Do you know someone motivated to sell their ugly home? Refer them to us and EARN BIG
We buy “unmarketed” homes all around the U.S. If you know a seller that fits our Buying Criteria below, fill out the form and we will contact you ASAP!
PLEASE READ : Everything you need to know is on this page or our training page. Read thoroughly before submitting an inquiry. If you have a live seller lead to discuss, please ensure it fits our Buying Criteria then read this page in full first and submit a contact form.
What This Is & What This Isn’t
This is a way to cash in on a deal that only you know about. This is also a way to cash in on deals that you create as a freelance Bird Dog.
This is not a job. There is no quota. You are not required to do this and you do not need to apply. You are not performing real estate agent duties. You will not be paid for any marketing efforts or expenses that you incur. See our disclaimer section below for any questions on the legalities of the Bird Dog Program.
You are welcome to spend time pursuing opportunities but there are no benefits and no additional training beyond this page and our training page. This is primarily for those who already have someone in their network, family, or a neighbor that may be a qualified seller and they want to earn a fee.
Who am I?
I am Jake Knight, a nationwide real estate investor who helps homeowners with sticky situations and/or ugly homes. In business since 2016, I am located in Northern California and have purchased over 90 homes across the country.
How The Referral Process Works
- We e-sign the referral fee agreement to lock in your fee
- I learn more about the property to see if it’s a fit
- You make a warm introduction with me and the seller
- A purchase agreement is signed with the seller
- The day after closing you will receive your fee
In short, I will handle all negotiations with the seller and once we close the purchase you get paid. Normally, real estate referrals are not allowed unless you are licensed, however, by granting you equitable interest in the purchase, or by doing a contract assignment, you are a partner not a referrer (see below for a further legal explanation). Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds and I will walk you through it once we have a deal going.
Which Sellers Are a Good Fit?
Okay, let’s get into the meat and potatoes. There are two main factors that are important when considering whether a seller is a good fit or not.
- Are they selling in the near future?
- Are they a better fit to sell to an investor-buyer vs. listing with a Realtor?
The first one is fairly straightforward, so let’s dive in to who makes a good fit. Most homeowners take good care of their homes and have a primary goal of maximizing their sale proceeds. These folks should absolutely list with a realtor. Read more..
What Properties Do I Buy?
- Mainly, single-family homes built around 1950 or later, hopefully with attached garages in front.
- I buy nationwide excluding rural areas or very small towns (under 20k population).
- It is more helpful to learn what I don’t buy, so let’s skip to that section.
- My price range is open, however, I mainly buy middle-sized homes ranging from about 900 sqft to 3,000 sqft.
- I do buy townhomes, and some condos.
Examples of Homes I Would Buy
What Don’t I Buy?
- I do not buy homes that are listed, or being marketed in any way (sign in yard, FSBO, posted online, etc.)
- I do not buy rural homes.
- I do not buy bare land.
- I do not buy luxury homes, or large homes over 3,000 sqft.
- I do not buy on busy or loud roads.
- I do not buy homes that are on really steep hills or have long stairways leading to the front door.
- I don’t typically buy homes older than 1950, though there are some exceptions.
- I do not buy rundown “shacks” on dirt roads
- I do not buy next to freeways or commercial buildings.
- I do not buy historic homes.
- I do not buy mobile homes or manufactured homes.
- No apartments over 10 units, office buildings.
- I am unlikely to buy homes that are midway through construction.
- I am unlikely to buy homes from other investors, or wholesale deals.
Examples of Homes I Would NOT Buy
FAQs
Is this legal?
Yes! Our legal team has helped create the process and documents needed to legalize this process. If it’s not done correctly than it could be deemed against many state laws. In short, by taking an equity position in the purchase or being the initial contract purchaser (then assigning it to me) you are compliant. This is not legal advice. Please discuss with your attorney if you have any questions.
When will I get paid?
Within 1-2 business days after the purchase of the home. I can only pay via Wire, ACH, or cashier’s check.
How do I know I will get paid?
We’ve created the referral fee agreement as one way to help ensure that you are covered in writing. I also encourage you to stay in touch with the seller in order to monitor the progress and help get the deal to closing. I am open to any other ideas you have. It is important to me that you are comfortable with this process.
Where do you buy?
In general, I buy in most suburban areas of the U.S. I do not buy in rural areas or in really small isolated towns. If the town population is small but it’s part of a larger suburban/metro area that is fine.
How long does it take to close?
This is dependent on the seller’s time frame. I do not control how long it takes. If they are ready to sell right now, I can close as soon as 10 days but most sellers usually prefer 15-30 days.
Can I submit more than one?
Yes! I will pay the fee for each seller that I buy a house from. However, if a seller has more than one property to sell, the fee applies only once.
Do you buy mobile homes or land?
No, only single-family homes.
What is your price range?
I like to buy houses around the median price of an area. This means the home is usually 900 to 2,500 sqft and fits in with the majority of houses in an area. I do not buy luxury homes in any market, however, in high priced areas such as the Bay Area I can buy up to $1.5M.
What if it is listed with an agent?
I do not buy homes on the market or that are represented by an agent. I am looking for homeowners who are not working with Realtors or doing any other types of marketing such as For Sale By Owner, social media posting, Craigslist, or wholesaling.
Where do I apply?
You do not need to apply anywhere! You are welcome to contact me if you have a live deal to discuss but otherwise this is not a job and you do not need my approval to look for deals. There is an agreement below if you would like to put it in writing that you will be compensated for deals that we close together. That’s it!
What To Do If You Have a Lead Now
If you have a deal, or aren’t sure if your lead is qualified, submit a contact form with general information (no need to share address until you’re ready) and we will respond in 24 hours during regular business hours.
What to Ask Sellers
Some basic info is helpful. Here are some good questions to ask a potential seller.
- Are they selling in the near future?
- Are they a better fit to sell to an investor-buyer vs. listing with a Realtor?
- Why are they selling?
- Are they open to be connected to a cash buyer (me)?
Familiarize yourself with the features and benefits and be able to express them to the seller.
Do You Have Questions?
Chances are there’s an answer in the FAQs. Please read that section thoroughly before submitting a question, as our small team is fielding a large quantity of inquiries. Please be patient when awaiting a response.
Do You Have A Live Lead To Discuss?
Let’s not waste any time. Submit a form and check the box indicating a live lead.
Do you want to learn more about how to find sellers and speak with them?
Visit our training page and start finding deals on your own.
Bird Dog Agreement
Would you like to formalize our agreement before submitting your lead? Feel free to complete the form below. Be sure to submit a contact form at the same time. Alternatively, you are welcome to reach out and discuss any potential leads before signing.
Disclaimer
This job posting is for the engagement of commission-only real estate scouts, commonly referred to as "bird dogs," who assist in identifying potential real estate acquisition opportunities. Applicants must understand and acknowledge the legal framework within which they may operate under this title, which complies with the specific state real estate laws applicable to unlicensed individuals. Read more...
Compensation Structure:
Compensation for services provided as a "bird dog" is based on successful property acquisition results and is structured legally through either:
● Equitable Interest: Individuals may receive a predefined equitable interest in the property concerned, subject to the execution of specific agreements outlining such interest.
● Contractual Assignment: Individuals may engage in the signing of purchase agreements with the subsequent assignment of these agreements to our company. This assignment must be executed in accordance with both state and federal laws.
Restrictions and Compliance:
● No License: Individuals engaged in this role do not act as licensed real estate agents or brokers and are strictly prohibited from performing any activities that require a real estate license.
● Compliance with Laws: All activities must comply with applicable laws and regulations. It is the responsibility of the "bird dog" to ensure they do not engage in activities that constitute the unauthorized practice of real estate.
● Confidentiality and Integrity: All interactions and transactions must be conducted with the highest level of integrity and adherence to confidentiality agreements.
Disclaimer Application:
This disclaimer is intended to clarify the terms and conditions under which "bird dogs" are engaged. It is essential that each individual consults with legal counsel to understand fully the implications of their role and compliance with applicable laws. The company reserves the right to modify the terms of engagement based on ongoing legal evaluations and business requirements.
By responding to this job posting, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to the conditions stated herein. This disclaimer is intended to ensure that all parties involved adhere to legal and ethical standards. Show less...