9 Reasons Sellers Must Consider When Selling FSBO
For Sale By Owner (FSBO): Is it a good idea to sell your home on your own?
While FSBO might save you money on commission, it often results in a lower sale price, a longer time on the market, and more stress. Most sellers eventually hire an agent after struggling on their own.
9 Reasons Why Sellers Should Not Sell Their House By Themselves
1. Limited Exposure
Your home won’t automatically appear on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), which means fewer buyers and agents will see it.
You’ll miss out on the broad reach that real estate agents provide through online platforms, social media, and professional networks.
2. Pricing Mistakes
Without access to professional tools and market knowledge, FSBO sellers often overprice or underprice their homes.
Overpricing can cause the home to sit on the market too long, leading to price reductions and low offers.
3. Emotional Attachment
Sellers may take low offers or criticism personally, making negotiations harder.
Emotional involvement can cloud decision-making and lead to missed opportunities.
4. Legal and Paperwork Risks
Real estate transactions involve complex contracts, disclosures, and legal requirements. Missing or incorrectly filling out a form can lead to:
- Delays
- Legal liabilities
- Lost deals
5. Poor Negotiation Skills
Most FSBO sellers lack experience negotiating with:
- Buyers’ agents
- Inspectors
- Appraisers
- Attorneys
You may end up with a lower sale price or unfavorable terms.
6. Time-Consuming
You’ll need to:
- Handle all showings
- Answer buyer questions
- Market the property
- Review offers
- Coordinate with inspectors, lenders, title companies, and brokers/agents
7. Buyers Expect Discounts
Many buyers assume FSBO homes should be cheaper since there’s no agent involved—and they’ll want that discount passed on to them, reducing your net gain. This leaves you at a disadvantage. Not only did you do all the work that the agent could have done better than you, but you also gave your savings away to the buyer.
8. Limited Buyer Pool
Many agents are hesitant to work with FSBO sellers, which means you may struggle to attract serious, qualified buyers.
FSBO homes also attract more bargain hunters or investors looking for a “good deal.”
9. Appraisal and Inspection Issues
Without guidance, sellers may not prepare the home properly, leading to inspection problems or appraisals below the asking price.
Thinking about selling your home on your own? Let’s talk about how I can help you maximize your price, minimize stress, and get the results you deserve—without the risks of going solo.