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August 23, 2023

Sell Without Listing

Can a Real Estate Agent Sell a House Without Listing It?

Whether you’re moving across the country for a new job, upgrading to a bigger home for your growing family, downsizing in retirement or anything in between, the process of selling your house is likely something you’re not looking forward to.


From last-minute showings that can interrupt your daily routine to the stress of not knowing when and for how much your house will sell, selling a home can be a complex and emotionally taxing experience. You may wonder if there's a way to sell your home without the traditional listing process.


The answer is yes, your realtor can sell your house without listing it on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or other public platforms. This is often referred to as a "pocket listing" or "off-market sale." In such cases, the realtor typically relies on their network and connections to find potential buyers for the property.


How Do Off Market Listings Work?


Off market listings are sales that take place outside of Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or real estate websites. Some real estate agents have access to smaller and more sophisticated networks of potential buyers, usually real estate investors. They can also reach out to potential buyers who have shown interest in similar properties, leveraging exclusive connections.


The real estate agent is also responsible for arranging private showings for interested buyers. These showings are typically scheduled at the convenience of all parties involved—the seller, the real estate agent and the potential buyer. Once a potential buyer expresses serious interest, negotiations begin.


Once the seller and buyer reach an agreement, a purchase contract is drawn up and the closing process begins. The timeline can vary, but off-market closing is usually faster than the closing of traditional listings.


What Are the Benefits of Selling Your Home Off-Market?


Privacy


Off-market sales provide a higher level of privacy. Your property won't be listed on public websites, which means you can maintain confidentiality about your sale, especially if you're a high-profile individual or value discretion.


Flexibility


While regular on-market listings mean a home is open to an unpredictable number of visitors, some of which may not be serious buyers, selling your home off market gives you more control over who sees your home. You can be as selective as you want and show your home only to the most serious buyers. 


Targeted Marketing


Off-market sales often involve targeted marketing to a select group of potential buyers, including those who may have expressed interest in similar properties or are part of an agent’s exclusive network. This exclusivity can create a sense of scarcity and potentially result in better offers.


Less Disruption


Simply put, you can minimize the disruption to your daily life since you won't have to constantly prepare your home for public showings or open houses.


What Are the Disadvantages of Selling Your Home Off-Market?


Limited Exposure


Off-market listings are not publicly advertised on platforms like the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or real estate websites. This limited exposure can result in a smaller pool of potential buyers, potentially reducing the chances of receiving competitive offers.


Potentially Lower Sales Price


With fewer buyers and less competition, there may be less pressure on buyers to make higher offers. This could lead to offers that are lower than what you might receive in a more competitive public market.


Network Dependency


The success of an off-market sale often depends on the real estate agent’s network and connections. If your agent’s network is not extensive or doesn't include the right potential buyers, it may limit your selling options.


Extended Time on Market


Since off-market listings rely on a smaller network of potential buyers, it can take longer to find the right buyer who is willing to meet your price and terms. This extended time on the market could be less desirable for sellers looking for a quick sale.


Looking to Sell Your Home Fast but Without Compromising Value?


At 72SOLD, we are the county’s trailblazer in getting fast, competitive offers for home sellers. We have mastered the art of selling your home quickly and for 8.4 to 12 percent over similar local homes for sale.  If you’re looking to avoid days and weeks of time-consuming showings and the “for sale” sign that attract the attention of nosy neighbors, we’re the real estate company for you.


Get exceptional offers in as few as eight days with our help. To learn more and get our price recommendation for your home, be sure to visit our website.

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