Start sourcing: your first deal, step by step
Everything a new property sourcer needs to go from a new business to a paid fee, in the right order. Tick off each step as you go: your progress is saved on this device.
1. Set up properly
Sourcing is estate agency work, so a few registrations come before your first fee. Investors increasingly ask for them.
2. Pick your patch
Sourcers who know two or three postcode districts well do better than those who chase deals everywhere.
3. Find motivated sellers
Write to owners with a reason to sell, not the whole street.
4. Contact owners
Most replies come after the second letter, so plan follow-ups from the start.
5. Line up investors
Have buyers ready before you agree a deal, so you can move fast.
6. Package and sell the deal
A clear, honest pack gets reservations. A written agreement gets you paid.
New sourcer? We'll help you get your first letters out
Start a free 14-day trial and we'll set up your patch with you on a 15-minute call: your list of likely sellers, your first 50 letters and your investor portal. Founding members keep 40% off for as long as they subscribe.
Questions new sourcers ask
How long does it take to get a first sourcing deal?
It varies a lot. Many new sourcers take a few months: letters take weeks to bring replies, and deals take time to agree. Writing to owners with a real reason to sell, following up and having investors ready shortens it.
Do I need a limited company to be a property sourcer?
No, you can start as a sole trader. Many sourcers use a limited company for tax and liability reasons; ask an accountant which suits you.
What do I need before I can charge a sourcing fee?
HMRC anti-money-laundering registration, membership of a property redress scheme, ICO registration, and a written sourcing agreement. Professional indemnity insurance is strongly recommended.
Is property sourcing legal?
Yes. It's estate agency work, so the same rules apply: anti-money-laundering checks, redress scheme membership, fair treatment of buyers and sellers, and data protection.