🏡The Quiet Deal: Why Off-Market Homes Are Gaining Popularity in 2025
In today’s competitive real estate market, off-market listings—also known as private or pocket listings—are becoming more popular and a strategic way to buy and sell property. These exclusive properties are typically not listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or syndicated across public platforms. Instead, they’re quietly shared through professional Realtor networks, private platforms, and one-on-one conversations that turn into private showings. "The result? More control, less chaos, and better outcomes for everyone involved," says Steven Miller, Team Leader/REALTOR for Steven Miller Group at Coldwell Banker Realty in East Greenwich, RI. "We've closed quite a few off-market deals this year and the benefits for all parties involved are significant. Sometimes it can make more sense for the seller to sell "off-market," avoiding the hassle of countless showings and open houses, which is all dependent on the property, location, and obviously the specific circumstances for each buyer and each seller involved."
Under the National Association of Realtors’ Clear Cooperation policy, agents now have the option to delay MLS exposure and market properties privately—giving clients even more control and flexibility.
✅For sellers, off-market listings offer privacy, flexibility, and a curated experience. You can explore pricing without public scrutiny, avoid open house fatigue, and negotiate directly with motivated, pre-approved buyers. There’s no “days on market” clock ticking down, and no risk of overexposure. Even Ryan Serhant says, “The deal of the year often never hits the market—it’s passed between agents who know what their clients really want.” That kind of intentionality can lead to faster sales—and stronger offers.
✅Buyers, especially those working with well-connected agents, benefit from access to homes they wouldn’t otherwise see. In a low-inventory environment—currently hovering around 4.4 months of housing supply nationwide, according to recent data—off-market access means early insight, less competition, and more negotiating flexibility. With the median U.S. home price now over $414,000, and over $500,000 in Rhode Island, every advantage counts.
🫱🏻🫲🏻The heart of off-market success lies in the agent network. These transactions are built on relationships between professionals who trust each other to present serious buyers and quality listings. Top agents work behind the scenes, tapping into exclusive circles, broker-only platforms, mastermind networking groups, and national databases to match the right buyer with the right home. Miller adds, "It’s matchmaking at its finest—and it’s a major value-add for clients who want a competitive edge."
⭐Top Benefit for Sellers: More Control, Less Chaos
Privacy + Negotiating Power. ➡️Sellers benefit by limiting public exposure, avoiding open houses, and dealing only with qualifed, serious buyers, often brought in by experienced agents. This approach can reduce stress and lead to smoother, more discreet transactions, especially for luxury or sensitive sales (divorce, inheritance, etc.).
⭐Top Benefit for Buyers: Exclusive Access
Less Competition, First Dibs. ➡️Buyers gain access to homes that aren't visible online or to the general public, giving them a shot at unique properties before bidding wars erupt. Working with a well-connected agent can unlock access to hidden inventory, especially in tight or competitive market.
💡Thinking of Selling or Buying Off-Market?
Whether you're looking to quietly sell a home, looking to buy one in a specific neighborhood before it hits the public market, or collaborate as a fellow agent with clients you have looking to buy or sell in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or anywhere across the US—let’s connect. Steven Miller Group has curated a trusted, collaborative global network that executes off-market deals seamlessly (and pretty stress-free, too).
🗨️We're happy to chat more- call us anytime at 401-477-9316, email: [email protected] or visit www.stevenmillergroup.com
Steven Miller Group | Rhode Island Real Estate Experts | www.stevenmillergroup.com
Steven Miller Group is the #1 Coldwell Banker Small Team in Rhode Island helping buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals.
