Real estate attorneys can be invaluable allies in your investing journey. They are often well-connected and have inside knowledge of the market. A great way to build relationships with them is by organizing networking events, seminars, or conferences. For instance, invite a group of real estate attorneys to a lunch that you host. Even if not all of them attend, you only need one good connection to make it worthwhile.

When introducing yourself, be clear about who you are and what you do. A simple but effective approach is to say, "Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I buy real estate." This straightforward introduction can spark conversations that lead to valuable partnerships. Keep the relationship alive with continuous follow-up communication, which can help solidify trust and make you a top-of-mind contact.

Realtors are on the front lines of the real estate market and can be a crucial source of deals. To ensure they prioritize you, establish a reputation for quick responses. Let them know that if they send you a potential deal, you'll get back to them within 24 hours with a definite yes or no. This level of responsiveness is highly valued, especially in a buyer's market where realtors are often left waiting for responses. By being clear and decisive, you can become their go-to investor when a good deal comes along.

Probate attorneys often have insights into properties that are about to hit the market due to inheritance issues. These attorneys know when a property is likely to be sold quickly, often at a discount. Reach out to them with a simple package that outlines your interest in buying such properties. Your goal isn’t to have lengthy conversations with the attorneys themselves but to get introductions to the actual decision-makers—the heirs who need to sell the property. Keep these connections warm with regular check-ins, as staying top-of-mind can lead to more referrals.

Your FedEx driver or postal carrier sees every house in the neighborhood, often knowing which ones are vacant or in disrepair. Turn them into part of your marketing team by offering a small finder’s fee—say $500—if they tip you off to a property that leads to a purchase. This approach can uncover hidden gems before they hit the market, giving you a competitive edge. Consider implementing a simple referral system to manage and reward these sources effectively.

Wholesalers specialize in finding deals and connecting them with buyers. They do the legwork, and in return, you pay them a commission. Engaging with wholesalers can save you time and money, as they often require a lower commission than a traditional realtor. Additionally, joining online communities, especially those focused on real estate wholesaling, can be a rich source of deals and connections. Engage actively in these communities to stay informed, expand your network, and open doors to new opportunities.

Attending networking events, seminars, and conferences allows you to meet people in person, build rapport, and expand your network. These in-person interactions can lead to deeper relationships and more substantial opportunities. Additionally, if you’re pursuing real estate professionally, consider building a referral system and using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology to nurture your database and track communications. A well-maintained CRM can help you follow up with contacts, manage relationships, and ultimately convert connections into profitable deals.