How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

Learning how to find real estate wholesalers is one of the most valuable skills an investor can learn. Off-market properties consistently generate stronger returns because you’re not battling dozens of other buyers for the same deal. Wholesalers are the gatekeepers to these hidden opportunities, and knowing how to connect with the right ones can transform both your investment strategy and a seller’s ability to move a property quickly.

So, what exactly does a wholesaler do? At its core, a real estate wholesaler secures a purchase contract on a distressed or undervalued property and then assigns that contract to an end buyer—usually an investor like you. This creates a win-win: sellers offload properties fast and as-is, while investors gain access to deals they’d never find on the MLS.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about finding and working with wholesalers. Use the links below to jump straight to the section that matters most to you:

• Understanding Real Estate Wholesalers
• Benefits of Working With Wholesalers
• How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers
• Choosing & Evaluating Wholesalers
• Building Long-Term Relationships
• How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers: FAQs
• Final Thoughts on How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers

Understanding Real Estate Wholesalers

If you’re just getting started, you might be asking: What is a real estate wholesaler? Think of wholesalers as the middlemen of the real estate world. They don’t usually buy properties outright—instead, they put distressed or undervalued homes under contract, then transfer that contract to an end buyer (usually an investor) for a fee.

To understand wholesale real estate explained in simple terms, let’s break down a few keywords you’ll hear all the time:

• Assignment: The wholesaler signs a purchase agreement with the seller and then “assigns” that contract to a buyer. The wholesaler never owns the property—they just collect an assignment fee.
• Double Close: Instead of assigning, the wholesaler briefly closes on the property, then immediately resells it to the investor. This adds a step but sometimes makes the deal smoother if the seller doesn’t want the assignment disclosed.
• Flipper vs. Wholesaler: A flipper actually buys and renovates the property before selling it. A wholesaler skips the rehab and focuses on controlling contracts, moving properties faster, and minimizing risk.

In short, wholesalers create a win-win. Sellers unload properties quickly, investors get access to discounted deals, and wholesalers profit by bridging the gap. Once you understand how wholesaling works, you’ll see why these players are so important to every real estate market.

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Benefits of Working With Wholesalers

So, why use a real estate wholesaler? The short answer: access and speed. Wholesalers are often the first to uncover off-market properties that never hit the MLS. For investors, this means early access to discounted homes with less competition. For sellers, it means a quick, as-is sale without dealing with showings, repairs, or drawn-out negotiations. In the right situation, wholesalers help both sides win.

Here are some of the biggest benefits of real estate wholesalers:

• Early Access: Get in front of deals before other investors even hear about them.
• Reduced Competition: Off-market deals aren’t blasted to the public, giving you breathing room.
• Flexible Structures: Assignments, double closes, or creative terms tailored to investor needs.
• Privacy: Sellers can move a property quietly without open houses or listings.
• Higher Returns: Buying deeper discounts often translates to stronger profits down the road.

Local vs National Wholesalers

Not all wholesalers operate the same way. Local wholesalers may know their neighborhoods block by block, while national wholesalers bring scale and networks across multiple markets. Here’s a quick comparison:

So, are wholesalers worth it? If you’re an investor looking for off-market deals or a seller who needs speed, the answer is usually yes. The key is learning how to vet your wholesaler and build trust so you consistently get high-quality opportunities.

How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers

Finding wholesalers is the core skill every investor needs to master. Luckily, there are multiple ways to connect with them—both online and offline. Below, we’ll break down the most effective strategies so you can start building your network and securing off-market deals today.

Online Search & Real Estate Platforms

One of the simplest ways to locate real estate wholesalers is through a targeted online search. Most wholesalers market themselves with phrases like “We Buy Houses” or “Sell My House Fast.” By searching these terms plus your city, you’ll uncover local wholesalers who are actively advertising for motivated sellers. Many of them also run buyers lists you can join to get notified about new deals.

• “we buy houses [city]”
• “sell my house fast [city]”
• “real estate wholesalers near me”
• “wholesale buyers list [city]”

Beyond Google, specialized platforms like OfferMarket and PropStream list off-market properties and connect investors with verified wholesalers. These platforms often require proof of funds and ensure wholesalers actually control the contracts they’re marketing.

Networking & Real Estate Events

Wholesaling is a relationship business, and nothing beats face-to-face networking. Local Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) meetings and industry events are hotspots where wholesalers, flippers, and landlords regularly trade deals. Showing up consistently builds credibility and puts you in the mix for new opportunities.

• Bring proof of funds or a pre-approval letter.
• Prepare a 30-second “elevator pitch” about who you are and what you’re looking for.
• Have your buy box criteria ready (location, property type, budget).
• Collect business cards and follow up quickly after the event.

Social Media & Online Communities

Many wholesalers promote deals on social media platforms and online forums. Facebook investor groups, LinkedIn connections, BiggerPockets, and Connected Investors are some of the best places to find them. These groups are often filled with wholesalers actively posting deals.

• Join real estate investor groups in your city or state.
• Search for keywords like “wholesale properties” or “real estate wholesalers.”
• Engage with posts—comment, ask questions, and request to be added to buyers lists.
• Direct message wholesalers and share your investment criteria.

Professional Referrals & Bird Dogs

Your professional network can also be a goldmine. Real estate agents, contractors, property managers, and title companies often know which wholesalers are actively closing deals in your area. You can also work with “bird dogs”—individuals who scout for distressed properties and pass them along to wholesalers and investors.

• Ask agents: “Do you work with wholesalers in this market?”
• Talk to contractors who rehab homes for investors.
• Connect with property managers who oversee rental portfolios.
• Offer referral fees or future deal introductions in exchange for connections.

Public Records & Data Platforms

Wholesalers leave a paper trail in county property records. By searching recorded assignments, double-closing transactions, probate cases, or tax lien filings, you can identify names of frequent wholesalers. Data platforms like PropStream can speed up this process, letting you pull targeted off-market leads and research past transactions.

1. Visit your county’s online recorder or assessor database.
2. Search for recent assignments of contract or double-closing transactions.
3. Look for repeat names—these are often active wholesalers.
4. Cross-reference with skip tracing tools to find contact information.
5. Send a postcard, email, or make a call to introduce yourself as a cash buyer.

Direct Mail & Marketing Signals

Wholesalers advertise heavily, and you can spot them through marketing signals like bandit signs, mailers, and billboards. You can also use direct mail to reach wholesalers directly—especially if you target public records lists or known investor hot spots.

• Bandit signs: “We Buy Houses” on busy intersections.
• Postcards: Sent to homeowners in distress or with equity.
• Craigslist ads: Wholesalers often post “investment property for sale.”
• Billboards or local newspaper ads.

To launch your own campaign, build a list of wholesalers, craft a short letter that outlines your buying criteria, include proof of funds, and follow up consistently.

Top Marketplaces & Wholesale Companies

If you prefer established channels, several national wholesale companies and platforms maintain buyers lists. These organizations often vet deals and provide a steady flow of opportunities. Here’s a quick comparison:

Specialized marketplaces like OfferMarket provide verified listings, targeted deal flow, and often free membership, making them an excellent option for investors who want consistent access to deals without doing all the hunting themselves.

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Choosing & Evaluating Wholesalers

Not every wholesaler you meet will be worth doing business with. Some are true professionals who bring incredible deals to the table, while others cut corners or exaggerate numbers. That’s why learning how to vet a real estate wholesaler is critical for protecting your time, money, and reputation.

Due Diligence & Trustworthiness

Before jumping into a deal, take time to verify track record, paperwork, and professionalism. A solid wholesaler should be transparent, responsive, and able to back up their numbers with real data. Here’s a simple checklist to help you evaluate a wholesaler:

While many wholesalers operate ethically, you also need to stay alert for warning signs. Watch out for these red flags:

• Inflated ARVs that don’t match your own comps.
• Daisy-chained deals where multiple wholesalers stack fees.
• Hidden or surprise fees at closing.
• No inspection period or extremely short timelines.

The bottom line: trust but verify. If a wholesaler pushes you to move forward without due diligence, take it as a sign to walk away.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced investors can slip up when working with wholesalers. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid, along with simple ways to protect yourself:

1. Failing to verify property details: Always re-check comps, taxes, and repair estimates yourself.
2. Ignoring contract terms: Read the fine print. Make sure you understand assignment clauses, inspection periods, and exit options.
3. Overlooking local market trends: A deal that looks good on paper may flop if rents are soft or demand is low.
4. Rushing without proof of funds: Don’t tie up your money or credibility without having financing ready to go.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll protect your capital and build stronger, longer-term relationships with the right wholesalers. When in doubt, consult a legal or tax professional to make sure the contracts and structures you’re signing off on are in your best interest.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Once you’ve connected with a few wholesalers, the real magic happens when you move from being just another name on their email blast to becoming a preferred buyer. Wholesalers want to work with investors who can perform—people who respond quickly, provide proof of funds, and close on time. If you prove yourself as reliable, wholesalers will often send you their best deals first before sharing them with the wider list.

Building relationships with wholesalers is all about communication and consistency. Let them know your exact investment criteria—your budget, property types, and preferred neighborhoods—so they only bring you deals that fit. Then, when a deal comes your way, move fast. Even a quick “yes, send me the contract” or “not a fit this time” shows you’re serious and respectful of their time.

Here are some best practices for strengthening long-term wholesaler relationships:

• Communicate clearly: Share your buy box criteria upfront and keep it updated.
• Respond quickly: Deals move fast, so reply as soon as possible.
• Provide proof of funds: Show wholesalers you’re ready and capable of closing.
• Close efficiently: Be the buyer who follows through without last-minute surprises.
• Give feedback: Let wholesalers know why a deal worked—or didn’t—so they can bring you better opportunities next time.
• Be reliable: A reputation for honesty and consistency gets you bumped to the top of the list.

The stronger your relationships, the better your deal flow. Over time, wholesalers will see you as their go-to buyer—offering you first dibs on the most profitable opportunities in your market.

How to Find Real Estate Wholesalers: FAQs

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about finding and working with real estate wholesalers. Each answer is short, direct, and designed to help you take action quickly.

What is a real estate wholesaler?

A real estate wholesaler is an investor who puts a property under contract—usually a distressed or undervalued home—and then assigns that contract to another buyer for a fee. They act as the middleman, connecting motivated sellers with investors.

How does wholesaling real estate work?

Wholesaling works by finding motivated sellers, securing a purchase contract, and then assigning or reselling that contract to an investor. The wholesaler profits from an assignment fee or a spread created in a double close.

Where can I find real estate wholesalers near me?

You can find wholesalers by searching online for terms like “we buy houses [city],” attending REIA meetings, joining social media investor groups, networking with agents and contractors, and using platforms like PropStream or OfferMarket.

What are the benefits of working with wholesalers?

Working with wholesalers gives investors early access to off-market properties, less competition, flexible deal structures, and the potential for bigger returns. Sellers benefit from quick, as-is transactions without the hassle of listing.

How do I evaluate a wholesaler before working with them?

To evaluate a wholesaler, verify their track record, ask for references, re-run comps and repair estimates, and review contract terms. Watch for red flags like inflated ARVs, daisy-chained deals, or hidden fees.

Are real estate wholesalers worth it?

Yes, if you choose wisely. Wholesalers can save time, provide steady deal flow, and connect you with properties you’d never find on the MLS. The key is doing due diligence and building long-term relationships with trustworthy professionals.

Final Thoughts on How To Find Real Estate Wholesalers

By now, you should have a clear picture of what they do, why they matter, and how to find real estate wholesalers. They serve as the middlemen who unlock access to off-market properties—helping sellers offload homes quickly while giving investors a shot at higher returns with less competition.

You’ve also learned the multifaceted strategies for connecting with wholesalers: from online searches and networking events, to social media, referrals, public records, direct mail, and established marketplaces. But remember—finding wholesalers is only the first step. Success comes from due diligence, smart vetting, and building long-term relationships where both sides can win.

If you’re ready to learn real estate wholesaling at a deeper level, the next move is education and action. With the right systems, you can start accessing consistent off-market deals and build your path toward lasting success in real estate.

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.