How to Sell My House on My Own (FSBO Guide)

Selling your home without a real estate agent can be empowering and cost-effective, but it requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the process. If you’re wondering how to sell your house on your own, this FSBO guide will walk you through the essential steps to help you succeed confidently.

1. Why Some Homeowners Choose to Sell FSBO

• Save thousands by avoiding listing agent commissions.
• Maintain full control over pricing, communication, and decision-making.
• Previous negative experiences with real estate agents motivate a DIY approach.
• Friends or neighbors have successfully sold FSBO, inspiring confidence.
• Believe the current hot market conditions make selling solo feasible.

2. Price Your Home Right — Or Risk Losing Buyers

• Overpricing leads to your home sitting unsold; underpricing means leaving money on the table.
• Zillow and Redfin provide estimates but are not substitutes for professional evaluations.
• Obtain a local Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to set a competitive price.
• Today’s buyers are savvy, comparing value and days on market before making offers.
• 👉 Get your free home value check-up here to start pricing smartly.

3. Public Listing Pitfalls: Why Zillow and FSBO Sites Aren’t Enough

• Online platforms track “days on market,” and stale listings lose buyer interest.
• Visible price drops can erode buyer trust and weaken your negotiation position.
• You’ll compete against agent-listed homes with professional marketing and broader exposure.
• Zestimates often mislead both buyers and sellers due to inaccuracies.
• These sites don’t assist with buyer qualification, contracts, or legal paperwork.

4. Curb Appeal & Staging — Match the Season, Maximize the Look

• Seasonal Landscaping Tips:
  • 🌷 Spring: Refresh mulch, plant new flowers, pressure wash walkways.
  • ☀️ Summer: Mow lawn regularly, prune shrubs, water plants, add patio seating or shade.
  • 🍁 Fall: Rake leaves, trim dead branches, add tasteful seasonal décor.
• Interior Prep:
  • Declutter countertops, shelves, and closets to create open space.
  • Rearrange furniture to improve flow and highlight room size.
  • Use neutral colors, open blinds, and brighten rooms with natural light.
• Staging means enhancing what you already own—no need for expensive rentals.

5. Make Repairs & Keep a Maintenance Log

• Address minor repairs like chipped paint, leaky faucets, and squeaky hinges promptly.
• Inspect major systems: roof, boiler, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
• Consider a pre-listing home inspection to identify red flags early.
• Maintain a detailed home repair and upgrade log to show buyers your care.
• Quick upgrades such as new lighting fixtures, hardware, or fresh paint can boost appeal.

6. Negotiate With Confidence: Inspection, Appraisal, Contract & Walk-Through

• Be ready for buyers to request repairs or credits after the home inspection.
• Understand the appraisal process and what to do if it comes in low.
• Hire a real estate attorney to review contracts and ensure legal compliance.
• Know contingencies like mortgage approval or sale of the buyer’s current home.
• During the final walk-through, confirm everything is in working order and matches agreed terms.

7. Show Like a Pro & Know When to Call In Help

• Keep your home clean, decluttered, and smelling fresh at all times.
• Offer flexible showing times including weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
• Greet buyers warmly, answer questions honestly, and let your home’s presentation do the selling.
• Take notes on buyer feedback and be willing to make adjustments.
• Remember, selling your home on your own doesn’t mean doing it alone.

Selling your home on your own can be rewarding, but expert guidance makes all the difference.

👉 Need help with pricing, staging, or navigating the legal side of selling FSBO? Let’s talk. I’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best possible result.

📞 William A. Jacobs – Seniors Real Estate Specialist
📱 516-435-5247
🔗 www.downsizewithconfidence.com