Selling a home off-market, also known as a pocket listing, sometimes marketed as a coming soon home or off market property, means selling a property without publicly advertising it on multiple listing sites (MLS). While this method has its benefits, it might also have drawbacks for both sellers and the broader housing market. Below we explore the pros and cons of selling off-market, with a special focus on the concern surrounding the potential loss of obtaining the highest possible price and favorable terms for sellers.

Pros of Selling Off-Market:

1. Privacy: Selling off-market can maintain a seller's privacy. No photos or details of their home need to be publicly available, and there won't be streams of potential buyers touring the property.

2. Exclusivity: Some buyers are attracted to the idea of getting an exclusive deal or having first dibs on a property that isn't available to the general public.

3. Efficiency: Without the need for staging, open houses, and a potentially lengthy listing process, selling off-market can be quicker.

4. Flexibility: Sellers can negotiate terms more fluidly and might not feel the pressure of the ticking clock that comes with a public listing.

Cons of Selling Off-Market:

1. Potential for Lower Sales Price: This is the primary concern. Without the exposure of the MLS and the potential for multiple offers, sellers may not achieve the highest possible price for their property. Competition drives prices up; without it, a seller might be leaving money on the table.

2. Limited Pool of Buyers: Selling off-market limits the number of potential buyers. A limited buyer pool might not bring the most qualified or highest-bidding buyer to the table.

3. Lack of Transparency: There's less oversight in off-market deals, which can sometimes result in unfavorable terms for the seller.

4. Market Distortion: If many homes in a particular neighborhood sell off-market, it becomes challenging to accurately gauge the market's state. Appraisers, buyers, and sellers rely on recent sales data to make informed decisions. A lack of data can create an unrealistic picture of home values in that area.

5. Reduced Marketing: A home listed on the MLS is automatically syndicated to numerous real estate websites, maximizing its exposure. An off-market listing misses out on this expansive marketing opportunity.

Who Really Benefits?

There's an ongoing debate about who primarily benefits from off-market sales. Some argue it's more beneficial for agents who can double-end a deal, representing both buyer and seller, and therefore obtaining the full commission. This could potentially lead to a conflict of interest if an agent prioritizes their financial gain over obtaining the best deal for the seller.

On the other hand, there are genuine situations where an off-market sale might be in the best interest of the seller – for instance, in cases of high-profile individuals or those undergoing personal situations like divorce or financial distress.

Conclusion:

While there are legitimate reasons for a seller to choose an off-market sale, the potential disadvantages, especially the risk of not securing the best possible price, cannot be ignored. It's crucial for sellers to be informed and work with trusted professionals who can provide guidance tailored to their unique circumstances. Sellers should weigh the benefits of privacy and efficiency against potentially leaving money on the table. And for neighborhoods with high off-market sales, stakeholders must consider the long-term implications on market transparency and home value accuracy.

"Protect your home's value and secure our community's future. Understand the broader implications of off-market sales. Act now for long-term benefits.  Have questions?