A more private way to find your next home.

They all describe homes that aren't widely advertised across the property portals and brokerage websites. Private listings and off-market properties are usually shared with a smaller group of buyers through an agent's network. An off-market listing works in much the same way, with the property marketed more discretely rather than publicly.

Start by telling an agent exactly what you're looking for, including your preferred area, budget, property type and priorities. A clear brief makes it easier to identify relevant off-market properties already within their network, including homes you may not see in a standard search.

Private listings can include villas, penthouses, apartments and townhouses. They're often used for homes where the owner wants more discretion, or where the property is distinctive enough to suit a more focused group of buyers.

Yes. If the seller is open to viewings, your agent can arrange one directly. Because an off-market listing is shared with fewer buyers, viewings are often managed more personally than they would be for a widely marketed home.

In many cases, yes. Buying off-market doesn't change the usual mortgage requirements around eligibility, valuation and lender approval. Having your finances in place early can make things much easier when you find a home you want.

Look at the same things you would with any property: location, condition, specification, recent comparable sales and long-term appeal. With more distinctive homes, there may be fewer direct comparisons, so good local market knowledge becomes even more useful.

Not necessarily. Off-market real estate doesn't automatically mean a lower price or more room to negotiate. The advantage is often a more direct conversation around the property, timing and terms, rather than an assumed discount.

No. They work best alongside it. Public listings give you a broad view of what's on the market, while private listings can give you access to homes you may not otherwise come across.

The process is much the same as buying a publicly listed home. You share your requirements, review suitable properties, arrange viewings and agree terms before moving through the usual checks and transfer process. The main difference is how the property is introduced to you in the first place.

Once a property is advertised widely, the details can quickly reach a large number of agents. Sellers who want more discretion may prefer to work with a smaller number of trusted brokers or keep the property within a more controlled network. And if the aim is to sell property fast, more broker calls don't necessarily mean a quicker sale.

Make sure the ownership and succession process has been completed and that the seller has the authority to transfer the property. You should also check the title deed, any outstanding liabilities and the documents needed before you commit.

There's no fixed number that works for everyone. More brokers can mean more exposure, but fewer brokers can make the sale easier to manage and keep the property positioned consistently. For an urgent property sale, clear pricing, good communication and reaching the right buyers can matter more than simply appointing as many brokers as possible.

An off-market property is shared selectively rather than widely advertised. An exclusive listing is handled by one appointed brokerage, while a public listing is marketed more broadly. Each gives the seller a different balance of exposure, control and discretion, so the right route depends on the property and what the seller wants to achieve.