Best ways to find investor friendly Realtors in various markets?

Question

Aside from doing a keyword search (which I have done), is it best to google or pay for a membership here to find a Realtor for STRs? Or are there other forums/FB groups that I am missing? We have a dedicated Realtor in 2 markets but am struggling on finding STR Realtors in specific parts of Florida. How do you find Realtors? Thx!

Alex S. · Answer

On the buy side...I don't see why you wouldn't use a Realtor.  The system is built to prevent buyers from representing themselves on an MLS deal.  A lot of brokerages won't even allow it.  Since the seller has likely already signed an exclusive representation deal with their agent, you either abide by their rules or don't play.  If it is off-market, and you feel comfortable knowing the market...ok sure.

On the sell side...I can't imagine why you'd use a Realtor unless you are just looking for expensive admin help.  As an investor, you should understand the process better than the average Realtor.  All Realtors have 1 prime incentive: close the deal.  Good deals, bad deals, questionable deals...the best Realtors will close all of them and move onto the next.  That may or may not be in your best interest.

Daniella Lamis · Answer

@Paul Sandhu There are normally 2 Realtors in a transaction-  listing agent works for the seller, a buyer's agent works for the buyer. As a Realtor myself, I know that I want a local Realtor representing me on the buy side.

Paul Sandhu · Answer

@Daniella Lamis After I bought my 2nd foreclosure I realized the banks use the same key on their properties.  I saw another foreclosed house for sale, and used the key from the last house I bought to let myself in.  I looked at the sign in sheet on the kitchen table and maybe 3 people had looked at the house in the last 60 days.  Went ahead and made an offer and put down earnest money with the sellers realtor.  2 days later the realtor called me and said there was another offer, and they wanted my highest offer.  I told them that they can just sell it to the other party, now give me my earnest money back.  A week later the realtor called me and asked if I would make my offer again.  I declined.

Conclusion:  There was not a second buyer.  The realtor was trying to schill up the purchase price.

Moral:  A realtor is not your friend.

Candace Pfab · Answer

@Daniella Lamis

Hi Daniella.  We can help you in Gulf Shores.  We have helped many BP investors make their first purchase here!  Check our company profile for recent reviews!

Greg Parker · Answer

@Daniella Lamis you should contact @Matthew Creel.  He is an investor and Realtor and lives there.  Very thorough and helpful in that market.

Daniella Lamis · Answer

@Greg Parker Thank you! We are looking at Gulf Shores as well.

Ben Scarborough · Answer

Not sure how many STRs you have thus far, but if you are just starting out, I highly recommend looking into the mountain markets due to year round tourism, it is the safest route into the short term rental world in my opinion and markets like the Smokies and Blue Ridge, GA are established and could end up a much lower risk!Regards,Ben Scarborough

Allen Williams · Answer

@Daniella Lamis I am an Investor friendly Realtor here in the Jacksonville FL market. I assist investors solely who want LT or ST rentals and make sure they are fully taken care of from start to finish. If you need support I have local business partners from the design to management as well. It all depends on what you need. I have currently 3 under contract designated for ST rental plays. I also assist investors with BRRR type properties and am an Investor myself with a background in financial advising. So numbers and negotiation are my speciality. But I would say honestly FB groups and I google search top agents and ask around because if they don’t do investor work I bet you they know someone who does. That’s how I found all my business partners, through just calling and asking until I find the people I want to work with and have comfort with. Hope this helps!

Paul Sandhu · Answer

A realtor is not your friend.  They work for the seller.  Do your own groundwork and work for yourself.  You can bypass a realtor if you don't have ship for brains.

Daniella Lamis · Answer

@Brian T. Grooms thanks! I am looking to add a STR in Flagstaff by next summer and have not found a Realtor with STR experience yet. I will message you!

Best ways to find investor friendly Realtors in various markets?

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