When I began selling homes many years ago, the ‘Coming Soon’ sign was a staple—a way to let buyers know a home would soon be on the market. Over time, however, off-market listings gained traction, particularly among certain brokers who sold homes privately to exclusive buyers. While some high-end clients preferred this privacy, I’ve always believed this model limits exposure and ultimately hurts sellers by reducing competition.
In a recent Washington Post article, Michele Lerner highlights the frustration of homebuyers who miss out on properties they never knew were available. These off-market deals, or “pocket listings,” allow agents to market homes before they’re listed on the MLS, often to select buyers within their brokerage. Some brokers argue this gives sellers more control, but it can also lead to reduced transparency.
As a broker with Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty and Founder of Rainier Estates, I support keeping rules that require off-market listings to be disclosed. Transparency in real estate is crucial, especially when a home is often the largest financial commitment most people will ever make. By limiting a seller’s market exposure, they risk missing out on better offers.
For my sellers, I always recommend broad exposure. Why settle for one or two potential buyers when dozens more could be interested? In my experience, transparency and competition drive better outcomes for both buyers and sellers.
At the end of the day, my goal is to arm my clients with all the information they need to make the best choice for their future. Whether selling to a neighbor or a stranger, I help them understand their options and support them in making an informed decision.
Where do you land on this? Should the National Association of Realtors or the MLS allow ‘Coming Soon’ signs? Pocket Listings? Let me know your thoughts.
Lisa Taylor
Broker, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
Founder & CEO, Rainier Estates
Email: Lisa.Taylor@RSIR.com