If you are thinking about selling your home on your own, ask yourself these questions:
Will you really "save" the real estate commission?
Consider advertising/document costs and remember, "time is money" when selling a house. As time goes by, your costs as a seller and home owner only continue to increase. Most buyers see a "bargain" in FSBO real estate. They usually offer less, assuming you will be selling for a "discount" because you don't have to pay the real estate commission. In this case, is it really worth it for you to do all the work without representation?
Do you have the time?
WITHOUT a REALTOR's®, you're the one who will have to write and pay for the ads to market your property, remain available day or night for calls from prospects, provide open houses on weekends, show your property on short notice, screen potential buyers, fill out all the paper work and do the dozens of other things required to sell a home. Would it be in your best interest to sell quickly? It's my full time job to do the work for you!
How will you reach potential buyers?
WITH a REALTOR® you will have access to an extensive network of potential buyers and agents. Your home will be listed on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and will be promoted on numerous websites. Your home will have it's own webpage and virtual tour. I will also professionally distribute postcard and flyer advertisement.
Do you really know the true market value of your home?
Setting the right selling price for your home is critical. If you set the price too high, prospective buyers will be frightened off; too low, and you could leave thousands of dollars on the negotiating table. Getting the highest possible price can only be accomplished by creating a competitive demand and analyizing the unique features of the home.
Are you ready to "prescreen" every prospect?
Prescreening prospects is absolutely necessary to weed out the "lookers" from serious buyers. Do you have the skills and experience to ask the right questions over the phone before you let a prospect visit? How are you going to find out whether they're really qualified to purchase in your home's price range? A sale can be terminated and cost you valuable time. A "For Sale by Owner" sign is an invitation to everyone. Remember that strangers will have access to your home and valuables - be careful.
How are you at selling and negotiating?
Understanding a buyers needs, relaying information about your house, and completing the sale successfully through firm, impartial negotiation are all required. I've often heard it said that "The real work actually begins after you've received an offer."
Do you have a thick skin?
The emotional investment you have in your home may prevent you from dealing objectively with comments from prospective buyers. Hearing every comment a prospective buyer makes about your home could make you defensive and interfere with the sale. And you will encounter buyers you don't like personally or trust, but must still consider as prospects. Home simply show better when the owner is not present. A REALTOR® is a neutral buffer between you, the buyers and possibly their agent - who is looking out for their interests.
Are you up to date on real estate law?
Selling your own home is a complex contractual and legal procedure. You will have to prepare your own legal documents or translate the language in an offer presented from a buyer.
If you would like a no hassle, complimentary consultation, give me a call or email. I will explain my marketing plan that is designed for your property to sell quickly in your best interest. This is worth investigating on your part, with absolutely no risk. I hope to talk with you soon.
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