A lot of buyers think if a home’s not on Zillow or the MLS, it doesn’t exist. The truth is… some of the best homes in Santa Barbara never hit the market at all. That’s where I come in!
Big Network, Big Advantage
As a local Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, I’m lucky to be part of the top brokerage in Santa Barbara—with over 200 agents and a strong internal network. We have access to a private online platform where agents share off-market listings before they’re public. Some sit quietly for days, weeks, even months before ever hitting Zillow. These range from $1M to $20M and cover every pocket of town.
Relationships Matter
When a client is looking in a specific area, I take it a step further. I check which agents have recently sold homes in that neighborhood and reach out directly. They’re often the first to know what’s coming, or who might be open to selling quietly. It’s not just about watching the MLS- it’s about making those calls and being proactive.
The Power of a Letter
If a buyer is focused on one neighborhood, I’m a big believer in the power of a handwritten letter. Last year, I had a client looking in Hope Ranch, and we sent targeted letters to homeowners with properties that fit their needs. It worked! We made great connections and had real traction from it. (And I let my trusty 1.5 year old partner, Nash Duddy help write a few... of course!)
Being part of Berkshire Hathaway gives me a major advantage- but it’s the hustle layered on top that really makes a difference. Letters, calls, persistence, and creative thinking is what it takes! :)
Talk soon! ~Mckenzie
