FSBO strategy: buy or list

[Shaun R.]

I got my real estate license mainly for my own investing, but since I have it I would like to put it to use to make some extra money (also for investing). I’m thinking of a strategy to approach fsbo’s first as an investor looking to purchase. Since the vast majority will not be willing to sell at a price in which I could purchase, my next move would be to offer to list their house to help them maximize their net proceeds. My pitch will be to help the seller by providing a solution to help them get their house sold. If me buying at a discount helps them, great. If they want to make more money than what I could offer, then I can help them sell. I don’t think I’m doing anything revolutionary here... has anyone ever successfully used this tactic or anything similar? Any opinions on whether it could work?

[Adam M.]

@Shaun R. Definitely can't hurt. You'll probably have a less than 2% success rate, but I know some brokers who do this. Also, try calling for rent signs and ask it they want to sell. Good luck.