All Forum Posts by: Avishay Stav

This is an awesome question, and it shows you're thinking about the long-term game, not just the single deal. As a wholesaler, finding and keeping good buyers is just as important as finding good deals.

Here's what makes an investor a great buyer and puts them at the top of our list:

1. They are decisive and close fast. Nothing is more frustrating for a wholesaler than a "tire-kicker." The investors who get our best deals are the ones who can look at a deal, trust our numbers (or at least their own quick calculations), and say "yes" or "no" quickly. They have their funding lined up (proof of funds, hard money lender, or private lender) and can close on a tight timeline. When a seller is motivated, speed is key. The faster you can act, the more valuable you are.

2. They have clear, consistent buying criteria. The best buyers tell me exactly what they want: "I'm looking for 3-bed, 2-bath single-family homes in the [Neighborhood A] and [Neighborhood B] areas, with an ARV up to $400k. I'm comfortable with cosmetic rehabs, but no major structural issues." This allows me to pre-screen deals for them. I don't waste my time sending them things they don't want, and they don't waste their time sifting through irrelevant properties.

3. They are honest and transparent. When you get to a property, don't try to renegotiate the price unless there's a serious, undisclosed issue. I've had buyers who get the property under contract and then try to chip away at the price just because they can. This quickly burns bridges and makes me hesitant to send them future deals. Be upfront about your concerns, and if you can't do the deal, be polite and let me know why as soon as possible.

4. They are easy to work with. Real estate is a relationship business. The buyers who are respectful, communicate clearly, and follow through on what they say they'll do are the ones who get the most attention. I'll always prioritize working with a professional who is a pleasure to talk to.

Tips for Staying Connected and Building Your Network:

• Be a connector. Don't just show up to network events to get deals. When you meet someone, think about how you can add value to their business. Can you connect them with a great contractor you've found? Or maybe another investor who buys in a different market? Being a resource for others is a great way to build a robust network.
• Share your successes (and failures). Like your post, sharing your experience is a great way to build credibility. Be open about a flip that didn't go as planned or a challenge you overcame. It makes you relatable and shows you're serious about the business.
• Follow up. This sounds simple, but it's crucial. Send a follow-up email after a meeting, an appreciation note to a great contractor after a job is done, or a check-in text to a fellow investor. A simple "Hey, thought of you when I saw this" goes a long way.

Best of luck with your next project! It's an exciting journey, and being proactive about your relationships is one of the best things you can do for your business.

For typical wholesalers that are smaller outfits they are wholesaling to 2-3 investors and if they have some overspill they will call some other people. If there is a bigger outfit then they may have a bigger buyers list and then premium buyers list of buyers that are the top 3-5 buyers and maybe a couple more good buyers to send really good deals. 

I think for you, you should really be calling the wholesalers that you know that are good wholesalers in your community once a week. Most the time I hear from someone that wants to get off market deals is once then they never call again to check. You need to be calling, emailing and texting them to get a deal along with staying top of mind.