Are Off-Market Deals Still Worth It in 2026?

Question

Off-market used to be the edge.

Now:

• More competition
• Tighter margins
• Sellers more informed

Still works—but takes more volume and speed.

Still focusing off-market?

Denise Supplee · Answer

Hi Frankie! Off market still works, but it’s no longer just about finding a seller before everyone else. You need better follow up, and a clear reason the seller should choose you. High rates are also pushing more investors to look out of state, which is squeezing inventory in markets that used to feel less competitive. That’s one reason I co-invest all over the country now. I’m not tied to one market, so I can follow stronger opportunities.

Dominic Mazzarella · Answer

Off-market still works, but I don’t think it’s a volume/speed problem as much as a timing problem.

The vast majority of people are pulling from the same “off-market” lists now, so it ends up feeling just like on-market with extra steps. You’re still competing, just a little earlier.

Where I’ve seen it actually work is getting in front of stuff before it turns into a list at all. That’s where margins still exist. Otherwise you’re just fighting over the same deals everyone else already knows about.

Carson Nordmann · Answer

Volume and speed is one read. The other is narrowing the trigger so the list is smaller and the seller has a reason to talk. 50 contacts on probate or pre-foreclosure beats 5000 generic absentee mailers in most markets i've seen.

Are Off-Market Deals Still Worth It in 2026?

Are Off-Market Deals Still Worth It in 2026?

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