Driving for dollars for a single property purchase?

[Brad Annen]

Hi all,

I have been looking to purchase my first duplex for a few months but am struggling with such low inventory on the MLS. I am considering driving for dollars to aggregate a list of potential duplex owners to contact but all the research I find implies this strategy caters specifically to wholesalers.

Looking for opinions from experienced investors if you think this could be an effective strategy even though I am currently only looking to purchase one property with financing.

Thanks

[Derek Felch]

I think targeting owners of properties you want through direct mail and/or cold calling is a great way to find off market deals.  It can take some time, and maybe a few contacts before you get something.   You are doing the same thing that a wholesaler would be doing, but the difference is simply you are wanting to purchase it for yourself rather than assign a contract to someone else.  Does that make sense?