Not every great real estate deal is found online or through a realtor. In fact, some of the best opportunities are sitting quietly on neighborhood streets—unlisted, neglected, and waiting for someone to notice. This is where the “driving for dollars” strategy shines.
For over a decade, Joy Gebarah has used this grassroots method to identify overlooked homes and connect directly with property owners. It’s a hands-on, data-driven approach that has helped him purchase more than 20 homes per year in Bakersfield and surrounding areas. The best part? It’s a strategy anyone can learn and apply with minimal tools and upfront cost.
What Is Driving for Dollars?
Driving for dollars is simple in concept: you drive through targeted neighborhoods looking for houses that show signs of distress or neglect. These might include:
- Overgrown lawns
- Boarded windows
- Piled-up mail or notices on the door
- Peeling paint or visible structural damage
- Vacant or abandoned appearance
These are indicators that the property owner might be motivated to sell but hasn’t listed the house traditionally.
The Process Step-by-Step
1. Choose a Target Area
Start with neighborhoods that have homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. Older homes tend to need more maintenance and are more likely to be in distress. Bakersfield, for example, has several pockets of high potential for those looking to sell Bakersfield house fast.
2. Use a Tracking Tool or Simple Spreadsheet
Apps like DealMachine or Propstream allow you to drop pins, gather owner information, and even send mail. But you can start just as easily with a notebook or Google Sheets. Document the address and what stood out.
3. Research Ownership and Contact
Look up the owner via your county assessor or property records. Many times, absentee owners (those who don’t live in the house) are open to selling. Send a letter, call, or even knock on the door if appropriate.
4. Make a Fair Offer
When you connect, be transparent. Let the homeowner know you’re interested in buying the house as-is, without agents, showings, or repair requests. Many sellers appreciate a clean, straightforward solution—especially if they’re looking to sell quickly.
5. Repeat Consistently
The key to success is consistency. Driving just 2-3 hours a week can generate dozens of potential leads per month. Over time, these leads turn into deals.
Why It Works
Driving for dollars works because it gives you a head start. You're finding deals before they hit the market, where competition drives up prices. It’s personal, proactive, and—most importantly—it uncovers properties that most people overlook.
Additionally, distressed properties often don’t qualify for traditional financing due to their condition. That’s where all-cash or creative offers come in handy, helping sellers who just want a simple way out and buyers who are looking to add value through renovation.
You Can Do This, Too
What makes this strategy so accessible is that it doesn’t require a license, a big budget, or a massive network. Just time, attention to detail, and a willingness to take action. Whether you’re just getting started in real estate or you’ve done a few deals already, adding driving for dollars to your toolkit can uncover opportunities you didn’t know were there.
Over time, this strategy can lead to multiple deals a year. It may even position you as a resource in your community for those looking to sell homes quickly and without hassle. In cities like Bakersfield, where many homeowners are seeking to sell Bakersfield house fast, the opportunity is wide open.
Closing Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all in real estate. But driving for dollars has stood the test of time because it’s rooted in observation and connection. It rewards those who put in the effort, build relationships, and think outside the MLS.
The streets of your own city could hold the keys to your next investment. You just have to start driving.
