I’m Mary Lou Ciambriello, an active listing realtor with RE/MAX Crown Realty in Indian River County, Florida. One of my target markets is you—the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sellers. FSBO sellers can be a tough crowd to convert, but I’m here to offer some helpful selling tips for those of you considering selling your home on your own.
My first recommendation: hire a strong, full-service listing realtor.
However, if you’re determined to take on the challenge yourself, here’s what you need to know to get started:
Expect Surprises: They happen, so be prepared. Your goal is to avoid them before they occur or have a workable solution ready.
Association Rules: If you live in a community with an association, check the signage requirements and get permission to install a sign. This is crucial for attracting neighbors and drive-by interest. While you’re at it, grab a set of current association documents and an application to your community, and familiarize yourself with the application process, rules, and regulations. Keep contact info for the association handy.
Be Transparent: If you live in an HOA, be upfront about pet and vehicle restrictions. Remember, you’re selling a home, not a future problem.
Signage: Invest in professional signs. Skip the fill-in-the-blank ones from aisle 12 at the DIY store.
High-Quality Photos: Photos tell your home’s story, so hire a professional. High-quality images will make your home shine and attract serious buyers.
Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Mulch, weed, mow, and add some colorful plants to your landscape. Hire a professional to pressure clean your home from top to bottom, including fences and the roof.
De-Personalize: Remove personal items to help potential buyers envision the space as their own. Keep valuables safe and out of sight. If certain items (like chandeliers or a washer and dryer) do not convey with the sale, be sure to disclose this upfront. In the case of a chandelier, consider replacing it before listing your home.
Housekeeping: Casual housekeeping can hurt your bottom line. Ensure everything is spotless. Clear counters and lower toilet seats, and don’t forget to empty the septic tank if you have one.
Your Pets: Make sure your pets have a place to go during showings. Pet odor is a huge turnoff and often a deal breaker, so address this issue before showing your home.
Communication: Be easy to reach— this is non-negotiable. Respond promptly to calls, texts, and emails. Show the home within a reasonable time frame—two hours is a good window.
Set the Mood: Create a welcoming atmosphere by turning on all the lights, setting the AC to a comfortable level, and playing some pleasant background music during showings.
Know Your Stuff: Be prepared to answer questions about insurance, schools, shopping, children’s sports, transportation, flood zones, and taxes. Remember, your taxes may/will differ from the buyer’s. In Florida, be informed about portability.
Price Realistically: Overpricing your home only helps your competition. Price it right from the start and avoid having too many days on the market.
Qualify Buyers: Only show your home to pre-approved buyers. Understand the basics of home loans—know if your home qualifies for VA or FHA loans and if it will pass an appraisal and inspection.
Mortgage Lender: Establish a relationship with a local mortgage lender. While the buyer will have their own, it’s beneficial to have one on hand. I personally prefer working with a local lender who understands the market.
Know Your Costs: Understand your closing costs. It’s vital for budgeting. You should be able to get a clear idea of your costs from your real estate attorney or title company.
Safety First: Never, ever, ever show your home to someone who just walks up and asks for a tour. Make an appointment. Hold open houses, but never alone. When scheduling appointments, provide the prospect’s name and the showing time to a friend. Have them call during the showing, and establish a safe word for emergencies.
Legal Guidance: Hire a real estate attorney to help navigate legal complexities and protect your interests.
Selling a home is no small or easy task. Understand that I am not an attorney; I am a realtor. If you still want to go it alone, I wish you the very best of luck. However, I stand by my first recommendation: hire an aggressive listing agent. Be sure to interview several realtors and hire the one you feel most comfortable with.
