txaggie_08 said:
Some sellers don't want a ton of showings, and it can be beneficial to a buyer keeping the listing off MLS. Appraisal district watches the MLS for list pricing on their tax evals, keeping it off of there could benefit a buyer and tax liability.
Our example: our realtor knew of a home coming on the market soon, but got us in early. We put in an offer under the price they wanted to list at hoping they'd just take it instead of going to market and deal with additional showings. They decided they wanted to give it one weekend on the market before accepting our offer. During that weekend they had some showings and one additional offer at full asking price. They ended up choosing to go with that buyer, but then that buyer backed out during option period and we ended up getting the house with a backup offer. Just passed our option period and closing on 12/15. We should have made a batter offer out of the gate, but it all worked out.
if you want to get the best possible price...there's no logical argument that less visibility is a good thing.
The seller doesn't/shouldn't care about that property tax implications of listing on the MLS.
This ended up being a good thing for you...so I wouldn't sweat it, but 2011 is correct that pocket listings benefit the listing agent and not the seller.