(Watch the YouTube video of this episode here)

In this episode of the Furlo Capital Real Estate Podcast, we discuss 11 tactics used by realtors and brokers that aren't illegal but are designed to keep them in the loop and ensure they get paid. From whisper listings to highest and best offer calls, and marketing photo tricks to dual agency conflicts, we dive into these strategies and how to overcome them. Join us as we equip you with the knowledge to invest wisely and build wealth through passive real estate investing.

Key Moments

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:27 Realtor Secrets: Whisper Listings
• 03:16 Highest and Best Offer Tactics
• 04:47 Dual Agency Dilemmas
• 06:05 The Truth About Marketing Photos
• 07:52 The Real Value: Land vs. Structure
• 09:04 Price Reductions and Market Tricks
• 12:08 Cap Rates and Financial Manipulations
• 13:52 Deferred Maintenance and Cosmetic Fixes
• 15:37 Understanding Rent Laws and Timing Issues
• 17:24 Creative Financing Challenges
• 18:52 The Importance of Follow-Up

11 Key Lessons

1. Make friends with brokers: Whisper listings (aka pocket listings) often never hit the MLS, so relationships can unlock hidden deals.
2. Don’t get suckered into bidding wars: “Highest and best” is sometimes just manufactured urgency—let the math, not your emotions, dictate your offer.
3. Be cautious with dual agency: When one agent represents both sides, loyalties can get fuzzy. Know who they really have in mind.
4. Never trust glossy photos: Wide lenses, AI edits, and perfect lighting can hide flaws—always walk the property yourself.
5. Think land first, house second: Location and lot often matter more than the structure sitting on it.
6. Price drops aren’t always motivation: Sometimes it’s just a tactic to reset the MLS algorithm and attract more viewership.
7. Cap rates can be “massaged”: Creative accounting can make a deal look juicier than it really is—always run your own numbers.
8. Beware of hidden deferred maintenance: A fresh coat of paint can disguise real problems. Bring a tough inspector.
9. Don’t assume realtors know rental laws: Many don’t keep up—especially around timing, tenant notices, and local regulations.
10. MLS hides creativity: If you’re looking for creative financing or unusual terms, don’t expect the listing system (or most agents) to show you the options.
11. Follow-up is gold: A “no” today can turn into a “yes” a month later. Patience and persistence win.

// Let's build your wealth and improve housing, together.

I spent 12 years as a data scientist at HP and purchased $5M worth of real estate over 15 years using my own money. Now, I'm partnering with busy professionals to diversify their investments and generate passive income through real estate syndications and short-term flips—without dealing with tenants, toilets, or tantrums.

At Furlo Capital, we believe real estate isn't just a transaction; it's a partnership. Our value-add approach creates win-win situations where residents thrive, and investors build wealth. We're not just in this to make money—we want to make a difference.If you're ready to diversify from stock market volatility and want reliable, steady returns, let's build your wealth and improve housing, together.Want to dive deeper into my investing thesis and strategy?

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