There are two ways to sell your home: by listing it with a real estate broker or by selling it yourself. There are pros and cons to each method. When using a broker, your home will be listed in the popular industry database called the MLS (Multiple Listing Service).
They
will represent your interests throughout the process, and they will do all of
the legwork needed to show and sell your home. In exchange for their
professional help, you will pay them a percentage of the home’s sale
price, which is typically about 6%. Choose wisely when hiring your agent to be
sure you have the best person representing you. Find out about their marketing
plans for your home, and where they list properties online. Will you get the
exposure you need to sell your property for the most money possible?
By selling For Sale by Owner (FSBO), you’ll be
representing yourself and serving as your own agent. You will be the one who
arranges the advertising, marketing, placement, and open houses. Recent studies
have shown that 13% of all homes sold are sold FSBO. The national average per
transaction is $9,000 saved on commission costs. With careful research,
patience, and common sense, you can successfully sell your own home for a hefty
profit!
If selling FSBO, you will quickly find the internet
to be an invaluable resource in your sales process.