learn.
- 10moWilliam KwongPro MemberReal Estate Agent · Jersey City, NJ · Member since 2015 · 110 posts · 53 votes
You need to find a hungry experienced agent who wants to build relationships for future deals. I think having an established game plan and setting your expectations of what you want from the start against the reality of the market and having that conversation will be important.
I help first time investors often who trust my guidance and I’m friends with all of them now and they’re doing amazing knock on wood. I’d go to local investor meetups and find an investor friendly agent who you can trust and see if your expectations fit the reality of the market.
or find someone here who posts often whose an agent. Lot of good ones on this platform.
- 10moAdam BartomeoBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2015 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
Investors are a difficult buyer to work with. They look at numbers and require a lot of work in comparison to an owner occupant. Most owner occupants purchase on feelings, not facts. Also, the way you are presenting yourself is probably saying "LOTS OF WORK" and/or "NOT A SERIOUS BUYER". Agents work for free until there is a sale. If you are giving off a vibe of too much work or a faker buyer, then only desperate agents will work with you.
Bartomeo Property Management4.7150 Reviews - 10moBradley BuxtonBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · NV · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 711 votes
There are a ton of agents out there some are good, some are desperate. Treat it like any other business decision—if someone isn’t a fit, move on. Just like walking into a clothing store that doesn’t match your style, you simply go to another. You’re interviewing them, and finding the right partner matters.
YOU need to show up prepared: motivated to take action, goals, capital, and real questions. On BP, everyone says they’re “investor-friendly.” The real difference is whether they understand investment strategy, numbers, trades, risk, and how to spot a bad deal—not just open doors.
For my clients, I’m an investor agent focused on working with investors with local data, analytics, and a full trades network. I’m direct, because protecting your money matters more than being overly friendly. I’m not a tour guide—I’m your point person and strategy partner.
Keep meeting agents, go to meetups, talk to people in person, and be respectful of their time. When you find the right fit, you’ll know.
- Rental Property Investor · Memphis, TN · Member since 2019 · 1 post · 3 votes10mo
I can tell you: I’m an agent in Memphis, TN and here- when I get a call from an out of area code caller I am very skeptical that the buyer is “real” and I don’t think the call is worth the time. Why? Because sooooo many previous calls have been a time-suck. Many prospective buyers appear to be real and then they try to change terms prior to closing. And, many times these prospective buyers ask a hundred questions and then offer 50%-70% of asking price. What could help? A believable history of recently closed transactions. And a conversation that seems fluid and real and not read from a script. I’d recommend sending a text to an agent that actually sells/closes homes and ask for a good time to discuss. A lot of agents are weary of engaging until they feel like they are talking to someone truly interested and able to purchase.
- Real Estate Agent · New York, NY · Member since 2019 · 55 posts · 28 votes10mo
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents, and I’d say only one in five actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
@Samuel Shemtov you are %100 right, it’s a sad reality that many realtor active a listing and the go silent which takes multiply time in order to get a showing. We are living in an era that tecnology took over personal relationships. I wish agent would respect their job more than the outcome.
Keep looking for the right agent that will represent you and be your guidance, have your finances ready and to start don't give to much info just ask to view the property and send over your pre approval letter or POF it's the agent commitment by law to show you any property that is on the market.
- 10moJordan RayBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · Memphis, TN · Member since 2023 · 623 posts · 321 votes
Quote from @Samuel Shemtov:
I’ve been making some phone calls to agents and I’d say only 1/5 actually stay on the line to talk.
With the rest it seems things are going well until I mention that I’m an investor.
Why? I thought investors and agents work together - why are they hanging up like I’m a salesman?
Welcome to BiggerPockets! What you’re running into is super common, and honestly it has nothing to do with you—most agents simply aren’t equipped to work with real estate investors. Retail agents want easy, clean, owner-occupant deals where they show a few homes and collect a commission. When they hear “investor,” they assume: lower offers, more analysis, more properties to evaluate, more negotiation, and more strategy… and most don’t know how to do any of that, so they bail fast. The good news? Investor-friendly agents absolutely do exist—they’re just a smaller percentage of the agent pool, which is why only about 1 out of 5 stays on the line. In markets like Memphis, investors and investor-friendly agents work together constantly because this market is built for cash flow. I am a local investor agent in Memphis so reach out if I can help you here locally! Talk soon!
Jordan Ray - eXp Realty5110 Reviews
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