Professionals Real Estate 
Most buyers start their property search online, scouring listings and refreshing real estate apps, but they’re not always seeing the full picture of what’s available.
Many properties are sold without ever being publicly advertised, and while these homes may feel elusive, they’re not as out of reach as you might think.
Some sellers don’t want to go public because they are in a rush and don’t have time for a long campaign. Sometimes a high-profile individual is moving on from their home and doesn’t want the news to reach the media. There are also occasions when a market is so hot that a buyer can be ‘matched’ with a property before the photos and description are uploaded online, saving the seller time and marketing costs.
These hidden opportunities are available, so how do you find them?
How to get access to off-market listings
Accessing off-market properties is about strategy and relationships. One of the most effective ways to uncover these homes is by building strong connections with a real estate agent who is active in your area.
Agents are the first to know when a seller is testing the waters with a private sale, and they play a key role in deciding who gets early access. By fostering a good relationship with your local property professionals, you increase your chances of being in the loop when a suitable property becomes available.
If you keep missing out on properties or you have a hunch the best places aren’t being advertised online and in the newspaper, follow these five steps:
- Create your brief
When you know exactly what you want, it’s easier to find it (or something close). Be clear on the location, style of home and features you are looking for. Know your must-haves and non-negotiables.
- Connect with local agents
Once you’ve chosen a neighbourhood where you want to buy, identify the real estate agents who are active in that area. These professionals will have the best knowledge of local off-market properties.
Get in touch and introduce yourself to explain what you are looking for and when you are hoping to buy. You will find most agents are very happy to have a chat when you visit an open home and share their suggestions.
- Follow up
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. Keep in touch with the agents you meet and let them know you’d love to preview any suitable homes they have coming through their pipeline. Email them your brief and don’t be a stranger. They will be more likely to think of you when the right place is on their radar.
- Keep an open mind
While it’s important to stick to your non-negotiables, remember that selling agents really are matchmakers who can sometimes tell when a home is right before you can. Your agent may ring you with something slightly outside of your brief that is selling off-market, but be open to checking it out because you could just fall in love with it.
- Be purchase-ready
Many off-market properties sell because someone has come along just at the right time, offered a good price and had a deposit ready to hand over.
If you hesitate for too long because you are not sure or you’re still organising your finances, the owner may decide it’s worth going ahead with a public campaign. Before you know it, other buyers will appear to top your offer.
Many buyers assume they need a buyer’s agent to access off-market properties, but that’s not necessarily the case. If you build the right connections with selling agents, they can be the ones to tip you off about the latest properties coming up for sale.
Looking to explore the hidden side of the property market? Reach out to your local Professionals office and let us know your brief.
