Many homeowners do not see the value in using a real estate agent and would rather attempt to sell their property on their own. This is understandable as sellers are usually subjected to paying out commission for the agents plus additional closing costs. However, several costly mistakes sellers are doing for sale by the owner can make.

Wrong Pricing

Real estate agents are market experts. They look at deals every day and are in tune with the proper pricing for most homes. Even in your neighborhood. As homeowners, we tend to believe that our homes are worth way more than they actually are. This causes the house often to sit on the market much longer than it would have in comparison to working with an agent and getting the home sold for the right price. Holding costs add up and the longer you own the home, the longer you are paying the bills. Sometimes that could amount to the total amount you would have paid the agent anyway.

Poor Photo Quality

When sellers list their homes, they may not have the proper equipment to get the job done properly. What takes better pictures, your smartphone, or a DSLR camera? The quality of your photos matter and too often, for sale by owner sellers simply do not share quality photos of their home.

They Don’t Know How To Qualify A Buyer

Real estate agents work with buyers and sellers thousands of times throughout their careers. They understand the process of qualifying a buyer for a home. For sale by owners may do a showing for someone who seems qualified but really is jerking their knee and may drag out the sales process for them. Agents do all the leg work for you. By doing the digging, agents can determine if buyers are actually qualified to purchase your home.

Bad At Showings

Owners are not real estate professional sellers. There is a strategy, experience, and techniques that go into showing a home to a potential buyer. A bad showing can end a potential deal dead in its tracks. Real estate agents understand and know how to properly set the right tone and vibe when conducting a showing. For sale by owners often think they can do it on their own and many can, but most cannot.

Poor Marketing

Homeowners aren’t necessarily marketing experts. Sharing the listing through proper channels, promoting on social media, and tapping a network isn’t necessarily what homeowners do on a day to day basis. Real estate agents on the other hand have to wear many hats and constantly have to do marketing for their listings. They are experienced and seasoned when it comes to promoting a home.

For sale by owner is not necessarily a bad route to take but many mistakes can occur which can impact that seller’s bottom line. Often, it makes more sense to work with a good agent and trust their ability to sell the home for a good price and within a timely manner.