How to Help You Sell Your Own Home (For Sale by Owner)

On February 16, 2025  By newsroom   Topic: Buying A House

Selling your home without an agent can save thousands, but it requires effort, time, and preparation. Here are key tips to increase your chances of success:


1. Be Ready for the Challenge

  • Make sure you have enough time to market and show your home.
  • Be comfortable negotiating and navigating the selling process on your own.

2. Price It Right

  • Use online tools like ForSaleByOwner.com or Zillow to determine your home’s value.
  • Research comparable properties and track local market trends by visiting open houses.

3. Declutter and Clean

  • Remove personal items, fix minor repairs, and deep clean your home.
  • Apply neutral-colored paint to walls for broader appeal.
  • Consider a professional stager to enhance the home’s presentation (costs about $300 for a consultation).

4. Leverage Online Advertising

  • Use platforms like Owners.com, Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia to reach buyers.
  • Enhance your listing with high-quality photos and a video tour.
  • Share on free platforms like Craigslist, Facebook, and Twitter.

Pro Tip: Skip print ads; only 1% of buyers find homes through newspapers or local guides.


5. Don’t Skip the "For Sale" Sign

  • Place a clear, unobstructed sign close to the road with an easy-to-read phone number.
  • Ensure someone is available to answer calls day and night.

6. Show Like a Pro

  • Collect contact information from visitors during open houses.
  • Highlight unique features of your home while letting buyers explore.
  • Always follow up with a thank-you call or email to address questions.
  • For safety, have someone with you during showings.

7. Focus on Serious Buyers

  • Look for buyers with a mortgage commitment (fully verified by a lender), as they are more reliable than those who are just prequalified.

8. Hire a Real Estate Attorney

  • A lawyer can help with offers, contracts, and closing details.
  • While not required in all states, this ensures legal and smooth handling of the sale.

Pro Tip: If you choose to list on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), be prepared to offer a commission (2-3%) to a buyer's agent if they bring a buyer.

Selling your home yourself can be rewarding if done right. With preparation and persistence, you can save on agent fees while sealing a successful deal!


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