WIP 2002: Direct to Seller vs Direct to Agent - Which Makes More Money in 2026 - Part 1

The age-old debate in real estate investing, is it better to go direct to seller, or direct to agent? In this value-packed episode, Brent Daniels sits down with the incredible flipping master, Jerry Norton, to break down the exact pros, cons, and profit margins of both strategies. Jerry takes a trip back to his 2004 origins to explain how the 2008 crash forced him to pioneer the REO listing strategy, and how the market has drastically shifted since then.

They also dive into the mind-blowing success of investors grossing $1.7 million a year with zero marketing spend using the direct-to-agent model. You will learn the harsh realities of Proof of Funds when dealing with agents, Jerry's highly effective "5-5-5 Method" for daily agent outreach, and how to safely navigate the terrifying rise of TCPA text-blasting lawsuits. Whether you want the massive spreads of direct-to-seller or the zero-cost scalability of direct-to-agent, this episode will help you find the perfect model. Be a part of the TTP training program now.

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Show notes:

• (0:00) Beginning of today’s episode
• (1:00) Brent's introduction to direct to seller vs. direct to agent
• (3:40) Jerry's origins and how the 2008 crash forced an REO pivot
• (7:43) How Hugh Boy grossed $1.7 million with zero marketing spend
• (11:06) Why mastering real estate strategies is a developmental process
• (13:05) "Sniper" listed properties vs. networking for off-market deals
• (15:43) Overcoming agent intimidation with Proof of Funds and Earnest Money
• (21:02) How licensed agents can successfully navigate novation disclosures
• (23:39) Preparing to go full-time with six months of living expenses
• (27:35) Handling seller-financed paperwork and title company recordings
• (28:47) Jerry's 5-5-5 Method for daily direct-to-agent outreach
• (30:42) Tracking quality conversations over raw call volume
• (32:16) How moving to Puerto Rico saves millions in taxes
• (33:17) The 80% drop in active wholesalers and surviving the market
• (35:02) Navigating TCPA lawsuits and scrubbing the Do Not Call registry

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Resources:

• Flipster
• Real Estate Disruptors
• BatchLeads
• @jerrynorton on Instagram
• @realbrentdaniels on Instagram
• To speak with Brent or one of our other expert coaches call (281) 835-4201 or schedule your free discovery call here to learn about our mentorship programs and become part of the Tribe

Want to know how top real estate wholesalers and investors are finding and closing deals in today’s market?

Join Brent Daniels, Todd Toback, Logan Fullmer, Gal Shmukler, Ryan Zolin, Brandon Jarvela and Brian North LIVE in Phoenix, October 8–9. Learn what’s working now with MLS deals, novations, title deals, multifamily, raising capital, sales and negotiation.

Seats are limited! Reserve yours before they’re gone:

 https://www.wincsuperstarretreat.com/