While you may think you can save a bunch of money selling your home yourself, you might want to think again. Some people successfully handle this major transaction on their own. Many others give up when they can't attract a buyer. Others who sell without assistance swear they'll hire a professional next time to save them the time and hassle. If you're considering selling your home yourself, make sure you understand what's involved before jumping in. The risks can be considerable, and I'm not just talking money.
According to the 2004 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Study of Home Buyers and Sellers, most people who chose to sell their homes without the help of a licensed broker were not sure how to price it correctly and did not know how to "stage" the house for showings. Those challenges alone can seriously cut into your net profit. Additionally, the median sales price of for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) homes was $132,800, compared to $160,000 for agent-assisted home sales.
Buying a home is complicated. Approximately one-third of FSBO sellers believe that understanding and completing the necessary paperwork was the most difficult task when selling a home themselves. Texas REALTORS® know the required contracts, forms and disclosure statements necessary for each sales transaction, inside and out. Each legal document must be completed properly. Texas REALTORS® also have access to forms not available to others. If you make a mistake at some point of the real estate transaction, you may find yourself unable to close the deal. Hiring a REALTOR® will not only make the process smoother; it may even help you sleep better at night.
Toni Nelson, CRB, CRS, GRI, e-PRO
Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS®, Houston
Tnelson@coldwellbankerunited.com
281/517-8450
