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Retail vs Wholesale Price Calculator

Exit a flip retail (MLS at full market) or wholesale (to another investor at discount). Retail makes more on gross but costs more in time and carry. This calculator compares the two strategies after all costs.

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Better strategy

Retail

Retail net after all costs

$388,300

Wholesale net after all costs

$335,245

Wholesale price

$348,500

Retail advantage (or disadvantage if −)

$53,055

How the math works

Wholesale exit is faster but leaves meaningful margin on the table — typical 15-25% discount to retail. Retail exit takes longer and costs more in carry but maximizes gross. The trade-off depends on carry cost, market speed, and exit time pressure.

Rule of thumb: if carry cost × extra months exceeds the wholesale discount × retail price, wholesale wins. High-carry-cost markets (big mortgages, high taxes) favor wholesale. Low-cost holds favor retail.

How to Use

  1. Enter retail listing price.
  2. Enter wholesale discount — typically 15-25% off retail.
  3. Enter expected time-to-sell for each exit.
  4. Enter monthly carry cost.
  5. Enter commission/assignment fee for each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who buys wholesale?

Other investors or rental buy-and-hold buyers. Typically cash, no inspection, 2-week close. Discount reflects the certainty and speed. Find them through investor networks, wholesale-specific platforms, or local real estate investor associations.

When does wholesale beat retail?

High-carry markets, tight exit windows, or properties with execution risk (outdated finishes, C-class neighborhoods). Also good for first-time flippers who need experience with faster-turning deals before committing to retail finishing.

Can I list retail first and fallback to wholesale?

Yes — common strategy. List retail for 45-60 days; if no offers within 5% of list, pivot to wholesale. Best of both: shot at retail premium with safety valve.

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