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Strategies for finding off-market properties in my area?

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Tech_Guru
Joined:
19.08.2024
Posts: 613
Topic Starter
26.01.2025 06:09
I've been browsing Zillow and Redfin for months, but everything decent seems to be under contract before I can even schedule a viewing. I'm really interested in trying to find off-market deals to avoid the crazy bidding wars, but I'm not sure where to start. Has anyone had luck with direct mail campaigns or reaching out to wholesalers? I'm curious if there are other networking tactics that actually work for local investors without a huge marketing budget.
18 replies in this topic
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Kate_J
Joined:
21.09.2022
Posts: 259
30.04.2025 00:11
Honestly, Zillow is just the graveyard of deals. If it's on there, it's either overpriced or a total dump.
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demian_l
Joined:
10.01.2024
Posts: 830
20.05.2025 21:39
In reply to a previous post
I've had decent luck with direct mail, but you have to be consistent. Don't expect results after one batch of 50 postcards.
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lone_wolf
Joined:
29.01.2025
Posts: 111
23.05.2025 08:05
In reply to a previous post
Have you tried driving for dollars? It sounds old school, but finding distressed properties by just cruising neighborhoods is how I got my first two rentals.
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Sam_W
Joined:
21.05.2024
Posts: 459
20.06.2025 22:40
In reply to a previous post
Wholesalers are a mixed bag. Many of them just put you on an email list and blast you with garbage leads that have no margin. Be very careful who you sign contracts with.
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Gosh_Bolo
Joined:
21.10.2021
Posts: 1190
21.06.2025 17:42
Networking at local REIA meetings is the best way to start. People like to sell to people they know, not random strangers.
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Lara_N
Joined:
05.05.2021
Posts: 1274
17.07.2025 03:58
In reply to a previous post
I agree with the REIA suggestion. I met my current partner at a local meetup and we've done three off-market flips together since.
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demian_l
Joined:
29.05.2022
Posts: 1208
26.08.2025 21:56
Try reaching out to probate attorneys. They often handle estates where the heirs just want the property gone without doing any repairs.
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curious_k
Joined:
19.07.2025
Posts: 801
30.08.2025 14:42
In reply to a previous post
That's a solid tip, but it takes time to build those relationships. Don't expect an attorney to hand you a deal the first time you call them.
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old_wolf
Joined:
19.03.2022
Posts: 2027
08.09.2025 15:50
In reply to a previous post
Direct mail is dead, honestly. Everyone is doing it now. You're better off spending that money on targeted Facebook ads if you have the budget.
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GrayMouse
Joined:
31.08.2022
Posts: 2472
07.10.2025 04:08
I actually find success by talking to neighbors of properties I like. Sometimes they know exactly who owns the place and if they're looking to sell.
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GrayMouse
Joined:
05.04.2022
Posts: 53
16.10.2025 03:32
In reply to a previous post
I second that! Knocking on doors of properties that look neglected is surprisingly effective if you're not shy.
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jacek_pl
Joined:
03.07.2022
Posts: 501
01.11.2025 02:37
In reply to a previous post
Avoid the big wholesalers. Look for the 'mom and pop' investors who are looking to retire and don't want to list with an agent.
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Gosh_Bolo
Joined:
21.06.2022
Posts: 1994
30.11.2025 09:31
Check your local tax delinquent list. It's public record and a great way to find motivated sellers.
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Bob_J
Joined:
24.08.2022
Posts: 972
02.01.2026 08:19
In reply to a previous post
How do you even access that list? Is it just at the county clerk's office?
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Milos_S
Joined:
08.05.2023
Posts: 1733
15.01.2026 19:21
In reply to a previous post
Most counties have it online now, but you might have to pay a small fee to pull the data. Totally worth it though.
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Kras_T
Joined:
12.11.2024
Posts: 2060
22.01.2026 06:26
My best deals have come from building relationships with local contractors. They are the first to know when a client is thinking about selling.
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Master_J
Joined:
04.02.2023
Posts: 347
04.02.2026 08:11
In reply to a previous post
That's a pro tip right there. Contractors are definitely the unsung heroes of off-market sourcing.
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Nico_N
Joined:
04.07.2025
Posts: 563
01.03.2026 04:00
It's a grind, no matter which way you slice it. Just keep at it and eventually something will stick.

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