What’s Up With So-Called Pocket Listings on Maui?

We’re all familiar with the term pocket listing, referring to a property that’s potentially for sale but not being advertised to the general public. In times when real estate offerings are in short supply many buyers seek to have access to more than just what’s on the table.

There’s a myth that every agent has a handful of pocket listings tucked away ready to be pulled out when the right buyer comes along.

Does it really happen? In reality, licensed agents are prohibited from advertising any property for sale without express permission from the owner, which means we must have a written agreement authorizing such activity.

Ho’olawa Point shoreline – Maui Hawaii

Believe it or not, some sellers don’t want a sign in the yard, glossy advertising and open houses every weekend. It’s usually the higher-end luxury homes that fit into this category. For whatever reason, we’re happy to oblige their desires if they understand how it works. Here on Maui we have two options for permitting listings to be advertised and remain out of the public eye. A seller can choose which method best suits their needs of being discreet about selling their Maui home.

• MLS Exempt: This is an office exclusive listing. It can only be advertised within the company or brokerage, and not to the general public, or to other real estate brokerages.
• MLS Participants Only: This is for brokers and agents only. It will not be advertised to any public website.

So if you’re a buyer looking for a luxury pocket listing on Maui, just ask your agent to check the MLS for either their brokerage in-house listings or the participants only listings. You might get lucky. Of course the bigger brokerages will stand a better chance of turning up results, so it’s a good idea to start there. Feel free to reach out to me and see what’s available with Hawaii Life because I just might know where to find that special Maui property you’re seeking.

Thanks for reading my blog — let me know if I can help you in any way with your Maui property purchase or sale.