Unlocking Premium Property Sales: The Power of Off-Market Listings
Since 2020, we’ve returned to the roots of traditional estate agency, adapting strategies that date back to the early days of my career in 2004—long before the internet dominated property sales. This shift was, admittedly, born out of necessity during the high-demand period post-lockdown, when we found ourselves overwhelmed with enquiries.
To put it in perspective, out of 30 inquiries, only 7 were from buyers in a proceedable position.
Since 2020, we’ve returned to the roots of traditional estate agency, adapting strategies that date back to the early days of my career in 2004—long before the internet dominated property sales. This shift was, admittedly, born out of necessity during the high-demand period post-lockdown, when we found ourselves overwhelmed with inquiries. To put it in perspective, out of 30 inquiries, only 7 were from buyers in a proceedable position.
What began as a response to high demand quickly evolved into a refined strategy that set us apart. By truly understanding our clients and their needs, we were able to approach those 7 ready-to-go buyers directly, securing offers well above market price before the property even went live. The competition among these buyers created a sense of urgency—an emotional drive that can push offers higher than expected. After all, when you purchased your house, if you had the chance to view it without the presence of other potential buyers, would you still have been willing to pay a premium?
This approach mimics the psychological phenomenon we see in other markets, like eBay bidding wars or high-stakes ticket sales. The fear of missing out (FOMO) compels people to act quickly and aggressively, often leading them to pay more than they initially intended. By marketing properties off-market, we tap into this emotional purchasing power, creating a heightened sense of exclusivity and urgency that can significantly boost the final sale price.
When the property market quietened down in 2023, this proactive strategy proved invaluable. Unlike many competitors who were reactive—waiting for buyers to call in after listings went live—we continued to be ahead of the curve, engaging with serious buyers before the property was ever posted online. This not only allowed us to maintain strong sales during a slower market but also reinforced our reputation for delivering premium results.
Our off-market strategy is now a key part of our 4-week process and 12-step plan for achieving the best possible price for our sellers. By engaging with a select group of motivated buyers early on, we create an environment where competition flourishes, and premium offers are almost guaranteed.
In essence, the power of off-market listings lies in its ability to create scarcity and urgency. By keeping your property off mainstream portals initially, you can attract serious, proceedable buyers and potentially secure a better deal without the hassle of endless viewings and time-wasters. And remember, when your estate agent suggests an off-market approach, it’s not just about discretion—it’s about strategically positioning your property to achieve the best possible outcome.
So, if you're planning to sell, ask yourself: Would you have paid as much for your current home if you had known there were no other buyers waiting in the wings? That same principle drives our off-market strategy—ensuring that when your property sells, it does so at a price that reflects its true value in a competitive market.
Trust in our proven strategy, and let us guide you through a process that’s been perfected over decades, tailored to today’s unique market conditions.
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