MLS vs Off-Market?

[Sparkle Carlock]

What are some of the pros and cons for finding property on MLS versus finding property off-market? I am a new investor and sometimes see properties off market that have been for some time and could potentially be a good market and possible deal. Just curious about risk/benefits involved with on vs. off market investing.

[Eliott Elias]

Buying from the MLS forces you to deal with realtors. A lot of realtors are difficult to deal with. Buying off market requires you to deal with either wholesalers or the sellers themselves. It requires a lot more of an understanding of how to purchase property if you are buying off market.