SELLING BY OWNER
Pros & Cons of Selling By Owner
The first step is weighing the pros and cons of selling By Owner.
Pros:
No listing agent commission.
Full control over showings and appointment times.
Cons:
Contract language is often confusing to many if you are not familiar with it and there are many variables involved.
Contract wording has proven costly for Seller's when the wording is not properly phrased.
Inability to reach the largest audience which reduces the number of potential buyers and thereby reduces the ability to achieve maximum price.
Lack of guidance on proper home preparation to attract the most Buyers and enhance perceived value.
Difficulty or uncertainty as to how to properly qualify potential buyers.
Not knowing the true intentions of people who may enter your home for a tour which could lead to personal risk or theft.
Lack of understanding how to evaluate and negotiate a multiple offer situation to maximize the sale price.
NAR research has shown that By Owner properties sell at an average of 9% less than an experienced agent would have obtained.
Considerations & Recommendations
If you decide to sell By Owner, here are some considerations to help maximize your sale amount and ensure your safety:
Exterior Home Preparation
Enhance the curb appeal and first impressions by keeping your lawn freshly mowed and edged.
Trim the hedges neatly, power wash the entryway, walkway and driveway.
Power-washing, painting, and clean shutters will make it "pop".
Remove any debris from the roof and gutters.
Keep the entryway neat and inviting by adding a clean welcome mat, removing any clutter, and consider adding topiaries flanking the front door.
Make sure the front door is fresh and clean, consider painting if need be and make sure the handle and lock are in good working condition.
We have created a By Owner Seller Guide that is FREE for those who want to sell their own home and maximize the value.
It is full of stunning infographics that show you how to:
Prepare your home for showings with a quick checklist
Enhance Curb Appeal
Enhance the Interior Flow
Maximize Room Size
Market your Home to the largest possible audience
Properly qualify potential buyers
Keep you, your family and your belongings safer
Effectively Stage your Property
Influence Buyers
And a Pre-Showing Checklist to maximize each showing experience
This Guide also provides information about the contract, key dates, contingencies, disclosures, deadlines, sale inclusions/exclusions, contract stipulations, and a full timeline showcasing the steps in the process to help enhance your By Owner sale experience
