The Risks of For Sale by Owner: Is Going FSBO Worth the Savings?

For many homeowners, the prospect of selling their home without the assistance of a real estate agent seems like an attractive option. After all, why pay a commission to someone else when you can handle the sale of your home yourself? While it’s true that selling a home on your own can save you money in the short term, it’s important to consider the potential risks and challenges that come with for sale by owner (FSBO).

One of the biggest pitfalls of FSBO is the lack of expertise and experience. Real estate agents are trained professionals who have a deep understanding of the housing market and know how to effectively market and sell homes. They also have the resources and networks to reach a wide pool of potential buyers. When you’re selling your home on your own, you’re essentially going up against agents who have years of experience and knowledge under their belts. This can make it difficult to compete and get the best price for your home.

Another risk of FSBO is the potential for legal issues. Selling a home involves a lot of paperwork and legal documentation, and it’s easy to make mistakes or overlook important details. This can lead to delays in the sale process or even legal disputes down the line. Real estate agents are familiar with the legalities of home sales and can help ensure that everything is handled properly.

In addition to the risks mentioned above, FSBO can also be a time-consuming and stressful process. Marketing and promoting your home can be a full-time job, and it’s not uncommon for homeowners to receive numerous calls and emails from potential buyers. Handling all of this communication and scheduling showings can be overwhelming, especially if you’re still working a full-time job or have other responsibilities.

On top of all of this, it’s worth noting that homes sold by agents tend to sell for more than FSBO homes. According to a recent study, the median sale price for a home sold by an agent was $250,000, compared to $190,000 for a FSBO home. This may be due to the fact that agents have access to a wider pool of buyers and are more adept at negotiating the best price for their clients.

In conclusion, while selling your home on your own may seem like a good way to save money, it’s important to carefully consider the potential risks and challenges. It may be worth it to pay a commission to a real estate agent in order to get the best price for your home and avoid the stress and legal pitfalls of FSBO.

If you have any questions or concerns about the risks and challenges of for sale by owner (FSBO) or would like to discuss your options with a professional, don't hesitate to contact me, Dylan Wolf, at (253) 249-1221. I'm happy to help you make an informed decision about the best way to sell your home.