As the real estate market in Florida continues to be steady, sellers often contemplate whether to list their properties with a realtor or sell on their own. Selling your home without a realtor, often called “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO), requires preparation, organization, and a clear understanding of the legal and closing process.
Why Sell on Your Own
While there are several pros and cons to selling on your own, there are two primary reasons why sellers forego hiring a realtor:
- To Reduce Selling Cost: As expected, the main reason sellers list on their own is to save money. In Florida, where real estate commissions typically range from 4% to 6% of the sale price, managing the process yourself can be financially appealing.
- To Have More Control: Sellers often forego a realtor to have more control over timing, marketing of the property, and scheduling of showings. They rather operate at their own pace and around their lifestyle to make the process less stressful.
If you decide to sell on your own, it is important to keep several steps in mind to make sure the process is successful. The first step is pricing your property correctly. Overpricing can cause your home to sit on the market, while underpricing leaves money on the table. Research comparable sales in your neighborhood, review recent listings, and consider ordering a professional appraisal. Accurate pricing is key to attracting serious buyers quickly.
Next, focus on presentation. Florida buyers often prioritize curb appeal, natural light, and well-maintained outdoor spaces. Clean, declutter, and stage your home. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions are essential when listing online. Popular platforms like Zillow, Redfin, and FSBO websites can help you reach a broad audience without paying a listing agent.
Marketing is your responsibility when selling without a realtor. Use yard signs, social media, community groups, and open houses to generate interest. Be prepared to answer calls, schedule showings, and respond to inquiries promptly. Flexibility can make a big difference in securing offers.
Selling a property yourself can be rewarding and cost-effective, but it requires time and attention to detail. Also keep in mind that even without the use of a realtor, all real estate transactions must go through a specific process, including title searches, surveys, appraisals, and closing requirements. Aligning with a reputable title agency will be helpful in ensuring a smooth real estate transaction.
When choosing The Law Office of Donna Hearne-Gousse, P.A. for your title, escrow and closing needs, you’ll enjoy all the benefits associated with an attorney-based title agency at similar, and in many cases, lower costs than a standard title company will charge. We work with many FSBO properties and have a strong track record of successfully guiding our clients through the entire real estate transaction.
The Law Office of Donna Hearne-Gousse
(561) 582-5670