Selling Smart: Why a Real Estate Agent Makes All the Difference
If you’re contemplating selling your home independently as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO), it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the added stress. Taking this approach means you’ll be handling numerous responsibilities on your own. If you’re not an expert, this can lead to mistakes and quickly become overwhelming.
A report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows two key areas where people who sold their own house struggled the most: pricing and paperwork.
Here are just a few of the ways an agent makes those tasks a whole lot easier.
Getting the Price Right
Setting the right price for your home is crucial. If you choose to sell your house independently, two common problems may arise. You might set the price too high (overpricing) or too low (underpricing). Both scenarios can make selling your house difficult. According to NerdWallet:
“When selling a home, first impressions matter. Your house’s market debut is your first chance to attract a buyer and it’s important to get the pricing right. If your home is overpriced, you run the risk of buyers not seeing the listing.
. . . But price your house too low and you could end up leaving some serious money on the table. A bargain-basement price could also turn some buyers away, as they may wonder if there are any underlying problems with the house.”
To avoid these issues, collaborate with a real estate agent. Agents possess a thorough understanding of the local housing market and know how to determine the optimal price. They use their expertise to set a price that aligns with what buyers are willing to pay, ensuring your house makes a strong impression from the beginning.
Understanding and Performing Paperwork
Selling a house involves extensive paperwork and legal documentation that must be accurately completed. Numerous rules and regulations need to be followed, making it challenging for homeowners to manage everything independently. Without a professional’s assistance, you could face liability risks and legal complications.
Real estate agents are well-versed in the necessary contracts and paperwork for selling a house. They understand the regulations and can guide you through the process, minimizing the likelihood of mistakes that could result in legal issues or delays. As an article from First American explains:
“To buy or sell a home you need to accurately complete a lot of forms, disclosures, and legal documents. A real estate agent ensures you cross every ‘t’ and dot every ‘i’ to help you avoid having a transaction fall through and/or prevent a costly mistake.”
So, instead of dealing with the growing pile of documents on your own, team up with an agent who can be your advisor, helping you avoid any legal bumps in the road.
Bottom Line
Selling a house on your own can be time-consuming and stressful. Let’s connect so I can assist you with all the finer details, from setting the right price to managing the paperwork and more. This way, we can alleviate the stress and make the process smoother for you.
