For sale by owner - Tips to sell your home. FSBO.

Tips for a Smooth Sale when selling your own home. Before planting a "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) sign in your front yard, there are some key items you should know.

First, you will have to do your own value assessment of comparable properties in the area. Then you will need to decide on an asking price based on your research. And you will have to act like a real estate agent and look at the property with an impartial eye to improve the interior and curb appeal.

Depending on what state you are in, you may be required to give a potential buyer at least one property disclosure. Disclosure requirements can be as simple as disclosing the age of the house and whether there are existing problems that a buyer needs to know. They may extend to notation of any disputes, or if the house is located in a risk zone (flood or earthquake). There may be other requirements, so research the statutory issues with which you must comply.

Federal law demands that sellers of FSBO houses disclose details of any lead tests (because of lead-based paints) to potential buyers. Many buyers and sellers don't pursue lead tests, but you should at least provide a potential owner with a lead paint pamphlet available from the EPA at no cost.

Although showing your home isn't difficult, it can be time consuming. You will have to flexible and expect to receive same-day and last-minute requests to show your home. Don't be surprised if the call you receive is from a real estate agent or potential buyer is calling from their car parked in front of your house.

If you are showing the house yourself, answer questions as accurately as you can. Stay professional, and avoid letting your emotions take the lead. Potential buyers are usually looking at a possible home for themselves, so allow them to visualize themselves as residents, not you.

Selling Your Home Resources

You can sell your home without paying broker fees! Save thousands and get the help you need to sell your home yourself nationwide.

Make moving a breeze! Get moving supplies and boxes right online.

Related Articles

Learn more about managing debt and your credit score with these related articles:

Managing your money is more than just having a budget ... starting learning now.

Your credit score ... what to do, where to go, and how to handle it ...


Top of For sale by owner - Tips to sell your home. FSBO.

Return to Selling Your Home.





Go to Debt Relief Steps Home Page