If you’ve been through the home selling process a time or two, you may be tempted to sell your home on your own without a realtor. Certainly with so much information available from listing apps to simple seller contracts, it might seem like a no-brainer.
Your reasons may be many and varied. While Millennials are most likely to pursue FSBO arrangements, other factors make it attractive. By looking through these key points, you can determine if selling For Sale By Owner or working with a Realtor is your best option.

1. The buyer may have an agent, looking out for buyer’s interests
2. The buyer may not qualify
3. Seller may lack pricing expertise
4. Seller may lack negotiating and marketing skills
5. Problems may arise after home inspection
6. Some lenders may balk at the transaction and decline financing.
7. May not know what paperwork needs to be filled out and the timing of it making the process take much longer.

While millennials are the most likely to use the FSBO arrangement, some circumstances will lend themselves to the process. Having a prospective buyer or Selling to someone you already know. But even if you live in a great area with a hot property, a Realtor has been trained to navigate the uncertain waters of home buying. When you sign on the dotted line it is legally binding. Understand your contract. These actionable steps can help you negotiate as FSBO.

1. By using a realtor they have access to MLS which means more market exposure.
2. An experienced realtor knows how to help you get your home ready for sale, what needs fixed and how to stage.
3. Prospective buyers may be uncomfortable looking at a home when you’re there. If there are repairs that need made, they know qualified, licensed contractors.
4. It sends a message that you’re represented adding a layer of professionalism.
5. Filling out the paperwork can be tricky if your sale doesn’t fall into the typical range of procedures. Additionally, they’re trained to do this and are looking out for your best interest.
6. Let’s face it, they’re trained professionals. They do this every day and if you run into problems they can offer advice especially if you need a lawyer.
7. Help you navigate paperwork, when to schedule inspections and has your best interest in mind while negotiating with buyer.

1. Home seller will pay the listing and agent fee.
2. Seller doesn’t get to stage the home as they would like.
3. The seller doesn’t get to interact directly with the buyer possibly missing out on valuable information.

An agent likely works with a team of people who know this industry inside and out and have seen a lot over the years. A realtor is there to help make the process smooth and as pain-free as possible. If you were going in for major surgery, would you skip the anesthetics to save money? Additionally, you might be able to get considerably more money for your home with an agent which could offset the fee. Your buyer will likely have an agent, without one yourself, you’re giving the buyer an advantage.