List of Absentee Owners and How to Build and Use One
How to create, clean, and use absentee owner lists to uncover motivated sellers.
Austin Beverigde
Tennessee
, Goliath Teammate
Finding absentee owners can be a game-changer in real estate investing. Whether you're looking for rental properties or potential sellers, knowing how to identify and connect with absentee owners can open up new opportunities. This guide will walk you through the steps to build and utilize a list of absentee owners effectively.
Quick Answer: To build a list of absentee owners, start by using public property records, online databases, and local tax assessor information. You can filter properties based on ownership status and contact details. Once you have your list, reach out via direct mail, phone calls, or email to establish connections and explore opportunities.
Understanding Absentee Owners
Absentee owners are individuals or entities that own properties but do not reside in them. This situation often arises due to investment properties, inherited homes, or properties left vacant for various reasons. Understanding this concept is crucial for targeting your outreach effectively.
Steps to Build a List of Absentee Owners
1. Gather Necessary Tools
Before you start compiling your list, ensure you have the right tools at your disposal:
Access to public property records
Online databases (like county websites)
Real estate software or CRM systems
Spreadsheet software for organization
2. Identify Absentee Owners
Follow these methods to identify absentee owners:
Check public property records for ownership information.
Look for properties with different mailing addresses than the property address.
Use online platforms that specialize in real estate data.
3. Organize Your List
Once you have gathered the information, organize it into a spreadsheet. Include the following columns:
Owner's Name
Property Address
Mailing Address
Contact Information
4. Reach Out to Absentee Owners
Now that you have your list, it’s time to connect. Here are some effective outreach methods:
Direct mail campaigns with personalized letters.
Phone calls to discuss potential interest in selling.
Email outreach with property management offers.
Costs Involved
The costs associated with building a list of absentee owners can vary based on your methods:
Public records are usually free or low-cost.
Online databases may require a subscription fee.
Direct mail campaigns can range from a few cents to several dollars per piece.
Realistic Examples
Consider a scenario where you identify a property owned by someone living out of state. After reaching out via direct mail, you discover they are interested in selling due to maintenance issues. This connection could lead to a profitable deal for both parties.
Checklist for Building Your List
Identify the tools you need.
Access public property records.
Compile data into a spreadsheet.
Craft personalized outreach messages.
Track responses and follow up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When building your list of absentee owners, avoid these common pitfalls:
Neglecting to verify contact information can lead to wasted efforts.
Using generic outreach messages may result in low response rates.
Failing to follow up can mean lost opportunities.
FAQs
What is an absentee owner?
An absentee owner is someone who owns a property but does not live in it. This situation can arise for various reasons, including investment purposes or inherited properties.
How can I find absentee owners?
You can find absentee owners by checking public property records, using online databases, and looking for properties with different mailing addresses than their physical addresses.
What should I include in my outreach to absentee owners?
Your outreach should be personalized and include information about why you are reaching out, how you can help, and a clear call to action.
Is there a cost to access property records?
Accessing public property records is often free or low-cost, but some online databases may require a subscription fee.
How often should I update my list of absentee owners?
It's a good practice to update your list regularly, ideally every few months, to ensure the information remains accurate and relevant.
