Understand the FSBO Process (For Sale By Owner)
- You’ll be responsible for pricing, marketing, negotiating, and paperwork.
- Consider whether you’re comfortable handling showings, contracts, and legal details yourself.
- It’s often smart to hire a real estate attorney to help with the contract and closing process.
Price Your Home Accurately
- Research comparable sales (comps) in your neighborhood.
- Use YAGENTZ and county tax records for insights.
- Consider paying for a professional appraisal to support your asking price.
Get Your Home Ready to Show
- Declutter, deep clean, and depersonalize.
- Stage your home (either DIY or with a pro).
- Handle small repairs: leaky faucets, peeling paint, cracked tiles, etc.
- Enhance curb appeal—first impressions matter!
Take Great Photos & Write Listing
- Use high-quality photos (consider hiring a real estate photographer).
- Write a clear, attractive description highlighting key features and upgrades.
- Include square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, lot size, and amenities.
Market Your Home
- Post on major listing sites: Yagentz,Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor.
- Use social media and neighborhood groups.
- Put a For Sale sign in your yard with contact info.
- Consider a flat-fee MLS service to reach more buyers.
Host Showings & Open Houses
- Be flexible with scheduling showings.
- Prepare your home before every visit—lights on, clean, welcoming.
- Offer a brochure or flyer with property details and your contact info.
Negotiate Offers
- Review each offer: price, contingencies, closing timeline, financing.
- Don’t be afraid to counteroffer.
- Always get everything in writing using a formal purchase agreement.
- Involve an attorney or contract specialist to ensure everything is legally binding.
Handle Inspections & Appraisal
- Buyers will likely request a home inspection.
- Be open to negotiating repairs or credits based on the inspection report.
- If the buyer is using a loan, an appraisal will be ordered by their lender.
Prepare for Closing
- Hire a real estate attorney or title company to coordinate paperwork.
- Provide necessary documents: deed, tax info, property disclosures, warranties, etc.
- Review the settlement statement and sign the final paperwork.
- Transfer keys and any access codes to the buyer at closing.
Celebrate the Sale!
- Confirm mortgage payoff with your lender.
- Keep copies of closing documents for your records.
- Enjoy the savings of selling on your own!
