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8 Killer Resources for Savvy Low-Budget Wholesalers!

Marcus Maloney
4 min read
8 Killer Resources for Savvy Low-Budget Wholesalers!

In a recent article I discussed how I moved cross county and began my investing career in another state.

I discussed in the article how to overcome uncertainty, adversity, and the power of positive affirmations. In the conclusion of that article I briefly stated that I was able to close 12 transactions in 18 months; I would like to pass on the tools and skills I used to help me with each deal.

So the question is: how was I able to close 12 transactions in 18 months in a new state, and not knowing anyone?

8 Killer Resources for Savvy Wholesalers

I wish that I could say it was easy but it was not. In addition to the character traits needed to succeed (perseverance, tenacity, humility, focus, and setting priorities) there were also numerous research tools that were needed.

Starting out broke, busted, and disgusted I did not have the huge marketing budget that I would hear many investor talk about. They would say you have to know your marketing budget…… sure no problem $0 (actually it was more like $100), so how do I get started with that? Well you can’t, so I had to start my own mailing campaign sending out 200 letters a month. Discouraging….when you hear other talking about mailing 10,000. (Well… from the 200 letters I was able to get a property under contract!)

The following are some of the tools I’ve used to find success as a wholesaler – and I hope you can use them to find the same!

Tool #1) Redfin

When wholesaling, I have to find comparable sales to the subject property so I know what my after repair value is.  If you do not have access to the MLS, like I didn’t, Redfin has a wonderful “Whats My House Worth” link on their website that will show you all the recent houses sold in the area along with the date they sold for. This is great for determining the after repair value.

(When looking at the comps, you’ll need to know about how much the repairs are. I have experience in renovating properties, so I am familiar with the process, but if you are new at it you should check out J Scott’s “The Book on Flipping Houses” and “The Book on Estimating Rehab Costs.” I hear they are good if you have no experience in this matter!)

#2) Tax Assessor

I also utilize the tax assessor’s website to get additional pieces of information about the property and the owners. I was able to use this to confirm the square footage, lot square footage, age of the house, and how long they owned the house. I also use the Tax Assessor’s site to confirm that they are, indeed, the owners.

#3) Google Maps

This may seem elementary to have this on the list but remember: I was broke; driving around looking at houses was not an option.

Most importantly I would use Google Maps to help me build rapport. Sellers would often ask me if I had seen the house and because of Google Streetview, now I could say “yes” and feel confident in my conversation with them. For some reason, psychologically, it made me feel more comfortable looking at the property while I was speaking with them on the phone.

#4) Chicago Title “Premier Services”

This is not for all areas but Chicago Title has a tool called Premier Services, which is another excellent resource I use that gives the property history, escrow profile, mortgage lender information as well as comps for the properties I am looking at. I use this because it is good for researching how much the owner possibly might owe on the property, or if they are going through a foreclosure process. This is absolutely free but you have to contact Chicago Title for a username and ability log in.

Having this great informational resources can strengthen your position when it comes to negotiating.

#5) BiggerPockets

This is a no brainer, but if you are reading this from an exterior link from BiggerPockets.com, the website provides valuable information from thousands of investors’ hands-on experiences.

#6) Podio

This is essential!  Any good wholesaler will have a CRM tool that can help you be more organized with your leads. This helps me:

  • schedule follow up calls,
  • make notes from our last conversation,
  • show if I have made an offer
  • what the amount of the offer is
  • and a lot more.

The Podio CRM is definitely the hub of my organization. There are many functions, so it can be a little confusing, but understanding the wide scope of the tools this CRM has is worth the time and effort to research this tool.

#7) Constant Contact

Once the property under contract then the next step is to immediately market the property. I use ConstantContact, which is a database that stores all my cash buyers’ emails and other contact information. This tool also makes sure that all my marketing material remain consistent and professional. Remember – this is a business and not just a hobby. As with any business, your business and product must be easily identifiable.

Some investors us a simple email and send their information out. Sure, this is ok if you are just starting out… but for a few dollars a month you can have a very professional approach.

#8) Social Media

As with other marketing pieces; content and visual ascetics should remain consistent!

Conclusion

These tools helped me start from nothing in a new place, with minimal resources. If you apply some of these tools in your business, they will help you tremendously.

There are many more tools, like the MLS, Microsoft Excel, other having report-building skills, that are also important and maybe even essential – but this list of 8 should get you off to a great start!

Are there other tools that are in your toolbox that you use to close deals? We would love to hear and learn new technological advances, so please share your tips and comments below!

 

Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.