Equity Alert System: A Smarter Way to Find Motivated Sellers
Most agents focus on expireds or FSBOs but those leads are overworked and rarely motivated. This system helps you target high-equity absentee owners who are ready to sell with almost no competition.
1. Build Your List
Use GeoWarehouse or TRREB Matrix to identify non-owner-occupied properties purchased between 2008–2013. These owners likely bought near market lows and have built significant equity.
💡 Pro tip: Cross-check ownership mailing addresses in GeoWarehouse to confirm absentee owners (different from property address).
2. Identify Active Rentals
Search TRREB MLS® or HouseSigma for properties from your list that had lease listings within the last 12 months. This shows which properties are actively rented and likely have leases about to renew.
💡 Tip: Many of these landlords have held properties 10–15 years. They're often “tired landlords” looking for a profitable exit.
3. Spot the Equity Gap
Run quick valuations using:
- Zoocasa AVM, HouseSigma, or your MLS® Market Insights Tool.
- Compare purchase price vs. estimated current market value.
Prioritize properties with the largest equity spread, these owners have the biggest financial incentive to sell now.
4. Send the “Equity Alert” Mailer
Use Canada Post Precision Targeter or Mailbox Power to send personalized mailers to owners’ primary addresses(not the rental property). Include a side-by-side “Then vs. Now” value comparison, highlight today’s equity opportunity, and touch on common landlord frustrations (repairs, vacancies, management).
💡 Tone tip: Focus on “You’ve done well — now it might be time to cash out.”
5. Scale & Follow Up
Start with 100 targeted mailers per month. Expect 20–30 inquiries as you uncover Ontario investors ready to sell. Follow up with a custom CMA and show them how to transition their equity into their next opportunity.
Stop chasing cold leads — start uncovering hidden sellers.
Tired landlords and long-term investors are sitting on record equity. With the right tools, you’ll be the first agent they call.
