Off-Market Dealings

This whole rat race of a real estate market can often feel like a marathon. And as someone who could very likely not even run a full mile without collapsing, it can sound like a nightmare. Really: once a listing goes live, every potential buyer in a several mile radius drops everything to run to book showings and make offers. What if there were a way to land your dream home before it ever hits the market? 

It’s Possible

One great tip is to reach out to your real estate agent and ask if they are working on any listings where the seller hasn’t necessarily committed to listing with them yet. Just like buyers, sellers often shop around to find an agent they connect with. If your real estate agent knows this, they may be able to woo the seller by dangling a carrot of a seriously interested party. (That seriously interested party being you.) You may be able to get your foot in the door before anyone else. 

Another seemingly obvious tip is to network, but to network with intention. This doesn’t mean to be disingenuous with your actions or behavior but when you meet people in a social setting, get a feel for their current state of affairs or upcoming life events. By getting to know people in a hobby group, mommy-and-me group, sports league, or Junior League, you may be privy to information about potential moves before your new friends officially list their home. 

Next, you could contact HOA boards. If there is a specific neighborhood or condo complex that you’re particularly interested in, you can put out feelers to the president or leader of the homeowners association. Write and ask if they have heard rumors of upcoming listings or rumblings of people wanting to move. They may be able to give you insider information or connect you with the potential seller before anyone else. 

For additional ideas on how to snag a home before it even hits the market, visit Realtor.com.