Real Estate Skip Tracing for Beginners
Learn how to start skip tracing from scratch without technical knowledge.
Austin Beveridge
Tennessee
, Goliath Teammate
If you're diving into real estate and need to locate property owners or heirs, you might feel overwhelmed by the concept of skip tracing. Understanding how to effectively find these individuals can seem daunting, especially if you're new to the field. But don't worry; this guide will break down everything you need to know about real estate skip tracing in simple terms.
Quick Answer
Real estate skip tracing involves using various tools and techniques to locate individuals connected to a property, such as owners or heirs. Start by gathering as much information as possible about the person you're trying to locate, including their last known address and any public records. Use online databases and social media to track them down. If necessary, consider hiring a professional skip tracer for more complex cases.
Understanding Skip Tracing
Skip tracing is the process of finding a person's whereabouts when they have moved or changed their contact information. In real estate, this is crucial for investors looking to connect with property owners, especially for distressed properties or potential sellers who are hard to reach.
Steps to Effective Skip Tracing
1. Gather Initial Information
Start with what you know. Collect any available information about the individual, such as:
Full name
Last known address
Phone number
Email address
2. Use Online Tools
There are numerous online databases and tools available for skip tracing. Popular options include:
Public records databases
Social media platforms
Property records websites
3. Verify Information
Once you find potential leads, verify the information. Cross-reference multiple sources to ensure accuracy before reaching out.
4. Reach Out
Contact the individual using the information you've gathered. Be respectful and clear about your intentions, whether you're looking to buy their property or simply gather information.
Costs Involved in Skip Tracing
The cost of skip tracing can vary widely based on the methods used:
DIY methods: Free to low cost (using public records and social media)
Paid databases: $20 to $100 per search
Professional skip tracing services: $50 to $500 per case
Tools for Skip Tracing
Here are some tools that can assist you in the skip tracing process:
Whitepages
Spokeo
BeenVerified
PeopleFinder
Realistic Examples
Scenario 1: Finding a Distressed Property Owner
Imagine you have a property that has been vacant for years, and the owner has not paid taxes. You start by searching public property records to find the owner's last known address. After some digging on social media, you discover a family member who is active online. By reaching out to them, you can get in touch with the owner.
Scenario 2: Locating an Heir
You come across a property with no clear owner, but you find a death certificate listing an heir. You use online databases to find the heir's last known address and contact them to discuss the property.
Checklist for Successful Skip Tracing
Collect all available information about the individual.
Utilize online databases and social media.
Verify information from multiple sources.
Be clear and respectful in your outreach.
Consider hiring a professional if necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some pitfalls to watch out for in the skip tracing process:
Relying on a single source of information can lead to inaccuracies.
Failing to verify leads before reaching out can waste time.
Being overly aggressive in your approach may deter potential contacts.
FAQs
What is skip tracing in real estate?
Skip tracing in real estate is the process of locating individuals associated with a property, such as owners or heirs, especially when they are difficult to find. It involves using various resources and techniques to gather information and make contact.
How much does skip tracing cost?
The cost of skip tracing can range from free methods, like using public records, to paid services that can cost anywhere from $20 to $500, depending on the complexity of the search.
Can I do skip tracing myself?
Yes, many aspects of skip tracing can be done independently using online tools and public records. However, for more complicated cases, hiring a professional may save time and provide better results.
What tools are best for skip tracing?
Some popular tools for skip tracing include Whitepages, Spokeo, BeenVerified, and PeopleFinder. These platforms offer various search capabilities to help locate individuals.
What should I do if I can't find the person?
If you're unable to locate the individual after thorough searching, consider reaching out to mutual contacts or hiring a professional skip tracer who has access to more advanced resources.
