Do It Alone or Use a REALTOR®?
Most homeowners who try to sell their own home end up using a REALTOR® in the end. Consider these critical questions before flying solo.
Will you really “save” the commission?
When buyers see a home for sale ‘by the owner’, they see a bargain. They imagine the REALTOR'S® fee going into their pocket, not yours. They often subtract the commission from their offer before the negotiation even begins.
Are you familiar with real estate law?
Complicated and ever-changing, real estate law governs nearly every phase of selling your home. One wrong move and an entire deal can fall through, or worse, a costly lawsuit can ensue.
How many potential buyers will you reach?
Selling a home takes more than a sign. Without inside access to the MLS, your home won't reach the thousands of buyers represented by other agents. How will you compete with professional online marketing?
Do you have the time?
Promoting a home is a full-time job. Will you be able to take calls during your workday? Can you screen callers to figure out if they’re actually qualified buyers or just "window shoppers"?
Do you know the market well enough?
Without professional data, most "do-it-yourselfers" are guessing. Set the price too low and you lose thousands; set it too high and you drive away buyers while your home grows "stale" on the market.
What about your selling skills?
It’s hard to remain objective when you hear negative comments about your own home. REALTORS® provide a professional buffer, keeping the deal focused on the facts rather than emotions.
Can you keep the deal on track?
When high stakes and high emotions meet, direct seller-to-buyer deals often end in disaster. REALTORS® are indispensable when it comes to bargaining and keeping the contract moving toward closing.