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How to Wholesale Real Estate in San Diego

How to Wholesale Real Estate in San Diego, California (Step-by-Step Guide)

wholesale real estate Aug 28, 2025

Key Takeaways: How to Wholesale Real Estate in San Diego

What: A practical, step-by-step guide on how to wholesale real estate in San Diego—from building a cash buyers list to putting properties under contract, assigning the deal, and closing with investor-friendly title and escrow. We keep it local, compliant, and tactical so you can confidently wholesale houses in San Diego.

Why: San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods, military and biotech anchors, tourism, and cross-border commerce create steady demand for value-add deals. With a clear playbook, you can navigate higher price points, avoid rookie errors, and turn consistent lead flow into repeatable closings.

How: Follow a proven San Diego playbook:

  • Work with a wholesale mentor to compress your learning curve.
  • Know California rules (market the contract, not the property) and choose assignment or double close.
  • Dial in comps and ARV/MAO by micro-neighborhood and property type.
  • Build a buyers list targeting North Park, City Heights, Southcrest, Logan Heights, Encanto, Clairemont, Serra Mesa, Allied Gardens, and Pacific Beach.
  • Find motivated sellers (on- and off-market) using MLS filters, public records, and focused outreach.
  • Lock up deals with an assignable PSA, smart contingencies, and tight timelines.
  • Assign the contract (or double close) and coordinate with escrow for clean disbursement.
  • Leverage our California wholesaling training and grab the free quick-start guide to take action now.

San Diego moves fast and pays well if you do it right. High prices don’t have to be a barrier; they’re an opportunity for bigger spreads when you underwrite with discipline. With defense, healthcare, biotech, tourism, and ADU-fueled value-add plays driving demand year-round, this market rewards simple, repeatable execution. This guide shows you exactly how to wholesale real estate in San Diego—locally, legally, and step by step—so you can turn today’s leads into signed contracts and paid assignments.

Use the jump links below to grab what you need now, or read the full blueprint on how to wholesale houses in San Diego from first conversation to closing statement.


If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.



Yes — wholesaling is allowed in San Diego. You’re not selling the house itself; you’re selling your spot in a signed purchase contract to an investor for a fee. Think of it like selling your place in line.

Plain-English checklist:

  • Get a signed, assignable purchase agreement with the seller (it lets you transfer your rights).
  • Share/market the contract — not the property — with vetted cash buyers (price, terms, upside).
  • Don’t act like an agent unless you’re licensed (no listing the property or collecting commissions).
  • Use a simple Assignment of Contract to name the buyer and clearly show your assignment fee.
  • Close through title/escrow so your fee is paid on the settlement statement — no side deals.
  • If there’s pushback or a large fee, do a double close (you buy then immediately resell) to keep your fee private.

In California (including San Diego), you can wholesale by assigning your contractual rights to a buyer for a fee because state contract law allows the transfer of “things in action” (i.e., rights under a contract). See California Civil Code §953 and §954. What you cannot do without a license is act like a real estate broker—such as publicly listing or negotiating a sale on someone else’s behalf—because that requires a license under Business & Professions Code §10130 and the broker activity definitions in §10131.

To stay compliant, market the contract (your equitable interest), not the house; use an assignable purchase agreement plus a short, clear assignment; and have title/escrow show your assignment fee on the closing statement. Also remember statewide disclosures—California’s Natural Hazard Disclosure Act (Civil Code §§1103 et seq.) and the Mello-Roos / Special Tax notice (Civil Code §1102.6b)—which are typically handled during your contingency period. If anyone is uneasy about assignments or your spread is large, opt for a double close (you purchase, then resell) and let escrow handle the paperwork flow.

Educational only—consult a California real estate attorney or your title/escrow team for deal-specific guidance.

Legal Dos & Don’ts (San Diego / California)
  • Do disclose that you’re the buyer on contract and may assign your interest.
  • Do market the contract (price, terms, upside)—not the property itself.
  • Do use an assignable purchase agreement, a clear inspection window, and a separate assignment document.
  • Do comply with California disclosure laws; deliver NHD and any Mello-Roos reports during the inspection period.
  • Don’t present yourself as a broker or collect commissions without a license.
  • Don’t advertise the property on MLS/public sites if you’re unlicensed; market your contractual rights to vetted buyers.
  • When in doubt: choose a double close and run your plan by a California real estate attorney.

Here are the three core ways to structure a wholesale deal in San Diego—each with different disclosure, capital, and timeline considerations. If you are learning how to wholesale real estate in San Diego, start with simple assignments when everyone is comfortable with your fee; pivot to a double close when privacy matters or pushback appears; and consider a wholetail only when light repairs unlock a retail exit. Use the table below to match the method to your situation, what you can market, and how much cash you will need to bring to the closing table.

 

Ways to structure a wholesale deal in San Diego and when to use each
Method When to Use You Market Capital Quick Notes
Assignment All parties OK with fee Contract rights Low Fast; simplest; disclose
Double Close Large spread / pushback Nothing publicly Moderate Two HUDs; keeps fee private
Wholetail Light rehab + retail exit Property (you own it) Higher Hybrid; more holding risk

 

How to Wholesale Houses Across California (Video Guide)

Before we zoom into San Diego, it helps to see the statewide picture. California’s rules apply no matter which county you are in, and buyers and sellers often operate across multiple markets. Learning how to wholesale real estate in California—the legal basics, deal flow, and paperwork—will make everything in San Diego feel easier and safer.

This short California wholesaling video walks through the full workflow: what is legal, how to wholesale houses via assignment versus double close, how to build a buyer list that actually closes, and how to set After-Repair Value and Maximum Allowable Offer so you never overpay.



Watch for in the video:
  • The one-sentence rule that keeps you compliant (market the contract, not the property).
  • Assignment versus double close: when to pick each and how it affects your fee and privacy.
  • Buyer list strategy: simple ways to attract real cash buyers and filter pretenders.
  • After-Repair Value and Maximum Allowable Offer made simple so your offers protect your spread on day one.
  • How to partner with title so closings move fast—even across counties.

 

Chase and Diana’s Wholesaling Breakthrough

Say hello to Chase and Diana—full-time professionals, devoted parents, and first-time investors who chose not to wait for “someday.” With busy calendars and children to support, they plugged into the Real Estate Skills step-by-step system and focused on the few actions that matter most: mastering California real estate contracts, analyzing precise comparable sales, setting a realistic After Repair Value and Maximum Allowable Offer, and submitting clean, compliant offers to qualified cash buyers. Within a few short months, they closed two assignment deals and took home a total net profit of $40,000.

If you are wondering how to wholesale real estate in San Diego without leaving your day job, watch the testimonial below. You will see exactly how our playbooks, templates, and coaching compress the learning curve for wholesaling houses in California—and why motivated beginners choose the Ultimate Investor Program when they want proven results instead of trial and error.

Real student story; individual results vary.



San Diego Real Estate Market Overview

San Diego, California blends a coastal lifestyle with serious fundamentals: Defense and Navy installations, healthcare and biotech, tourism, and a growing tech scene. That mix keeps end-buyer and renter demand steady year-round. For anyone learning how to wholesale real estate in San Diego, the takeaway is simple: disciplined underwriting plus local know-how can turn consistent lead flow into repeatable assignments.

The city is a patchwork of micro-markets. Close-in pre-war bungalows sit minutes from mid-century suburbs and newer tract homes. Access to jobs, schools, beach corridors, and freeways shapes pricing block by block. Single-family homes dominate most wholesale exits, but small multifamily, townhomes, and condominiums trade as well, especially where value-adds like accessory dwelling units (ADUs) make numbers pencil.

To move fast and accurately when you are learning how to wholesale houses in San Diego, lean on local data: the San Diego Multiple Listing Service (SDMLS) or CRMLS for comps and days on market; the San Diego County Assessor for ownership and parcel details; the San Diego County Recorder for recorded documents and liens; and city planning/permit portals to verify ADUs, code issues, and open permits.

Here is a quick snapshot of neighborhoods where wholesalers often focus. Pricing and velocity can shift by street, so always verify comparable sales, days on market, and rent potential before you write an offer.

 

San Diego neighborhoods to consider for wholesaling
Neighborhood Typical Property Price Feel Why Wholesalers Like It
City Heights 1940s–1960s bungalows, small duplexes Entry-level Steady rental demand; frequent distress; ADU potential
Encanto / Southcrest Post-war single-family, small multifamily Entry to mid Larger lots; value-add room; motivated sellers
North Park Craftsman bungalows, condos/townhomes Mid to upper Walkability; strong resale; cosmetic flips perform
Chula Vista (South Bay) 1960s–2000s tract homes, townhomes Mid Volume of inventory; family buyer pool; newer systems
National City Older SFRs, small multiplexes Entry to mid Investor-friendly pricing; solid rents; quick flips
El Cajon (East County) 1950s–1980s ranch homes, duplexes Entry to mid Larger footprints; garage-to-ADU plays; landlord demand
Clairemont Mesa Mid-century SFRs, some view lots Mid Central location; cosmetic rehabs move; ADU-ready yards
Oceanside (North County) 1950s–1990s SFRs, condos Mid Active buyer pool; strong retail exits; military-adjacent demand

 

Why San Diego Works for wholesalers?
  • Resilient job base (Defense, healthcare/biotech, tourism, higher education) supports steady demand.
  • Year-round seasonality—construction and resale timelines are rarely weather-limited.
  • Multiple exit paths: assignment, double close, wholetail, BRRRR, ADU-driven value-adds.
  • Data-rich ecosystem (SDMLS/CRMLS, County Assessor/Recorder, city permit portals) for tight underwriting.
  • Diverse submarkets—from entry-level East County to coastal North County—let you match deals to buyer “buy boxes.”

 

How to Wholesale Real Estate in San Diego (Step-by-Step)

Below is a simple, step-by-step roadmap for how to wholesale real estate in San Diego, California, designed to take you from your first conversation to the closing table with confidence.

Use the links to jump directly to each stage of how to wholesale houses in San Diego, California—from choosing a mentor and mastering local contracts to building a cash buyers list, securing the contract, assigning it, and closing.

  1. Partner with a Wholesale Mentor
  2. Learn San Diego Wholesaling Laws & Contracts
  3. Analyze the San Diego Market (Comps, ARV, MAO)
  4. Build a Cash Buyers List in San Diego
  5. Find Motivated Sellers & Distressed Properties
  6. Put Properties Under Contract
  7. Assign Contracts to Cash Buyers
  8. Close Deals & Collect Your Assignment Fee
  9. Double Close When Necessary

Partner with a Wholesale Mentor

Want to move faster with fewer mistakes? A proven wholesale mentor turns trial-and-error into a clear plan—showing you how to analyze deals, navigate contracts, talk to sellers with confidence, and connect with real cash buyers in San Diego County.

Start local. Attend San Diego investor meetups, property walk-throughs, and virtual masterminds. Ask experienced wholesalers which title and escrow teams handle assignments smoothly, and which contractors give reliable bids. If you want structure, our Ultimate Investor Program gives you a step-by-step path, weekly coaching, and on-call contract support from working professionals.

Mentorship Advantages: What You Gain
  • Deal clarity: pull comparable sales, set After-Repair Value, and calculate Maximum Allowable Offer with confidence.
  • Contract control: use assignable purchase agreements, right-sized contingencies, and clean assignment paperwork.
  • Real buyers: access vetted San Diego cash buyers who close on time.
  • Fewer missteps: avoid unlicensed activity, disclosure gaps, and title surprises.
  • Momentum: accountability, checklists, and “do this next” coaching that keeps you moving.

Quick checklist: how to choose the right San Diego mentor

  • Local track record: recent assignments and double closings in San Diego neighborhoods you want to target.
  • Legal literacy: aligns with California rules and partners well with investor-friendly title and escrow companies.
  • Buyer access: can introduce you to active cash buyers with clear criteria and proof of funds.
  • Systemized training: milestones, scripts, templates, and real-deal reviews—not just theory.
  • Availability: weekly touchpoints or office hours, not only a course portal.

Need a Mentor? Start Here (Free PDF)

If you’ve been thinking, “I just need someone to show me the moves,” that’s us. We’re the mentor you’re looking for, and you don’t have to wait. Grab our free, step-by-step PDF that shows you how to wholesale in any state (including San Diego)—from legal basics to buyer lists, offers, and closing. It’s concise, actionable, and designed for your first deal. Download the free guide now:

Learn San Diego Wholesaling Laws & Contracts

The paperwork makes or breaks your deal. In California, you are not selling the house—you are selling your equitable interest in a purchase contract. That requires clean, California-friendly documents, truthful marketing, and clear disclosures. Dial in the basics below before you market a single contract in San Diego.

Core documents to understand

  • Purchase and Sale Agreement (purchase contract)
    • Must-have: an assignment clause or the California Association of Realtors assignment addendum (C.A.R. AOAA) so your contractual interest is transferable.
    • Protection: a clear inspection contingency to verify condition, title items, and your numbers.
    • Clarity: realistic close date, access for inspectors, and delivery of Natural Hazard Disclosure and Mello-Roos information when applicable.
  • Assignment of Contract
    • Purpose: transfers your contract rights to a vetted cash buyer for a fee.
    • Transparency: your fee is disclosed and acknowledged by all parties.
    • Flow: title and escrow disburse your assignment fee on the settlement statement—no side deals.
  • Double-close paperwork (when needed)
    • Two closings: you buy and then resell back-to-back, often the same day.
    • Funding: short-term transactional funding may be required for the first leg.
    • Why: protects fee privacy or when a party is uncomfortable with assignments.
California Compliance Snapshot (San Diego)
  • Market the contract, not the property.
  • Use assignable purchase contracts and accurate, non-misleading marketing.
  • Deliver Natural Hazard Disclosure and Mello-Roos reports during contingencies.
  • Run everything through an investor-friendly San Diego title and escrow team.
  • When unsure about structure, speak with a California real estate attorney.

Educational only—this is not legal advice.

Download a wholesale real estate contract template (PDF)

Analyze the San Diego Market (Comps, After-Repair Value, Maximum Allowable Offer)

Great wholesaling starts with great numbers. In San Diego, that means pulling tight comparable sales, setting a realistic After-Repair Value (ARV), estimating rehabilitation costs, and backing into a smart Maximum Allowable Offer so your buyer profits and your assignment fee fits. Micro-markets vary block by block—coastal versus inland, canyon lots, accessory dwelling unit potential, school districts—so precision beats averages.

  1. Define the subject property: beds, baths, year built, square footage, lot size, construction type (stucco versus wood), garage and parking, pool, view, canyon or hillside exposure, proximity to coast, school district, zoning, and accessory dwelling unit potential.
  2. Pull comparable sales: start with San Diego Multiple Listing Service data when possible; otherwise, use public portals for a first pass. Target sold homes within approximately 0.25–1.0 miles from the subject, closed in the last 3–6 months, similar size (±15 percent), similar age, and similar condition. Keep coastal premiums, view lots, and canyon streets separate—San Diego’s geography moves prices.
  3. Filter and adjust: drop outliers (probates, tear-downs, non-arm’s length sales). Note upgrades such as new roofs and heating and cooling systems, kitchens and bathrooms, seismic or foundation work, and adjust for condition, square footage, bed and bath count, garage, and lot quality.
  4. Set the After-Repair Value: from your top three comparable sales, take a median sale price or price-per-square-foot and apply it to the subject in fully renovated condition that matches neighborhood expectations.
  5. Estimate repairs: line-item if you can (roof, heating and cooling, electrical, plumbing, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, paint, windows, exterior, fencing, landscaping). In San Diego, plan for termites and wood repair, potential coastal corrosion, and drainage on canyon or hillside lots. If you are new, start with a conservative per-square-foot estimate, then refine after a walkthrough and contractor quotes.
  6. Calculate the buyer’s target price: many San Diego flippers underwrite around After-Repair Value × 70–75 percent − repairs. Buy-and-hold investors may underwrite to cash flow and factor potential accessory dwelling unit income. Know the specific discount and return targets of your end buyer.
  7. Back into Maximum Allowable Offer: Maximum Allowable Offer = buyer target − your assignment fee − buyer closing and holding costs. This protects your spread while leaving profit for the buyer.
  8. Pressure-test your numbers: confirm days on market, rent comparables (for BRRRR or accessory dwelling unit buyers), hazard zones (wildfire canyons, flood plains, liquefaction), Mello-Roos and special taxes in newer communities, and any coastal zone or permit constraints that could impact renovations or timelines.

Maximum Allowable Offer formula: Maximum Allowable Offer ≈ (After-Repair Value × Buyer Discount Percentage) − Estimated Repairs − Buyer Soft Costs − Your Assignment Fee

Data Sources for San Diego Deals
  • San Diego Multiple Listing Service and California Regional Multiple Listing Service: best for comparable sales, active and pending listings, and days on market.
  • San Diego County Assessor: ownership history, assessed values, legal descriptions, and parcel maps.
  • San Diego County Recorder and Clerk: recorded documents, liens, probates, and trustee activity.
  • City and County permit and zoning portals: permit status, code enforcement, zoning overlays, coastal and hillside constraints.
  • Public portals: for photos and preliminary comparables—always verify with Multiple Listing Service data before writing offers.
  • Title company and contractor quotes: real-world costs for curative title issues and renovation budgets.

Tip: Save your subject data, comparables, After-Repair Value, repairs, and Maximum Allowable Offer in a simple worksheet so your pricing stays consistent and repeatable.

Watch: How to Analyze Wholesale Deals and Calculate Offer Price
  • Step-by-step math for comparables, After-Repair Value, repairs, and Maximum Allowable Offer.
  • Reverse-engineer offers that buyers accept in San Diego micro-markets.
  • Perfect for beginners learning how to wholesale real estate in San Diego.

Build a Cash Buyers List in San Diego

Your buyers list is your oxygen. The larger and more qualified it is, the faster you can assign contracts and the less you will worry about deals falling apart. In San Diego, a strong list means investors who actually close—people with clear purchase criteria, recent proof of funds, and a repeatable track record.

Where to find real buyers in San Diego:

  • Local real estate investor meetups and flip tours: show up consistently, exchange buy boxes, and ask who closed assignments or flips in the last ninety days.
  • Trustee sales and courthouse auctions: introduce yourself to bidders; they pay cash and close quickly.
  • Investor-friendly real estate agents: ask which cash buyers are still active, their price ceilings, neighborhoods, and renovation tolerance.
  • Online communities: join San Diego investor groups on major forums and social platforms; provide value (market updates, deal feedback) before you add people to your list.
  • Vendors who know closers: title and escrow officers, hard-money lenders, contractors, home inspectors, and property managers can introduce you to buyers who actually close.
  • Non-owner-occupied owners: pull landlord lists by ZIP code and mail simple three-line postcards to invite direct responses.
Cash Buyer Vetting Checklist
  • Proof of funds dated within thirty days (bank statement, verified line of credit, or hard-money approval).
  • Entity name and authorized signatory on offers; tax form on file (W-9 or W-8BEN).
  • Clear buy box: preferred ZIP codes, maximum price, beds and baths, renovation level, flip versus long-term hold.
  • Closing speed: fourteen to thirty days; earnest money deposit amount ready to wire.
  • Evidence of performance: recent closing statements or references from title, lenders, or agents.
  • Title and escrow preferences; willingness to purchase assigned contracts.

Keep a simple customer relationship management tool or spreadsheet with columns for name, entity, phone, and email, buy box, title or escrow preference, proof-of-funds date, and notes. Tag buyers by neighborhood so you can send the right deal to the right people fast: City Heights, North Park, Normal Heights, Clairemont, Mira Mesa, Serra Mesa, Linda Vista, La Mesa, El Cajon, Spring Valley, National City, Chula Vista, Oceanside, and Escondido.

Copy-and-Paste Deal Email (keep it tight)

Subject: San Diego Contract – 3 bed 2 bath City Heights – $525,000 – After-Repair Value about $700,000 – Fourteen-Day Close

Body:
1234 Sample Street, San Diego, California 9210X (3 bed, 2 bath, 1,320 square feet, 1950, stucco).
Asking Price: $525,000 | After-Repair Value: about $700,000 | Estimated Repairs: about $55,000
Comparable Sales: 5678 Maple (about $698,000, recent), 9101 Oak (about $705,000, recent), 1213 Pine (about $690,000, recent)
Access: lockbox by appointment. Title and escrow: investor-friendly; assignment permitted.
Terms: earnest money deposit $10,000 | Close in fourteen days | Buyer pays closing costs.
Reply “SD 525” with proof of funds for full address and walkthrough time.

Your buyers list is the lever that makes every deal easier. If you are learning how to wholesale houses in San Diego, start here: show up locally, verify proof of funds, organize buyer preferences, and follow up until the right buyer says yes. Do this consistently and assignments move faster, spreads improve, and repeat buyers start calling you first.

Watch: How to Find Cash Buyers for Wholesaling (Fast and Free)
  • Simple online and offline methods to build a real cash buyers list.
  • How to vet buyers quickly and avoid tire-kickers.
  • Perfect for beginners in San Diego who need buyers quickly.

Find Motivated Sellers & Distressed Properties (San Diego)

Deals begin with life events, not list prices. In San Diego, motivated sellers often include long-distance landlords tired of turnovers, heirs managing an inheritance, owners behind on payments, and homeowners who prefer a quick, as-is sale over a retail listing. Layer the strategies below, and you will build a steady pipeline without relying on expensive ads.

Street Tactics (talk to owners)
  • Driving for dollars: mark vacant, overgrown, boarded, fire- or water-damaged homes; snap photos and pin them in your map app.
  • Door hangers and leave-behinds: short, friendly “we buy as-is” notes with a local phone number and clear next step.
  • Referrals from the field: let investor-friendly agents, roofers, plumbers, and property managers know your buy box; pay referral fees when allowed.
  • Landlord outreach: mail non-owner-occupied owners by ZIP with a three-line postcard; invite off-market conversations.
  • Event networking: at meetups and flip tours, ask each attendee for two owners who might sell—track every intro in your CRM.
Digital & Public Records (scale fast)
  • MLS keywords (on-market wholesaling): search SDMLS/CRMLS for “as-is,” “cash only,” “investor special,” “needs TLC.” Send clean cash offers with short inspections.
  • Auction calendars: watch trustee sales and online auction platforms; introduce yourself to bidders who buy with cash.
  • Skip tracing with purpose: call or text owners you flagged while driving for dollars; keep messages compliant and respectful.
  • County records: use the San Diego County Assessor/Recorder to research ownership, liens, probates, and transfers; follow office access rules.
  • Permits & code: check the City of San Diego Development Services (or relevant city) for open permits or violations; note wildfire, flood, and coastal zone considerations.
Signs a Seller Is Ready
  • Vacant or inherited property; probate or trust administration underway.
  • Pre-foreclosure notices, tax or HOA delinquencies, or mounting code issues.
  • Repairs exceed savings: roof, HVAC, foundation, moisture or wildfire-hardening costs.
  • Out-of-area owner, recent eviction, or multiple turnovers.
  • Urgent timeline: relocation, divorce, medical bills, or estate settlement.

Log every touchpoint in a lightweight CRM: owner name, contact method, property condition, motivation, timeline, and initial price talk. Tag by neighborhood (City Heights, North Park, Normal Heights, Clairemont, Mira Mesa, Serra Mesa, Linda Vista, La Mesa, El Cajon, Spring Valley, National City, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido) so you can match deals to buyers quickly. Follow up weekly until you receive a clear “no” or a signed agreement.

Compliance note: Keep marketing truthful, respect Do-Not-Call rules, honor opt-out requests, and never misrepresent your role. When in doubt, ask your title or escrow officer and a California real estate attorney before launching a campaign.

Watch: How to Find Cheap Houses to Buy (Fast & Free)
  • Build an off-market pipeline without paid ads.
  • Combine driving for dollars, skip tracing, and public records for reliable deal flow.
  • Great for competitive markets like San Diego.


Put Properties Under Contract (San Diego)

This is the moment conversations turn into a signed agreement. Use your San Diego numbers—ARV, rehab budget, and MAO—to craft a clean, confidence-building offer with a clear timeline, a right-sized earnest money deposit, and an assignable purchase agreement. Keep the language plain, explain that you are buying a contractual right you may assign, and let title/escrow run point on the mechanics.

  1. Price with precision: lock ARV from tight comps, include coastal/wildfire/flood considerations, and set your MAO so both your buyer and your fee fit.
  2. Keep the offer simple: short closing window, realistic inspection period, clear cost splits, and a modest EMD with a specific delivery date to escrow.
  3. Use an assignable PSA: include assignment language or add the appropriate assignment addendum, grant reasonable access for inspections, and set a believable close date.
  4. Open escrow & wire EMD: send the executed PSA to title/escrow, deliver the earnest money, and ask early about any liens, Mello-Roos, or probate items that could slow the file.
  5. Verify & choose the path: walk the property, finalize repairs, confirm buyer interest, then proceed with a clear assignment—or opt for a double close if privacy or pushback requires it.
Negotiation Playbook (friendly & firm)
  • Lead with certainty: “We will use a local escrow company and close on your timeline.”
  • Cut the clutter: fewer contingencies, clear dates, plain-English terms.
  • Trade, do not take: if price is firm, request access, credits, or time; if time is tight, sweeten price slightly.
  • Be transparent: explain that you may partner with another buyer via assignment—clarity builds trust.
  • Write while you talk: convert a verbal “yes” into a drafted PSA the same day.

Rehab costs in San Diego vary by neighborhood, age, proximity to the coast, and local requirements. Use the table below as a directional guide and always confirm with contractor bids.

 

Item Light Moderate Heavy Notes
Roof Patch / maintenance Partial replacement Full tear-off & replace Salt air & wind wear near coast
HVAC Service / minor repair Condensor / furnace swap Full system + ducting Size for coastal humidity / inland heat
Kitchen Paint / hardware refresh Cabinets / counters Full gut & layout change Finish level drives cost in coastal ZIPs
Bathrooms Cosmetic refresh Tub/shower & vanity Full gut & plumbing Check for moisture / ventilation issues
Electrical / Plumbing Minor fixes Panel swap / partial re-pipe Full rewire / full re-pipe Look for older cast iron & knob-and-tube
Floors / Paint Spot fixes / interior paint Full interior repaint + LVP/carpet Interior/exterior paint + premium flooring Check slab moisture; coastal peeling
Stucco / Exterior Crack patch / paint Section repair Resurface / re-stucco Salt air & sun exposure wear
Termite & Wood Repair Spot treatment Localized wood repair Tent + major wood replacement Common in older coastal areas
Sewer Lateral Cleanout / camera scope Spot repair / liner Full replacement Older neighborhoods may require scope

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

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Assign Contracts to Cash Buyers

Once your purchase agreement is assignable and signed, your job is to make underwriting effortless for real buyers in San Diego. Package a “deal kit” that answers every key question in minutes—then send it only to vetted investors whose buy box matches the neighborhood, price point, and rehab level. Remember: you are marketing your contract rights, not the property.

Build a fast, trust-building deal kit:

  • Address + brief facts (beds/baths, year, square footage, lot, zoning notes)
  • Current photos & a short condition summary (what works, what needs work)
  • Three strongest ARV comps (MLS if available) with close dates & distances
  • Repair estimate (line items or per-foot), hazards (fire/flood/earthquake) if applicable
  • Your assignment price, access instructions, inspection window, and decision deadline
  • Title/escrow status (opened, EMD received, any known liens or HOA/Mello-Roos)

How to execute the assignment (simple flow):

  1. Confirm proof of funds and entity details from the buyer.
  2. Use a plain-English Assignment of Contract that discloses your fee and instructs title/escrow to pay it on the settlement statement.
  3. Collect a buyer deposit (often non-refundable after inspection) and set a tight decision window (24–72 hours).
  4. Keep two or three backup buyers warm in the same ZIP and price tier.
Assignment Fee Rules (quick checklist)
  • Disclose your fee in the assignment document—no surprises.
  • Get paid by title/escrow on the closing statement (no side deals).
  • Use a decision window plus a deposit to keep momentum.
  • Have backups ready for this neighborhood/rehab level.
  • Switch to a double close if there is pushback or a large spread.

Illustrative math (one way to think about it):
ARV = $715,000 · Repairs ≈ $50,000 · Buyer target ≈ ARV × 70% − Repairs = $450,500
Your fee goal = $17,500 → MAO to seller ≈ $450,500 − $17,500 = $433,000
If you sign at $426,000, your assignment fee at closing is $24,500.

If a buyer backs out: notify your next buyer immediately, ask escrow what curative items you can advance in parallel, and request a short extension from the seller only if needed.



Close Deals & Collect Your Assignment Fee

The finish line is simple: clean title, clear communication, and your assignment fee paid by title/escrow on the closing statement—no side deals. Work with an investor-friendly San Diego title/escrow team that routinely handles assignments and double closes, and you will cruise through funding and recording.

  1. Open escrow: send the fully executed PSA (and assignment, if signed) to title/escrow; request wiring instructions and a milestone timeline.
  2. Buyer deposit: have the buyer wire EMD to escrow and confirm receipt in writing.
  3. Title search & curative: escrow pulls liens, judgments, HOA/Mello-Roos, and payoffs; you supply contact info and missing docs fast.
  4. Settlement prep: your assignment fee appears as a line item on the settlement statement (HUD/CD). Review and confirm numbers early.
  5. Signing logistics: schedule in-office, mobile notary, or remote online notarization; confirm IDs, entities, and who must sign.
  6. Final walkthrough (as needed): buyer verifies condition and access match the agreement.
  7. Funding & disbursement: buyer wires funds; escrow balances; your fee is disbursed by wire or cashier’s check per instructions.
  8. Recording: escrow records the deed with the San Diego County Recorder and circulates final documents/receipts.
  9. Post-close package: save the signed settlement statement, wire confirmation, and recorded docs for your file and accounting.

 

Company Services Why Wholesaler-Friendly
Example A Assignments, double closes, mobile notary, RON Puts assignment fee on HUD/CD; fast curative; same-day wires
Example B Investor escrows, lien resolution, HOA/payoff wrangling Transparent fee schedules; investor-savvy processors; clear checklists
Example C Transactional funding coordination, eRecording, remote sign Understands double-close timing; proactive communication

 

Avoid Last-Minute Delays
  • Submit a complete file: PSA, addenda, assignment, IDs, entity docs, payoffs, HOA contacts, NHD/Mello-Roos disclosures.
  • Confirm wires early: buyer funds ETA and your disbursement instructions.
  • Lock access details: lockbox codes, utilities on, walkthrough window.
  • Review the draft settlement 24 hours before signing; verify your fee line.
  • Have a backup notary/time slot in case a signer runs late.

Follow this closing checklist, and you will finish strong in San Diego: a clean title, predictable timelines, and your assignment fee shown right on the settlement statement. Partnering with a wholesale-savvy escrow keeps you compliant and speeds up funding, recording, and disbursement—so you wholesale houses with less drama, faster paydays, and a reputation that brings you the next deal.

Double Close When Necessary

A double close (sometimes called a simultaneous close) is two back-to-back transactions—A→B (you buy) and B→C (you sell)—often on the same day. In San Diego, choose this path when you want privacy around your spread, you encounter pushback on an assignment, or an institutional buyer requires you to appear in the chain of title. Expect two sets of closing costs and tighter timing with escrow.

No cash for the A→B side? Use transactional funding—a short-term loan repaid a few hours later by B→C proceeds. Lenders typically charge a small percentage plus a flat fee, and some require 24-hour “seasoning.” Coordinate wire cut-offs early, review both HUDs/CDs for accuracy, and keep everyone (you, buyer, seller, escrow, lender) aligned on a single email thread to avoid delays.

Double Close: Pros & Cons
  • Pros: preserves assignment fee privacy; reduces objections; satisfies buyers who need you on title; fits varied lender/underwriter rules.
  • Cons: two escrows = extra costs and coordination; may require transactional funding; missed wire cut-offs can push recording to the next business day.
  • Use in San Diego when: your fee is large, a party dislikes assignments, or institutional buyers insist on deed chain continuity.
San Diego–Specific Tips
  • Plan HOA/Mello-Roos early: master-planned communities are common; order HOA demand/estoppel and special tax details up front.
  • Keep files “clean”: separate A→B and B→C paperwork, emails, and wire instructions to prevent cross-pollination.
  • Confirm recording logistics: ask escrow about same-day recording windows with the San Diego County Recorder and build your timeline backward.

Mastering the double-close workflow—transactional funding, two HUDs/CDs, and tight coordination with a savvy escrow—protects spreads and keeps closings on track. Use it alongside your assignment playbook and you will keep how to wholesale real estate in San Diego smooth, compliant, and profitable while you are wholesaling houses in San Diego.

Pros & Cons of Wholesaling Houses in San Diego

Every market has trade-offs. Here is a clear snapshot of why wholesalers like San Diego—and the friction points to plan for as you scale.

 

✅ Pros ❌ Cons
Diversified economy (defense, healthcare, biotech, tourism) supports steady end-buyer and rental demand High acquisition and renovation costs; stronger carrying expenses
Year-round buying season and limited new land supply keep velocity consistent Tight inventory and seasoned competitors compress spreads
Multiple exit strategies: assignment, double close, wholetail, BRRRR Coastal/CEQA overlays, historic districts, and HOA/Mello-Roos can add time and cost
ADU and small-multifamily value-add paths can boost ARV and buyer interest Permitting can be slow; unpermitted work is common—requires extra diligence
Active investor community, vendor network, and data-rich resources (MLS, assessor, recorder, permitting portals) Legal/compliance learning curve (market the contract, deliver disclosures, stay within California rules)
Scalable systems: repeatable outreach, buyer tagging by ZIP, and niche micro-market strategies Persistent marketing and follow-up required across fragmented micro-markets

 

San Diego rewards wholesalers who price with discipline, set clear expectations with sellers, and protect compliance. Build real buyer relationships, keep backups ready, and use a double close when privacy or pushback appears—your pipeline and reputation will thank you.

San Diego Resources: Title Companies, REI Groups & Tools

Build a simple, repeatable “deal ops” stack and use it on every file. The resources below are tailored to how to wholesale real estate in San Diego and will help you stay compliant, move faster, and close confidently.

  • Title companies (investor-friendly):
    • Ask for processors who routinely handle assignments and double closes. Request a redacted settlement statement to verify experience.
    • Confirm in writing that your assignment fee will appear on the closing statement—no off-statement payments.
    • Verify wire cut-off times, signing options (mobile notary / RON), and same-day funding policies with the San Diego County title office you will use.
  • REI groups & networking:
    • San Diego investor meetups and flip tours: meet active buyers, ask which title companies and contractors they trust, and collect real buy boxes.
    • Local masterminds and project walk-throughs: bring a one-page “deal kit” template to trade feedback and win partner buyers.
    • Online communities (San Diego investor forums, BiggerPockets, Facebook groups): post recent HUDs (redacted), criteria, and request warm intros.
  • Government & public data (San Diego County):
    • Recorder/Clerk: recorded documents, liens, probates, notices of default—confirm current ordering/search options and turnaround times.
    • Assessor: ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel numbers—cross-check before sending offers.
    • Permits & zoning: city permitting portals and county/city GIS (e.g., zoning layers, fire/flood maps, coastal zones); verify any unpermitted work.
    • Disclosures: Natural Hazard Disclosure and applicable special tax/Mello-Roos—order during the contingency period and track receipt.
  • MLS & market data:
    • SDMLS (and CRMLS coverage where applicable): comps, days on market, remarks; search distress keywords (“as-is,” “cash only,” “investor special”).
    • Rental comps (for BRRRR buyers): gather verified rents, vacancy assumptions, and utility responsibilities to support your buyers’ underwriting.
    • Neighborhood micro-trends: note school zones, ADU-friendly areas, coastal overlays, and HOA constraints that impact ARV and hold time.
  • Tools (deal flow & operations):
    • Skip tracing & outreach: build owner lists from driving for dollars and public records; log every touch; honor opt-outs.
    • CRM: tag buyers by ZIP, price ceiling, rehab level, and timeline; tag sellers by lead source and motivation.
    • Public portals: use Zillow/Redfin/Realtor for photos and quick sense checks—verify final pricing with MLS data before offers.
    • File room: standard folders for PSA, assignment, addenda, IDs, hazard disclosures, POF, settlement statements, and wiring instructions.
How to Pick a Title Company (San Diego checklist)
  • Processes assignments and double closes weekly (ask for a redacted HUD/CD as proof).
  • Clear policy to pay your assignment fee on the closing statement.
  • Curative team that handles liens, probates, HOA/Mello-Roos payoffs with a day-one checklist.
  • Investor timelines: 10–21 day closes, mobile notary/RON, same-day wires when possible.
  • Communication: processor shares target dates, wire cut-offs, and weekly status updates.

Locking in these San Diego resources gives you the backbone for repeatable wins—title partners who understand assignments and double closes, REI groups that connect you to real buyers, and data sources that keep your numbers tight. Use this stack on every deal, and you will move faster, stay compliant, and sharpen offers that close. It is the practical infrastructure behind how to wholesale houses in San Diego.

Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Real Estate 

Ready to take action? Grab our free, beginner-friendly quick start guide, built to help you learn how to wholesale houses in San Diego and move from “interested” to “making offers” the right way (no prior experience or big budget required).

  • Why real estate works for beginners: a practical path to building long-term wealth without needing large capital or a license to start.
  • Find deals without ad spend: why the MLS is the most reliable place to source opportunities (plus how to search smarter).
  • Rentals for long-term wealth: how monthly cash flow and appreciation can convert today’s active income into more passive streams.
  • Wholesaling basics: ARV, making data-backed offers, and choosing between assignment vs. double close.

Download: The Ultimate Guide To Start Real Estate Investing (Free PDF)

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Wholesale Real Estate in San Diego

New to wholesaling in San Diego? These quick answers cover the most common search questions people ask about how to wholesale houses in San Diego.

Use them to sanity-check your plan, stay compliant, and move from first conversation to closing with confidence.

Do you need a license to wholesale houses in San Diego?

No license is required to assign your own purchase contract for a fee. You do need a license if you market property for others, negotiate on their behalf, or collect commissions.

How much money do you need to start wholesaling in San Diego?

Most beginners get started with a modest budget for earnest money deposits, basic inspections, and outreach—often a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Transactional funding is only needed if you choose a double close instead of a straightforward assignment.

How do you find cash buyers in San Diego?

Build your list through real estate investor meetups, trustee or foreclosure auctions, investor-friendly agents, public records, and active online groups. Verify proof of funds and buy box, then send a tight deal package so buyers can underwrite in minutes.

Can you wholesale properties from the Multiple Listing Service in San Diego?

Yes, if your purchase and sale agreement is assignable and your disclosures are clear. Use short inspection timelines, communicate your role, and consider a double close when sellers or institutions object to assignments.

How long does a wholesale deal take in San Diego?

Many assignment deals close in about ten to thirty days from contract to recording. Title issues, homeowners' associations or special tax (Mello-Roos) payoffs, or probate can extend the timeline.

Final Thoughts on Wholesaling Houses in San Diego

San Diego is a rare mix of year-round buyer demand, stable employment, and neighborhoods where smart underwriting still wins. If you have been looking for a clear way to start, this playbook shows exactly how to wholesale real estate in San Diego—from knowing the rules to building a buyer list, locking up clean contracts, and choosing between a simple assignment or a privacy-friendly double close.

Momentum beats perfection. Pick your three target ZIP codes, learn what renovated homes actually sell for, talk to an investor-friendly title company, and introduce yourself to five real cash buyers this week. Do that, and you are already ahead of most people wondering how to wholesale houses in San Diego.


If you’re serious about doing your first real estate deal, don’t waste time guessing what works. Our FREE Training walks you through how to consistently find deals, flip houses, and build passive income—without expensive marketing or trial and error.

This FREE Training gives you the same system our students use to start fast and scale smart. Watch it today—so you can stop wondering and start closing.


*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.

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