Why For Sale By Owner?

National statistics show the following about For-Sale-By-Owner attempts:
8% Sell the home. The average price is 3% below Realtor sales.
70% Finally list with a Realtor and a successful sale results.
22% Withdraw from the market or stay on market indefinitely.

Who saves the commission on the 8% that sell?
Generally the Buyer, but he has to earn it by taking time researching long-term "FSBO's". His only aim is "a deal". He has many to choose from, the seller has but one to sell. Therefore, his offers are low. The seller runs out of time, or has other constraints. A below market price results. Some of these even make it to closing.

This purchaser is looking at FSBO's for one reason... he assumes you will sell at least 6% below market.
In effect, you've offered a commission to him.

 When someone knocks at a For-Sale-By-Owners' door, he has only to say he's interested and he is shown everything there, whether qualified or not, or even if he has an ulterior motive. It's not always wise to admit strangers to your home... and it could cost a lot more than a commission. Most of them are probably fine (or just harmless but under-qualified), but how do you know which ones aren't? A Realtor knows who his buyer is, has probably already had his ability to buy verified by a lender, and won't show the home if they can't afford it. 

Having accepted an offer from the buyer, the real fun begins!
The process has become a minefield in recent years. Mortgage app, inspections, appraisals, contingencies, option contracts, repairs, title companies. Liabilities may be incurred due to new legal requirements regarding disclosures, defects, and others. Something as simple as a low appraisal can wipe out all savings you anticipated ... simply because there wasn't someone there who knew how to help.

 An experienced Realtor can guide you safely through this maze.
There are many instances where I've saved my sellers thousands of dollars by our knowledge of the process and the market. An expert knowledge of the appraisal process sets my business apart from most agents. Fifteen plus years of troubleshooting inspections, mortgage problems, and others will help me help you.

Want to get the eye of the RELOCATION BUYERS?
Their company sets them up with a Realtor from the start... and they are in town for a short, intensive purchase trip. Due to time constraints, and because the For-Sale-By-Owner isn't in Multiple listing, these highly qualified buyers probably won't see your home. (Click here to see how to get RELO BUYERS!)

Commissions have been paid on the sale of US real estate for over 200 years.

In a competitive society a profession can't last unless there is value in the service.

Bookmark this page for later. I'll SAVE you some money!