Can a wholesaler assign my contract in Maryland?

The short version

• The rule covers contracts of sale for residential property signed on or after October 1, 2025. Foreclosure sales under Maryland Rule 14-215 are excluded.
• The wholesaler who assigns has a second duty: before assigning, they must tell the new buyer in writing that they hold only an equitable interest and may not be able to convey title.
• Old Line Home Buyers buys for its own account. The entity on the contract is the entity that closes, and our offer says so in writing. The principals are licensed Maryland real estate agents.
• An assignment is not fraud by itself. The problem is a buyer who never had the money, shops your signed contract to investors, and walks when nobody bites.

How to tell a wholesaler from a buyer before you sign

1. Ask the one question: will you assign this contract? A yes is legal. A dodge is your answer.
2. Ask for proof of funds in the entity’s name and look the entity up on Maryland’s SDAT business search.
3. Read the contract for an assignment clause ("and/or assigns" after the buyer’s name is the tell) and for the written assignment disclosure the law now requires.
4. Ask which licensed Maryland title company will run settlement. A wholesaler often cannot name one yet.

If you already signed

• No written notice, and the contract was assigned. You can rescind before closing without penalty and get your deposit back. Put it in writing to the buyer and the title company.
• Notice was given. The assignment is lawful. You can still ask who the assignee is and for their proof of funds before settlement.
• The offer dropped after you signed. Nothing in the law makes you accept a price cut. Our guide to choosing a cash home buyer in Maryland covers the renegotiation move, and are cash home buyers in Maryland legit has the checks.