An Agent Has a Buyer: Should You Sell Off-Market?

by Alessandra Imanabadi

By Alessandra Imanabadi · Nationwide Fine Homes

Our first recommendation is generally to give the home an opportunity on the open market.

Reverse the situation.

Suppose you knew the city, bedrooms, square footage and price you wanted—say $1 million. Would you buy the first home that met the description?

Probably not. You would want to compare.

So why assume the first private buyer represents the best opportunity for your sale?

“I have a buyer” may be true. It does not establish the strongest price or terms your home could achieve.

What would a short public launch reveal?

Where appropriate, a well-prepared period on the market—perhaps ten days—can let other buyers participate. The private buyer can still compete.

That is different from accepting limited exposure because someone makes the process sound easy.

A private sale may genuinely suit a seller who values privacy, convenience or a particular timeline. The choice should be deliberate.

Your agent can compare the private offer with a public-sale plan: preparation, timing and expected proceeds. Then you can decide whether the convenience is worth limiting exposure.

Alessandra would be pleased to hear what you are considering and answer your questions. You do not need to have decided to sell. The conversation gives you an opportunity to understand the alternatives and decide whether her guidance feels right for you.

Explore our approach to selling