Off-market properties are houses that are for sale, or could be, without being listed on the MLS. Investors chase them because there’s less competition, and sellers who skip the open market often care more about speed and convenience than top price. Here are eight proven ways to find them, and the trade-offs of each.
1. Driving for Dollars
Drive or walk neighborhoods you want to invest in and note houses that look neglected: overgrown yards, boarded windows, piled-up mail, roof tarps. Look up the owners in county records and reach out. It costs little but takes time.
2. Public Records
Counties publish a lot of useful information. Look for:
- Pre-foreclosure filings and notices of default
- Probate filings
- Code enforcement cases
- Tax-delinquent property lists
- Eviction filings
Owners in these situations are often motivated to sell quickly. Treat them with respect: many are going through a hard time.
3. Direct Mail
Send letters or postcards to a targeted list, such as absentee owners, long-time owners with high equity, or owners of vacant properties. Response rates are low, so consistency matters more than any single mailing.
4. Wholesalers and Buyers Lists
Wholesalers find off-market deals and assign them to investors for a fee. Joining a few reputable buyers lists is one of the fastest ways to see deals without doing the marketing yourself. Always run your own numbers and walk the property. You can join ours on the VIP buyers list.
5. Real Estate Agents
Many agents hear about “pocket” opportunities before they hit the market, such as estate sales, landlords tired of their rentals, or homes that need too much work to list. Let a few active agents know exactly what you buy.
6. Networking
Local investor meetups, real estate investing groups, contractors, property managers, probate and divorce attorneys, and title officers all come across sellers who need a fast solution.
7. Online Marketing
Some investors run websites, search ads and social ads aimed at homeowners who want to sell fast. It works, but it’s competitive and can be expensive, so it suits investors with a marketing budget.
8. Auctions
Foreclosure auctions and tax deed sales can produce deals, but they come with real risks: you often can’t inspect the inside, there may be liens or occupants, and you usually need cash on hand. Learn the rules for your county before bidding.
Comparing the Methods
| Method | Cost | Time | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving for dollars | Low | High | Low |
| Public records | Low to medium | Medium | Medium |
| Direct mail | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Wholesalers and buyers lists | Low (fee is in the price) | Low | Medium |
| Agents and networking | Low | Medium | Low to medium |
| Online marketing | High | Low once running | High |
| Auctions | Low to enter | Medium | High |
Get Off-Market Deals Sent to You
75 Fast Offer buys houses directly from owners in 12 states and offers the deals that fit investors to our buyers list first. Join the VIP buyers list, see current opportunities on our buy page, or browse Orlando investment properties. Need funding? See our lending options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does off-market property mean?
It’s a property sold without being listed on the MLS, usually directly between the owner and a buyer, or through a wholesaler.
Are off-market properties cheaper?
Often, because there’s less competition and sellers value speed. But not always, so always check comps and repair costs yourself.
What is the easiest way to find off-market deals?
Joining reputable wholesalers’ buyers lists is usually the quickest, because they do the marketing and send deals to you.
Ready for a Cash Offer?
Tell us about your house and we’ll send a fair cash offer, usually within 24 hours. No repairs, fees or commissions, and you choose the closing date. Get your cash offer or call (321) 895-9394.