Why list your home or condo with a professional real estate agency when you could do it yourself? Going For Sale By Owner (FSBO) has its appeal — no commission to pay, full control of the process, and the satisfaction of calling the shots.
Before you make “coffee is for closers” your new mantra, it’s worth weighing the benefits against the risks.
The Upside of Going Solo
- Full control over the sale process.
- Share insider knowledge about your neighbourhood with potential buyers.
- Devote all your time to marketing your property.
- Benefit from the general buzz agencies create in your area — even if you’re not listed with them.
Where Buyers Actually Look
Around 95% of buyers start their search online. FSBO listings often attract bargain hunters — and many are unqualified. Low‑ball offers are common, and without experience, you may find yourself spending more time fending off opportunists than negotiating serious deals.
The Emotional Factor
Selling a home is emotional. Your property is a memory box — Christmas mornings, first steps, Sunday breakfasts. That attachment can cloud your judgment. A professional agent acts as a buffer, keeping emotions from derailing the deal. They’ll tell you (diplomatically) that your daughter’s fuchsia bedroom might need a neutral repaint, or that your “eclectic” kitchen could be a turn‑off for buyers.
