Finding a house before it hits the market can be a bit like uncovering hidden treasure! Here are some practical tips to help you when buying a home off market:
- Database: You can add your details to our database to say where you are looking for off market properties. It’s also a great way to test the market without the hassle of getting your property ready for estate agents. Just some brief information about the property and that’s it! This allows people who may be considering selling to let you know. Alternatively, you can find a house before it hits the market by searching the database to see if anyone has listed a home they may consider selling in the next 12 months or so. Get in touch for more details.
- Networking: Let everyone know you’re in the market for an off the market home. Spread the word amongst family, friends, colleagues and even acquaintances. Sometimes, people hear about properties through word of mouth before they’re officially listed.
- Local Agents: Build relationships with local estate agents. Let them know your requirements, and they might inform you about properties that are about to be listed or ones that haven’t hit the market yet. They can also add you to their mailing lists for early notifications.
- Buying Agents: There are also specialist buying agents who are aware of homes that may not be on the market currently.
- Online Platforms and Apps: Keep an eye on online property platforms, groups and apps. Sometimes sellers or agents will give sneak peeks or pre-listing announcements.
- Social Media: Follow local estate agents and property-related groups on social media platforms. Sometimes agents post about upcoming listings or exclusive deals.
- Direct Marketing: Consider sending out letters or postcards to homeowners in your desired area expressing your interest in buying their property. Some homeowners might be considering selling but haven’t officially listed yet. This approach could prompt them to move.
- Property Auctions: Attend property auctions. Sometimes sellers opt for auctions instead of traditional listings, and you might find a gem before it’s widely advertised.
- Drive or Walk Around: Explore your desired location. Driving or walking around you can be quick to spot if any properties have been listed recently.
- Property Developers: If you are after a new build contact property developers in the area you’re interested in. They might have upcoming projects or homes under construction that they haven’t marketed yet.
Hopefully these are all useful tips to find off market property deals. You never know you may find find a house before it hits the market using any of the above methods.
Remember, patience is key in this process to find off market properties. It might take some time and effort, but with perseverance, you might just find your dream home before it even hits the market. Good luck!
