Ever spotted a moving van without a for-sale sign and wondered what’s going on? You might have stumbled upon a “pocket listing.”
So, what’s a pocket listing? It’s a home for sale but has yet to be made public. Sellers choose this route for various reasons—some want to keep strangers out, like a homeowner with a valuable Civil War memorabilia collection. Others may be unsure about selling and want to test the waters first.
Pocket listings aren’t rare; they happen more often than you’d think, especially in high-end markets or for sellers who prioritize privacy. In some cases, over 20% of homes sold in a year in places like Atherton never hit the open market.
How do you find out about these secret listings? Your best bet is through a REALTOR® who has access to a portal where members share “Coming Soon” listings. Without a qualified agent, chances are slim to view these properties, maintaining the seller’s confidentiality.
It’s crucial to note that selling off the MLS is done with full disclosure and at the seller’s request. MLS rules usually require listings to be input within 48 hours, or the agent could face fines.
So, next time new neighbors appear mysteriously, they might have snagged a pocket listing in the neighborhood.
Drew & Christine Morgan are REALTORS/NOTARY PUBLIC in Belmont, CA. with more than 30 years of experience in helping sellers and buyers in their community. As Diamond recipients, Drew and Christine ranked in the top 50 RE/MAX agents nationwide and the top 3 in Northern California. They may be reached at (650) 508.1441 or emailed at info@morganhomes.com.
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The information contained in this article is educational and intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute real estate, tax, insurance or legal advice, nor does it substitute for advice specific to your situation. Always consult an appropriate professional familiar with your scenario.
Drew Morgan—Broker 01124318 | Christine Morgan—Sales Associate 01174047
CEO & President of Morganhomes, Inc.
(650) 508-1441
