New Study Reveals Private Listings Fetch Lower Prices Than MLS Properties

A new white paper examining real estate transactions has found that properties listed privately often realize lower sale prices compared to those marketed through Multiple Listing Services (MLS). This study draws on an extensive dataset comprising 10 million property sales occurring between January 2024 and June 2026, analyzing the outcomes in relation to estimated values from Zillow's automated valuation model (AVM). The report challenges the popular belief that private listings can sometimes outperform MLS listings, suggesting instead that the visibility and marketing support provided by MLS platforms significantly enhance property sale prices. The analysis also highlights the difference in pricing strategy and market reach between private sales and those listed on these widely recognized platforms. In recent years, some sellers have turned to private listings as a way to avoid commissions and fees associated with traditional MLS marketing. However, the findings suggest that while these listings may save on immediate costs, they could compromise the overall sale price, ultimately resulting in less favorable financial outcomes for sellers. The study underscores the importance of understanding the value of professional marketing and broad exposure when selling real estate. According to the research, listings on MLS not only benefit from greater visibility but also often leverage competitive bidding among potential buyers, driving up prices higher than those achieved through less visible private sales. As the real estate market continues to evolve, this report serves as a crucial reminder for sellers weighing their options to consider long-term financial implications rather than just upfront savings. The implications of these findings may lead some homeowners to reconsider their strategies for selling and potentially influence the dynamics of the housing market moving forward. The insights from this study could inform real estate agents as they advise clients on listing options, leading to more informed decision-making regarding home sales in a competitive climate. In conclusion, while private listings may offer certain benefits, the data suggests that they ultimately sell for less compared to MLS listings, highlighting the effective role that these services play in the real estate landscape.