Comparing off-market and on-market sales strategies for Los Angeles apartment buildings.
What Is an "Off-Market" Sale?
An off-market sale is when your building is never widely advertised. Instead, your broker quietly presents it to a curated list of qualified buyers:
- Existing clients
- Known 1031 exchange buyers
- Local investors who own similar buildings
This approach is often appealing to owners who value privacy and minimal tenant disruption.
Pros of Off-Market Sales
- Discretion: Tenants and neighbors may not know the property is being sold
- Less disruption: Fewer tours and open houses
- Speed: Serious buyers only, often with proof of funds or lender relationships
However, you may trade some privacy for a smaller pool of competing offers.
Pros of Fully On-Market Sales
An on-market sale typically means:
- Professional photography and marketing
- Online exposure and email campaigns
- Brokers presenting the deal to a broad investor pool
The advantage is maximum exposure—which can create competition and result in better pricing or terms when handled correctly.
Which Strategy Is Right for You?
The choice depends on:
- Your sensitivity to tenants and privacy
- The complexity of the property (legal, physical, financial)
- How important it is to optimize price vs. minimize disruption
Sometimes a hybrid approach works: a quiet pre-market period targeting known buyers, followed by a broader launch if an acceptable offer doesn't emerge.
How a Local Specialist Can Help
A broker who focuses on Los Angeles apartments can recommend the right approach based on current buyer activity in your submarket and price range—whether that's West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, or another LA neighborhood.
Contact me to discuss which approach makes sense for your property.
Quick FAQs
Q: Will tenants find out if I sell off-market?
A: It's harder—but not impossible—for tenants to notice. Any tours, inspections, or appraisals can still draw attention.
Q: Do off-market deals always sell for less?
A: Not always. For certain highly desired properties, a small group of motivated buyers may still bid aggressively.