By: Elowen Gray

Tyson Smith didn’t begin his career with a safety net of capital or connections. Like many first-time real estate entrepreneurs, he entered the field with limited resources and a desire for more control over his time and income. Today, as the founder and CEO of Virtual Flip Formula, Smith leads a real estate wholesaling education business based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a clear mission: to guide new entrepreneurs through the often misunderstood world of virtual real estate wholesaling.

A Practical Model for Real Estate Wholesaling

Virtual Flip Formula operates within the real estate niche, but its approach differs from conventional investing strategies. Rather than focusing on models that require purchasing property—such as short-term rentals or multifamily units—Smith emphasizes wholesaling, a method that allows individuals to facilitate deals without needing to own or finance the property themselves.

“Our process is built around accessibility,” Smith explains. “Most people don’t have the capital to purchase properties upfront. But wholesaling gives them a way to generate income without those barriers. All they really need is a phone and a strong work ethic.”

The program offers a combination of weekly coaching, structured mentorship, and a curriculum built around replicable wholesaling systems. It’s designed for aspiring wholesalers who may be starting from scratch but are committed to building a location-flexible business through real estate.

Building a Business from the Ground Up

Smith’s journey into the real estate space began with personal experimentation and public documentation. Initially sharing his own experiences on social media, he was soon approached by others eager to learn how he was closing deals virtually. That interest gradually grew, and what started as informal coaching evolved into a full-scale program—eventually rebranded as Virtual Flip Formula in early 2025.

One of the program’s distinguishing features is Smith’s direct involvement. Unlike larger, impersonal education brands, he maintains a hands-on role in mentoring new students. This approach is rooted in his own early challenges.

“Getting my first deal was the hardest part,” he says. “I didn’t have a coach or mentor—I had to figure it out by trial and error. That’s why I’m so focused on making sure our students don’t have to do it alone.”

That emphasis on mentorship is embedded into the structure of the Virtual Flip Formula program, from small group calls to one-on-one guidance. It’s also why the company keeps student success at the center of its operational goals.

From Side Hustle to Scalable Business

A key inflection point in Smith’s journey came when he transitioned from treating wholesaling as a side project to making it his full-time career. That shift allowed him to scale his business to seven figures in annual revenue, which in turn laid the foundation for Virtual Flip Formula.

According to Smith, the difference wasn’t a change in strategy, but in mindset and commitment. “Once I treated this like a real business—not just a side gig—everything changed. I had the time to go deeper, improve systems, and eventually teach others how to do the same.”

This practical and iterative approach continues to shape the company’s roadmap. Over the next 12–24 months, Smith plans to help at least 1,000 new wholesalers close their first deal. Longer term, he envisions building a nationwide network where students collaborate and close deals together across different markets.

A Vision Grounded in Freedom and Practicality

While Virtual Flip Formula is a business education company at its core, its foundational message speaks to something larger: the desire for flexibility in work and lifestyle. For Smith, this means more than just financial independence. It’s about autonomy and creating a life that doesn’t depend on a traditional 9-to-5.

He’s careful, however, to ground that vision in clear effort. “This isn’t an overnight process or a shortcut,” he says. “It takes work. But it’s work that can pay off if you stick with it.”

That no-nonsense ethos—combined with a system designed for real-world application—has shaped the growth of Virtual Flip Formula since its rebranding. Without lofty promises or complicated investment requirements, the program focuses instead on actionable education and community-based learning.

With the rise of remote work and independent income models, Smith’s approach to wholesaling may resonate with a growing demographic of people looking to escape rigid work environments. For those committed to learning and applying the process, Virtual Flip Formula offers a practical path into an often-overlooked corner of real estate—one where results depend more on consistency than credentials.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. No guarantees are made regarding the success, income, or outcomes of participating in any program mentioned. Readers are encouraged to verify all details and consult with relevant professionals before making any decisions.