What to Look for in an Off-Market Property Deal

Off-market property deals sound like the golden ticket of real estate. They’re not advertised publicly, don’t appear on the major property portals, and are often presented to a select group of buyers before the broader market gets a look in. On the surface, they can feel like an exclusive opportunity – but are they always a good deal? Here’s what to look for when assessing an off-market property.

Understand Why It’s Off-Market

The first question to ask is why the property is being sold off-market. Sometimes the seller is motivated by privacy (for example, a high-profile individual), other times they want to avoid the costs of advertising and open inspections, or they may be testing the market quietly before committing to a campaign.

These can be genuine advantages for buyers – less competition and more room for negotiation. But be wary if the property has been quietly offered to many buyers for a long time. It might indicate unrealistic price expectations or underlying issues with the property.

Compare with On-Market Stock

An off-market listing isn’t automatically a bargain. You still need to compare it against recent sales and active listings in the same area.

• Look at what similar properties have sold for in the past six months.

• Consider how this property stacks up in size, condition, and location.

• If the price guide is well above comparable sales, the deal may not be as attractive as it first seems.

Doing this homework helps you avoid paying a premium just because the deal feels exclusive.

Check the Property’s Condition

Without the usual marketing campaign and open inspections, it’s easy to overlook the finer details. Always conduct thorough due diligence:

• Building and pest inspections to uncover hidden issues.

• Maintenance checks on plumbing, electrical, and structural elements.

• Ask if there have been any recent renovations and whether the work was done with permits.

If a property is being sold quietly to avoid scrutiny, you don’t want to inherit costly repairs down the line.

Gauge Market Demand

Even if you’re the first to see an off-market property, it’s smart to ask the agent:

• Have other buyers been shown the property?

• Is the vendor planning to take it to market if it doesn’t sell off-market?

This gives you insight into how much competition you might face and whether you truly have an early-mover advantage.

Assess the Vendor’s Motivation

A vendor who is motivated to sell can create the right conditions for a good deal. Common signs include:

• They’ve already purchased another property.

• They’re relocating for work or lifestyle reasons.

• They’re keen to avoid a drawn-out public sales campaign

Understanding their situation can help you negotiate better terms on price, settlement, or inclusions.

Don’t Skip Professional Guidance

Because off-market deals can be less transparent, working with a buyer’s agent or property professional can be a game-changer. A buyer’s agent:

• Knows how to access genuine off-market listings (not just recycled old stock).

• Can provide an independent appraisal of value.

• Negotiates on your behalf to ensure you don’t overpay.

What seems like a “private opportunity” can sometimes just be a soft campaign to test buyers’ interest – a professional helps separate the real deals from the noise.

Off-market properties can deliver fantastic opportunities – less competition, greater privacy, and in some cases, sharper pricing. But they can also be used as a tactic to create a false sense of exclusivity.

✅ Tip: Don’t assume an off-market listing is automatically a win. Assess it against the broader market, check the property thoroughly, and negotiate smartly to make sure it really is a good deal.

Ready to Access Genuine Off-Market Opportunities?

At Walsh Brown Property, we specialise in uncovering hidden opportunities and guiding clients through every step of the buying process. If you’d like access to real off-market deals – and the expertise to know which ones are worth pursuing – get in touch today.

📩 aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au

📞 0411 771 181

🌐 www.walshbrownproperty.com.au

*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, it should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The homebuying process can vary based on individual circumstances, property types, and location-specific regulations.