|
|
 Printable version
 E-mail this article
The biggest incentive for home owners to try and sell their homes themselves is to save on real estate commissions.
While the "do-it-yourself" approach can be successful, carefully examine your capabilities and skills as a potential real estate agent before jumping in. Then recognize that any savings in dollars may quickly be lost in time and energy.
As your own agent, you'll have to:
- determine the market price of your home
- design the marketing plan
- prepare, schedule and run your ads
- screen inquiries
- pre-qualify potential buyers by asking the right questions
- book appointments
- be available to show your home
- be familiar with the legalities of an offer
- negotiate the offer and counter-offers
- collect and coordinate all legal documentation
In terms of costs, you'll pay your own advertising expenses and will likely consider engaging a notary or real estate lawyer to advise you and handle the legalities of the transaction. You should also factor in the time you'll spend personally and the length of time your home remains on the market.
Return to Main Article Listing
  |
|