subject: Selling Your Home Quickly Online [print this page] Author: Jason Kay Author: Jason Kay
When selling a home, a real estate agent typically earns a six percent commission. While six percent doesn't sound that high, for a $350,000 home that's $21,000 to your agent. In an effort to save money, more and more people are turning to selling their homes without the assistance of an agent.
Until recently, individuals were at a great disadvantage due to a lack of information on the laws and traditions regarding home sales. Agents not only have years of experience, but also have access to the necessary forms. With the help of the internet, the playing field has been leveled and by-owner sales are increasing.
Keep in mind, selling your home yourself does require work. You aren't going to magically sell your home - it will take time and dedication. Everyone wants the savings, but you must decide if you are up to the task yourself. Only about 15% of homeowners sell their own homes, the other 85% percent either don't have the time, are intimidated by the process, or simply aren't interested in handling the negotiations themselves.
If you are up for the task, there are several websites geared toward for sale by owner (FSBO). A simple google search will yield several sites to choose from. One thing to keep in mind is the traffic those sites receive. Just listing your house on the internet is not enough, you must be sure people will find your listing.
These sites will not sell your home for you, hence the term for sale by owner, but they provide you with the tools you will need. They understand that you will be doing all the work the agents typically perform and provide you with the necessary education and materials.
Websites serving FSBO allow you to easily create a virtual listing with pictures and description of your home. They will also supply a sign to be put in your yard with your web listing. Buyers who are interested in your home are able to get all the information from your listing - including asking price, square footage, amenities, school districts, and in some cases they can even learn if they are qualified to buy.
By the time potential buyers contact you, they should be what is referred to as a "hot prospect". Of course this doesn't mean they will definitely buy your home, but it's better than a uniformed buyer off the street. When you do find someone interested in purchasing your home, your FSBO website will offer help with inspections, disclosures, reports, and the proper documentation. Some sites even offer assistance with escrow and closing.
When you're selling your own home, be prepared for closing once an offer is made. You need to take it to your lawyer. If you don't like the offer, don't just turn it down. Make a counter offer. Don't be afraid to negotiate in ways other than dollars and cents in a tight real estate market. Maybe you can leave the window treatments or appliances. You're better off making a few concessions than to wind up with another six months of mortgages payments on a house you no longer want to live in.About the Author:
Join the best For Sale By Owner site and sell your home with no commission. Create a free FSBO listing at FREEhomeownerlistings.com.
