Sell Your Home Yourself: A Friendly Guide for "For Sale By Owner" Sellers

If you’ve ever tried to sell your home on your own, you probably noticed something right away—once that “For Sale by Owner” sign goes up, the phone starts ringing. Unfortunately, many of those calls come from real estate agents trying to convince you to list with them instead of prospective buyers.

We get it. The idea of saving on commission is appealing to any homeowner! But let’s be real—selling a home on your own can feel like a big job. Without the right tools and preparation, it’s easy to run into challenges like attracting the wrong buyers or having your home sit on the market longer than expected.

The good news? Many homeowners successfully sell their own homes every day. And you can too—with a little planning, the right approach, and some expert advice. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-follow guide to help you tackle the process confidently and avoid common pitfalls.

10 Tips to Help You Sell Your Home Yourself

1. Price it Right
Setting the right price is key to getting your home sold quickly and for the most money. Do some research to compare your home to similar ones that have sold recently in your area. This will help you set a realistic price based on the current market—not just sentimental value.

2. Make Your Home Shine
First impressions matter! Take the time to fix any little things that might stand out to buyers. Clean, declutter, and think like a buyer—what would you want to see if you were walking through your home for the first time?

3. Get the Paperwork Ready
There’s some important legal documentation you’ll need to have in place. From seller disclosures to purchase agreements, being prepared with these forms will help you look professional and keep things running smoothly.

4. Market Like a Pro
Don’t just rely on a yard sign! Spread the word online, in local papers, and even through real estate agents who might have buyers looking for a home like yours. The more eyes on your home, the better your chances of finding the right buyer.

5. Keep Emotions in Check
Selling a home is personal, but when showing your home, it’s best to stay neutral. Let potential buyers explore your space and highlight its best features without taking their feedback personally.

6. Focus on Serious Buyers
Not every interested person will be able to afford your home. Save yourself time by asking about their financial readiness before getting too far into the process.

7. Know Your Numbers
Understand all the costs involved in selling your home—from repairs to marketing materials—so you can calculate how much you’ll actually walk away with.

8. Negotiate Smartly
Selling a home involves a lot of negotiation. Be prepared to work through the details like price, closing dates, and contingencies. Having a real estate attorney review your contract can be a big help!

9. Don’t Move Out Too Soon
An empty home can feel uninviting to buyers. Plus, if it’s clear you’ve already moved, buyers might think you’re desperate to sell and use that to their advantage.

10. Keep Your Why Private
If buyers ask why you’re selling, keep it simple: “Our housing needs have changed.” Sharing too much can give them the upper hand in negotiations.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Selling your home yourself can be rewarding, especially if you’re well-prepared. This guide gives you the tools you need to navigate the process with confidence and success.

With the right mindset and a little know-how, you can make your FSBO sale a success. And remember, we’re here to help every step of the way!