Should I submit under a broker or go direct? (major market)

I am a small fish with big backing in a large pond (major market). I have a very specific business plan and a finite # of properties I am going after and know I may only get one go around. 

I have the right contact information for the owners, I am debating whether to go through a well established broker, instead of just throwing offers out on my own. I feel like as I am not a well known player I am worried even if it's a great offer they will either throw it out, or wonder how much it's really worth and go to a broker anyways.

On the flip side, owners (especially long time owners) I know hate paying commissions if they don't have to which I feel like would be my main motivation to go direct. I know these owners probably get peppered with broker calls anyways so it may be a motivation for them to not pay a commission.

Appreciate any thoughts.    

8 Comments
 

Go direct. I’m not really sure what value any broker (well-known or otherwise) brings to the table that you couldn’t do yourself. What does the owner have to lose? In order for him to transfer title to you, it will need to be recorded at the registry of deeds, so very difficult to scam him. If the owner wants more credibility then you can show him your portfolio and proof of funds/bank commitment letter.

 
Most Helpful

If I were a seller, I would rather save on the broker's fee than pay for "legitimacy" all day long. Once again, how does the broker make you more "legitimate?" They will still ask for proof of funds etc...If you want to show that you are serious, then draft an LOI with an offer and nonrefundable deposit. Nothing says "I am serious" more than putting money where your mouth is. From the seller's perspective, if you end up "not being serious," they don't lose anything. The whole point of "legitimacy" is to instill confidence in the seller that you are serious aka legitimate, but once again, you can do all that without having a broker per the steps just listed.

 

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