Is off-market selling a smart strategy for my Gold Coast property? What are the pros and cons?
When you’re ready to sell your home on the Gold Coast, one of the first decisions you’ll face is how to sell. Most sellers go the traditional route, listing publicly on portals like realestate.com.au, but off-market selling is gaining traction.
So, what exactly is off-market selling? And more importantly, is it a smart move for your Gold Coast property? Let’s break it down.
What Is Off-Market Selling?
Off-market selling refers to offering your property to potential buyers without publicly advertising it. There’s no signboard out front, no online listing, and no open homes.
Instead, your property is promoted discreetly through:
- A real estate agent’s buyer database
- Direct outreach to qualified, pre-screened buyers
- Private networks or word-of-mouth referrals
Pros of Selling Off-Market on the Gold Coast
1. Privacy and Discretion – If you’re a public figure, going through a divorce, dealing with tenants, or simply value discretion, off-market selling avoids public scrutiny.
2. Less Stress and Preparation – You may avoid the full-on styling, professional photography, or repeated open inspections that come with on-market campaigns.
3. Targeted Buyers Only – Your agent connects with genuine, pre-qualified buyers—those ready to purchase quickly and with minimal fuss.
4. Faster Sales – Without needing to launch a 4-6 week marketing campaign, some properties sell within days or weeks, especially in high-demand areas like Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach Waters, or Mermaid Beach.
5. Lower Marketing Costs – Skip online advertising and media spend. This can save you thousands of dollars—money you keep in your pocket.
Cons of Selling Off-Market
1. Smaller Buyer Pool – You limit exposure by not tapping into the full power of online portals, social media, and real estate apps. This may reduce competition.
2. Lower Chance of Bidding Wars – With fewer buyers aware your property is available, you’re less likely to generate multiple offers or a premium result via competition.
3. Risk of Underselling – Without full market exposure, it’s harder to know if you’re getting the best price. Some sellers accept the first firm offer, but could’ve received more with a broader campaign.
4. Buyer Perception – Some off-market buyers view private sales as “under the radar” deals and may try to negotiate harder, thinking you’re looking for a quick exit.
When Does Off-Market Selling Work Well on the Gold Coast?
It can be a smart strategy when:
- You’re testing the market before committing to a full campaign
- You’ve had a property listed previously and want a fresh approach
- Your home is prestige, unique, or architecturally designed, and likely to attract interest from high-net-worth individuals
- You’re downsizing, relocating quickly, or have a tight timeline
- Your property is tenanted, and you want to limit disruption
Should You Sell Off-Market or Go Public?
Ask yourself:
- Do I need maximum price, or is speed and convenience more important?
- Am I okay with fewer enquiries if the buyer is ready to act fast?
- Am I in a hot market where agents already have buyers waiting?
- Do I trust my agent’s network and negotiation skills?
If your goal is maximum exposure and top dollar, traditional on-market selling may be the better option. However, if you prefer a low-key, discreet sale, an off-market option could be ideal.
Hybrid Strategy: Start Off-Market, Go On-Market If Needed
Many savvy sellers test the waters off-market first. If there’s no success in 2–3 weeks, they switch to a full marketing campaign.
This lets you:
- Keep your options open
- Avoid “listing fatigue” (a stale-looking listing online)
- Preserve your home’s appeal for the right moment
Off-market selling isn’t for everyone, but when used strategically, it can save you time, money, and stress. The key is choosing the right agent who has:
- A solid buyer network
- Skilled private negotiation experience
- A track record of matching properties with serious buyers
On the Gold Coast, where lifestyle properties often have high emotional value, a well-managed off-market strategy can deliver a smooth, quiet, and profitable result.
Want to Explore Off-Market Options for Your Gold Coast Property? Let’s chat about whether off-market selling suits your situation and how to position your property for success.
FAQs – Off-Market Selling Gold Coast
1. Will I get a lower price if I sell off-market?
Not necessarily. If your agent has strong buyer connections and negotiation skills, you can still achieve a solid result, but with less competition, the top price isn’t always guaranteed.
2. Can I still style and prepare my home for off-market buyers?
Yes. In fact, well-presented homes still stand out, so basic prep and presentation are recommended even off-market.
3. What types of buyers respond to off-market sales?
Serious, finance-ready buyers who are tired of competing in public listings and want direct access to new opportunities.
4. Is off-market selling more common for luxury homes?
Yes. Prestige and waterfront properties often sell off-market due to privacy concerns and targeted niche buyers.
5. Can I change my mind and go on the market later?
Absolutely. Starting off-market doesn’t lock you in—it simply gives you more flexibility and insight before launching a full campaign.
Private. Strategic. Efficient.
Discover whether off-market selling suits your Gold Coast property sale goals.
More Smart Seller Questions Answered
Thinking About Staging Your Home on the Gold Coast? Here’s Why It Pays Off
Wondering whether home staging is worth it when selling your property on the Gold Coast? The short answer: absolutely. Staging isn’t just about making a home look pretty—it’s about creating a powerful first impression that gets buyers emotionally invested from the moment they walk through the door.
A well-staged home can appear brighter, more spacious, and more inviting. It helps buyers picture their future in the space, not your past. It also plays a crucial role in depersonalising the home and appealing to a wider range of potential buyers.
In a competitive Gold Coast market, home staging can mean the difference between sitting on the market and being sold.
THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY TO A SUCCESSFUL GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE STARTS
My simplified guide below will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast;
I proudly sell homes across the entire coast.
1. PREPARING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY FOR SALE + SOME OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tidying gardens and decluttering everything inside and out.
- All homes for sale, are legally required to have hardwired photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms.
Non-removable 10-year battery smoke alarms can be installed as an alternative.
- By law, you are required to complete a pre-contractual seller’s disclosure statement: generally related to limitations, restraints, or defects in the property title, such as easements, covenants, leasing, zoning, etc.
- A pool safety certificate is also required if you have a swimming pool or if the property has a shared swimming pool (Body Corporate).
2. COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
After showing me around your property, I will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. This is a detailed, legally required analysis of your home’s market value.
The CMA is based on recently sold and for-sale properties similar to yours in the immediate area. I will need to view your home to prepare this report.
3. SETTING A MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST HOME
The third step in selling your home is to create a marketing budget.
By law, this must be based on actual costs.
There are various marketing options to consider, such as:
– Internal, External and Drone Photography.
– Property and House Plans show potential buyers the exact layout of your home and property.
– Internet Advertising on platforms such as RealEstate.com.au, Domain.com.au, Facebook.com, Instagram.com, etc.
– For Sale Sign on the street is still essential to attracting potential buyers. Even though many buyers start their search online, they often drive around neighbourhoods to see what’s available.
A simple fact: Not having a For Sale sign can significantly reduce the number of people who see your property and may be interested in buying it.
4. PREPARING AND APPROVING THE FORM 6 AGREEMENT WHEN SELLING A GOLD COAST PROPERTY
A Form 6 Agreement is a document provided by the Queensland State Government. It outlines all relevant details of the property sale, including the marketing budget.
Our administration team will prepare this form for you and send it for your review and approval.
5. PAYING THE MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
Once you have approved the Form 6 Agreement, the next step is to pay for the marketing budget that you have chosen.
6. STARTING THE ADVERTISING PROCESS
Once your payment is received, the advertising campaign will commence.
Advertising strategies will align with the choices you made within your marketing budget.
7. MONITORING MARKET RESPONSE
If your property hasn’t received offers within 30 days, don’t assume there’s no interest.
It often means the price isn’t aligned with what buyers are willing to pay at this time.
This is your signal to review and adjust your pricing strategy so your home remains competitive and receives the attention it deserves.
8. ARRANGING BUYER VIEWINGS
When buyers express interest in your property, viewings will be arranged to allow them to see your home in person; you need to be away from the property during these viewings.
This helps potential buyers feel relaxed and visualise themselves as the new owners, thereby forming a deeper connection with your property.
9. CONSIDERING A BUYER’S OFFER
When you receive an offer on your home, it means a buyer is serious and ready to move forward at a certain price.
This is a key moment in your selling journey. Take the time to go over the offer carefully.
Look beyond the price; check the terms, conditions, and settlement timeframes. Make sure it works for you before accepting, countering, or declining.
10. ACCEPT, COUNTER, REJECT
When an offer is presented, you will need to respond by accepting, countering, or rejecting it.
Accepting locks in the agreed-upon price and terms.
Countering proposes changes and initiates further negotiations. If countering, present revised terms clearly; open, respectful communication is key for a smooth sale.
Rejecting means the offer is unacceptable; in this case, respond promptly and professionally, explaining your reasoning for the decision.
11. YOUR LEGALITIES
When you finally accept an offer, you will engage your conveyancer or solicitor to facilitate the legal requirements to complete the sale.
If you are part of a Body Corporate, you will need to provide a Disclosure Statement from them.
Your solicitor will use PEXA to settle your property. Part of the process requires Verification of Identity. Also, anyone selling a property must complete an ATO Clearance Certificate.
12. BUYER’S DEPOSIT
The buyer’s deposit is a crucial step in the property purchase process; it will be held in the agency’s Trust account.
This is a tangible expression of the buyer’s commitment to purchase your property.
13. BUILDING AND PEST INSPECTIONS
Typically, a buyer will arrange for a building and pest inspection report to be completed, usually within 14 days of the contract date.
Additionally, they may have the contract subject to finance, which is generally applicable for 21 days from the contract date.
14. COMPLETING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE
Based on the outcome of the building and pest inspection report, as well as any finance being sought, the buyer will proceed with their offer or withdraw it.
At this point, the sale either falls through or becomes unconditional.
15. LOOKING FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY
If the sale becomes unconditional, it is time to start looking for a new property. Remember, there is no need to rush.
It is essential that you take your time, as this needs to be a very considered purchase.
Your new home is of substantial value and can be costly if you change your mind. Something you may want to investigate is Short-Term Bridging Loans.
16. ALTERNATIVES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER
An alternative to seriously consider when deciding where to live between selling and buying is renting while you look for a new property.
Renting for a short period gives you breathing room; it allows you time to clear your head, make a confident, considered decision, and ultimately buy where you truly want to live, with no pressure or panic.
17. TIME FOR YOU TO MOVE
Leaving your home opens doors to a new chapter full of new beginnings. Embrace the excitement of a fresh start and cherish the memories you’ve made.
Every box you pack brings you one step closer to a new adventure full of possibilities that lie ahead.
18. YOUR SALE CONCLUDES
The culmination of the property sale is settlement; it marks the transfer of the property to the new buyer.
As the final chapter concludes, this marks a sense of achievement: your property has now SOLD.
19. YOUR FUTURE OPTIONS
If you have chosen to rent, you will continue to look for and eventually purchase a property, apartment, or perhaps even buy land and build; now there’s something to consider.
20. TIME TO UNWIND AND MAKE YOUR NEW HOME YOUR OWN
As you unpack and furnish your new home, embrace the gradual process of creating your haven.
Enjoy the transformation, one room at a time.
Relax in the tranquillity of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of your new neighbourhood.
Explore the nearby parks and cafes; enjoy the unique charm of your new community.
Remember, settling in is a journey in itself; it’s not a race. Embrace the process of creating a home that reflects your unique style and personality.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or just ready to move on, I’ll guide you through every step of selling your Gold Coast home with confidence and ease.
Navigating the intricacies of selling your property can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; as you would naturally expect, your steps may vary.
Author – Craig Douglas
Are you ready for a conversation about selling your Gold Coast home?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD
Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
You can find me working at a Boutique Real Estate Agency
These are just some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Coomera
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
