How to Find Nonperforming Notes in 2025

Find Non-Performing Notes (NPNs) in 2025: The Note Guy's Insider Secrets

Happy New Year, deal-seekers! Scott Carson, aka The Note Guy, started 2025 with an explosive Note Night in America episode, revealing his top strategies for finding lucrative non-performing notes (NPNs). Forget the spoon-fed deals; Scott's strategies empower you to proactively hunt for hidden gems and build a thriving note investing business. He's been doing it for over two decades and has the proof!

This isn't your grandma's note investing approach. Scott's not just sharing theories; he's divulging the precise methods he uses to find and secure high-yield NPNs. He stresses the importance of choosing a niche (residential vs. commercial, performing vs. non-performing), defining your "buy box" (criteria for ideal notes), and mastering the art of marketing.

Scott's Top Strategies for Unearthing NPNs:

• Tap into Foreclosure Lists: This is the bedrock of Scott’s strategy. Instead of relying solely on online marketplaces, he dives deep into county records and leverages specialized foreclosure list providers. He stresses that this often leads to underpriced gems that haven’t even hit the open market yet. Remember, the earlier you find out about a deal, the better your negotiating power!
• Direct Lender Outreach: Stop wasting time on generic online searches. Scott advocates for building relationships directly with lenders. Using LinkedIn, RocketReach (to uncover contact emails), and his own proactive outreach, he consistently secures exclusive deals. This is about building relationships, not just sending cold emails.
• Leverage LinkedIn and Referrals: Scott uses LinkedIn like a well-oiled machine. His profile isn't just a digital business card; it's a finely tuned lead-generating engine. He actively shares content that showcases his expertise, attracts attention, and builds his network. He then uses these connections for referrals, resulting in a pipeline of promising deals.
• Utilize Powerful Online Tools: Scott isn't shy about using technology to his advantage. He highlights the power of CredIQ (for detailed commercial property data) and CREXi (to uncover owner-financed deals). These tools are invaluable for maximizing due diligence and securing a competitive edge.
• Develop a Marketing Strategy: This isn't a one-time effort. It’s a constant process that involves engaging with various platforms and refining your approach. This might include regular email blasts to your network, attending relevant industry events, and participating in online forums. Remember, consistent marketing is key to success!

Humor and Practical Advice:

Scott's insights are practical and sprinkled with humor—especially when he shares tales of his own successes, mistakes, and some of his unique strategies, emphasizing the value of persistence and the importance of working smart rather than just working hard.

His humorous take on lowball offers serves as a reminder that respectful relationship-building can lead to more lucrative results than aggressive tactics. He warns against the pitfalls of relying on generic online platforms and stresses the need to define your target market and focus on specific niches.

Scott’s message is clear: Finding the best NPNs isn't about luck; it's about strategy, persistence, and leveraging the right tools and techniques. Don't waste your time chasing every deal that comes along. Use his tips to narrow your search, focus your efforts, and start building the lucrative note investing business you’ve always dreamed of.