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Is there a way to know if someone is about to list for sale?

There is a home in my neighborhood that has been doing a lot of work. I know it is a single, older man who lives there and I'm guessing that he is planning to sell soon. Our neighborhood is very desirable and I know it will go fast so I want to see if I can get it before he lists it. Aside from approaching him, is there a way to see and let him know that someone is interested?
Asked By Alexa L | San Diego, CA | 23 views | Buying | Updated 7 hours ago
Answers (11)
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Rising Star
11 Answers
Timothy Riordan

Keller Williams Realty WNY

(36)

Drop off a handwritten and sincere letter to his mailbox. Keep it low-pressure. Mention you live in the neighborhood, love the work he’s doing, and would love the chance to make an offer before he has to deal with the stress of open houses and showings.
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Novice
9 Answers
Katie K Portenga

Portenga Properties at Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

(71)

I would write a handwritten note and drop it off in person and door Knox to ask if they are going to list it! If they do not answer, leave the note! Maybe say how lovely the home looks as well!

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Novice
8 Answers
Phong Tran

Real Broker

(4)

Outside of approaching him directly there is no guaranteed way to signal interest before it hits the market but you can have your agent reach out send a simple letter or check public records to see if there is any contact info. You can also ask your agent to keep an eye on any pre market activity through the MLS but in most cases a respectful direct approach or agent outreach is your best shot.
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Novice
8 Answers
Tracy Perusse

Coldwell Banker Realty

(9)

Hi Alexa, I know that most people are more open and willing to respond to their neighbor's interest than if let's say an agent or investor was approaching them. Write a note and drop at the door is probably the easiest way to direct communication. Good luck!
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Novice
7 Answers
Kristine Livadas

Compass

(30)

Definitely a hand written note sent to a specific home may work. Another option is to work with a local broker in that town with ties to the community. I live in a small town where word travels fast, and as an agent, sometimes I get a heads up early. Or a buyer may ask me to approach the seller which I am happy to do on their behalf. Good luck!
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Novice
4 Answers
Jillian Hogan

Corcoran McEnearney

(21)

I would highly recommend writing a note, if knocking on the door is not within your comfort zone. Some signs of selling are a "junk" box our front where they are beginning to clear out the home OR an increase in contractors visiting the property all around the same time. We have had great success with hand written notes. Key word there, note(s). I wouldn't stop with sending only one and them truly knowing your genuine interest.
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Novice
4 Answers
KARINA FURLIN

Keller Williams Realty

(21)

The best way is asking the workers. They usually know something. You want to find the owner before reaches the market
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Novice
2 Answers
Monica Shantz

Keller Williams

(5)

There’s no official way to “see” a home before it’s listed, but proactive buyers often get the first opportunity — and sometimes avoid competition altogether.

If you feel comfortable, knocking at the door can be very effective. Many homeowners appreciate knowing there’s a serious buyer before they go through the process of listing.

If that’s not something you’re comfortable doing, working with a local agent is the next best step. A well-connected agent can:
• Check if the home is already being quietly marketed (“off-market” or “pocket listing”)
• Reach out to the owner on your behalf in a professional, non-intrusive way
• Position you as a strong, ready buyer
In many cases, the right approach at the right time can open the door before the property ever hits the market.
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Novice
2 Answers
Monica Shantz

Keller Williams

(5)

Hi Alexa, as its already been said, no official way to “see” a home before it’s listed, but proactive buyers often get the first opportunity — and sometimes avoid competition altogether.
If you feel comfortable, knocking at the door can be very effective. Many homeowners appreciate knowing there’s a serious buyer before they go through the process of listing.

If that’s not something you’re comfortable doing, working with a local agent is the next best step. A well-connected agent can:
• Check if the home is already being quietly marketed (“off-market” or “pocket listing”)
• Reach out to the owner on your behalf in a professional, non-intrusive way
• Position you as a strong, ready buyer
In many cases, the right approach at the right time can open the door before the property ever hits the market.
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Novice
2 Answers
Tory Atkins

Herron Real Estate

(9)

You could write a letter but talking to him is probably your best bet.
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Novice
1 Answer
Mayra Garcia

Home Expansion Inc At EXP Realty

You can approach him directly but there’s no guaranteed way to signal interest before the home hits the market. However, you can have your agent reach out on your behalf, send a simple and respectful letter, or look into public records for possible contact information.

You can also ask your agent to watch for any pre-market activity through the MLS. In most cases, though, a polite direct approach or agent outreach will give you the best chance of getting ahead of other buyers. Also remember to be prepared, If the home does come up for sale, having your pre-approval ready puts you in a strong position to move quickly.

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