Thinking of selling your own home? You might want to think again. Homeowners who consider the "for-sale-by-owner" option rather than listing their home with a local Realtor believe they will be able to save money while negotiating the many transactional steps involved in the sale of real estate.
In recent consumer studies, consumers cited the following challenges in trying to sell their own homes:
- Understanding the closing process
- Understanding and/or executing the contract
- Understanding all of the disclosure requirements
- Determining the best price for the home
Even organizations that promote the for-sale-by-owner process warn that this route is 'not for every seller." Taking on the intimidating task of selling your own home requires your valuable time, marketing dollars, negotiation expertise and understanding of all of the above items. Too often, you ultimately list your home with a Realtor after an unsatisfactory and costly experience.
Homeowners gain peace of mind when they seek the services of a professional Realtor committed to ethics and experienced in negotiating the dozens of steps involved in real estate transactions. "Ask if your agent is a REALTOR, a member of the National Association of REALTORS."
