MMM Recap: Beyond the Flip – How Garrett Rhoads Built a Wholesaling Empire on Trust and Service

When it comes to real estate investing, many beginners are drawn to wholesaling for its low entry barrier. But seasoned investor Garrett Rhoads, who’s closed over 360 deals in 18 years, proves that lasting success in wholesaling comes not from chasing quick flips—but from building a real business based on ethics, service, and relationships.

Garrett's real estate journey started at an unexpected place: selling cars at Lehigh Valley Honda. Introduced to wholesaling by a colleague, he entered the field with little knowledge but strong sales instincts and a relentless drive to succeed.

What set Garrett apart was his unique approach to “full-service wholesaling.” Rather than just flipping contracts, he delivered end-to-end value: detailed scope of work, verified rehab costs, property management connections, and financing help. He even guaranteed rehab costs up to the value of his wholesale fee—a bold move that won investor trust.

This approach turned one-time buyers into repeat clients, with 90% of his deals coming from repeat business. His motto? Under-promise, over-deliver—and always leave room for your buyers to win.

Garrett also maintained a 100% close rate on contracts—a rarity in the field—and viewed Pennsylvania’s new wholesaling license law (Act 52) not as a hurdle, but as a gift. It cleared the playing field of unethical competitors and raised the bar for the industry.

Perhaps his biggest lesson: deals come from relationships, not cold calls. While others flood the market with mailers and ads, Garrett relied on his network—what he calls the “coconut telegraph”—to bring him opportunities before they even hit the market.

For aspiring investors, he recommends a five-step foundation:

1. Know your “why”

2. Choose your investment path

3. Educate yourself

4. Line up financing

5. Then—start shopping for properties.

   
   

Garrett Rhoads’ story is proof that in wholesaling—and in life—trust, service, and strong relationships beat shortcuts every time.