Wholesaling in North Carolina Is Changing: New Law Requires Licensure—What You Need to Know

Introduction

If you've been keeping tabs on real estate wholesaling in North Carolina, it’s time to sit up and pay attention. A new bill—the Residential Property Wholesaling Protection Act (House Bill 797)—is on the move, and it's set to redefine how wholesaling works in our state. It's a game-changer for anyone who buys contracts—not property—to flip them for profit.

What the Bill Does (and Why It Matters)

• Defines Wholesaling as Brokerage Activity
  House Bill 797 explicitly states that residential property wholesaling—like soliciting contracts or assigning them—is considered the activity of a real estate broker under Chapter 93A of NC law. That means wholesalers will soon need a real estate broker license.
  👉 NCGA House Bill 797 Summary

• Gives Homeowners a New 30-Day Cancellation Right
  To protect sellers, the bill introduces a 30-day right to cancel a purchase contract. Sellers also must receive a copy of the contract at signing in at least 14-point font, and any deposits must be refunded if they cancel—no strings attached.
  👉 NC Legislative Research Service Overview

• Sets Enforcement Standards and Penalties
  Violating these provisions will be treated as an unfair or deceptive trade practice, giving homeowners legal recourse under Chapter 75. The NC Real Estate Commission will also gain rulemaking authority to implement and enforce these changes.
  👉 Bill Full Text (NCGA)

What’s Behind the Push for Regulation?

This isn’t just red tape. There’s a real push—backed by NC Realtors—to rein in wholesalers who pressure distressed homeowners into signing contracts below market value and then resell them for a quick fee. Critics argue that too many of these deals exploit vulnerable sellers without adequate disclosure. This legislation aims to bring wholesaling into the light.
👉 Carolina Journal: Change Hits NC Real Estate

What’s the Status Right Now?

• House Bill 797 passed through the NC House and has been referred to the Senate after its first reading on May 1, 2025.

• If enacted, the law will take effect on October 1, 2025, applying to all contracts written on or after that date.
  👉 NC Legislative Research Service Tracker

Why It Matters for Investors and Wholesalers

• Compliance Is Non-Negotiable
  If you're wholesaling without a broker license after October 1, you could be subject to penalties—including fines under consumer protection laws and disciplinary action from the Real Estate Commission.

• Legal Wholesaling Is Still Possible
  You can still wholesale—as long as you either get licensed or use strategies like double-closing, where you briefly take title to the property and then sell it, sidestepping the assignment issue.
  👉 Real Estate Skills NC Guide

• Trust and Transparency Will Be Key
  With stricter rules in place, wholesalers who operate ethically—being upfront about their intentions and respecting homeowners’ rights—will stand out in the market.

The Bottom Line

North Carolina’s real estate wholesaling landscape is evolving. House Bill 797 is on a fast track toward becoming law, and its changes are designed to protect homeowners and elevate industry standards.

If you’re planning to wholesale—or work with wholesalers—this isn’t business as usual. Now’s the time to get educated, consider licensing, or explore compliant strategies like double-closing before the law goes live in October.

Ready to Navigate NC’s New Wholesaling Rules?

Whether you’re a wholesaler adjusting your game plan or an investor seeking compliant deals, I’ve got the insights to help you succeed. Let’s discuss how to stay strategic—and legal—in this shifting landscape.

👉 Book Your Free Consultation Here

Wholesalers — Let’s Talk Mentorship & Sponsorship

If you’re considering getting licensed, or you’re curious about turning wholesaling into a long-term real estate career, I’d love to mentor you. At Real Broker, I sponsor motivated agents and wholesalers looking to grow beyond quick flips into lasting success.

👉 Reach out to me directly to talk about mentorship, training, and sponsorship opportunities with Real Broker.