DRIVING FOR DOLLARs
Thank you for your interest in partnering with Vanguard Property Buyers. Below are some tips to help you successfully drive for dollars (look for vacant or distressed properties). You will learn what to look for, what not to look for, and most importantly HOW TO GET PAID.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When you're driving, focus on spotting clear signs that a single-family home may be vacant or abandoned. Your goal is to identify properties that show little to no upkeep, signs of neglect, or indicators that no one is currently living there.
- Piled up mail or newspapers
- Smashed out windows
- No blinds or curtains on any of the windows
- High grass
- Code violation, condemned, or eviction stickers
- Outdated door hangers not used in the neighborhood.
- Clearly empty houses
- Trees down in driveway
what to avoid
Property Details
- Active “For Sale” sign or agent-listed property
- Home appears to be in good condition
- Property is currently occupied
- Lockbox present on the door
- Duplex or Multi-family homes
- Dumpster on-site may indicate renovations; use discretion, as it could also relate to estate clean-outs or routine cleanup.
Location
We do NOT purchase properties in these areas:
- North East Houston
- Galveston
- Rural Areas
- Areas over an hour from Houston
- Property can NOT be on a main road
Essential Tips for Success
- Talk to neighbors who are outside.
Politely ask if they know anything about the property. Neighbors often have valuable information and are usually willing to share it—they don’t want a vacant or neglected house next to them. In some cases, they may even provide the owner’s contact information. - Check the property on trash day.
Look for homes without trash cans at the curb. This can indicate the owners are on vacation, the property is vacant, or there’s minimal activity. It’s a quick way to identify potential vacant homes. - Use the alleys when available.
Driving behind properties can reveal additional signs of vacancy. Being able to see the backyard, back door, or overall condition from the rear often provides clearer evidence of whether a property is vacant or abandoned.
