Getting ready to sell our house FSBO - any tips?

HersheyBride2Be

Hi ladies -

I don't post here often, but as fellow central PA nesties, I was wondering if anyone on here had experience with selling a house FSBO?

We have met with several realtors, and while we appreciate what they have to offer, we are considering giving it a go on our own - any tips?

Thanks

nj67ws56qa21

We didn't sell ours FSBO, but my parents have sold many of their houses that way and saved tons of money.  In this market, I think marketing/advertising your house plays a major role.  My parents made a website, and then placed ads in some newspapers, mentioning the website.  If it's also possible, you might consider buying into one of those sites that will get you listed on the MLS for a flat fee, so you'll really be connected with buyers actively searching.  I'd also get connected with a good real estate attorney that can look over any offers to make sure everything is as it should be.  Good luck to you! 

HersheyBride2Be

Thanks for the info - great hints and we will keep them in mind

ntnylizard

Definitely start by buying your own MLS.  It's a few hundred dollars, but then you're listed online, which is huge.

And if you don't get the response you want, there are a few half-way realtors (Help-U-Sell, FSBO Plus) that don't take as big a cut, but do a less marketing/showing than realtors.

And beware -- Realtors for people who are looking to buy tend to avoid showing FSBOs to their clients.  They are loyal to their own and prefer realtors on both sides of the deal.  When we FSBO a couple of years ago we had a handful of realtors who came to see the place, supposedly to check it out on behalf of their clients who were looking to buy.  And when they showed up, all each of them did was try to get us to sign on and use them as a selling realtor; there were no clients they were scouting for, rather they were trying to drum up more business for themselves.

So to successfully FSBO, you often have to find buyers without realtors.  Networking and word-of-mouth are key.  Put your house on message boards and social networking sites, have your friends send e-mails, etc.

Good luck!!