What’s the Best Way to Find Off-Market Properties in Austin?

by JW Roeder

In a competitive real estate market like Austin, finding a great deal can be challenging—especially when properties get multiple offers as soon as they hit the MLS. That’s why many buyers and investors look for off-market properties (also known as pocket listings, private sales, or wholesale deals).

Off-market properties aren’t publicly listed, which means less competition, more negotiation power, and the potential for better deals. But how do you find them? Here’s a guide to uncovering off-market properties in Austin and how you can secure one.

1. Work with a Real Estate Agent Who Has Off-Market Access

The best way to find off-market deals is by working with an agent who has connections and insider knowledge of upcoming listings.

✅ Why It Works:

Many sellers test the waters with an agent before listing publicly.
Some properties are sold quietly due to privacy reasons (high-profile clients, landlords wanting a discreet sale, etc.).
Agents network with other agents who share off-market opportunities.

📌 Pro Tip: Ask your agent if they have access to “Coming Soon” listings, whisper listings, or agent-exclusive pocket listings in Austin.

2. Tap into Investor & Wholesaler Networks

Austin has a strong real estate investment community, and many investors get access to off-market deals before they hit the public market.

🔎 How to Connect with Investors & Wholesalers:

Join local real estate investment groups (check out Meetup, Facebook Groups, and BiggerPockets).
Attend real estate networking events like those hosted by REIA (Real Estate Investors Association).
Work with a wholesaler—they specialize in finding distressed properties and assigning contracts to buyers.

📌 Pro Tip: Investors often have off-market deals they’re looking to assign, especially fixer-uppers or undervalued properties.

3. Direct Mail & Cold Outreach to Homeowners

Some of the best off-market deals come from reaching out to homeowners directly—especially those who may be considering selling but haven’t listed their home yet.

✉️ How to Do It:

Send personalized letters or postcards to homeowners in neighborhoods you like.
Look for vacant homes, absentee owners, or properties with long-time owners who may be ready to sell.
Use skip tracing tools (like PropStream or BatchLeads) to find owner contact info.
Knock on doors and introduce yourself in a friendly way—sometimes, a simple conversation opens doors.

📌 Pro Tip: A well-crafted letter with a personal touch (instead of a generic “We Buy Houses” note) gets a better response.

4. Search Public Records for Potential Sellers

Public records can be a goldmine for off-market opportunities, especially if you know where to look.

📑 Key Public Records to Check:

Pre-Foreclosures & Tax Delinquencies – Owners behind on payments may need to sell fast.
Probate Sales – Homes inherited by heirs who may not want to keep them.
Expired & Withdrawn Listings – Homes that didn’t sell on the MLS but may still be available.

📌 Pro Tip: Many of these records are free at the Travis County Clerk’s Office, but some tools like PropStream or ListSource make it easier to compile data.

5. Network with Builders & Developers

New construction and development projects can also be a great source of off-market homes, especially if a builder has inventory they haven’t publicly listed yet.

🏗️ How to Find Off-Market New Construction:

Contact builders directly – Ask about homes not yet listed or buyer cancellations.
Check for early-phase developments – Many homes sell before they even hit the market.
Look for small-scale developers who may have 1-2 spec homes available.

📌 Pro Tip: Some builders offer incentives on off-market homes (like discounts or upgrades) to close quickly without marketing costs.

6. Word of Mouth & Personal Connections

Sometimes, the best deals come from simply letting people know you’re looking.

💬 Ways to Leverage Your Network:

Tell friends, family, and coworkers you’re in the market.
Post on social media that you’re looking for a home or investment property.
Ask around in local community groups or Nextdoor.

📌 Pro Tip: Some sellers would rather sell directly to someone they trust without dealing with showings, commissions, or MLS exposure.

Final Thoughts: Are Off-Market Properties Worth It?

Finding an off-market property in Austin takes effort, networking, and persistence—but the potential benefits are huge.

✅ Less competition = better pricing & negotiation power
✅ More flexibility = direct-to-seller deals often allow creative financing
✅ Hidden opportunities = access to homes before the general public

If you’re serious about finding an off-market property, using multiple strategies—agent connections, networking, direct outreach, and public records—will give you the best shot at securing a great deal.

👉 Want more insights on Austin’s real estate market? Follow along for expert strategies, market trends, and exclusive opportunities!