How To Find Off Market Properties​

Last updated: June 4, 2025

In the fast-paced world of real estate, where bidding wars, low inventory and record low housing affordability dominate headlines, finding off market properties can be a game-changer for buyers and investors alike.

If you want to know how to find off market properties, you’re on the path to discovering exclusive deals that bypass the competition of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Off market properties, homes and investment properties not publicly listed, offer unique opportunities for better pricing, flexible terms, and access to properties that align with your goals.

We're going to guide you through what off market properties are, why they’re valuable, and actionable strategies to find them and acquire them in your local market.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a wholesaler, this guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge to uncover hidden real estate gems.

Understanding Off-Market Properties

Off market properties are real estate assets not listed on public platforms like the MLS which syndicates to Zillow, Redfin, Homes.com, Realtor.com and other brokerage websites. These properties are typically sold privately, directly between buyers and sellers, or through a select network of real estate professionals, wholesalers, or investors. Because they’re not advertised to the general public, off market properties attract less attention, resulting in reduced competition and potentially better deals.

These properties often include homes in need of repairs, tenanted rentals, distressed sales (i.e. foreclosures, short sales, unexpected relocation), or properties owned by sellers who value privacy or speed over maximizing profit. According to industry estimates, about 10% of U.S. home sales occur off-market, with higher percentages in competitive markets and attractive investment markets, where inventory shortages drive demand for exclusive opportunities.

For those learning how to find off market properties, the appeal lies in accessing deals that others overlook—whether it’s a fixer-upper for a flip, a rental for passive income, or a primary residence at a below-market price. Let’s explore why these properties are worth pursuing and how to locate them effectively.

Why Off-Market Properties Are Worth Finding

Before diving into strategies for how to find off-market properties, it’s important to understand their unique advantages:

1. Less Competition

Since off-market properties aren’t listed publicly, they attract fewer buyers. In markets where MLS listings receive multiple offers within days, off-market deals allow you to negotiate without competing against dozens of bidders. For example, in areas like Frisco, TX, where housing inventory is down significantly, off-market properties can be a lifeline for buyers.

2. Potential for Below-Market Pricing

Sellers of off-market properties often prioritize speed or convenience over profit. A landlord might sell a tenanted property at a discount to avoid lease complications, or a distressed homeowner might accept a lower price for a quick, as-is sale. This can result in prices 10–20% below market value, offering savings for homebuyers and higher margins for investors.

3. Flexible Deal Terms

Off-market transactions often allow for creative structuring, such as seller financing, extended due diligence periods, or as-is purchases. These terms can be especially valuable for investors using strategies like the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) or wholesalers assigning contracts.

4. Access to Unique Properties

Off-market properties include homes that wouldn’t appear on the MLS due to their condition, legal status, or seller preferences. These can range from probate properties with high equity to distressed homes ideal for flipping or rentals with immediate cash flow.

5. Privacy and Discretion

For sellers seeking privacy—such as high-profile individuals or those avoiding public exposure—off-market sales are ideal. Buyers benefit from discreet transactions and the chance to secure properties before they hit the open market.

Proven Strategies for How to Find Off-Market Properties

Finding off-market properties requires a proactive, multi-faceted approach, as these deals won’t appear in a standard online search. Below are detailed strategies to help you uncover off-market opportunities in your local area.

1. Build a Strong Real Estate Network

Networking is one of the most effective ways to learn how to find off-market properties. Real estate agents, brokers, wholesalers, and title company professionals often have insider knowledge about properties not yet listed. For example, agents may know of “pocket listings” (properties marketed privately within a brokerage) or sellers planning to list soon.

Attend local real estate investor meetups, ask for referrals to investor-friendly agents, title companies, contractors.

join online communities like BiggerPockets or Reddit’s r/realestateinvesting, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Clearly communicate your criteria (e.g., single-family homes under $250,000 or multi-family rentals) to receive relevant leads. Follow up regularly with your network and offer value, such as sharing market insights or referring business, to stay top-of-mind.

2. Launch Direct Mail Campaigns

Direct mail remains a powerful tool for reaching property owners who may be open to selling. By targeting specific neighborhoods or property types, you can contact owners directly and generate leads for off-market deals.

• Use data from county records and real estate databases such as PropStream to identify properties with high equity, absentee owners, or signs of distress (e.g., delinquent taxes).
• Use skip tracing services (i.e. PropStream) to obtain accurate owner contact information.
• Send personalized letters or postcards offering a fast, hassle-free sale.
• Send multiple mailings per recipient, 3–5 over a 3 to 12 month span, to increase response rates, as persistence pays off.

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Sample Direct Mail Letter for Off-Market Properties

Hi [Homeowner's First Name],

Thinking about selling your property but don’t want to deal with agents, repairs, or months of waiting?

I’m a local real estate investor interested in buying your property at [Property Address].

✅ Fair Cash Offer — receive a competitive offer in under 24 hours.
✅ As Is Sale — no need to fix, clean or move anything.
✅ No Commissions — save thousands in agent fees.
✅ No Closing Costs — I cover all title, escrow, and closing fees.
✅ Fast Closing — close in as little as 7 days, or on your timeline.
✅ Private and Respectful — no pressure, no gimmicks, just a straightforward offer from an experienced buyer.

If you're serious about selling, I would love the opportunity to be your buyer. Call or text anytime [Your Phone Number]. There’s no obligation.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Your Business Name, if applicable]

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Hand written letters perform well, and you can send hand-written letters at scale with a service called Ballpoint Marketing that uses robots with ballpoint pens and human handwriting patterns. For a more cost effective approach, you can use services like Lob which is great for tech savvy software developers.

3. Drive for Dollars

Driving for dollars is a hands-on strategy that involves exploring neighborhoods to identify properties with signs of distress or neglect, such as overgrown lawns, "gutter plants", boarded windows, or accumulated debris. These properties are often prime candidates for off-market sales.

Focus on neighborhoods with 1–4 unit residential properties, such as single-family homes or duplexes, which are popular among investors. Record addresses of promising properties and use public records or tools like PropStream to verify ownership and contact owners.

Create a spreadsheet to track properties, including addresses, owner names, and follow-up dates. Use a GPS app to map your routes efficiently.

4. Leverage Online Platforms and Tools

Several platforms specialize in off-market properties, making it easier to find deals in your area:

• OfferMarket: A marketplace for off-market real estate, OfferMarket connects buyers with wholesalers, distressed sellers, and properties in poor condition. You can browse listings, subscribe to instant alerts in specific ZIPs, chat with sellers directly on the listing, and submit offers directly.
• PropStream: This tool provides property data, owner contact information, and filters for distressed properties, high-equity homes, or foreclosures. It’s ideal for skip tracing and identifying motivated sellers.

Sign up for these platforms and set up alerts for new listings in your target zip codes. Filter by property type, price range, or distress indicators to narrow your search.

Combine platform data with your own research to enhance lead quality and craft relevant outreach.

5. Monitor Public Records and Auctions

Public records, such as property tax records, foreclosure notices, or probate filings, can reveal off-market opportunities. Owners with delinquent taxes, liens, or recent ownership changes are often motivated to sell. Additionally, local auctions offer distressed properties at discounted prices.

Visit your county recorder’s office or website, your state's register of wills website, use online databases like PropStream to find foreclosure, tax lien, or probate properties. Work with a title company to streamline research and verify property details.

Focus on pre-foreclosure properties, as owners may be eager to sell before losing the home to a lender.

6. Engage on Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms and online forums are treasure troves for off-market leads. Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and LinkedIn communities often feature wholesalers and sellers posting off-market deals.

Join local real estate groups (often called "investor network") on Facebook. Search for hashtags like #OffMarketProperties or #RealEstateDeals to find posts from sellers or wholesalers in your area. Engage in discussions to build relationships and uncover leads. Be active in these communities by asking questions, sharing insights, or offering to connect sellers with buyers to establish credibility. Search historical posts and reach out to wholesalers and investors with a track record of relevant inventory in your target market.

7. Partner with Wholesalers

Real estate wholesalers specialize in finding off market properties and assigning contracts to investors. They often have direct access to motivated sellers or distressed properties.

Connect with wholesalers through platforms like OfferMarket, Facebook groups, or real estate investor meetups. Specify your property criteria (i.e. fixer-uppers under $200,000) to receive tailored leads. Wholesalers typically charge an assignment fee, which is included on the settlement statement and often financed by lenders as long as it it not so large it shocks the conscience.

Verify the wholesaler’s credibility by asking for references or proof of direct access to the seller to avoid inflated prices from "daisy chain" middlemen with no equitable interest to market the contract for the property.

8. Cold Calling and Door Knocking

For a more direct approach, cold calling or door knocking can yield off market deals. Use skip tracing tools to obtain phone numbers for property owners, or visit distressed properties to speak with owners in person.

Be professional and empathetic. For example, when calling, say, “Hi, I’m [Your Name], a local investor. I noticed your property at [Address] and was wondering if you’ve considered selling. I can offer a quick, hassle-free sale."

Practice your script to sound confident and genuine. Respect owners’ privacy and avoid being overly pushy.

Executing Your Off Market Property Search

Once you’ve identified potential off market properties, follow these steps to secure the deal:

1. Conduct Thorough Due Diligence

Off market properties lack the transparency of MLS listings, so due diligence is critical:

• Title Search: Work with a real estate attorney to ensure the property has a clear title, free of liens or disputes. If the seller has liens, make sure they understand and are prepared to move forward with the sale with a material portion of the purchase price allocated towards paying off those liens thereby potentially dramatically reducing or even eliminating their net proceeds.
• Property Inspection: Walk the property with a trusted, experienced contractor or hire a professional inspector to assess the property’s condition. The last thing you want is a major foundation or electrical issue you didn't account for in your offer price.
• Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): Analyze recent sales of similar properties in the neighborhood to determine fair market value. Use tools like PropStream or hire an appraiser if comps are scarce.
• Zoning and Restrictions: Verify zoning laws, property taxes, and land-use restrictions that could impact the property’s value or usability. One example is failing to identify that a property is a manufactured home and therefore not eligible for most financing programs.

Budget for unexpected repairs, as off market properties often require more work than advertised. We call this a "margin of safety" or "contingency" buffer.

2. Negotiate Strategically

Understanding the seller’s motivations is key to successful negotiations. Are they seeking a quick sale, privacy, or relief from financial distress? Tailor your offer to their needs, such as a fast cash closing or flexible terms like seller financing.

Build rapport by listening to the seller’s needs. For example, a personalized letter or call explaining your interest can set you apart. Offer a fair price backed by your CMA to ensure a win-win deal. If working with a wholesaler, negotiate the assignment fee to keep costs down.

3. Explore Financing Options

Financing off-market properties can be more flexible than traditional purchases:

• DSCR Loans: Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans are ideal for investors, as they’re based on rental income rather than personal income. They require minimal paperwork and offer competitive rates.
• Hard Money Loans: These short-term, asset-based loans are perfect for fix-and-flip or fix-and-rent projects but have higher interest rates.
• Private Lenders: Platforms like OfferMarket Capital provide flexible financing for investors, often with faster closings than banks.
• Cash Offers: Cash is highly appealing to sellers, as it ensures a quick, certain closing.

Use our top-rated DSCR Calculator and Cash Offer Calculator to run your numbers and avoid the costly mistake of overpaying.

4. Work with a Buyer’s Agent

An investor-focused buyer’s agent experienced in off market deals can source properties, conduct due diligence, and negotiate terms. Unlike MLS deals, where the seller typically pays the buyer’s agent commission (2.5%–3%), buyers often cover the commission in off market transactions, so keep this in mind as you run your numbers and build agent relationships.

Select an agent with a track record in off market deals and strong local connections. Clarify commission arrangements upfront to avoid surprises. You can sign a non-exclusive agreement with multiple agents to get more agents working to bring you deals. Ask your agent to search for pocket listings or upcoming listings within their brokerage.

5. Avoid Common Pitfalls

Off market deals carry risks, such as properties with hidden issues. To protect yourself:

• Verify ownership and deal details to ensure you’re working with the principal or a legitimate wholesaler.
• Avoid overpaying by conducting a thorough CMA and appraisal.
• Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve undisclosed problems.
• Use platforms like OfferMarket to browse verified listings and connect directly with sellers to minimize risks.

Tailoring Your Approach for Different Goals

The strategies for how to find off-market properties vary depending on your objectives.

For investors:

• Fix and Flip: Target distressed properties with high renovation potential. Driving for dollars and working with wholesalers are effective for finding fixer-uppers. Be disciplined with your offer prices and keep a buffer for unexpected costs overruns and delays.
• Fix and Rent, BRRRR Method: Look for tenanted properties or homes in high-demand rental areas.
• Wholesaling: Focus on distressed properties with motivated sellers to assign contracts for a fee.
• BRRRR Method: Seek properties with high equity potential for buying, rehabbing, renting, refinancing, and repeating.

For primary residence home buyers:

Off-market properties can offer affordable entry points in competitive markets. Work with a buyer’s agent to find fixer-uppers or probate properties that can be renovated over time, building equity.

Target off-market properties for unique homes or discreet purchases. Networking with agents and monitoring public records can uncover properties that meet specific needs, such as location or size.

Legal and Financial Considerations

Legal Considerations

Off-market purchases require extra caution due to the lack of MLS oversight. Work with a real estate attorney to:

Perform a title search to ensure no legal claims or liens exist. Draft contracts that outline terms, contingencies, and seller obligations. Verify zoning laws, property taxes, and land-use restrictions.

Insurance Needs

For investment properties, secure landlord insurance or fix-and-flip insurance to protect against risks like tenant damage or construction issues. Platforms like OfferMarket offer insurance rate shopping for investors.

Case Studies: Success in Finding Off-Market Properties Case Study 1: Investor Flips a Distressed Property in Dallas An investor in Dallas used PropStream to identify a single-family home with delinquent taxes. After sending a direct mail campaign, they negotiated a $150,000 purchase price (20% below market value). With $40,000 in renovations, they sold the property for $250,000, netting a $60,000 profit.

Case Study 2: Baltimore Buyer Secures a Rental A Baltimore investor partnered with a wholesaler through OfferMarket to find a tenanted duplex off-market. Using a DSCR loan, they purchased the property for $180,000, generating $2,200/month in rental income with minimal upfront costs.

Getting Started: How to Find Off-Market Properties Today

Ready to take your off market deal flow to the next level? Follow these steps:

• Define Your Goals: Clarify whether you’re flipping, renting, or buying a primary residence. Set a budget and property criteria.
• Build Your Network: Connect with agents, wholesalers, and investors to access exclusive deals.
• Leverage Technology: Sign up for platforms like OfferMarket, PropStream, or Mashvisor to browse listings and set alerts.
• Act Quickly: Off-market deals move fast, so have financing ready and a clear offer strategy.
• Conduct Due Diligence: Verify property details, ownership, and market value before closing.

Explore OfferMarket’s free investment property marketplace to browse verified off-market listings and connect with sellers directly.

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Conclusion

Learning how to find off market properties opens the door to exclusive real estate opportunities that can save you money, reduce competition, and align with your investment or home buying goals. This skill can be mastered by anyone willing to put in the effort to learn, take action and be persistent. Once acquired, this skill can help you build wealth in all economic environments and provide a clear path to escape the 9-5 grind.

By combining strategies like networking, direct mail, driving for dollars, online platforms, and public record searches, you can uncover hidden gems in any market. With thorough due diligence, strategic negotiation, and the right financing, off-market properties can transform your real estate journey.

Start today by joining platforms like OfferMarket, building your network, and taking proactive steps to find off market properties in your area. The next great deal is out there waiting for you to discover it, and there's no better way to learn than by doing!

If you've found this helpful and would like access to more real estate investing insights, sign up for OfferMarket. Membership is free and comes with the following benefits:

🏠 Off market properties
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☂️ Landlord insurance rate shopping
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