Summer’s Best-Kept Secret: Hidden Listing Inventory

    Why Off-Market Sellers Matter Now

    Off-market or “hidden” listings make up a staggering 1.2 million U.S. home sales—nearly 30% of all residential transactions this year.

    Many of these sellers seek discretion, control, or a faster deal without the stress of public listings.

    The Price of Privacy

    Various Just Listed Series are shown above. To see more, Click Here.

    However, listing privately comes at a cost: Zillow’s 2025 data shows that off-MLS sellers leave a median of $4,975 on the table, compared to those who list on the MLS. As agents, your value lies in helping homeowners uncover the right balance between privacy and profit.

    Where to Find Hidden Inventory

    Expired & withdrawn listings can reveal overlooked sellers. FSBOs, which still account for about 6% of sales, often need guidance.

    Also, look for unlisted homes with signs of preparation to sell, such as dumpsters or fresh landscaping—approach these owners with a helpful pitch.

    Scripts That Start Conversations

    “Hi, I noticed you’re updating your home—you might be thinking about selling. Would you like a quick market estimate?”
    This soft opening positions you as an advisor, not a sales pitch, and often prompts meaningful conversations.

    Leverage Your Network & Mail Campaigns

    Build referral relationships with other agents—real estate pros report 15–20% of their deals are off-market. Use targeted mailers or door‑hangers in specific neighborhoods to proactively reach potential sellers who haven’t listed yet.


    PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.

    1. Put Your Real Estate Business a Step Above with Your Own Branded Magazine

    Homes & Life Magazine is a customizable magazine with rich, full-color content and a sharp, professional aesthetic. It includes compelling, direct, response-driven articles written by real estate industry experts and engaging lifestyle content. Send out Homes & Life Magazine in Just Minutes – No Minimums Required. Or we’ll ship it to you. Homes & Life Magazine is the ultimate “Coffee Table Lingerer”! …and it costs less than sending a greeting card!Click Here

    2. The Free 2025 Q1 Real Estate Marketing Guide

    Kickstart the second quarter of 2025 with our 2nd Quarter Real Estate Marketing Guide, designed to help you achieve your real estate business goals. Packed with tools like a goal-setting sheet, monthly insights, tailored task lists, and marketing recommendations, this free guide is your ultimate resource for success—download it today for FREE! –Click Here

     

     

     

    3. The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Plan

    The Free Interactive 6-Month Real Estate Business Plan allows you to enter your business goals for the remainder of the year and get a breakdown of how many prospects, listings, closings, and so on are needed to reach your goals.   – Click Here

    Lisa is an accomplished marketer with years of expertise in direct response marketing, digital marketing, data analytics and business development working with both B2C and B2B.