How to Find Below-Market Property Deals Without Going Through a Realtor

Finding a below-market property deal is like discovering a hidden gem — but it requires knowledge, patience, and strategy. While many buyers rely on agents, there are effective ways to uncover great deals without going through a realtor. Whether you're an aspiring investor or first-time buyer looking for value, this guide shows how to take control of your property search and land a deal others might miss.

1. Monitor Public Auction Listings

In Singapore, some properties are sold through public or mortgagee sales, often at prices below market value. These properties may be bank repossessions or distressed assets, offering buyers a chance to negotiate a better price.

Where to look:

Auction houses such as Colliers, Knight Frank, or Edmund Tie regularly publish upcoming listings
Mortgagee sale sections in property portals
Legal notices in newspapers or auction bulletins

These auctions often require fast decisions, so be financially prepared with pre-approved financing if you spot an opportunity.

2. Look for Direct Owner Listings Online

Many owners prefer to sell directly to buyers, avoiding agent commissions. While this limits exposure, it also opens up opportunities to negotiate a better price.

Where to find them:

“For Sale by Owner” sections on property websites
Forums and Facebook groups related to home ownership
Classified ad platforms and community boards

Always verify property details carefully and conduct your own checks on valuation and title before proceeding.

3. Drive Around Targeted Neighborhoods

This traditional method still works, especially in landed or mature estates. Look out for:

“For Sale” signs with owner contact numbers
Properties that look vacant or poorly maintained
Units that have been sitting on the market for a while

You can also drop letters in mailboxes expressing your interest in buying. It might catch the attention of owners who haven’t yet listed their property but are considering selling.

4. Contact Property Owners Through HDB or URA Records

For resale HDB flats, you can use HDB’s resale portal to check transaction histories and unit availability. While you can't directly contact owners through HDB, many resale listings include owner contacts if no agent is involved.

For private properties, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) offers a monthly transaction database. Identifying owners in specific developments or buildings can help you reach out if you’re seriously targeting a certain area or block.

5. Watch Out for Price Drops and Stale Listings

Sometimes, a deal doesn’t begin as one — it becomes one over time. Properties that stay on the market for too long or face several price drops often indicate motivated sellers.

What to look for:

Listings with “price reduced” tags
Properties relisted multiple times or at a lower price
Sellers who are relocating or urgently need to liquidate

These scenarios create room for you to negotiate well below the asking price.

6. Network with Investors and Wholesalers

Join property investment communities or online forums where experienced investors and wholesalers share off-market deals. These might include:

Pre-renovation units
Distressed assets
Divorce or probate sales

Networking allows you to access early-stage information on properties not yet listed publicly. You may even partner with someone who finds deals but doesn’t want to hold the property long-term.

7. Use Tools to Estimate Market Value Before Making an Offer

To know whether a deal is truly below market, compare recent transaction data of similar properties in the area. Use:

URA’s private residential transaction database
HDB’s resale flat prices by block and flat type
Bank valuation reports, if accessible

Once you know the average selling price, you can confidently identify listings that are underpriced — and act fast.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a realtor to find great property deals — but you do need time, research skills, and the willingness to go the extra mile. From auctions and direct listings to networking and old-fashioned footwork, there are many ways to source below-market properties independently.

Remember, the best deals don’t always scream “discount.” They often lie quietly where others aren’t looking. With discipline and the right strategy, your next great investment might be just around the corner — no middleman needed.