If you’re hiring a buyer’s advocate just to access off-market properties… don’t.
In 2025, “off-market” has become the go-to phrase for buyers chasing a deal. It’s plastered across Instagram stories, newsletters, and sales calls. Everyone seems to be selling the dream of secret properties no one else can see.
But here’s the truth: most of what’s being pitched as “off-market” in Melbourne right now? It’s not off-market at all. It’s simply unlisted.
This article will break down what off market vs unlisted really means — and why it matters more than ever to know the difference.
What Off-Market Used to Mean
Back when Lisa Parker started buying property over 20 years ago, off-market meant something completely different.
An agent would pick up the phone and call a handful of trusted buyers. No listing. No signboard. No social media.
It was about discretion. The vendor didn’t want their property publicly marketed. These sales were relationship-driven and highly exclusive. And if you had access to one, you had a genuine edge.
That kind of off-market still exists. But it’s now rare.
Off Market vs Unlisted: Know the Difference
Today, many properties are branded “off-market” when they’re simply unlisted.
Off-Market: A truly private sale. No advertising. Minimal exposure. A quiet deal between vendor, agent, and selected buyers.
Unlisted: Not on realestate.com.au but still widely marketed. Agents send them to email lists, share them in Facebook groups, and promote them via buyer databases.
If you’re getting a mass email, it’s not exclusive. Your advantage as a buyer is completely removed.
According to Home Loan Experts, “Some off-market properties are still promoted on agent websites, or shared with selected buyers through newsletters or private viewings. So, they’re technically ‘off-market’ but still widely seen.”
This blurred line is exactly why buyers need to understand the difference.
Why Most Off-Markets Are No Longer a Bargain
Many vendors will only sell off-market if they can get above-market results. So instead of being a discount opportunity, the price is inflated or the property comes with compromises.
Inside our own business, we’ve seen multiple “off-market” deals offered at unrealistic price points, only to quietly disappear when they didn’t sell.
Not all off-markets are good value. And not all are good properties.
The Sales Tactic Behind the “Off-Market” Pitch
New buyer’s advocates often over-emphasise off-market access. Why? Because they’re still building relationships and lack negotiation experience.
But access isn’t strategy.
An advocate should protect you from emotional decisions, overpriced stock, and flawed properties. If they’re leading with “access” alone, be cautious.
These deals can benefit one party: the vendor. And sometimes, the rookie advocate.
The Real Reason to Hire a Buyer’s Advocate
Parker Buyer Advocates has:
- Bought over 1000 properties across 3 market cycles
- Trained dozens of future buyer’s advocates
- Protected clients from making six-figure mistakes
Our value is in what we help you say no to. It’s experience, negotiation skill, due diligence, and long-term thinking.
When NOT to Hire Parker Buyer Advocates
If all you care about is off market properties, you might walk away disappointed.
Not because we can’t deliver them but because you’re missing the real point.
Access without discernment is a risky game.
When You SHOULD Hire Parker Buyer Advocates
You’re ready to make a smart, informed decision.
You value strategy over shortcuts. You want guidance based on real experience, not sales scripts.
You want someone who works for you, not the sale. Someone who will prioritise your future.
Don’t Hire for Hype
Let’s be clear:
Off-market ≠ better. Off-market ≠ exclusive. Off-market ≠ the reason to hire.
If you’re looking for a trusted advocate who brings calm, clarity, and real expertise to your buying journey then reach out now.
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