'Bird Dogging' or selling leads

[CJ D.]

Hello,

I am in the process of setting up my house flipping business, and have been doing a lot of research on which avenues to pursue when starting out. Wholesaling is obviously one,  and another is 'bird dogging', but there seems to be a lot of controversy on this subject as to whether it is or is not legal. I can't seem to find any definitive answer. I know that it appears to vary state by state, but even reviewing individual state policies, it continues to be cloudy.

With all do respect to everyone out there, I am not looking for opinions, but someone with actual legal knowledge as to the legality.  I am not a realtor, but I want to start my business off on the right foot. However, I do not want to shoot myself in the foot by eliminating a possible avenue of pursuit.

Thank you, and my best to all.

[Chris Martin]

You are asking for a definitive answer to a legal question you have. Unfortunately, this social media web site dedicated to real estate cannot provide you an answer to your legal issue/question. I would suggest a local attorney well versed in your state's interpretation of 'bird dogging' (or 'finder's' compensation) and 'wholesaling' (routinely called unlicensed principal 'brokering' by some).