How do I find motivated sellers?
Common sources of motivated sellers
Motivated sellers are often facing time pressure or financial strain. Public records like foreclosure filings, probate court, divorce filings, and tax liens are free or low-cost sources. You can also find absentee owners and code violations through county records.
Driving for dollars—looking for vacant or distressed properties—and checking online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can surface sellers who want a fast, as-is sale.
- Foreclosure notices and pre-foreclosure lists
- Probate and inheritance cases
- Divorce filings
- Tax delinquent properties
- Absentee owners and out-of-state landlords
- Code violations and vacant properties
How to reach them
Direct mail is still a common approach: send a simple letter or postcard offering to buy as-is for cash. Cold calling, texting (where legal), and door knocking can work but must comply with Do Not Call and anti-solicitation laws.
Networking with real estate agents, attorneys, and property managers can bring referrals. Some investors use paid lead services, but quality varies widely.
Qualifying motivation
Not everyone on a list is truly motivated. When you talk to a seller, ask about their timeline, reason for selling, and price expectations. A motivated seller often prioritizes speed and certainty over top dollar.
Be respectful and never pressure. Your goal is to solve a problem, not exploit it.
Common mistakes
- Assuming everyone in foreclosure wants to sell—many try to keep their home.
- Ignoring Do Not Call rules when cold calling, which can lead to fines.
- Paying for expensive lead lists without testing their quality first.
