Key facts
- Ben Mutz purchased a home not listed for sale in Oakwood, Ohio.
- He used the Unlisted app to connect with the homeowners.
- A personal relationship was built over six months of texting.
- The sale price was $800,000, with an appraisal of $960,000.
- The transaction bypassed traditional real estate agents.
Ben Mutz, a 39-year-old retired Air Force officer, successfully purchased a six-bedroom home in Oakwood, Ohio, that was not initially on the market. He utilized the app Unlisted, which allows prospective buyers to express interest in homes not yet listed for sale. Mutz, who has moved frequently for his military career, was looking for a larger home to accommodate his blended family of five children.
Mutz discovered his dream home through Unlisted and favorited it. A few months later, he learned from a neighbor that the owners of his desired property were considering a move. He re-engaged with them through Unlisted, and over a period of approximately six months, developed a strong personal connection with the sellers via text messages, discussing topics beyond real estate.
This interpersonal relationship was key to securing the deal. Despite his father's skepticism about proceeding without a formal contract, the sellers considered Mutz like family and assured him they would proceed. The agreed-upon price was $800,000, significantly below the home's appraised value of $960,000. The flexible closing date was set around the sellers' retirement plans in June, with Mutz closing in July 2026. Mutz highlighted that this method allowed for a direct connection with the sellers, bypassing traditional real estate agents and fostering a unique buyer-seller dynamic.