The Growing Trend of Off-Market Sales

I wanted to share a story of a recent sale that highlights a growing trend in our local real estate market: off-market sales.

Recently, I closed a sale in San Clemente that never even hit the market. It was in a high-demand neighborhood, but the seller was hesitant to go through the usual process of getting the home market-ready. Between the time, energy, and money needed, plus the added complication of a dog making showings challenging, the thought of having dozens of people traipsing through their home was simply too much.

Working my network - I found a buyer who was the perfect match. They were selling their home in Temecula and needed a place that wasn’t going to be a battleground of competing offers. They weren’t in a rush to close, so the seller felt more at peace, and this off-market deal was ideal for the buyers because they didn’t have to fight against dozens of other buyers. It was a win-win situation.

So, what’s the deal with “Off-Market” sales?

You’ve probably noticed that off-market sales are becoming more common around here, especially with our current low inventory and high interest rates. Real estate agents love to talk about these opportunities, and it’s not hard to see why.

For Sellers:

Off-market sales can be incredibly appealing. Imagine not having to stress about getting your home “market-ready,” avoiding the hassle of showings, and skipping the endless parade of potential buyers through your living space. It’s less pressure and more peace of mind, giving you the flexibility to sell your home on your own terms. When your home isn’t listed for the whole world to see, it often feels like a no-lose situation.

However, it’s important to remember that while off-market sales offer convenience, they might not always maximize the selling price. In my experience, homes that are prepared and presented properly on the open market can often net more for the seller. Yet, for many, the ease and speed of an off-market sale are worth the trade-off.

For Buyers:

These sales can be a hidden gem. Without the competition of the open market, buyers might find themselves in a more favorable negotiating position, often dealing with more reasonable expectations from the seller.

The key to finding off-market sales for a buyer is a very strong local real estate agent. An agent who specializes in an area is huge, because they can literally hold the keys to the neighborhood rumblings.

What’s your take on “off-market sales”?

As always, feel free to reach out anytime. I’m always here to help you make the most of your home, whether it’s getting ready for sale or simply enjoying it to the fullest.

-Stu