How to Find Off-Market Properties: A Buyer and Investor Guide

Key Takeaways:

• Though off-market properties are homes not listed on the MLS, they can provide buyers and investors with exclusive opportunities.
• Networking, direct outreach, and online platforms are common strategies.
• Real estate agents often have insider access to upcoming listings.

What are off-market properties?

Off-market properties are homes that are for sale but not publicly listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Sometimes referred to as “pocket listings” or “quiet sales,” these properties are marketed privately through agents, word of mouth, or investor networks. For buyers and investors, off-market opportunities can mean less competition and, in some cases, better pricing.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 20% of transactions in some markets happen off the MLS, showing the importance of exploring these hidden opportunities. Learning how to buy off-market homes can give you a competitive edge and access to deals others never see.

Step 1: Work with an experienced real estate agent

A well-connected real estate agent often has access to pocket listings and pre-MLS listings through their professional network. Agents may know about upcoming homes before they go live, or they may represent sellers who prefer private transactions. Partnering with an agent ensures you hear about these deals first and get expert guidance on pricing and negotiation. Learn more in Redfin’s guide to working with a real estate agent.

Step 2: Network with other investors and professionals

Networking remains one of the most effective real estate strategies to find off-market deals. Attend local real estate investor meetups, connect with builders, or join professional associations. Relationships with property managers, contractors, and attorneys can also lead to opportunities that haven’t been advertised. For more insights, see Redfin’s guide to buying investment property.

Step 3: Explore online platforms and marketplaces

Several online platforms and apps focus on connecting buyers and investors with off-market opportunities. The best apps to find off-market properties include:

• Redfin App—Shows coming soon and pre-market listings in some regions before they hit the MLS.
  
• DealMachine—Helps investors with “driving for dollars” and direct mail campaigns to property owners.
  
• PropStream—Provides detailed property data, ownership records, and contact info for direct outreach.
  
• LoopNet—A commercial real estate platform that often features off-market multi-family and mixed-use opportunities.

While some of these platforms may charge fees, they provide access to a steady flow of potential deals.

Step 4: Use direct mail and targeted outreach

Many investors find off-market opportunities by contacting homeowners directly. Sending letters, postcards, or even making phone calls to property owners in your target neighborhood can uncover sellers who are open to an off-market sale.

This is one of the most effective ways to contact homeowners directly to buy property. While this approach requires time and consistency, it can lead to valuable connections.

Step 5: Drive for dollars

“Driving for dollars” means scouting neighborhoods in person to identify properties that look vacant, neglected, or underutilized. Buyers and investors often note the addresses and contact the owners directly. This hands-on strategy takes effort but can uncover hidden gems, especially if you’re looking for distressed or vacant homes for sale.

Step 6: Monitor public records and auctions

Public records such as probate filings, foreclosure notices, or tax liens can signal potential off-market opportunities. Similarly, courthouse auctions and sheriff sales often feature properties not yet listed publicly. While these deals may involve more risk, they can also come with significant rewards. Learn more in Redfin’s guide to foreclosure auctions.

Step 7: Build long-term relationships

Finding off-market deals isn’t always about quick wins. Building long-term relationships with agents, investors, and property owners creates a steady flow of opportunities. Over time, people in your network may bring deals directly to you, saving you the effort of searching. These networking tips for finding off-market real estate are especially valuable for investors looking to scale.

Challenges with off-market listings

MLS Clear Cooperation Policy

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) introduced the MLS Clear Cooperation Policy to increase transparency in real estate transactions. Known as MLS Statement 8.0, this rule requires Realtors to submit any property they are marketing to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) within one business day.

NAR explains that off-MLS listings can “skew market data, reduce seller and buyer choice, and undermine Realtors’ commitment to equal opportunity.” The policy was designed to ensure that both buyers and sellers have fair access to available homes.

The practical impact

MLS Statement 8.0 significantly reduces the number of off-market listings. Because most agents and MLSs are members of NAR, they must comply with this policy and cannot widely market properties outside the MLS system.

Off-market listings still exist

Even with MLS Statement 8.0, buyers and sellers still have opportunities to transact off-market. The policy includes exceptions such as:

• Office-exclusive listings: Properties that agents share privately with individual buyers rather than the public MLS.
  
• Non-MLS displays: Sellers can request their homes be excluded from internet display through MLS IDX feeds, allowing for more privacy.
  

Additionally, not all licensed real estate agents are members of NAR. Since NAR membership is voluntary, some agents operate outside its rules—meaning they are not bound by MLS Statement 8.0.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do you find off-market homes?
   You can find off-market homes by working with a connected real estate agent, networking with investors, driving neighborhoods, checking public records, or using online platforms that specialize in pre-MLS listings.
   If you are looking for a top agent, look on Redfin for Redfin Premier. This program identifies Redfin’s best real estate agents, particularly those with expertise in the luxury real estate market. These agents are recognized for providing a high level of service to buyers and sellers.
2. Is buying a house off-market cheaper?
   Not always. Some sellers may offer lower prices to avoid listing fees, but others expect a premium for privacy or exclusivity. Using tools like Redfin’s home value estimator can help you compare prices.
3. How to find houses that have been taken off the market?
   Check MLS history through your real estate agent, monitor expired or withdrawn listings, and contact owners directly. Some homeowners may still be open to selling even after removing their listing.
4. Is it risky to buy off-market?
   There can be risks. Without MLS exposure, buyers may have less pricing transparency or fewer disclosures. Working with an experienced agent helps protect your interests and ensures proper due diligence. Still, it’s worth asking yourself: Is it worth buying a house off-market? For many buyers and investors, the answer is yes — as long as you understand the risks and do your homework.

Next steps to find off-market properties successfully

Off-market properties give buyers and investors access to exclusive opportunities with less competition. By networking, leveraging real estate agents, and using creative search strategies, you can uncover hidden deals and make smarter investment decisions. For best results, stay consistent and focus on building strong professional relationships.