FOR SALE BY OWNER: SHOULD YOU SELL YOUR OWN HOME?

When it comes to selling a home, many homeowners cringe to think that a realtor is going to receive a healthy commission when that same money could have gone into the homeowner’s own bank account.

But before you decide to sell your own home, here are some pro’s and con’s you may want to consider.

SALE BY OWNER PROS AND CONS

Pros of Selling Your Own Home

No commission fees. Obviously, this is the #1 reason that many homeowners choose to attempt selling a home without the services of a realtor.

You communicate directly with potential buyers.

Services now exist to help sellers with legal issues at a cost much less than the 4 – 6 % transaction fee of most realtors.

You determine showing times and open house events, if any.

If the current market for home sales is strong, you are more likely to find qualified, serious buyers.


Cons to Selling Your Own Home

Using the services of a realtor opens many marketing avenues to find qualified and serious buyers.

A realtor may be able to advise you on some easy, quick and inexpensive ways to increase the value of your home for greater profits.

Realtors may have a list of reputable service providers ie., electricians, painters, plumbers to call upon as needed.

A realtor will likely know how to avoid or handle legal issues and financing options.

Which way to Choose?

There’s no “right or wrong” way to sell your home. There’s just the way that is best for you.

If you don’t like dealing with the public or feel intimidated by paperwork and numbers, then clearly getting a realtor will let you sleep at night and help you to avoid unnecessary stress.

If you are ready to tackle the job of pricing, marketing and showing your home to prospective buyers as well as some “Sunday shoppers” then the time and energy it takes to sell your own home may well be worth the profits.