FSBO - Is It Worth It?

To sell your house as a For Sale By Owner will always be a tempting avenue to pursue, especially in high priced Marin. However, sometimes the initial perceived benefit of saving on commissions can cloud the crucial role a listing agent plays. Here are 5 reasons why you should re-think a For Sale By Owner:

1. Negotiation

There’s a lot of people you need to negotiate with in a real estate transaction, and listing agents are experienced with negotiating with all these people. Managing and communicating with these people are the most important part of keeping a deal together: Buyer, Buyer’s agent, Buyer’s attorney (If applicable), Inspection companies, Appraiser, Mortgage Broker

2. Exposure

Listing Distribution through a brokerage like Sotheby’s will provide the best listing distribution

3. FSBOing has become more difficult

The amount of paperwork and regulations involved in selling a house has increased dramatically in recent years. This is one of the reasons why FSBOing has decreased from 19% to 9% over the last 20+ years.

4. Results come from the internet

No one cares about putting a sign in the front yard anymore. You need a brokerage to cast a wide net online to find a buyer.

5. YOU NET MORE MONEY WITH A LISTING AGENT

Many homeowners believe that they will save the real estate commission by selling on their own. Realize that the main reason buyers look at FSBOs is because they also believe they can save the real estate agent’s commission. Studies have shown that sellers will end up netting more money when the house is marketed by a listing agent.