How to find wholesalers

[Deville Nunes]

Wholesalers

Chapter: How to Find Wholesalers for Off-Market Real Estate Deals for Free

Finding off-market real estate deals can be a game-changer for investors looking to secure properties below market value, and wholesalers are often the key to accessing these opportunities. Wholesalers specialize in locating off-market properties, negotiating with sellers, and then passing these deals on to investors. However, the challenge lies in finding these wholesalers without incurring significant costs. This chapter outlines various effective strategies to connect with wholesalers and tap into off-market real estate deals for free.

1. Leverage Real Estate Investor Groups One of the most efficient ways to connect with wholesalers is by participating in real estate investor groups. These groups provide a platform for networking with experienced and aspiring investors, many of whom have established relationships with wholesalers or are wholesalers themselves. Local Real Estate Investors Associations (REIAs) or real estate clubs host regular meetings where wholesalers actively promote their deals. By attending these events, investors can not only find wholesalers but also build lasting connections that might lead to exclusive off-market opportunities.

To maximize the benefits of these meetups, be open about your investment goals and express your interest in off-market deals. The more you participate and engage with others, the more likely you are to find wholesalers who can help you access quality deals.

2. Utilize Social Media and Online Communities In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become invaluable tools for connecting with wholesalers. Facebook, in particular, hosts numerous real estate investing groups where wholesalers frequently post their off-market deals. By joining groups relevant to your target market, you can monitor posts, engage in discussions, and connect with wholesalers who are actively seeking buyers. Search for groups using keywords like "Real Estate Investors [City/State]" or "Wholesalers [City/State]" to find local wholesalers.

Apart from Facebook, LinkedIn is another platform where you can connect with real estate professionals, including wholesalers. By building a strong profile and joining relevant LinkedIn groups, you can expand your network and establish relationships with wholesalers who specialize in off-market deals.

2.5 How I Use ChatGPT to Find Wholesalers One of my secret weapons for finding wholesalers is ChatGPT. I use it to save time, filter out irrelevant leads, and get a head start on building my list. Here’s an example of how I did it for Cleveland, Ohio:

I asked ChatGPT: “Can you find me all the wholesalers that sell houses in the Blank area?”

ChatGPT responded with clarifying questions like:

• Are you looking for wholesalers that specialize in residential properties only, or are you also interested in commercial or mixed-use properties?
• Do you want wholesalers who work directly with investors, or any company that lists wholesale real estate?
• Are there specific neighborhoods or zip codes in Cleveland you're targeting?
• Would you prefer wholesalers with active websites or listings currently available?

I replied:

• Mostly residential
• Yes, I want anyone who lists wholesale real estate
• The west side of Blank, but only in areas graded C or above
• I’m looking to contact all of them, so the more the better

With that info, ChatGPT compiled a list of wholesalers, including contact details, websites (if available), and a focus on my target areas. It saved me hours of research and gave me a starting point for building relationships.

By using AI tools like ChatGPT strategically, you can uncover hidden wholesalers and off-market opportunities you might never have found on your own.

3. Tap into Craigslist and Classified Websites I’ve found that every time I post “We Buy Houses” ads on Craigslist, I end up getting contacted by wholesalers—so now I do it on purpose to find them. Craigslist is a widely used platform where wholesalers advertise off-market deals, often under the “real estate for sale” section. Searching for keywords like “wholesale,” “off-market,” or “investor special” can help identify these listings.

You can also post your own ads stating that you’re an investor looking for wholesale deals, which encourages wholesalers to reach out directly. It’s a proactive strategy that costs nothing and is an effective way to build a strong wholesaler network.

Other classified websites like OfferUp and Letgo can also be useful for finding wholesale deals. Regularly checking these platforms and responding to ads helps you stay on top of off-market opportunities.

4. Use InvestorLift to Contact Wholesalers Directly

I started using this tool and was surprised by how well it works. I simply focused on the area where I wanted to find deals and began contacting the wholesalers listed there, asking them to put me on their buyers list. Some asked for my buying criteria, while others added me without any questions. I don’t even think I contacted more than ten before I got a deal. There are still about thirty more wholesalers to reach out to in the same area, so the potential is huge.

It’s funny how just knowing what to do can make such a big difference.

Another powerful tool for connecting with wholesalers is InvestorLift.com. It’s a platform used by thousands of wholesalers across the country to post off-market deals. As a buyer, you can browse active listings in your target markets—but more importantly, you can reach out directly to the wholesalers behind those deals. Use each contact as an opportunity to introduce yourself, share your buying criteria, and begin building a relationship. Once they know you’re a serious investor, many will start sending you deals directly before they even hit the platform. It’s one of the fastest and most effective ways to grow your network of active wholesalers nationwide.

5. Network with Real Estate Agents and Professionals Real estate agents often have extensive networks that include wholesalers, especially agents who specialize in working with investors. By building relationships with investor-friendly agents, you can gain access to their contacts and be introduced to wholesalers who have off-market deals. These agents may also occasionally have access to off-market listings themselves and can be a valuable resource in your quest for properties.

Additionally, consider reaching out to real estate attorneys and title companies, as they often work closely with wholesalers during transactions. Establishing rapport with these professionals can lead to introductions to wholesalers who can provide you with exclusive deals. Remember my story about my contractor? You never know who can bring you deals.

6. Take Advantage of Real Estate Networking Platforms There are numerous real estate networking websites designed specifically to connect investors with wholesalers. Websites like BiggerPockets and Connected Investors offer forums, marketplace sections, and networking opportunities where wholesalers frequently post their off-market deals. Engaging with other members, contributing to discussions, and staying active on the platform will help you build relationships with wholesalers who can offer you off-market opportunities.

7. Attend Local Auctions and Foreclosure Sales (Optional for Wholesalers)

While most people attending auctions and foreclosure sales are cash buyers, wholesalers can still benefit by showing up. These events are great for networking, not necessarily for acquiring properties—since you'll usually need to pay in full, often on the same day.

However, by attending regularly, you can meet serious investors, find potential buyers for your deals, and gain insight into the types of properties they’re after. It’s also a great way to learn how local pricing trends work and what kinds of deals buyers are chasing.

If you're just starting out, don’t expect to buy anything—but do expect to shake hands, collect business cards, and expand your buyer list.

8. Connect with Bird Dogs and Other Industry Professionals Bird dogs are individuals who find real estate deals and bring them to investors, often for a fee. They can be an excellent source of off-market opportunities and are often connected with wholesalers. As you have previously noted, professionals like junk removal specialists, contractors, or even Uber drivers can serve as effective bird dogs, as they frequently encounter properties that are potential wholesale deals. By building relationships with these individuals and offering referral incentives, you can gain access to off-market deals that wholesalers might not have publicly advertised.

9. Use Direct Outreach and Cold Calling While it requires effort, direct outreach through cold calling can be an effective way to connect with wholesalers. You can find lists of known wholesalers from online directories or by networking within the real estate community. Reach out to them, express your interest in off-market deals, and establish yourself as a serious investor. Many wholesalers are eager to add reliable buyers to their list and will appreciate your proactive approach.

Conclusion Finding wholesalers to access off-market real estate deals doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. By leveraging local investor groups, social media, classified websites, real estate professionals, networking platforms, auctions, and direct outreach, you can effectively build a network of wholesalers who provide you with valuable off-market opportunities. The key is to be proactive, consistent, and open to networking, as building relationships is the foundation of finding quality off-market deals for free. By employing these strategies, you position yourself to uncover hidden gems

Let me know your thoughts. Is there anything I can add?