Where Can I Buy Multi-Family Properties in Los Angeles?

As Los Angeles multifamily developers and investors, we get asked this question a lot. The answer is that there are a lots of different ways find the right multifamily building to buy. But if we are going to generalize, there are three main sources:

1. On-Market Listings

This is the most straightforward route -properties actively marketed by brokers or on well-known platforms like Zillow, Loopnet, Costar etc. You’ll usually get offering memorandums, rent rolls, photos, and a broker to answer questions.

Pros: You can see pricing upfront, compare against other sales, and review complete marketing materials. It’s the easiest way to line up financing since lenders like deals with clean paperwork.

Cons: Everyone else sees the same listings. That can sometimes means multiple offers, bidding wars, and inflated price expectations - especially in hot submarkets like Silverlake, West Adams or Culver City.

Best For: Buyers who want clarity and comps, or newer investors who need the full diligence package. If you’re financing the deal, the listed market is often one of your only entry points.

2. Off-Market Listings

Off market listings are properties that aren’t actively being marketed to the public, but may be available through agent's pocket listings, private investor networks, or early whispers before a property formally hits the market.

Pros: There is less competition for off market properties so sometimes you can get a better price or terms if you act quickly.

Cons: These deals are harder to access - you need a track record and broker relationships toto be plugged into private investor circles. These deals move quickly, and due diligence materials may be less complete.

Best for: These opportunities are usually best for experienced investors who already have cash or financing ready and can underwrite deals and commit fast.

3. Direct Approach to Property Owners

Approaching property owner to sell to you is the least crowded but most labor-intensive approach. You need to identify property that fits your criteria and then contact the owners directly. Often you must contact many owners before you find one interested in selling a property that matches your criteria.

Pros: When you buy from a seller directly you can often buy the exact property type (size, location etc) that fits your growth strategy and the transaction costs are often substantially lower than a traditional sale.

Cons: Finding the right property takes time marketing budget and many owners aren’t ready to sell. Also, if a broker is not involved, you will have to organize a lot of the paperwork yourself.

Best for: Buying direct from sellers is best for long-term investors like Beverly Group and developers willing to build relationships and put in ongoing effort. While you can save on transaction costs, these deal often require more expertise and a willingness to close quicker than a traditional sale.

The Takeaway

If you’re just starting out as an investor, begin with on-market listings to get familiar with comps and pricing dynamics. As you grow your network, push into off-market opportunities and eventually direct outreach for the best long-term pipeline.

At The Beverly Group, we actively buy properties all three channels — from analyzing public listings to cultivating off-market relationships and making direct offers to owners. That mix is what consistently creates real opportunities in the LA multifamily market.

Considering Selling Your Property?

At The Beverly Group, we provide discreet valuations and direct purchase offers for multifamily owners and brokers across Los Angeles.

Contact us today to receive an offer on your property or listing. We pay fair market value and can close on your or your client’s schedule, often in as little as two weeks.