Learn what off-market properties are, how they differ from MLS listings, and when
selling off-market can be the right choice.
Have you ever encountered the term "off-market property" and thought, "Wait, where's this mysterious market hiding?" Well, it's time to uncover the secret. I'm here to spill the beans on what it means to sell a home "off-market."
Unlike the usual real estate game where properties are paraded on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for everyone to see, off-market properties are more like a hidden gem passed around in hushed tones among savvy agents or whispered about at dinner parties. There is no endless parade of strangers at open houses, no fiddling with lockboxes, and fewer showings. Consider it the underground real estate club, where deals can happen faster and hassle-free.
Common misconceptions about off-market properties. Many people believe selling off-market means you won’t get a high price, especially if selling to an investor, developer, or family member. However, that’s not always true. In some cases, off-market sales can be advantageous, and you might even secure a price above market value by selling "as is" without making repairs.
"An off-market property can sometimes lead to a faster sale with less hassle."
Why sell off-market? One benefit is exclusivity. Because these properties aren’t widely advertised, they can create urgency among buyers. If a buyer knows the property isn’t on the MLS, they may be more motivated to make a solid offer to avoid it going public and facing more competition.
What is a pocket listing? A pocket listing is an off-market property where a broker markets your home privately, often within their brokerage network. For example, at Keller Williams in McLean, more than 350 agents market homes directly to an extensive database of buyers. This can help gauge interest and secure a sale without a traditional listing.
How does this benefit you? Marketing your property to a targeted group could mean having buyers lined up before it even hits the MLS. This allows for a more controlled environment to test the market without fully committing to a broader audience and can reduce costs associated with commissions and closing fees.
You don’t need the MLS to make a move. While listing on the MLS can draw more eyes, it also brings more foot traffic and competition. Going the private route? Think of it as skipping the line—fewer showings, fewer headaches, and a quicker path to "sold." And with a pocket listing, your home gets a VIP pass to a select crowd, keeping things exclusive without the paparazzi-level publicity. If you’re considering selling your home and want to explore these options, call me at (571) 765-1038.
