Seller lead types, in plain English
Every lead in Zip Owners comes from public records. Here's what each type means, why those owners may be more open to selling, and how to reach out respectfully. These are signals, not proof anyone will sell.
💸Tax delinquentOwner is behind on property tax.▾
What it is: The home is on the county's current tax-certificate list. In Florida, when property tax goes unpaid, the county tax collector sells a tax certificate on the home. The owner can still pay it off (redeem).
Why they may sell: Unpaid tax can be a sign of money pressure, an absent owner, or a home nobody is managing. If it stays unpaid, the certificate holder can later apply for a tax deed sale, so some owners prefer to sell first.
How to approach: Be gentle and helpful, never threatening. Don't mention their debt in a mailer.
More about tax delinquent →🏚️Tired landlordsIndividually owned rentals and second homes.▾
What it is: A home owned by a person (not a company) that does not claim the Florida homestead exemption, so it is not the owner's main home. Most are rentals or second homes.
Why they may sell: Owners who don't live in a home carry the work of tenants, repairs and insurance from a distance. Some are ready to cash out.
How to approach: Talk numbers: rent vs. sale proceeds (our net-proceeds calculator helps).
More about tired landlords →👵Senior ownersOwner has a senior (65+) exemption.▾
What it is: The owner receives the additional homestead exemption that Florida counties and cities may grant to people 65 or older with limited household income.
Why they may sell: Older owners may be thinking about downsizing, moving closer to family, or a home with less upkeep.
How to approach: Lead with respect and patience. Offer to talk with family too.
More about senior owners →✈️Absentee / out-of-stateTax bill mails somewhere else.▾
What it is: The owner's mailing address on the tax roll is different from the property address, sometimes in another state.
Why they may sell: Owners who live far away can't easily check on the home and may find it simpler to sell.
How to approach: Write to the mailing address and make it easy: phone, text and a short reply link.
More about absentee / out-of-state →📜Trust / estateOwned by a trust, estate or heirs.▾
What it is: The owner name shows a trust, an estate, a life estate, or heirs.
Why they may sell: When an owner dies, heirs or a personal representative often decide to sell rather than keep the home. Trusts are also used for planning around a move or an estate.
How to approach: Be kind and patient; there may have been a recent loss.
More about trust / estate →🏢LLC / company ownedOwned by a company.▾
What it is: The owner is an LLC, corporation, or other company.
Why they may sell: Companies buy homes as investments. They sell when the numbers work, which makes them open to a straightforward offer or listing talk.
How to approach: Look up the company on Sunbiz to find the people behind it.
More about llc / company owned →🌳Vacant landCounty says it's an empty lot.▾
What it is: The county's land-use code on the roll says vacant (residential, commercial or industrial).
Why they may sell: Owners of empty lots pay tax on land that may not earn anything, and some would rather sell to a builder or neighbor.
How to approach: Know the zoning before you call (check the county appraiser).
More about vacant land →