Alternative to Pocket Listings: “Chaperoned” Showings
Apparently, the way some agents persuade their selling clients to forego wide exposure on MLS and instead let them quietly market the home — presumably to their own Buyers — is by telling them that that’s the best way to cut down on curiosity seekers and other needless intrusion.
No, it’s not.
The best way to screen out unqualified Buyers is for the listing agent to carefully vet Buyers beforehand — and, if need be, “chaperone” showings.
That’s especially appropriate for upper bracket properties and/or homes with an especially high profile (like the home of a celebrity).
High “Curiousity Quotient”
Buyers (and Buyers’ agents) don’t necessarily like that, but Sellers are certainly entitled to set those ground rules.
If the home is unique and desirable enough, Buyers will go along.
Meanwhile, so-called “pocket listings” serve exactly one person’s interests: the listing agent’s.
P.S.: The other reason to accompany showings is to familiarize Buyers with all the home’s features and amenities, which their own agent could easily miss.
See also, “Pocket Listings: Good for Agents, Bad for Clients“; and “Dual Agent vs. Double Agent.”
