Finding the right agent.

[Jon C.]

As a new investor wishing to wholesale, what is the best way to approach an agent to assist me in my business? What I would like from an agent is a)access to the mls, b)access to homes, c)agent who can bid on HUD and d)familiarity with investor methods(lots of low offers).

Since I am new, I feel like I am asking a lot of an agent, without a proven track record myself. Plus, their only monetary benefit would be a possible low HUD commission and maybe referrals. In other words, why would any agent bother with me, especially to the level of giving me access to their mls login? How do I best approach this subject or provide a compelling reason/incentive for an agent to work with me?

[J Scott]

As Nick said, don't expect an agent to give you access to the MLS through their login. If you need access to the MLS, get a job as an assistant to an agent (in the states that allow it) or get your license.

As for what you can do make this more attractive to the agent, here are three big things:

1. Prove that you're a serious buyer. Provide proof of funds that indicate you are in a position to actually buy when you make an offer;

2. Don't waste the agent's time. Be brief when you need to talk to the agent and specific in your needs;

3. Follow-through on your contracts. NEVER, EVER, EVER back out of a deal once it's under contract.