There are a lot of articles on the internet that tell you how to sell your home on real estate websites, without a realtor. And while it is possible to sell online independently, it’s not recommended. Selling your house online without a real estate agent can be difficult and frustrating. You likely won’t get as much money for your home, and you may not even sell it at all! In this article, we’re going to talk about why using a local real estate agent is the best way to sell your home – and why you should avoid listing it online by yourself.
Knowledge Is Power
Using a local real estate agent is the most effective way for home sellers to get their homes sold quickly and for the most money. They have access to online tools and other resources that FSBO sellers don’t, such as multiple listing services (MLS), and a network of potential buyers and sellers. With their experience and knowledge, they can get you the highest price for your property in the shortest amount of time. Plus, real estate professionals take care of all the paperwork and details so that you don’t have to worry about it.
Protection for Your Interests & Assets
When you list your house online on real estate websites without a realtor, it’s important to remember that you have no one to advocate for you throughout the home-selling process. You’ll be dealing with potential buyers and their agents on your own, which could lead to negotiations over prices and terms that aren’t in your favor. A realtor will negotiate for the best possible outcome for you as the seller, making sure that all agreements are legally binding and beneficial to both parties.
Save Yourself Time & Money
If you think you can simply stick a “for sale” sign in your yard on Monday and a cash buyer willing to pay more than asking will swoop in to buy your house on Tuesday, think again.
Marketing a house online is more labor-intensive and expensive than you think. To market a home properly in today’s world, you have to get professional photos, put out ads, post on several different real estate sites, and spend time on social media. And, you have to do all of that on top of conducting open houses, posting signs in your yard, keeping your house looking presentable, conducting showings and walk-throughs, and negotiating deals. Selling FSBO takes a lot of time and money – something that you might not have. A full-service agent will handle all of this for you so, and give you customized home sales marketing plans so that your home can get maximum exposure with minimal effort from you.
Local MLS Access
FSBO sellers don’t have access to the MLS. The MLS is a comprehensive and professional hub through which to market homes to all of the potential buyers in your area. It’s regulated by the realtor’s association, and it’s a fair place to do business. As a layperson, you don’t have access to create an MLS listing. Most of the realtors in the nation rely on their local MLS as the go-to place to conduct real estate transactions. Other home sites can’t be trusted to have accurate information the same way an MLS listing does, and they don’t have certain rights to be able to provide the same detailed info to realtors as the MLS does.
Don’t Go It Alone!
When it comes to selling your home online, there’s no comparison to using a local real estate agent. Trusted local experts, like Tracy Alford, offer valuable resources, knowledge, marketing skills, negotiation expertise – and most importantly peace of mind knowing that your sale is in good hands. So if you’re thinking about selling your home online without a realtor, think again! Hire a local realtor who can help maximize the potential of your sale
